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This statistic presents the average shopping trips per month made by American shoppers in 2014, by channel. During this period, American shoppers made an average of one shopping trip per month to "DollarStore" stores.

Shopping Behavior: Buying Habits

This behavior has steadily declined over recent years. However, a more detailed behavioral profile on the shopping session shows a more complex situation. The food sector accounts for the majority of FMCG shopping trips. In any case, like most FMCG sectors, it saw its frequency decline in 2014.

These decreases are caused by various factors. The economic slowdown and fluctuations in gas prices—sometimes very high—have left an indelible mark on shoppers, and in many cases, the effort to save money has become, in a recession context, a well-established habit regarding FMCG purchases. Competition for spending share has increased as retailers refine their offerings and distribution formats to attract more customers and ultimately find new growth avenues in a constantly evolving market.

During the past year, many channels such as the club/warehouse concept or "DollarStores" experienced an increased frequency of shopping sessions. The dynamism of these channels can be partly explained by a change in strategy regarding the purpose of the shopping trip. For example, missions aimed at filling the pantry—shopping trips during which consumers have a large basket of goods and which serve to restock for the coming week—have increased since the economic slowdown and play a major role for the "Club" channels.

The growth of the "Dollar" channel has been supported by a number of factors including increased store traffic, a wider assortment, and store redesigns aimed at improving the channel's appeal among consumers with average or high income.

Advanced technology, evolving demographics, and a transforming economy combine to promote an unprecedented industrial revolution. Understanding these factors is essential to establish near-constant, real-time communication with these shoppers to encourage purchases and consolidate their long-term loyalty.