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US consumers show signs of strength ahead of critical holiday spending season — Bain & Company/Dynata Consumer Health Indexes

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Outlook and intent to spend gauges for upper income US consumers show particular strength, with positive trends also seen among lower income consumers, as findings mark public launch of the Bain/Dynata Consumer Health Indexes

BOSTON, Nov. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The US consumer is showing signs of strength, especially among upper income earners who represent the majority of discretionary consumer spending by Americans, the latest results of the Bain & Company/Dynata Consumer Health Indexes, released today, show.

November results of the Consumer Health Indexes (CHI) show a rise in the survey data’s headline gauge of the US consumer outlook to 102.0, up 1.1 points from October’s reading.

The outlook score among upper income consumers, earning more than $100k a year, shows particular strength, rising 2 points month-on-month in November after a 1.9-point increase in October, and has now risen by 3.6 points over the last three months. The CHI gauge of consumers’ intent to spend for upper income earners also continues to trend upwards, climbing by 1.2 points month-on-month in November and by 7.1 points over the last three months.

Lower income consumers, earning up to $50k a year, are reporting less robust but still positive trends in the CHI results. The intent to spend score for this group is up by 5.3 points month-on-month in November, and by 7.6 points in the last three months.  However, alongside this, the consumer outlook score for the group has remained essentially flat in the past two months, making the strength of reading for the lower income group more tentative.

In contrast to upper and lower income earners, middle income Americans (earning $50–100k a year) at present still show no signs of building strength. Both the consumer outlook and intent to spend score for this group remained flat in the past month.

The findings are the key insights from the first edition of the Bain/Dynata Consumer Health Indexes to be publicly released. Bain & Company and Dynata have run the indexes since 2017 to provide business decision-makers with in-depth information and analysis on consumer trends for near-term and medium-term strategy and planning. Previously the data from the monthly CHI survey was provided to clients privately.

Karen Harris, partner at Bain & Company and managing director of the firm’s Macro Trends Group, commented: “As we enter the critical spending weeks for the US holiday retail season upper-income earners – who represent the majority of discretionary spending in the US – are becoming increasingly positive in their outlook and are telling us they intend to spend more freely.

“Upper income consumers’ outlook is buoyed by positive investment portfolio performance. Barring a significant correction, this demographic group’s outlook is likely to remain strong. The enthusiasm recorded in upper income earners’ outlook seems to be having an impact of their spending intentions, where we’ve seen a four-month positive trend in our data. If you are hoping for a positive holiday retail spending season, you would want to see emerging strength from this group, which represents over 50% of discretionary spending in the US.

“Lower income spending intentions have also been trending positively over the last three months, but we continue to look for corresponding positive increases in this group’s outlook on their wages. If we observe these increases, we will have more confidence that these elevated spending intent levels could be supported over the long-term.

“If there is cautionary flag in our data this month, it comes from middle-income households. Their outlook and spend-intent measurements have trended slightly down over the past couple of months. With much of this group’s financial wealth tied up in their houses, and with those markets often summarized as ‘frozen,’ we can’t say we expect to see a sudden favorable shift on the horizon.”

For more details and the full report (PDF), please click here or get in touch via the media contacts below.

Media contacts
To arrange an interview or for any questions, please contact:
Gary Duncan (London) — Email: gary.duncan@bain.com
Katie Ware (New York) — Email: katie.ware@bain.com

About Bain & Company

Bain & Company is a global consultancy that helps the world’s most ambitious change makers define the future.

Across 65 cities in 40 countries, we work alongside our clients as one team with a shared ambition to achieve extraordinary results, outperform the competition, and redefine industries. We complement our tailored, integrated expertise with a vibrant ecosystem of digital innovators to deliver better, faster, and more enduring outcomes. Our 10-year commitment to invest more than $1 billion in pro bono services brings our talent, expertise, and insight to organizations tackling today’s urgent challenges in education, racial equity, social justice, economic development, and the environment. We earned a gold rating from EcoVadis, the leading platform for environmental, social, and ethical performance ratings for global supply chains, putting us in the top 2% of all companies. Since our founding in 1973, we have measured our success by the success of our clients, and we proudly maintain the highest level of client advocacy in the industry.

