From The March 2002 Issue of Natural Grocery Buyer

In Natural Products We Trust

American consumers not only pledged their allegiance to the flag after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, they also pledged their allegiance to organic and natural products. Sales of health and wellness goods made solid gains during September 2001, growing 21.5 percent in conventional stores when compared with sales during September 2000. SPINS found that shoppers believe it's important to continue to treat themselves well in uncertain times. Researchers wondered if consumers might shift to lower-cost products to save money, but shoppers didn't run for the cheap aisles in search of macaroni and cheese, white bread and baloney.

The results didn't surprise SPINS CEO Paddy Spence.

"This information clearly shows that for many Americans these products are increasingly a necessity, not a luxury," Spence says. "In uncertain times, one way shoppers can take control of their own health and well-being is through the products they consume; and natural and organic products, as well as dietary supplements, fulfill that need."

The September increase continues the ongoing trend of strong sales for organic and natural products. It is also proof that the economic and political uncertainty isn't shaking consumers' belief in these products. "Health and wellness continues to be a bright spot in the U.S. economy," Spence says.