September’s Spice to October’s Nice: Discover the Season’s Biggest Consumer Headlines

A look at the consumer and retail news from PR Newswire in September and October that you might have missed.

 

Consumer News Trends, September-October 2024

 

By Madison Zadravec | Published Nov. 13, 2024

 

Looking through the lens of this season’s most buzzworthy press releases, we're seeing traditional retail playbooks being gleefully tossed aside in favor of bold new strategies, creating a consumer news landscape that's more dynamic – and frankly, more interesting – than ever before.

From the great pumpkin spice uprising (where brands are finally daring to suggest autumn might taste like something else) to delivery services that are now bringing everything short of the kitchen sink to your doorstep (though we wouldn't be surprised if that's next), companies are charging full steam ahead into the final months of 2024.

Over 5,000 consumer and retail press releases were published by PR Newswire in September and October.

These are a few of the most popular consumer releases on our site from the past two months:

Consumer News Trends

Here's our deep dive into the trends that dominated consumer news this fall and what they tell us about where retail is headed in 2025 and beyond.

Beyond Pumpkin Spice: Fall Flavors Stage a Taste Revolution

Move over, PSL! The autumn flavor landscape received a major makeover as brands shook up their seasonal offerings. From Simply Spiked's bold cranberry challenge to Jones Soda's spooky sips, companies are proving there's more to fall than your basic pumpkin spice.

It's not just about new flavors – it's about timing, with brands orchestrating a symphony of releases that hit all the right notes from game day to Halloween and beyond. Think cozy Panera soups warming up "soup season" and the Tim Hortons Halloween launch of REESE'S and M&M'S mashups.

In September and October, PR Newswire distributed more than 2,200 food and beverage-related press releases.

Here are a few more seasonal food marketing stories you might have missed:

This brave new world of fall flavors suggests we are entering an era where seasonal treats are limited only by imagination, not tradition. Sorry, pumpkin spice – you had a good run!

A New Age of Parenting Products

Millennial and Gen Z parents are rewriting the rulebook on childcare, and manufacturers are here for it. From Munchkin's groundbreaking stroller with built-in headlights to AI-powered baby wellness wearables, the future of parenting looks decidedly high-tech.

We also noticed an increase in sanity-saving solutions for modern parents juggling careers, relationships and the ever-present question of "What's for dinner?" (We're looking at you, Whirlpool study!)

The focus on products that "do more" reflects the premium modern parents place on efficiency and reliability, indicating a willingness to invest in products that promise to simplify parenting tasks.

Here are a few examples:

What's particularly notable is how these innovations are being marketed not just as convenience features but as solutions that can meaningfully impact family well-being, addressing real concerns about work-life balance and parental stress.

Take a look at a few more of the hundreds of parenting-related retail news releases distributed by PR Newswire in September and October:

Delivery Gets Delightfully Diverse: The Everything, Everywhere, All-at-Once Era

Who said delivery was just for pizza? From Spirit Halloween costumes via Uber Eats to Party City supplies through Instacart, the "I want it now" economy is embracing ... well, everything.

As retail media networks bloom and shoppable formats expand, we're witnessing the birth of a new retail ecosystem where the line between browsing and buying is blissfully blurred.

Here are a few stories you might have missed:

Ho-Ho-Hold Up: Why Holiday Shopping is Starting Early

The holidays are coming! No, really – they're already here. Retailers are making the season bright ... and they're doing it really, really early. As holiday seasons stretch longer, brands can take advantage by creating new opportunities for storytelling, advertising and engagement.

Here's a look at a few holiday shopping and savings stories:

This trend goes beyond FOMO marketing, indicating a sophisticated dance between consumer psychology and economic reality. Today's shoppers are planning earlier, spending smarter and spreading their holiday budgets across months instead of maxing out credit cards in December. The future of holiday retail isn't about a date on the calendar – it's about maintaining the magic while making it manageable for modern consumers.

Corporate America's Hurricane Response

As Hurricanes Helene and Milton carved destructive paths through communities this fall, press releases from major corporations demonstrated the importance of companies stepping beyond their traditional retail roles to serve as vital community lifelines.

Here are a few examples of corporate relief efforts:

Our hearts go out to all those affected by these devastating storms. For all the latest updates, visit PR Newswire's dedicated Hurricane Season news feed.

Looking Ahead

The retail scene from September and October tells a compelling story of transformation. From reimagined fall flavors to delivery services that know no bounds, we're watching brands step boldly into new territory. The winning formula seems clear: blend innovation with a genuine understanding of how people live today. Companies that nail this balance – making life easier while adding a dash of delight – are the ones setting the pace for 2025.

Stay tuned for more insights from PR Newswire as we continue to delve into the ever-evolving world of retail and consumerism.

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About the Author

Madison Zadravec headshotMadison Zadravec is a Customer Content Specialist and Industry Ambassador for PR Newswire. Both roles highlight Madison’s keen eye for detail and passion for brand storytelling. When not immersed in the latest headlines, Madison can be found hiking with her dog, solving a crossword puzzle, or baking a sweet treat.