AI increasingly shapes global consumer purchasing trends

NielsenIQ's latest report indicates that artificial intelligence is playing a growing role in consumer purchasing decisions globally.

The Mid-Year Consumer Outlook: Guide to 2025, released by NielsenIQ, reveals that approximately 40% of consumers worldwide are open to accepting product recommendations from AI assistants, while a similar percentage are willing to use AI to expedite their shopping processes. This trend underscores the necessity for companies to evaluate AI technologies that resonate with consumers, particularly offering solutions that cater to older demographics.

The report highlights a significant increase in global online sales by 11.6%, attributed to the rising influence of social commerce and gamification. Notably, 36% of consumers admit they would spend more due to an engaging in-app experience.

In the context of Australian consumers, the report reveals that 30% are inclined to heed product recommendations from their AI assistants and are equally likely to use AI to streamline their shopping activities. Furthermore, 34% of Australians claim they are likely to increase spending due to in-app challenges or reward systems.

Tracey Massey, Chief Operating Officer of NielsenIQ, commented, "There is increasing demand for AI-driven insights based on large quantities of granular data that only NIQ can deliver. Having your finger on the pulse of current and expected consumer behavior that is benchmarked globally is now table stakes to establish and maintain any competitive advantage."

Given the ongoing economic challenges, understanding consumer behaviour has become crucial for businesses aiming to thrive. The Mid-Year Consumer Outlook offers an extensive analysis of how economic events and trends impact consumer confidence, how consumer attitudes are shifting, and what factors drive purchasing decisions.

The report also delves into the regional differences, providing detailed analysis of consumer behaviour across Asia-Pacific, Europe and more.

NIQ is a global consumer intelligence company, delivering a complete understanding of consumer buying behavior and revealing new pathways to growth. NIQ combined with GfK in 2023, bringing together the two industry leaders with unparalleled global reach.

Today NIQ has operations in 95+ countries representing 97% of the world's GDP. With a holistic retail read and the most comprehensive consumer insights - delivered with advanced analytics through state-of-the-art platforms - NIQ delivers the Full View.