Grip Of Consumerism

If you go to a Starbucks to buy a beverage, you will be faced with numerous, mind-boggling choices. Oat or almond milk? Latte or cappuccino? Or is it frappuccino? Added sugar or sugar-free? Matcha or espresso? These are only a few of the examples. In fact, there are over 170,000 possible combinations of coffee and beverages in Starbucks. The number is dizzying. But it isn’t only for beverages. There are endless choices of processed foods in shops, as even potato chips come in a wide range of options. Supermarkets in developed nations have such a diverse and endless range of choices that it can befuddle the consumer. 

However, it is not just foods and groceries; almost every aspect of human life is now consumerised. Even countries like Nepal are seeing a spurt in consumerism, with people spending not just for necessities but also for indulgence. Consider clothing. People today have the option to buy clothes in stores or online. Given the ease with which one can purchase clothes online, it has been a viable option for many. And it is great news for sellers as they can advertise, promote and sell their clothing line to a vast number of people within a low budget. If they are smart with their business, they can reach an unlimited number of people on the internet through websites, social media and such. 

When it comes to books as well, consumerism is deeply entrenched in publishing. With the rise of e-book readers, e-books are now seeing a spurt. And the trend of booktok (in TikTok) and bookstagram (in Instagram) has led to an online community of people where readers gush over books they love. Each year, millions of books are published throughout the world. Walking into a bookstore can be quite a tempting matter. Similarly, when it comes to stationery and art supplies, the choices are diverse. Students today have the choice of numerous brands of stationery and artists can indulge in their choices of art supplies. 

Likewise, when it comes to skin, hair and personal care, cosmetics available in the market vary in their quality and price ranges, making the buyer buy too many of the products that they don’t require. It can be a problem as unwanted items gather dust in homes. It brings to the fore the pros and cons of consumerism. Markets today depend on people’s spending habits to make a significant profit in businesses. And people range in their spending habits, with some preferring to splurge while others prefer to save for the rainy days. Consumerism today has led to a rethink of consumer behaviour as businesses look to cater to their customers, hoping to boost their sales with both physical and online stores. 

Yet, looking at consumer behaviour, there is a sense of caution in buyers today with the rising costs of living, unpredictable stock market, soaring unemployment and even a backlash due to the ongoing tariff wars. With consumerism, the buying and selling of goods brings forth the wide and mind-boggling range of choices. In the end, people will buy both for sustenance and a treat for themselves and their families. But quality goods, services and choices will eventually triumph in a world where consumerism has become the norm even as prices steep.