Global Market Landscape
The Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) market is substantial, projected at USD 2.335 trillion by 2025, up from USD 1.935 trillion in 2021, showing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 4.8%
Another forecast places the CPG market at USD 3.45 trillion in 2025, expected to reach USD 4.235 trillion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.2%
For retail sales specifically, the National Retail Federation projects U.S. retail sales in 2025 to reach between USD 5.42 and 5.48 trillion, slightly above 2024’s USD 5.29 trillion, reflecting stable growth trends
Shifting Consumer Behavior Trends
According to McKinsey’s “State of the Consumer 2025” report:
Post-pandemic, consumers spend more time alone and online, with leisure time up by over three hours per week vs. 2019, now largely consumed by solo activities, shopping, and screen time
Despite lingering economic concerns, consumers continue to spend, making value, convenience, and unexpected “trade-offs” critical preferences
Over 90% of consumers in the U.S. and China shopped online in the past month; grocery deliveries remain strong with nearly 40% using this service weekly
Performance of Top Consumer Brands
Bain reports that in early 2024, the top 50 global CPG firms saw only 1.2% year-over-year revenue growth, while insurgent brands captured 40% of industry growth, highlighting rising competition and market fragmentation
However, while margins improved for top players due to easing input costs, profitability remains lower than pre-pandemic, impacted by supply chain volatility and high SG&A expenses
Why Trade Shows Matter, Especially in Consumer Markets
Trade shows hold uniquely vital value for the consumer sector:
Unmatched visibility & engagement: In-person booths drive exposure and brand recognition through interactive displays, samples, and immersive experiences
Lead generation and networking: Such events remain core to generating qualified leads and forging retail and distribution partnerships
Global expansion and brand positioning: Events serve as launchpoints for new market entries and global brand building
Global expansion and brand positioning: Events serve as launchpoints for new market entries and global brand building
Exhibit Powerhouses in the Consumer Sphere
CES (Consumer Electronics Show) continues to be a defining global event. In 2025, CES drew 141,000 attendees and remains a critical platform for unveiling product innovations, especially in tech-adjacent automotive, IoT, and health sectors
The enduring relevance of CES lies in physical product interaction and serendipitous networking—benefits that even virtual formats fail to replace time.com.
Retail’s BIG Show (NRF): Attracts about 35,000 retail professionals, featuring retail technology, distribution strategies, and market insights—crucial for grocers, fashion, and consumer goods exhibitors
