SWNS

Nearly half of Americans can’t live without their electronics (48%) and WiFi (46%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults revealed that other essentials – besides food and water – people can’t go without include medicine (55%), electricity (53%) and gasoline/petrol (51%). The study examined respondents’ perspectives on supply chain issues and found that nearly half say the issues have “somewhat affected” their lives (45%) – from impacting their cost of living, their jobs and finding basic essentials. One respondent said, “baby formula is really hard for me to find,” and another noted, “I had to cut back on spending so much on groceries.” On average, Americans buy a third of their essentials online, with respondents 35-44 being the most likely to get at least half of their necessities this way. The research suggests that brighter days may be on the horizon – two in five Americans are optimistic that the situation involving global supply chain disruptions will get better. But change doesn’t happen overnight: A third of respondents predict supply chain disruptions will continue for another two years (34%). While 30% think supply chain issues will remain the same, the same percentage believe things will only worsen (30%). Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of WithSecure, the survey also tested respondents’ knowledge about basic economic terms, discovering that although seven in 10 Americans are “confident” in their understanding of supply chain issues – only 59% actually know what the term means. Regarding supply and demand, less than half of respondents knew that it determines product prices and services in a free market (41%), while only 45% think it determines gas prices. The majority of people, however, have a better understanding of what inflation and recession mean, with 64% and 57% selecting the correct definition respectively.

Three in four Americans would do “nearly anything” to have a single stress-free day. A new poll of 2,000 Americans revealed one in 10 can’t even remember the last time they had a stress-free day. When people feel stressed out, they avoid necessary tasks like doing laundry (20%), vacuuming (15%), and cleaning their homes (15%). Many said they would pass on a week’s worth of productivity (30%), an entire paycheck (28%), and even sex (26%) if it meant having a stressless day.

Three in four Americans are stuck in their ways and always go on vacation to the same kinds of places, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 adults looked at their willingness to step outside of their vacation comfort zone and found that northeasterners are the least likely to stray from their favorite kinds of vacation destinations. Still, those who have revisited a vacation destination (68%) shared that they prefer to incorporate new experiences and sights at these comfortable destinations (55%). Some are willing to change up their whole vacation pattern, with 78% saying that they’re likely to take a chance on visiting an entirely new destination.

Fifty-four percent of office workers whose job doesn’t offer a hybrid schedule actually prefer coming into the office every day, according to new research. The findings of a survey of 2,000 office workers provide a look into what the return to the office looks like for US-based workers and found that three-quarters of respondents said they actually enjoy working from their company office (76%). Most respondents have spent some time working at home over the last three years (69%) and shared that their physical surroundings impact their productivity/energy levels while working (72%), providing insight into why a workplace setting continues to be important for employees, and not just for collaboration purposes. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Industrious, the survey also found that office employees prefer to utilize the office when hosting client meetings (86%) and collaborating with teams (62%). Surprisingly, doing individual work when they need a private space (59%) or creative work (57%) were also high on the list of tasks workers prefer to do in an office setting. "There's a lot that's being written about in the press that makes you think everyone would work at home five days a week if given the chance,” said Anna Squires Levine, chief commercial officer at Industrious. “But what we're seeing is that most people don't actually want to spend the next ten years working from their couches at home. They want to be in an office a couple of days a week. They want to see other people, they want to focus and they want to do that in a place that's close to home." Office workers value their office for the aspects they don’t have at home such as tech equipment like printers and scanners (31%), their colleagues/coworkers (26%) and their work computer setup (23%). Interestingly, even with hybrid-work models, office workers are still serious about their seats, with 70% saying they sit at the same desk/seat in their office every day. In fact, over half of respondents would speak up if someone took their “spot” at the office (54%). Those who chose their seat themselves were strategic about sitting close to meeting spaces (58%), outlets (53%), and entrances/exits (41%). And 68% of these respondents even said they’re likely to go into work early to make sure they get their desk/seat and make their presence known by telling everyone that’s where they’re sitting for the day (45%), keeping their personal items there (41%) or leaving their computer signed in (40%). The findings also shed light on what would make workers more willing to go into an office. Respondents shared that a shorter commute, proximity to retail and lifestyle options, a nice view, “a fun and inspiring environment,” “a more casual atmosphere” or “breaking the routine and confinement of the home” may do the trick. The commute in particular seems to be a barrier to returning to the office. Forty-two percent of respondents shared that their commute is over half an hour long and 62% shared they would go to the office more often if it took less time. "What this survey, and other recent ones, shows is that pushback against going into the office is less about the actual workplace, and more about the commute and the additional value-add that workplace surroundings bring to people", said Jamie Hodari, co-founder and CEO at Industrious. “Offices in walkable areas with grocery stores, gyms, and dining options will most likely become centers of social gathering and activity, especially if they're a short commute away.”

