New research into Australia’s growing ageing population has revealed that consumers aged 55 years and older don’t believe that brands cater for them in their advertising despite controlling more than half of Australia’s wealth.
Undertaken by RMIT University and commissioned by SBS, the research also found that this demographic rejects advertising that insults their intelligence, and campaigns which perpetuate stereotypes of older people, including the use of terms such as ‘silver’, ‘mature’ and ‘senior’.
SBS director of media sales Adam Sadler says the number of Australians over the age of 55 is growing significantly each year, now representing more than 25% of the population.
He added that despite controlling the most "significant portion" of Australia’s wealth, they are rarely targeted by marketers.
“This new research tells us that this group are not only open to trialling new brands, but also have strong purchasing power across other demographics for a range of product categories, including recreation, food and drink," Sadler says.
“Marketers in Australia and globally simply can’t afford to ignore this sizable demographic, and can benefit from a clearer understanding of insights and spending behaviours.”
Based on in-depth interviews, a review of existing research and analysis of secondary data, the research highlights that;
- Chronological age tells us very little - age is a fluid concept, with chronological age a poor predictor of attitudes, interests and behaviour.
- Older consumers don’t feel valued – advertising targeted at this group tends to feature negative stereotypes and caricatures of ageing over positive ones.
- This demographic is brand aware, but generally not brand loyal - quality or functionality are valued, but brands as status symbols may not be.
- Progressive attitudes are not age-dependent - there is an increasing interest in ethics and corporate responsibility as people aged over 55 want a better future for their children, grandchildren, and themselves.
- People aged 55+ are staying in the workforce longer – almost two-thirds of Australians aged 55-64 are working, and 13 per cent of those aged 65 years and older.
- Spending remains stable throughout retirement – almost 60 per cent of people spend about the same throughout their retirement
“Age is just a number, and with such a large chunk of Australia’s wealth controlled by this demographic, it’s positive that stereotypes and ageism in marketing is getting the attention it deserves," GroupM ANZ CEO Mark Lollback says.
"It makes sense for advertisers to want to better connect with this audience by tapping into the full range of interests and attitudes, move beyond one-dimensional segmentation and develop sophisticated media strategies that ensure they get the right message to the right consumer at the right time.”
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