Consumers keep focus on saving cash, energy
This article on a recent home improvements show illustrates the trend in the industry. Retailers and contractors need to be aware of consumers perceptions and how those affect their purchase behaviors. While the incomes of most consumers has not changed, their willingness to spend has been severely cut back. This article shows a tendency towards the efficiency end of the spectrum, instead of what are perceived as extravagances. This is where the marketing focus for the residential construction industry needs to shift for the short term.
The economy stayed on consumers’ minds as they perused hot tubs, window treatments, appliances and more at the Maine Home, Remodeling & Garden Show this weekend.
Linda and David Jenkins of Auburn are do-it-yourself enthusiasts who draw inspiration from such events.
The owners of an older house, they’d like to replace their windows and tackle other improvements. But in this economy, it makes sense to be careful about spending, said David Jenkins, a building supplies salesman.
“You pick your projects wisely,” added Linda Jenkins, who works as a hospital secretary.
The two-day show, held at the Cumberland County Civic Center, addressed the economy with a focus on cost-effective improvements and energy savings. Seminar topics included home energy audits and tips on how to make economical improvements to bathrooms and kitchens.
Though organizers wondered if the recession would dampen attendance, they were pleased with the results. It looks like numbers will meet or slightly beat last year’s attendance of about 5,700 people, said Cynthia Dickson of Dickson & McGonigle, the Fryeburg-based event planner. Final figures won’t be known until later in the week.
Short URL: http://www.news.synavista.com/?p=1618
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on Feb 10 2009. Filed under Home Improvements News.
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