The $2.4 billion vacuum market is a mature market that has seen inflation-adjusted sales fall from 2004-2009. While pressure from low cost imports and the shift towards hard-surface flooring have limited growth in the market, these difficulties have been compounded in 2008 by the recession. Surprisingly, however, the market is seeing growth in 2009, reasons for which are a central topic of this report.

Notably, consumers have been holding off on replacements and trading down to less expensive products and models. However, demographic shifts, product innovations and “green” trends, including interest in products that conserve energy and create a healthy home are also creating growth opportunities, especially for products such as stick vacuums, and steam cleaners.

Exclusive research into consumer ownership and purchasing of vacuums is analyzed by key demographic groups (gender, age, household income, ethnicity) as well as for high spenders. Research examines specific products owned, when most recent purchases were made, and reasons for purchase, including:

Which groups own or intend to purchase the most vacuums?

What features (including HEPA filtration, bagless technology, energy conservation and appearance) are valued by different consumer groups?

How much did consumers spend on their last vacuum and how much do they plan to spend on their next?

What motivated the purchase of the most recent vacuum and which consumer groups are most likely to be first-time buyers, replacement buyers, or drawn to upgrade to new features?

Which brands do different consumer groups favor and which groups show the greatest brand allegiance or look at the greatest range of brands when seeking a new vacuum?

What type of research do consumers undertake prior to buying a new vacuum? Which consumers are more likely to look on the internet, take interest in TV ads or rely on in-store marketing?