'Little luxuries': The affordable treats driving consumer spending
BBC'Little luxuries': The affordable treats driving consumer spending Alamy Shoppers are abandoning big purchases, instead seeking out smaller products that feel like little treats, like make-up Consumers may be easing up on splurge purchases, but they're still buying pick-me-up products that make them feel special, a bit at a time. Some economists refer to the phenomenon as the "lipstick index": a small economic bump led by budget-conscious consumers seeking out relatively affordable splurges, like small cosmetics and perfumes. In general, Coresight anticipates spending on big-ticket items to be relatively weak for as long as the housing market remains sluggish, but beauty will perform well as consumers look for small, more affordable treats. Martin says not every shopper will shift their spending to little luxuries – but even those who are still coveting the "must-haves" of social media will also look to get a deal.