Shopping trends for 2007: "conscientious consumerism" and "transparency tyranny"

Here at CR, most of our work involves testing products that are already in the marketplace — everything from the latest plasma TVs to the top small SUVs. However, that doesn't mean we're not interested in getting the jump on upcoming shopping trends. So, we were intrigued to find two recent studies highlighting the latest marketplace buzz. First up is this report from Packaged Facts, which highlights the growth of "conscientious consumerism." According to the study, the market for green and other "ethical" products has grown to $33 billion, and encompasses everything from organic foods to "certified humane" meats. Consumer Reports has followed the growth of the organic food industry, and we've got some great tips on buying organic here.

Then there's this report (PDF) from Amsterdam-based Trendwatching.com. The study, on the "top 5 consumer trends for 2007" includes some developments that have already manifested themselves, including the rise of the "green chic" category (see above). What's really interesting, however, is the growth of "transparency tyranny," in which the combination of user reviews, ever-present cameraphones and easy real-time content-posting tools creates a new class of super-empowered consumers. Of course, we've been empowering consumers since 1936, and the idea of working more closely with them to help improve products and services is nothing new to us. So, if 2007 is really the year of "crowd clout and the transparency of everything," consider us ready to play our part.

— Marc Perton