The past decade has seen a shift in consumer preferences towards products that promote wellness and convenience. Fitness trackers, wireless headphones, bean-to-cup coffee machines, and air fryers are some of the items that have defined the changing tastes of British shoppers, according to a report by John Lewis.
The annual retail report, which usually focuses on the current year’s trends, also identified the “products of the decade” based on 10 years of sales data and customer insights. The report revealed how Britons became increasingly attached to their phones and sought devices that could enhance their health, entertainment, and comfort.
Fitness trackers, such as the Fitbit, are now the norm for many people who want to monitor their activity levels, heart rate, sleep quality, and calories burned. The devices have boomed in popularity in the past 10 years, as more people became aware of the benefits of physical and mental wellbeing.
Wireless headphones, such as the Apple AirPods, also became essential accessories for many phone users who wanted to enjoy music, podcasts, audiobooks, and TV shows on the go. The headphones offer convenience and noise cancellation, making them ideal for commuting, working out, or relaxing at home.
The demand for quality and speed
Another trend that emerged in the past decade was the demand for quality and speed in food and drink preparation. Bean-to-cup coffee machines, such as the Sage Barista Express, have become popular among coffee lovers who want to make barista-grade espressos and cappuccinos at home. The machines allow users to grind fresh beans, adjust the temperature and pressure, and froth milk with ease.
Air fryers, such as the Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer, have also gained popularity among busy and health-conscious consumers who want to cook delicious meals with less oil and fat. The air fryers use hot air circulation to crisp up food without deep frying, and can also roast, bake, grill, and dehydrate food in minutes.
Other kitchen gadgets that made the list of products of the decade include the KitchenAid stand mixer, which has become a baking status symbol thanks to shows like The Great British Bake Off; and the Ooni pizza oven, which was a hit during the pandemic when people had to entertain themselves at home.
The influence of culture and fashion
The report also highlighted how culture and fashion influenced consumer choices in the past decade. Some of the products that reflected these influences include:
- Jumpsuits: The one-piece outfit became a wardrobe staple for many women who wanted a flattering and versatile option for different occasions. The jumpsuit craze was partly fueled by Fleabag’s iconic black version, which sold out after appearing on the show.
- White trainers: The casual footwear became a fashion statement for both men and women who wanted to add a touch of sporty chic to their outfits. White trainers were also seen as a practical and comfortable choice for everyday wear.
- Flat caps: The traditional headwear made a comeback thanks to shows like Peaky Blinders, which inspired many men to adopt the vintage style. Flat caps were also seen as a way to add some personality and flair to a simple outfit.
- Christmas pyjamas: The festive sleepwear became a popular trend among families who wanted to create some fun memories on Christmas Eve. Many retailers offered matching sets for parents and children, featuring various designs and patterns.
- Inflatable flamingos: The kitsch pool floats were all the rage in 2017, when celebrities like Taylor Swift and Kendall Jenner posted photos of themselves lounging on them. The flamingos were part of a wider trend of novelty inflatables that included unicorns, swans, donuts, and pizzas.