About Dynata

Dynata is the world’s largest first-party data company for insights, activation, and measurement. With a reach that encompasses 70 million consumers and business professionals globally and an extensive library of individual profile attributes collected through surveys, Dynata is the cornerstone for precise, trustworthy quality data. The company has built innovative data services and solutions around its robust first-party data offering to bring the voice of the customer to the entire marketing continuum — from uncovering insights to activating campaigns and measuring cross-channel marketing return on investment. Dynata serves more than 6,000 market research, media and advertising agencies, publishers, consulting and investment firms, and corporate customers in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Learn more at www.dynata.com.

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SOURCE Bain & Company

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Modular Buildings Draw International Buyer Interest at Linyi Sourcing Fair

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October 30, 2026

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ChinaMarket connects global buyers with Chinese manufacturers and integrated sourcing solutions as demand for modular construction grows in Southeast Asia.

LINYI, China, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Modular buildings, prefabricated houses and futuristic capsule-style cabins have emerged as eye-catching products at the Fourth Linyi Mall International Buyers Conference, held from October 28 to 30 in Linyi, Shandong Province.

Among the products attracting attention are space capsule cabins, modular accommodation units and prefabricated building solutions designed for hospitality, tourism, residential and commercial applications.

The growing interest reflects new business opportunities for Chinese modular construction manufacturers, particularly in Southeast Asian markets where tourism development, hospitality investment and demand for flexible accommodation are creating opportunities for prefabricated building solutions.

From Space Capsules to Complete Building Solutions

A space capsule cabin may appear to be a single product, but international procurement often involves much more than selecting a manufacturer.

Buyers need to consider structural specifications, local climate conditions, electrical systems, transportation, installation, regulatory compliance and after-sales support.

For overseas buyers, especially those entering the Chinese supply chain for the first time, coordinating these requirements across multiple suppliers can be challenging.

This is where ChinaMarket aims to create additional value.

As the official digital platform of Linyi Wholesale Market, ChinaMarket connects international buyers with Chinese manufacturers and integrates sourcing, supplier coordination, logistics and trade services.

For modular construction projects, the platform can help buyers identify suitable suppliers, coordinate product requirements and explore integrated procurement and delivery solutions.

New Opportunities for Southeast Asian Buyers

Southeast Asia represents a promising market for modular construction products.

From tourism resorts and beachfront accommodation to temporary offices, commercial facilities and residential projects, modular buildings offer flexibility, faster installation and opportunities for customized design.

However, different markets have different requirements.

A modular cabin designed for a tropical resort in Thailand or Malaysia may require different ventilation, insulation and corrosion-resistance specifications from a prefabricated building intended for another climate.

Successful international procurement therefore depends on understanding both the manufacturing capabilities available in China and the practical requirements of the destination market.

ChinaMarket seeks to bridge this gap by bringing together manufacturers, international buyers and professional trade service providers.

Connecting Chinese Manufacturing with Global Demand

Linyi is one of China’s major wholesale trading centers, with 136 specialized wholesale markets and approximately 44,000 shops.

Building on this extensive commercial ecosystem, ChinaMarket is expanding its international buyer network while connecting China’s manufacturing and industrial supply chains with overseas markets.

During the Fourth Linyi Mall International Buyers Conference, international buyers from countries including Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and other markets have opportunities to explore Chinese products, connect with suppliers and discuss potential cooperation.

The interest in modular buildings highlights a broader opportunity: overseas buyers increasingly need coordinated sourcing solutions that cover multiple stages of international procurement.

ChinaMarket is developing its capabilities to support this demand, helping international buyers access Chinese suppliers while providing trade services throughout the procurement process.

Source Modular Buildings from China with ChinaMarket

As international demand for modular construction continues to evolve, ChinaMarket welcomes overseas distributors, project developers, resort operators, construction companies and procurement organizations to explore sourcing opportunities in China.

From space capsule cabins and prefabricated houses to customized modular building projects, the platform aims to make international sourcing more accessible, efficient and reliable.

Looking for modular building suppliers in China? Connect with ChinaMarket and explore new sourcing opportunities.