Six in 10 (59%) Americans credit a celebrity with helping them push through a limit in their lives, new research suggests. A recent poll of 2,000 U.S. adults over the age of 30 found people have pushed on through a tough time personally (44%), taken on a challenge they didn’t think they could do (44%) and improved their physical health and nutrition (41%) thanks to a celebrity role model. Sixty-nine percent said they’re more likely to respond positively to celebrities if they know they’re struggling with a similar issue. Oprah Winfrey, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Bear Grylls, Rebel Wilson and Tyler Perry are among the role models who have inspired people to push past limitations such as fear and self-doubt. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of cell health brand MitoQ, the survey also found people’s biggest barriers to success are lack of energy (44%), time (39%) and willpower (38%). Nearly six in 10 (59%) said they “always” or “often” experience low energy and 49% lack stamina with the same frequency. If there were no limits in their lives, 43% said they would become an entrepreneur, more so than a visual or performing artist (28%) or a lawyer (27%). Other goals included being “a drug counselor,” “animal rescuer,” “crime scene investigator,” “veterinarian,” and simply “a good mom.” People also shared life goals inspired by public figures, such as “being a chef like Gordon Ramsay,” “painting like Georgia O’Keeffe,” “acting like Leonardo DiCaprio, “inventing and building like Nikola Tesla,” and “being helpful like Mother Teresa.” However, respondents’ most relatable role models aren’t far from home — 52% pointed to parents and immediate family, more so than a close friend (44%) or favorite celebrity (41%). Over half (51%) said that their role model communicating in a conversational, easy-to-understand manner is key to relatability, while less than a third deemed it necessary for a role model to be the same age/generation or gender (34% each) as themselves. Regardless of their role model of choice, people’s heroes have inspired them to stay optimistic in challenging times (35%) and do things to help others (34%). Celebrity fitness trainer and MitoQ ambassador Gunnar Peterson knows a lot about inspiring people to push through, has worked with Hollywood A-listers and was a strength coach with a championship-winning NBA franchise. “No one can do it alone, having good support is important. I get mine from my family, but also from the inside as well,” he said. “I can’t afford to be limited by low energy or slowing down, and once I knew that most of the body’s energy comes from deep inside cells, I looked for ways to improve that.” To push past limits and achieve their goals, many respondents said they wish they had more support, particularly in the form of health products (37%), advice from their close circles (36%), and a fitness/nutrition coach (36%). More than half (55%) of the people in this survey said they’re not familiar with cell health. “I think they’re missing an easy fix,” Peterson responded. “If you can find a cell health product that’s been bioengineered to get deep into cells and boost your body’s daily energy, focus and endurance levels, then that’s taking away some significant limits on what you can achieve with your life, and why wouldn’t you do that?”

Almost four in five (78%) Americans say it is possible to love your body and still want to lose weight. That’s according to a new survey of 2,000 Americans who are looking to lose weight, where about half (51%) also report they have felt or experienced body shame from someone due to their weight. Most commonly, that shame came from a friend (51%), partner or spouse (46%), a family member (45%), or doctor (40%). After experiencing body shame, respondents shared they have felt like they have no willpower (60%), like it’s their fault (55%) and lazy (52%). Thus, it’s not surprising that the majority (65%) stated they are willing to try anything to lose weight, no matter how restrictive or unreasonable the approach sounds. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of WeightWatchers (WW), the survey looked at Americans’ mindset when looking to lose weight, including how culture, society and one’s environment might impact their frame of mind. While 77% of respondents reported having a community of like-minded people is important to them, along with accountability (73%), some also reported being hesitant to share their weight loss journey with others. In fact, more than half (56%) said their journey is a personal experience they want to keep private, and 45% said they don’t want to share because they do not want to be shamed for wanting to lose weight.

