Hort IQ Webinar recording now available: Consumer outlook and trends

As we head into 2026, a new webinar recording takes a deep drive into how Australians are shopping, spending and making choices around fresh produce and nuts.

Presented in December by NielsenIQ, the webinar explored the latest FMCG (fast moving consumer goods) trends which are shaping the path to purchase. Drawing on insights from 10,000 Australian households, the session unpacks what these shifts mean for horticulture and where the next growth opportunities lie.

Key highlights include:

• Economic sentiment and inflation:Inflation is easing but still biting, and half of households are cautious spenders.
• Omni-channel dynamics:How discounters, online, and alternate channels are reshaping the path to purchase. Cross-shopping is on the rise and online baskets are bigger than ever.
• Emerging trends:GLP-1 weight-loss drugs and AI are reshaping eating habits and what we buy.
• Fresh produce and nut trends:Fresh produce penetration is slipping, particularly among younger shoppers, while nuts are showing signs of recovery.

While EVOO and table olives don’t fit directly into the fresh produce/FMCG category, there are trends, patterns and insights in the information which will be of interest and benefit to olive producers.

You can watch the webinar here and view the presentation slides here. *Note: Access to Hort IQ is free for growers, however you will need to register and login.

There are also more consumer insights tailored to the horticulture sector on the Hort IQ website.

About Hort IQ

Hort IQ provides consumer and customer data and insights on Australian horticulture via interactive dashboards, on-demand webinars and category analysis that unpack the market landscape, track buyer trends, and reveal consumer needs and produce perceptions.

Hort IQ data is updated on an ongoing basis as follows:

• usage and perception dashboard – monthly (mid-month, for the prior month’s results);
• retail and purchasing (Harvest to Home) – annually or quarterly, depending on category schedule;
• all other materials – on availability.

Access is free for growers, Hort Innovation members and Peak Industry Bodies, through mandatory registration and login.

Find out more here.