ChinaMarket — Connecting Global Buyers with Chinese Suppliers.

www.prefabhouse.chinamarket.cnwww.prefabhouse.chinamarket.cn

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SOURCE ChinaMarket

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PXPay Plus Integrates with Samsung Wallet: Industry-First Deep Integration for Seamless Payments, Transit, and Top-Ups

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October 30, 2026

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Link your PXPay Plus to earn up to 5% rewards, plus a chance to win the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8

TAIPEI, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In a major breakthrough for Taiwan’s payment market, PXPay Plus today announced its arrival on Samsung Wallet, becoming the first electronic payment brand in the industry to deeply integrate with a built-in mobile wallet. Starting Nov. 1, users of Samsung Galaxy smartphones launched from 2022 onward can simply add PXPay Plus to Samsung Wallet to make mobile payments, ride public transit, top up their accounts and register for promotions — from a single wallet. Users who have upgraded from PX Pay to PXPay Plus are equally eligible.

To celebrate the launch, PXPay Plus is rolling out two promotions. First-Month Sweepstakes: From Nov. 1 to Nov. 30, 2026, users who link PXPay Plus to Samsung Wallet and make a purchase will have a chance to win a brand-new Galaxy Z Fold8 (256GB), with 10 winners drawn nationwide. First-Purchase Reward: From Nov. 1, 2026, to Jan. 31, 2027, users who link their account and register for the promotion will earn a 3% PXPay Plus Point reward on any first purchase at participating physical stores, or up to 5% on a single purchase of NT$800 or more. PXPay Plus invites users across Taiwan to be among the first to experience a faster, more rewarding mobile payment ecosystem.

Link PXPay Plus in Samsung Wallet and Earn Up to 5% Reward on Your First Purchase

PXPay Plus on Samsung Wallet supports all Samsung Galaxy smartphones launched from 2022 to 2026, as well as future models. After updating the Samsung Wallet app to version 6.8.67 or later, users can open Samsung Wallet, tap “Add Card,” select “Scan to Pay,” and choose either “PXPay Plus” or “PX Pay (upgraded to PXPay Plus).” Users then follow the prompts to agree to the terms and complete security verification to finish linking.

Starting Oct. 30, users can register early for the “Link PXPay Plus to Samsung Wallet and Earn Up to 5% Reward” promotion. From Nov. 1, 2026 to Jan. 31, 2027, users who pay with PXPay Plus via Samsung Wallet at PX Mart, MEGA PX MART and participating physical stores across Taiwan will receive a reward based on their first transaction during the promotion period: a 3% PXPay Plus Point reward on purchases of any amount (capped at 20 points), or up to 5% on a single purchase of NT$800 or more (capped at 40 points). Each account is eligible for one reward only, while supplies last.

Transit QR Code, Top-Ups and Promotion Registration — All in Samsung Wallet

Once linked, PXPay Plus sits alongside the other everyday tools on the phone in a single wallet. Whether waiting in a checkout line or rushing to catch public transit, users can access it with just a swipe, without having to switch between apps. Users can open the PXPay Plus Transit QR Code directly from Samsung Wallet to ride public transportation (metro and bus) in Taipei and New Taipei as well as Keelung city buses, and can top up their PXPay Plus account and register for reward promotions right within the wallet. At checkout, the dual-point redemption available in the PXPay Plus app also applies: users can redeem PXPay Plus Points or Cathay United Bank Tree Points (credit card) to cover up to the full purchase amount. Users can earn points as well as redeem them: by switching to the PXPay Plus rewards plan in the CUBE App, users who pay via Samsung Wallet with PXPay Plus linked to their CUBE card will earn a 2% Tree Points (credit card) reward on every purchase at PX Mart physical stores and at more than 370,000 PXPay Plus partner locations across Taiwan. From daily commutes to everyday spending, Samsung Wallet takes care of it all in one place.

