Whether it’s lifestyle or updated trends, consumers are often revising their tastes, budgets and how they shop for home furnishings. We asked three retailers what consumer buying changes they’re seeing, and how they are adjusting their business strategies in 2026 to ensure they deliver for their customers.
How does consumer buying affect your buying decisions and product assortments?
Carla Snowdon, Tidewater Lighting, Conn.: We stay informed. We learn what our customers want by listening carefully. We also talk to builders and architects to learn what their clients are looking for in new or remodeled homes. We use that information to build our displays. We do the same with kitchen and bath designers to understand the finishes customers are looking for and ensure our assortment meets our customers’ needs.
Heather Osmond, Osmond Designs, Utah: We let our customers guide our product buying decisions. Currently, they’re steering us toward higher quality, curated and flexible solutions. We are leaning heavily into solid wood case goods, domestic upholstery and high-performance materials. We’ve increased our handcrafted lines, warm neutral palettes and organic-inspired collections.
We are also stocking greater quantities of best-selling items and maintaining quick-ship partnerships to keep lead times short. We buy with both style and real-life practicality in mind.
Susan Mason, Bend the Trend, Ga.: Consumer buying habits influence what we stock. We pay close attention to what our customers are asking for. For example, there is so much interest in Mahjong, we have started carrying all things Mahjong and held “sold out” mahjong events at our store. Basically, we try to keep our selection fresh and in tune with what our customers want and need.
Stay tuned tomorrow to find out if shifting consumer buying habits change how retailers source products.
