The study of over 1,000 U.S. consumers makes it clear: the issue extends beyond inbox fatigue. Generic brand communications are impacting consumer productivity, eroding trust, altering brand perception, and changing how consumers engage with brands.

When consumer budgets are squeezed and shoppers are making tighter decisions, an
empty shelf, a mislabeled pallet, or a late shipment doesn’t just cost you sales. It costs you relationships. And it costs you during the period when food and beverage volumes, including cold beverages, seasonal packaged goods, grilling staples, and snacks are at their highest.

Email delivers impressive results for businesses of all sizes, generating an average of $36 for every dollar spent. For independent retailers working with limited budgets, this kind of performance makes email one of the most cost-effective marketing channels available.

Everyone called this a supply chain story. It’s not really. Manufacturers weren’t ready, sure, but that’s not bad luck. They didn’t build enough capacity because nobody believed this many of us would show up the second we got permission to ask.