The Victoria's Secret Trap: Why the Grocery Aisle Needs a Promo Reset

Episode notes

Victoria’s Secret’s announced today a successful pivot to fewer discounts (+9% sales, improved margins). At the same time the grocery sector in the UK descended into a promotional price war to combat inflation. We analyze the "Post-Promotional Paradox" facing FMCG executives: as the post-COVID pricing power fades, the traditional reflex to buy volume with trade spend is losing steam. Citing data from Accuris and Circana, we explore how 94% of promotions fail to grow category value, often resulting in cannibalization and subsidization. We detail how leaders like Unilever and Nestlé are escaping this trap through "Zero-Based Planning" and innovation, while others struggle with the high costs of defending volume against Private Label. FMCG Weekly - News and trends curated by Accuris, the leading independent consultancy for revenue growth management

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