How the kitchen specialty store is transforming more than ever into a place of experience and advice

What do the major studies say about consumer behavior in 2030?  

The year 2025 is already well underway: changes in consumer behavior are not only observable, but essential to understand for the future. In the kitchen industry, this transformation is perhaps most palpable. We are facing an era in which innovation, sustainability and personalized experiences play a crucial role. But what exactly does the consumer look like in 2030? What do these changes mean for kitchen retailers and suppliers?

By 2030, technology will be fully integrated into consumers' daily lives. Smart kitchen systems will no longer be a luxury, but a standard expectation. According to a study by McKinsey & Company¹ 70% of households in 2030 will have at least one smart device that functions with AI to optimize everyday tasks. Devices that communicate with each other and use artificial intelligence to optimize personalized recipes, energy management and inventory management will not only be popular, but necessary. The consumer of 2030 demands convenience and efficiency, and manufacturers who do not ride this technological wave risk being left behind.

What does this mean for the kitchen retailer?

Much of the added value will lie in expertise around technology and smart applications. The advisory role will become more important than ever, with customers looking not only for aesthetics but also for functional, future-proof solutions. For suppliers, this means that their offerings will not be limited to individual products, but must include integrated systems and services.

Sustainability is more than a trend

By 2030, sustainability will no longer be a buzzword, but an established pillar of consumer behavior. From a report by Euromonitor International² shows that 60% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products by 2030. The kitchen is seen as the heart of a sustainable home. This affects the choice of materials, production methods and even the lifespan of products. Consumers not only want their kitchen to look good; they also want to know where the materials come from, how they were produced and how they contribute to a lower carbon footprint.

Manufacturers and suppliers must therefore invest in sustainable innovations and transparent communication. This means developing circular products that can be recycled or reused, and using materials such as recycled plastic and FSC-certified wood. Kitchen retailers must be able to communicate these sustainability stories and help customers make choices that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also ethically sound.

Personalized experiences

The consumer of 2030 demands a kitchen tailored to his or her specific lifestyle. This goes beyond choosing colors and materials. From a study by Deloitte³ shows that 80% of consumers expect products and services tailored to their specific needs by 2030. Think modular kitchen systems that can be easily adapted to changing needs, such as a growing family or the desire to create more space for working from home and social gatherings. Consumers expect their kitchen to be a seamless extension of their living environment.

For manufacturers and kitchen retailers, this means a shift from a product-centric to a consumer-centric approach. Data analytics and direct customer feedback will help shape products and services that match consumers' personal preferences and living conditions. This requires a new way of thinking and communicating in which customer interaction is central.

Impact on marketing and customer approach

These changes in consumer behavior have major implications for how manufacturers and kitchen retailers approach marketing and customer relationships. By 2030, traditional marketing will have largely been replaced by interactive, digital experiences. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) make it possible to virtually explore and customize kitchens before the buying decision is made. This requires kitchen retailers and suppliers to invest in new technologies and platforms to engage and guide customers through their buying process.

In addition, communication is becoming more personalized. Automated systems will recognize customers and provide them with customized recommendations and solutions. The role of physical stores is changing into a place for experience and advice, with technology supporting the creation of a unique customer journey.

Sources:

1. McKinsey & Company: Future of Smart Home Technology Report, 2023.
2. Euromonitor International: Sustainability Trends in Consumer Behavior, 2024.
3. Deloitte: Personalization and Consumer Expectations in 2030, 2023.