Does fall begin when the kids go back to school, when temperatures start to cool or when the calendar tells us? There’s no right answer. But even after all three happen, it doesn’t mean people are going to drop everything and head inside.
Consumers’ renewed love of the outdoors offers opportunities for home and housewares year-round. But fall’s cooler temperatures, fun seasonal activities and a feeling of urgency to soak up as much outdoor time before snow or cold all add to the appeal of outdoor living this time of year.
Keep in mind that consumers may want to spend their fall in different ways. After all, “The Great Outdoors” portfolio in the HomePage News InSight™ Trend Index reports: “If you want a real eye-opener, ask someone what “outdoors” means to them. For many, the outdoors means venturing far afield to places and paths unknown. Still others are content to explore the fun and freedom of their own front lawn or backyard.”
Outdoor Adventure
For those looking for an adventure, fall fun might mean camping or glamping before it gets too cold. It might mean some hiking or biking excursions. Or it could mean a day trip to an apple orchard or pumpkin patch. “Glamping,” “Grilling,” “Tailgating” and “Trailblazing” were some of the top activities consumers cited in “The Great Outdoors” portfolio.
These consumers might appreciate tips on local places – or ones within a day’s drive – where they can enjoy an outdoor fall adventure. Home and housewares retailers might consider partnering with outdoor venues or providing recipes or meal ideas for camping or on-the-go activities.
As for products, these consumers are likely to be inspired by portable items that will help them enjoy their adventure or things that help them bring the best of home along with them. Think portable heaters, drinkware that keeps beverages hot like this one from Built, or sturdy picnicware like the Frontier Picnic Utility Cooler from Picnic Time.
Outdoor Living at Home
Still others may see fall as an opportunity to get the most out of their home’s outdoor living space. (After all many people invested in these spaces during the pandemic.) Or it may be a case of keeping things easy or shareable with friends, family and neighbors. “The Great Outdoors” portfolio reports that “Simple,” “Shareable,” “Fun,” “Convenient,” “Creative” and “New” were some of the top things consumers are looking for.
These consumers might see fall fun as hosting outdoor football game watches, Oktoberfest celebrations or neighborhood pumpkin carving events. They might enjoy continued opportunities to grill, make s’mores and host night-time bonfires (minus summer’s heat and bugs).
They also are likely to be inspired by ideas or tips for fall-themed events and cooking. As for products, they’re likely to appreciate items that allow them to entertain in a new or different way, tap into a seasonal theme or channel a comfy, cozy vibe such as Union Square’s Pizzeria Pronto Outdoor Pizza Oven or the Glampware Enamelware by Golden Rabbit.
More products that celebrate The Great Outdoors can be found in the sixth portfolio in the HomePage News 2023/24 InSight™ Trend Index. The Trend Index is a series of product portfolios examining the latest trends in home and housewares. The first six have been published, with three more to come.