South Africa, Oct. 24 -- NielsenIQ (NIQ) South Africa has released its Consumer Outlook: Guide to 2026. This annual report is a strategic roadmap for driving growth in a volatile, fast-moving market where caution is the consumer's default and highlights opportunities for brands to connect with consumers across channels.

The report indicates that South African consumers have adapted to constant change. While 64% of South Africans report that they expect their household situation to improve by the start of 2026, this confidence masks the reality that consumers have become numb to rising prices and economic stagnation.

Among South African respondents, 37% say their household is worse off now than a year ago, up from 33% in the survey for t...