100 growing and declining product categories in e-commerce in the USA March 2019 v March 2020

Fascinating data and insights out of the US from a retail intelligence company Stackline.

When comparing March 2019 to March 2020, the top 100 products as we’d expect are dramatically different in e-commerce transactions across the USA.

Data overwhelm

With so much data being thrown at us all at the moment, and amongst a background of uncertainty, making judgements with it on what businesses are the best performers now and will be into the future, won’t be reliable.

Only time will tell what trends amongst these will stick as far as long-term behaviour changes are concerned. And those that do stick, will become very relevant in assessing business opportunities into the future. Not only will the behaviour changes influence what businesses to invest in, but they will equally suggest business niches to avoid.

The Top 10 in Growth

1. Disposable gloves +670%
2. Bread machines +652%
3. Cough & Cold +535%
4. Soups +397%
5. Dried grains and rice +386%
6. Packaged food +377%
7. Fruit cups +326%
8. Weight training +307%
9. Milk and cream +279%
10. Dishwashing supplies +275%

The Top 10 in Decline

1. Luggage and suitcases - 77%
2. Briefcase -77%
3. Cameras -64%
4. Men’s swimwear -64%
5. Bridal clothing -63%
6. Men’s formal wear -62%
7. Women’s swimwear -59%
8. Rash guards (what are they?) -59%
9. Boy’s athletic shoes -59%
10. Gym bags -57%

Data Source: www.stackline.com