Almost three-quarters of Romanians (74%) see inflation as the main reason why they will spend more in the next half of the year, according to a survey published on Monday by PwC.

The results of the PwC Voice of Consumer 2024 survey show that seven out of ten consumers are expecting in the next six months to spend more on food, clothing, DIY and travel.

Better value for money and promotion offers are the two characteristics most appreciated by Romanian consumers when choosing a product, as well as by global consumers. Thus, 46% and 39% of respondents say that better value for money and promotion offers, respectively, would entice them to try out a new brand that offers the same type of products.

In order to reduce their impact on climate change about 5 in 10 consumers are changing their purchasing habits by buying more sustainable products.

According to the survey, 70% of Romanian consumers claim that advertisements via social media influence their purchasing decisions.

The most popular social media app in Romania is still Facebook. Among younger users Instagram and TikTok are becoming more popular.

Romanian consumers still prefer physical stores to buy food, clothes, books, electronics, but modern shopping methods are increasing. Monthly, 36% buy from physical stores, but a close percentage of 29% and, respectively, 31%, shop online via PC or via mobile.

Mobile/contactless payment is preferred by 44% of Romanian consumers, similar to those in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and more than 38% globally. But only 28% Romanian consumers prefer self-checkout technology, compared to 34% in CEE and 38% globally.

The percentage of the consumers who would prefer a fully automated store experience is similar in Romania and globally, of 25% and, respectively, 23%.

In the Voice of Consumer 2024 survey, PwC surveyed 20,662 consumers in 31 countries and territories, including Romania.

AGERPRES