According to a new poll, homeowners are more likely to look after their home’s health than their own and they look to the fall as a time to get back to routine and readjust their priorities. The survey of 2,000 Americans 25-54 found that of those who own a home, their home’s health scored priority over their own personal health during the fall season (71% vs. 57%). Moreover, most Americans see fall as a time to get back into routine (73%), needing to fulfill priorities like “getting my schedule organized,” “getting the kids settled in school again” or “winterizing my home or cars.” Yet only 20% reported they are on top of routine doctor visits. Results also showed that nearly two-thirds of respondents see fall as a time to readjust their priorities for the coming year (64%). Conducted by OnePoll for MDLIVE, the survey found that while respondents feel most on top of paying bills (46%), taking care of their family (36%) and their career (21%), 53% have a hard time prioritizing their time across all the things they need to manage. Half of respondents (51%) said that, during the fall, they’d need at least five more hours in the week to complete everything they need to get done. Parents (26%) and homeowners (25%) may be the most stretched for time, citing needing at least nine extra hours. And when that time is limited, personal health seems to take a back seat. Nearly half (47%) said that being busy means they often put off their personal health care – especially those who are parents (50%). “With increasing inflation risk and falling COVID concerns, people are turning their attention towards maintaining the health of their things over the health of themselves,” said Dr. Vontrelle Roundtree, interim chief medical officer at MDLIVE. “However, routine maintenance to prevent a breakdown in your health is just as important as preventive maintenance on your car or your home, and virtual care is one convenient way to stay on schedule with preventive maintenance checks for your health.” When they do prioritize health, respondents generally spend more time caring for their kids’ health and their partner’s health over their own, but 56% know that putting off their personal wellness affects how well they can care for other aspects of their life. People are more likely to give into taking care of their health because of their anxiety (39%) and fear (31%) while being more likely to develop habits/regular care for their car (25%) or home (27%). Similarly, many respondents would be concerned about their health only if they notice sudden symptoms (35%) or gradual changes (30%), compared to 24% of homeowners who pre-emptively maintain their homes. And just 15% of respondents said they would check up on their health without a concern popping up. Money may also be a factor since half of respondents shared that they’ve skipped going to a doctor because they couldn’t afford the visit, and 39% said that putting their health care first would be too much of an expense. In fact, results also showed that respondents’ health may be falling to the back burner, expressing more concern about their finances (72% vs. 59%) than their own well-being. “The cost of preventive maintenance is typically far less than the cost of a repair due to breakdown, and typically takes less time; for your health, preventive care is often covered by your health insurance, and easy to access,” said Dr. Roundtree. “With fall season routines, it’s important for consumers to think of their health with a maintenance mindset just like they do the other things that require routine upkeep.”

