Talk to anyone in retail these days, and chances are the topic of uncertainty is going to come up pretty quickly. Whether it’s tariffs, consumer sentiment, or how both may ultimately affect spending, it might not seem like there are a lot of sure bets right now.
But one thing is certain: Many of the housewares purchased during the pandemic are starting to hit their natural replacement cycles. For that reason, retailers and suppliers with limited resources are wise to prioritize these types of items.
Looking Back
Spending on home and housewares products spiked dramatically during the first part of the pandemic. As consumers doubled down at home — either by choice or by mandate, they invested in everything from bakeware and barware to cleaning tools and storage solutions.
Some housewares purchased during the pandemic were the result of newly found free time. Others reflected a desire to replicate outside experiences inside the home. Still others came from increased demands on our homes in terms of cleaning and space. Some consumers bought goods to upgrade current products, while others merely bought whatever brand or model they could find during a period of high demand and low supply.
Looking Ahead
Many of these items with high-frequency use are starting to hit natural replacement cycles, according to Joe Derochowski, Circana home industry advisor. In fact, this was one of the reasons he told The Inspired Home Show 2025 attendees that the housewares industry is poised for steady growth through 2030.
While it now looks like tariffs may cut into consumers’ purchasing power, people are still likely to prioritize replacements of items they need. Some may look to upgrade products they settled for during peak demand, while others may look for more value-oriented options.
Product Priorities
So, what types of products are we talking about? Items with high-frequency use may vary by the consumer, but categories with broad appeal — and need — include kitchen electrics, other small appliances and cleaning tools.
Retailers looking to lean into replacement trends may want to focus on stocking (and marketing and merchandising) products such as:
- Items to help prepare and cook one-dish meals, such as the Gourmia Versia (an all-in-one air fryer, grill, panini maker and multicooker),
- Barista-quality coffee and espresso machines (Example: Concierge Elite Fully Automatic Bean to Cup Espresso Machine by The Smith Agency), and
- Stick vacuums (Example: the Powerclone Cordless Vacuum from Cuckoo Electronics, which runs for 38 consecutive minutes on a single charge).
To learn more about market opportunities for 2025 and beyond, listen to the keynote address from Joe Derochowski, Circana home industry advisor, at The Inspired Home Show 2025.