Thomas McCorry

Consumer confidence has long served as a leading indicator of economic health. But in 2025, the relationship between sentiment and spending is becoming more complex. While some households remain resilient, others are pulling back — not just because of financial constraints, but because of fear, uncertainty, and shifting cultural dynamics. For business leaders , understanding these behavioral shifts is essential to navigating demand, pricing, and messaging in a volatile landscape. I. The Confidence Index: A Warning Signal The Conference Board’s Expectations Index — a key measure of consumer outlook — has remained below the recession threshold of 80 for nine consecutive months. This sustained pessimism reflects concerns about inflation, immigration enforcement, political instability, and global conflict. While the Present Situation Index remains relatively stable, the forward-looking sentiment is deteriorating. Key indicators : Holiday spending is projected to decline by 3.9% year-...

Halloween may be rooted in ancient traditions, but its modern incarnation is a masterclass in consumer behavior and seasonal marketing. What began as a night of costumes and candy has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar economic engine — one that reveals as much about inflation, supply chains, and generational spending habits as it does about ghosts and goblins. In 2025, Americans are expected to spend a record-breaking $13.1 billion on Halloween — a 13% increase from last year. But this surge isn’t just about buying more. It’s about paying more for the same things, thanks to rising costs, tariff pressures, and evolving consumer priorities. 🛍️ Consumer Behavior: Joyful Indulgence Meets Strategic Spending Despite inflation fatigue and economic uncertainty, nearly 78% of U.S. adults plan to celebrate Halloween this year. That’s a testament to the holiday’s emotional resilience — people are willing to spend, but they’re doing so with intention. Average spend per celebrant: $...

Utility costs have been rising well ahead of general inflation .  Saving energy at home is not only good for the environment but also helps reduce your utility bills. Whether you own a large house or a small apartment, there are many ways to cut energy consumption effectively. This article covers a wide range of energy-saving strategies, from major upgrades to simple daily habits. 1. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances One of the biggest energy drains in any home comes from old or inefficient appliances. Consider replacing refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, and HVAC systems with ENERGY STAR-rated models. These appliances use advanced technology to consume less electricity while maintaining performance. 2. Improve Home Insulation Proper insulation keeps your home warm in winter and cool in summer, reducing the need for heating and air conditioning. Check your attic, walls, floors, and basement for insulation quality. Adding or upgrading insulation can significantly low...

Explore the economics behind grocery stores—from razor-thin margins and supply chain pressures to consumer behavior and pricing strategies. Learn how retailers stay competitive in a volatile market. Slug: grocery-store-economics-profit-pricing-strategy 🛒 Introduction: The Hidden Complexity Behind Your Grocery Cart Grocery stores may seem like straightforward businesses—buy food, stock shelves, sell to customers—but beneath the surface lies a complex economic ecosystem. From managing razor-thin profit margins to navigating global supply chain disruptions and shifting consumer preferences, grocery retailers must constantly adapt to survive and thrive. This article unpacks the key economic forces shaping grocery stores today, offering insights into pricing strategies, labor dynamics, and the evolving role of technology in food retail. 📉 Thin Margins, Big Stakes: The Financial Reality of Grocery Retail Unlike luxury goods or tech products, groceries operate on notoriously sli...

  In the crowded U.S. beer market, where legacy brands dominate shelf space and consumer loyalty runs deep, few challengers have made as dramatic a climb as Michelob Ultra . In this analysis, Thomas McCorry explores how Michelob Ultra evolved from a niche light beer to a mainstream growth engine — and what that means for marketers and beverage executives alike. From niche to mainstream: a shift in positioning When Michelob Ultra first launched (in 2002 under Anheuser-Busch), it entered the light-beer/low-carb segment. But its early positioning leaned heavily on the “diet beer” or “low carb” messaging. Over time, however, the brand made a pivotal pivot: it began emphasizing active lifestyle, wellness, movement, and sport — not diet constraints.  Rather than shouting “lowest carbs,” Michelob Ultra leaned into the idea that the beer is something for those who “go the extra mile” — whether in fitness, running errands, or enjoying social life with balance. That positioning al...

  In the early days of building a business, it’s easy to get swept up in product development, marketing strategies, and operational efficiencies. But ask any seasoned entrepreneur or executive what truly drives long-term success, and you’ll hear a recurring theme: customer service. Not as a department, but as a philosophy. Not as a cost center, but as a growth engine. I’ve seen firsthand how businesses rise and fall on the strength of their customer relationships. It’s not just about solving problems—it’s about creating moments of trust, loyalty, and advocacy. And in today’s hyper-connected world, where every experience can be shared instantly, customer service has become more than a support function. It’s the heartbeat of brand reputation. Sam Walton , the legendary founder of Walmart, understood this better than most. He once said, “There is only one boss. The customer. And he can fire everybody in the company from the chairman on down, simply by spending his money somewhere el...