Over three-quarters of consumers say they use coupons and money-off vouchers more than they have in the past. This is according to the latest Consumer Intelligence Report carried out by Empathy Research.
The survey of 1,010 people found that this renewed interest in coupons and money-off vouchers was most prevalent among the younger age groups with the majority (83%) of 18-24 year olds saying the amount of coupons they use has increased. This is marginally higher than 25-34 year olds (77%) and significantly higher than 35-44 (74%) and 45+ (73%) year olds.
The survey also found that the majority (88%) of participants are more willing to switch to cheaper brands or own-label versions for certain grocery items. Slightly more females (90%) were of this opinion compared to males (85%).
In addition, 81% of participants say they wait for sales and special offers on non-essential items more than they have in the past. Significantly more females (86%) were of this opinion compared to males (76%).
When it comes to discount stores, almost three quarters (73%) of participants are using them more frequently. Over 2/3 (67%) of participants from Dublin are shopping more in stores such as Aldi and Lidl. This is significantly lower than all other regions; rest of Leinster (78%), Connacht/Ulster (78%) and Munster (75%). This was most prevalent among participants with children (78%) compared to those without children (68%).
83% of participants say they have cut back on their spending on non-essential items. Significantly more females (87%) say they have reduced the amount they spend on items such as clothing and home accessories compared to males (78%).