Nearly half of Americans can’t live without their electronics (48%) and WiFi (46%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults revealed that other essentials – besides food and water – people can’t go without include medicine (55%), electricity (53%) and gasoline/petrol (51%). The study examined respondents’ perspectives on supply chain issues and found that nearly half say the issues have “somewhat affected” their lives (45%) – from impacting their cost of living, their jobs and finding basic essentials. One respondent said, “baby formula is really hard for me to find,” and another noted, “I had to cut back on spending so much on groceries.” On average, Americans buy a third of their essentials online, with respondents 35-44 being the most likely to get at least half of their necessities this way. The research suggests that brighter days may be on the horizon – two in five Americans are optimistic that the situation involving global supply chain disruptions will get better. But change doesn’t happen overnight: A third of respondents predict supply chain disruptions will continue for another two years (34%). While 30% think supply chain issues will remain the same, the same percentage believe things will only worsen (30%). Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of WithSecure, the survey also tested respondents’ knowledge about basic economic terms, discovering that although seven in 10 Americans are “confident” in their understanding of supply chain issues – only 59% actually know what the term means. Regarding supply and demand, less than half of respondents knew that it determines product prices and services in a free market (41%), while only 45% think it determines gas prices. The majority of people, however, have a better understanding of what inflation and recession mean, with 64% and 57% selecting the correct definition respectively. “Large companies have tens of thousands of suppliers in their supply chains; attacks are increasing and no industry is off limits,” said Paul Brucciani, cyber security advisor at WithSecure™. “Every individual working in a supply chain is a potential target. Companies can reduce supply risk by helping employees and suppliers understand how they might be exposed, and how they can protect themselves.” While elder Americans are most likely to look to the internet or TV for news about politics and major events, a significant amount of younger respondents interestingly get their news through sources like podcasts or newspapers, keeping most up to date about technology and finance. Across the board, respondents of all generations stay informed when it comes to economic issues such as the supply chain and inflation. The research also delved into the connection between the global supply chain and cybersecurity. When it comes to their personal data, 37% admit they feel “somewhat secure” about their cloud storage system. Respondents cited some advantages of having a data cloud storage system, such as backup and recovery (51%), security (42%) and easy access (41%). Others said they value privacy (37%), reliability (36%) and having the cloud on multiple devices (33%). Although the cloud can be helpful, survey-takers also noted some of the disadvantages that cloud-users are at risk of, including hacking (48%) and phishing (33%) from outside sources, technical problems (44%) and data loss (38%). With these pros and cons in mind, 51% agree they would be ruined if they ever got hacked or phished, especially since they have sensitive content stored there (46%). “Three-quarters of breaches can be prevented by using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication and being alert to suspicious emails,” Brucciani said. “Having effective cyber security measures in place, and always backing up your date, will reduce much of the risk and should be our first priority.”

Almost four in five Americans believe that if animals were able to talk like people, dogs would be the first to do so. A poll of 2,000 adults revealed that 78% believe that hypothetically, dogs are more likely to start talking like a person, while 60% believe the same about cats. More than half (53%) of respondents imagine their favorite pet would have a certain tone, accent or pattern of speaking. One respondent said, “a sassy, southern accent and the tone changes depending on what she wants or needs.” Others said “British” or “Boston” accents, while another said, “my previous dog would have had a low, monotone voice.” Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Healthy Paws, the survey also asked respondents about the perks and potential downsides of being able to have a conversation with our pets. Some of the benefits of pets being able to speak are that they could explain their food preferences (61%) and tell their pet parents if something is wrong (58%) But for all the good chatting with our pets might bring, more than half (53%) are worried their pet would reveal secrets. On top of that, 49% worry they wouldn’t stop talking and 46% are concerned they’d insult someone. In general, respondents believe dogs are more likely to say something mean than cats (33% vs 24%), but another third believe they are equally likely to say something callous. And if pets did start speaking, 22% would record it and 17% would scream or panic, while 15% would simply speak back. “It’s fun to speculate on what our pets might say and how they would sound, said Danette Johnston, a consulting dog trainer at Healthy Paws and owner of Dogs Day Out training center in Seattle, Wash. “But the important thing is to understand our pets are communicating with us all the time with their body language and vocalizations and it is up to us to learn their language." Respondents already feel pretty confident they can understand meows and barks as 23% said they “always” understand what a pet is trying to say and 42% “often” understand. Respondents look for indicators like “talking” or making noises (61%), “following me around” (54%) and whining (53%). But it takes time for people to understand their pets, as the average respondent needs about three and a half years to fully understand how they communicate. Half of respondents have worried that they’ll miss an injury or illness because pets can’t speak to us. But respondents look for ways to tell if their pet isn’t feeling well like lack of appetite (52%), restlessness (51%) and fatigue (50%). Overall, 82% of respondents agree that those who consistently have pets have a better understanding of them. “While pets may not be able to speak with us verbally, it’s up to us as pet parents to learn when they are trying to tell us something important,”said Rob Jackson, founder and chief pet protector for Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. “Look for signs your pet isn’t feeling well, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, trouble passing stool, diarrhea, vomiting, or limping. If any of these conditions persist for more than a few hours, get them to a veterinarian to resolve any issues before they worsen. And, of course, regular vet visits are always recommended to track your pet’s general health and to keep them up-to-date on vaccines or other preventatives.”