Win a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Worth Nearly NT$60,000 in the Launch Month

To mark its first month on Samsung Wallet, PXPay Plus is hosting a special sweepstakes. From Nov. 1 to Nov. 30, 2026, users who link PXPay Plus to Samsung Wallet and make a purchase at participating physical stores will have a chance to win the latest flagship foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold8 (256GB), valued at NT$59,900, with 10 winners drawn nationwide. The more purchases made during the promotion period, the higher the chance of winning (each account may win only once; colors are assigned at random). With its immersive large screen, the Galaxy Z Fold8 makes streaming, navigating maps and working on the go effortless. Simply link PXPay Plus and use it for daily spending for your chance to take home this ultra-flagship device!

※For more details, please see the announcements in the PXPay Plus app and on the PX Mart website.

※ Full promotion details are available in the PXPay Plus app. Any matters not covered herein are subject to the rules of PXPay Plus, PX Mart and the participating banks.

About PXPay Plus

PXPay Plus, an e-wallet brand founded and 100% fully owned by the PX Mart Group. In June of 2021, PXPay Plus obtained licenses and approval for operating electronic payment related business from the FSC (Financial Supervisory Commission) in Taiwan. Continuing the company culture of the PX Mart group, building a delightful company environment for everyone. With the launch of PXPay Plus, users can now enjoy enhanced wallet features, providing a seamless and secure payment experience.

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SOURCE PXPAY PLUS CO., LTD.

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ZKONG and Leading German Home Improvement Retailer hagebau Advance Store Digitalisation Across 50,000+ SKUs

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October 30, 2026

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SELB, Germany, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As digital transformation accelerates across European retail, Electronic Shelf Labels (ESLs) are becoming an increasingly important part of retailers’ digitalisation strategies, helping improve store operational efficiency.

Following approximately four months of refurbishment, the new hagebaumarkt store in Selb, Germany, officially opened.

Founded in 1964, hagebau is one of Germany’s leading home improvement and building materials retail groups, with an established presence across Europe. Its hagebaumarkt network covers key retail segments including DIY, home improvement, building materials and gardening.

Enhancing Staff Efficiency and Store Operations

Spanning around 7,000 m², the Selb store carries an extensive range of products across multiple categories. The complexity of operating the store stems not only from its size, but also from the breadth and diversity of its product range, making manual price verification and label maintenance particularly demanding.

ESL technology was therefore incorporated into the refurbishment plan from the outset, enabling faster price updates and more accurate information across the store.

Built for the Complexity of Home Improvement Retail

Unlike conventional supermarkets, home improvement stores present greater merchandising complexity:

Complex product information: Building materials, hardware and tools often involve multiple product attributes, including model, size, material, colour, compatibility and application. These details are critical to purchasing decisions.

Diverse merchandising environments: Products may be displayed on shelves, hooks, freestanding fixtures, outdoor areas or warehouse-style display zones, requiring ESLs in a range of sizes and with different mounting options.

More demanding manual management: Although price changes may be less frequent than in grocery retail, locating products and replacing the correct labels across a varied assortment remains time-consuming.

To accommodate the store’s wide range of products and display formats, ZKONG deployed a mix of ESLs ranging from 1.3 to 4.2 inches. Through the flexible combination of different sizes, the ESLs adapt seamlessly to the store’s varied displays, helping maintain the clean, orderly presentation associated with modern German retail environments.

Beyond the labels themselves, the deployment is supported by ZKONG’s base stations, which provide stable wireless transmission and allow product, pricing and promotional information to be updated on shelf-edge displays in real time. This helps keep in-store information aligned with backend data.

Driving Smarter Retail Operations

ESLs are redefining the way retail stores operate. By deploying these digital shelf-edge devices, retailers can improve store operational efficiency while freeing staff from time-consuming shelf checks and label changes, allowing them to devote more time and energy to serving customers.

Building on its strong presence across Europe, ZKONG continues to strengthen its capabilities across ESL hardware, wireless infrastructure and centralised management systems, enabling tailored solutions for complex retail environments. The hagebaumarkt Selb project marks another step in ZKONG’s expansion into the European home improvement retail sector. Through projects like this, ZKONG continues to explore new opportunities to address the evolving digital needs of European retail.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/zkong-and-leading-german-home-improvement-retailer-hagebau-advance-store-digitalisation-across-50-000-skus-302924622.html

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