NPD sees positives in consumer tracking

Consumer response to coupons and special deals is increasing, according to the NPD Consumer Tracking Service.

Nearly three-quarters, or 74%, of consumers strongly agree that coupons and special deals are the deciding factors when it comes to purchasing home improvement products. This number has increased over the past year.

"In order to grow their share in the home improvement environment, manufacturers and retailers need to look toward innovation, and the basics of effective and efficient merchandising to uncover the opportunities, including deploying the promotional deals consumers want,” said Kevin Gilbert, director of The NPD Group.

In a press release from Oct. 11, the Port Washington, N.Y.-based research company said glimmers of optimism are mixed with dark clouds of the economy.

"While overall sales of home improvement products are still showing declines year over year, there is subtle growth emerging in some categories," Gilbert said. "Despite the uneven economic recovery, lighting and electrical category, fans, hand tools, and lawn and garden products are all heading in a positive direction."