A quarter of Americans would rather shave their head than contact customer support, according to new research. The survey of 2,000 Americans (who have ever dealt with customer support) revealed 24% would prefer to shave their head than speak with customer service — and that’s not the only extreme some respondents are willing to go to. Instead of trying to resolve an issue, respondents would rather do their taxes (30%), go to the dentist (28%) or go to the DMV (25%). Twenty-two percent would even choose a night in jail over dealing with a customer support representative. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Twilio Flex, the survey looked at the effect customer service can have on Americans’ habits — then it also dug into the current pain points people experience, to see why they might go to such extremes to avoid resolving their issue. According to the survey results, 62% of respondents have stopped using a company or service specifically because of a bad customer support experience. And the opposite is true as well: 80% of respondents are more likely to be loyal to a company in the future if they have a positive experience with their support team. Results found negative experiences, unfortunately, tend to be more prevalent: it takes an average of three attempts and more than an hour and a half on hold — in order to solve just one issue with customer support. Respondents spend 42 minutes on hold each time they contact customer service, which they have to do about three times per issue. But even once they are able to speak with a representative, their issue is resolved less than half the time — with an average success rate of only 46%. Two-thirds (65%) of those surveyed said it “doesn’t feel worth it” to get an issue resolved, due to the time and effort it takes. When asked about specific pain points, needing to repeat details of an issue to a new representative after being transferred or disconnected (45%) was revealed to cause the most frustration for respondents. That was followed by needing to contact a company multiple times to get an issue resolved (42%) — and having only one option for a communication method (email, phone, etc.) to reach a customer support representative (40%). And all the frustrations that come with contacting customer service might be why 66% of respondents delay reaching out. For those who delay contacting someone after an issue arises, the average respondent waits for a little over two weeks — or about 16 days. This has caused respondents to get stuck in unwanted contracts because they miss the cancellation window (46%), miss the return window for products (44%) and even lose money on an item or service (41%). “A major root cause of bad customer service is enabling technology that isn’t built to meet today’s customer expectations,” said Simonetta Turek, GM of Customer Experience Products, including Flex, Twilio’s contact center solution. “Representatives aren’t equipped to deliver seamless and contextual experiences when they’re using outdated technology not designed foremost with the customer experience and customer journey in mind. This results in a poor experience for both the representatives and customers.” What would help solve the common frustrations? Respondents would like it if representatives had access to relevant information to better serve them, so they don’t have to repeat themselves if transferred (54%). In addition to that, people surveyed want to be able to solve their issue without speaking on the phone to a live person (52%) and have multiple ways to contact support to get their issue resolved (51%). Results also found that — of those who currently delay reaching out to customer service — 84% said they’d be less likely to do so if they had multiple ways to contact them. “Customers expect a different experience from businesses — one that is personalized from the very first interaction, from the point of sale all the way to when they reach out for assistance,” said Turek. “Businesses need to take advantage of the technology available to provide these end-to-end experiences. These include easy to implement omni-channel functionality, shared context across contact center representatives and other customer-facing personnel, such as retail floor associates, and providing personalized offers and relevant product or service information. Those that don’t adopt new channels and maximize the value of existing customer information will lose out on loyalty and ongoing business opportunities.” TOP PAIN POINTS RESPONDENTS FIND WHEN DEALING WITH CUSTOMER SUPPORT Having to repeat details of the issue to a new representative after being transferred or being disconnected — 45% Having to contact a company multiple times to get an issue resolved — 42% Only having one option in which to reach a customer support representative (ex. needing to call or email; not having a live chat or SMS option) — 40% Not being able to reach a live person quickly — 39% (tied) Spending time on hold listening to bad music while — 39% (tied) Poor connection resulting in getting disconnected or having a hard time hearing the representative — 37% Not being able to resolve an issue online — 30% Navigating the button options (“press two for xx”) — 28% Limited times in which I can call for help — 24% WHAT WOULD HELP SOLVE THE PAIN POINTS OF DEALING WITH CUSTOMER SUPPORT? The representative has access to relevant information to their issue, so they don’t have to repeat themselves when transferred — 54% Being able to solve their issue without speaking on the phone to a live person (through text, online live chat, self-service online etc.) — 52% Having multiple ways to contact customer support (phone call, SMS text, Whats App, online live chat) — 51% Clear directions on how to get connected to a live person quickly — 47% Being able to solve their issue online — 39%

