No doubt 2009 will likely go on record as one of the toughest years in the world’s economic history, leveling a serious blow to the consumer products industry. Struggling with declining sales and profits, many retailers have shuttered doors or closed down completely. However, if history teaches us anything it is that “This too shall pass.” New U.S. GDP figures already show a promising 3.5% growth rate for the third quarter, and we’re seeing signs of a slow (and hopefully steady) recovery. As we look ahead to 2010 in this issue, we’ll examine the burning question: what can consumer product companies do to get a jump on the recovery and get ahead in the coming year? More…
