Introduction

In a year characterized by a continuing global economic downturn and lower levels of consumer confidence and spending power, there were nonetheless a number of encouraging signs.

Many people’s behavior has changed in light of the crisis, with a greater emphasis on entertaining, relaxing and personal care in the home rather than outside it. In addition, there is an ongoing focus on personal health and well-being; more and more people are becoming aware that they have to actively address this issue in order to improve the quality of their lives. And consumers are limited far less than before by traditional boundaries between products and categories. They don’t think in terms of ‘boxes’, but instead go looking for value and an enhanced experience.