Jacksonville, Florida, December 12, 2025
The Acosta Group has released its four consumer predictions for the future of retail, emphasizing personalization and innovation. As consumer expectations evolve, local businesses in Jacksonville are urged to adapt their strategies. Key insights include the rise of AI companions in shopping, the demand for personalized health products, a shift towards relevant innovations, and a growing need for holistic value in consumer experiences. These trends could significantly impact local economic growth in Jacksonville.
Consumer Insights: Acosta Group’s Predictions for 2026
How Personalization and Innovation Will Shape Jacksonville’s Retail Landscape
Jacksonville, Florida – As we look toward the future, the Acosta Group’s recent unveiling of its four consumer predictions for 2026 provides critical insights into the evolving nature of retail and consumer behavior. With personalization and innovation at the forefront, local brands and entrepreneurs are encouraged to adapt their strategies to align with emerging consumer trends that foster engagement and trust, paving the way for a vibrant economic climate in Jacksonville.
In an era where consumer expectations are rapidly changing, Jacksonville’s local businesses have the opportunity to leverage these trends to build stronger relationships with customers. By reducing red tape and embracing a dynamic business environment, our Florida entrepreneurs can not only thrive but also stimulate economic growth across Duval County.
Shoppers Turn to AI Companions; Trust Slows Automation
According to Acosta Group, by 2026, a majority of shoppers are projected to turn to artificial intelligence (AI) companions for assistance in their purchasing decisions. Currently, approximately 70% of consumers have engaged AI tools during their shopping journeys. However, there’s a notable hurdle: only 12% of these shoppers feel comfortable allowing AI to make purchases on their behalf, primarily due to apprehensions regarding privacy, data usage, and control. Thus, brands that effectively communicate and mitigate these concerns will likely gain the trust of consumers, particularly the tech-savvy Gen Z demographic.
Health Gets Personal, Functional, and Transparent
Health and wellness are actively being redefined by consumers who prioritize products offering measurable benefits underpinned by scientific evidence. Especially among Gen Z and Millennials, the demand for personalization, functionality, and transparent labeling is driving purchasing decisions. By 2026, brands are encouraged to enhance their marketing strategies by clearly communicating ingredient sourcing and product efficacy, making transparency a linchpin in building customer loyalty.
Shoppers Embrace Relevant Innovation
In the coming years, the concept of innovation is expected to evolve significantly, moving beyond mere product introductions to seek solutions that resonate with consumers’ diverse needs. Brands that deliver relevant and useful products—those that balance novelty, utility, price, and accessibility—are set to lead the market. Businesses are also being urged to build deeper connections with their consumers, with the rise of private label brands and strategic acquisitions further shaping category growth.
Consumers Demand Holistic Value — From Stores to Dining
The definition of value is broadening as consumers start seeking experiences that encompass more than just price, quality, and quantity. As we approach 2026, there is a strong focus on integrating experiences into shopping and dining, where emotional connections and memorable moments become pivotal. Retailers and foodservice operators who grasp the essence of consumer demands, offering curated experiences that seamlessly blend technology and authenticity, will find themselves in a prime position to foster loyalty.
In summary, Acosta Group’s predictions highlight the fundamental shifts in consumer expectations around personalization, transparency, and innovation. For Jacksonville’s economy to remain robust, local businesses must be agile in adapting their strategies to these trends. By fostering a culture of trust and prioritizing consumer engagement, the prospect of sustained economic growth in the region appears promising.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are Acosta Group’s four consumer predictions for 2026?
Acosta Group’s four consumer predictions for 2026 are: 1) Shoppers turn to AI companions; trust slows automation, 2) Health gets personal, functional, and transparent, 3) Shoppers embrace relevant innovation, and 4) Consumers demand holistic value — from stores to dining.
How are consumers expected to use AI in their shopping experiences by 2026?
By 2026, consumers are expected to increasingly rely on AI companions to assist with shopping decisions, with 70% of shoppers having utilized AI tools during their purchasing journey. However, only 12% trust AI to make purchases on their behalf, citing concerns over privacy, data usage, and control.
What factors are driving the demand for personalized and transparent health products?
The demand for personalized and transparent health products is driven by consumers seeking specific, measurable benefits supported by scientific evidence. This trend is particularly pronounced among Gen Z and Millennials, who prioritize clear communication regarding ingredient sourcing, production processes, and the efficacy of functional benefits.
What is meant by ‘holistic value’ in consumer behavior?
‘Holistic value’ refers to a comprehensive definition of value that goes beyond price, convenience, quality, and quantity. Consumers are seeking relevance, experience, and value in their shopping and dining experiences, demanding offerings that authentically understand their needs and provide curated, seamless experiences.
Key Features of Acosta Group’s 2026 Consumer Predictions
| Prediction | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Shoppers Turn to AI Companions; Trust Slows Automation | 70% of shoppers have used AI tools; only 12% trust AI to make purchases; concerns over privacy and control. |
| Health Gets Personal, Functional, and Transparent | Consumers seek personalized, functional health products with transparent labeling; Gen Z and Millennials prioritize these attributes. |
| Shoppers Embrace Relevant Innovation | Focus on delivering relevant, useful products; rise of private label brands and strategic acquisitions to drive growth. |
| Consumers Demand Holistic Value — From Stores to Dining | Consumers seek value beyond price; demand relevance, experience, and value in shopping and dining; integration of retail and foodservice. |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
