In a world where the needs of every individual vary; there are certain commodities that command great appeal from prospective customers. Irrespective of the downward economic trend, these goods still evoke considerable consumer confidence hence a high purchasing order is obtainable in the area of sales.
Overtime, these goods have stood the test of time [as their producers have made them evolve in consonance with market dynamics]; some [FMCG] have however cause huge and commendable stir [upon their introduction to the market] as they tend to move out of stock very quickly.
The handiness; packaging; brand name and quality of these fast moving consumer goods have played a major role in making them 'household names'...items like gala, indomie, soft-drinks, fashion products, etc now occupy a space in our subconscious.
Some of the fast moving consumer goods are discussed forthwith
Packaged/Processed Food: In an 'Indomie' generation- my term for describing a world where people want things available in quick succession- and with food being a basic and essential need; the demand for packaged or processed foods becomes obviously high. Despite the 'junky' nature and probable insatiability of these foods, they still arouse the appetite of prospective consumers. Among these, we have sausage roll (e.g.: gala, meaty, etc) indomie, sardine, plantain chips, snacks and so on.
Cleaning Agents: For the singular reason that no one wants to walk around dirty or inhabit an unhygienic environment; cleanliness takes a focal point in our daily routine. Whether for bathing, washing or cleaning, soap and other cleansing agents become very essential. Soap and detergents like Premier, Imperial Leather, Mama gold, Klin, etc have become regular handy items in and around the home. 'Hypo', for its effectiveness in cleaning and washing white clothings and some vessels (like toilet basins and closets), is also drawing huge patronage from customers.
Phones and Phones' Accessories: The advent of ground-breaking technological advances came along with a 'craze'- that is even catalyzed by man's unquenchable desire to try out something new- that often gets the telephony and/or telecommunications industries terrifically buzzing. It is hard to come by an individual who does not possess a mobile device and phone manufacturers like Samsung, Microsoft, Tecno, Apple, etc have thus far had their products actively landing in the grasps of customers from time to time.
Furthermore, owing to the fragility of some of these devices; phone accessories are also in high demand: screen, battery, screen guard, pouches and so on command substantial purchasing order.
Recharge Cards: In a way, the demand for recharge cards can be viewed as an offshoot of the technological advancement as rudimentary means (like letter-writing, etc) of communication have been nearly phased out. And with communication being an essential aspect of human lives, service providers like Airtel, Etisalat, Globacom and MTN have made [and will continue to make] a fortune through the production and eventual sales of these cards- and even though this could have been through giving out franchise to interested partners.
Beverages/Fruit Juice: The refreshing taste of a cold drink is one temptation consumers find hard to overcome...to the lure; drinks like Coca-cola, Fanta, Sprite, beer [like Gulder, Star, etc] have left an impression on the customers. Coupled with this, you have different milk brands [like Peak, Hollandia, Three crown, etc] and tea [like Milo, Bournvita, etc] that are steadily moved out of stock. Also fruit juices like Dansa, Hollandia yoghurt and so on command great respect in the market.
Clothing/Fashion accessories: The mantra: 'looking good is good business' does ring bell here and to the ones who deal in fashion accessories; there is never an end to the opportunities available to them. Everyone desires to look good hence, as long as we live, clothing materials will remain high in demand. Furthermore, for women [though maybe some] artificial hair and make-up kits are some essentials that cannot be left out of their collection. Permit me to add this: Cosmetics like creams and lotions are also doing well in the market.
In conclusion: it is not uncommon to see consumers who are not concerned about brand names. However, certain brands dominate the market and they can hardly be overlooked: for instance; over the years, Dangote products (e.g: salt, sugar, pasta, cement, etc) have been among the top fast moving consumer goods in Nigeria and this is seen in the company's turnover. Aside Dangote products, another company that is great exploit in manufacturing FMCG is Chi Limited, makers of Hollandia milk...I believe one thing that is setting this company apart is its creativity in reeling out different quality products that bring about customer satisfaction...'Hollandia evap', Hollandia yoghurt, Happy hour, Superbite... just to mention a few are some of the products we have come to love and that we will always love to buy.
Wholesalers and Retailers who understand market trends very well will definitely generate good profit dealing in any of these goods since they readily appeal to customers regardless of his/her orientation- social or anti-social. And the newbies could also venture into marketing any of these goods but with a credible feasibility study and plan.