The average American will experience symptoms of “hanger” almost every day of their lives, new research suggests. A recent survey of 2,000 U.S. adults found three-fourths (74%) admit their hunger gets the best of them five times a week, culminating in an astounding 21,000+ “hangry” outbursts over the course of their lifetimes. People most commonly experience “hanger” as feelings of anger, grumpiness, impatience and fatigue. Regionally, the Northeast is the “hangriest” of all, with 46% saying they “always” or “often” experience this feeling. Countrywide, men are less likely to be “hangry” than women, with 32% saying they have never experienced “hanger,” as opposed to only 20% of women. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Farm Rich, the survey also revealed the most common reasons for people’s hunger-related irritability as mealtime delays (44%), a busy work schedule (37%) – a number that rose to 44% amongst millennials – never knowing what to cook (32%) and not having time to grocery shop (29%). “Hanger” is most frequently experienced at home (41%), but people’s crankiness seems to follow them to work (35%), when they’re shopping (34%), while running errands (33%) and traveling (33%). Perhaps to no one’s surprise, adults with small kids are the “hangriest” of all — 42% of people with kids ages 0-4 identify as frequently “hangry.” Overall, 39% of parents polled admitted to chowing down on their kids’ snacks to help ease their hunger pangs. And nearly 7 in 10 (68%) parents are willing to let their kids eat whatever they want if it will stop them from having a “hangry” tantrum. Approaching someone who’s hungry and irritable? Here’s what you need to know: avoid talking too much (42%) and please don’t try to remove someone’s plate before they’re finished (38%). Fifty-eight percent of those who are “food grumpy” will even eat their least favorite food just to satisfy their cravings and 42% admitted to faux pas like eating leftovers they knew their significant other or roommate was saving for themselves. And (in true George Costanza style,) 28% shockingly shared they’ve eaten food that’s been thrown out off the top of the garbage can, while 27% copped to eating expired food. Meghan Ozamiz, Director of Marketing for Farm Rich, says the new national survey seemed to really strike a chord with its respondents. “There are many reasons our moods can be affected by food and this poll shows us a lot of them. Also, we saw that snacks remain important, with more than half the respondents (56%) saying they try to always keep snacks on hand or fuel up with small meals throughout the day (55%).” When it comes to hot snacks vs. cold, the results are about even. Slightly more than half of those surveyed (52%) say “a hot, savory snack is more satiating than a cold one.” There’s also a science behind hunger-related mood swings that’s connected to our blood sugar levels. Snacks like fruit, dried fruit, nuts and nut butters require minimal prep and can help restore one’s emotional balance while managing blood sugar levels. If you’re having trouble getting over “the hump” on Wednesdays, hunger may be to blame – a third (33%) of those who get irritable say they’re likely to experience this emotion mid-week. The cause? More than half of the adults surveyed (53%) attribute it to skipping meals, with not eating on time is another big culprit (48%). Not surprisingly, grocery shopping while “hangry” often results in impulse buys and big checkout receipts. The majority of those surveyed copped to spending $51 to $100 more during a trip to the store. And among the top impulse food buys are the 4Cs: cheese, chips, chocolate and cookies. WHERE PEOPLE ARE “HANGRY” At home - 41% At work - 35% While shopping - 34% Running errands - 33% Traveling (road trips, long flights, etc.) - 33% While exercising - 24% Doctor’s appointment - 23% Pool/beach - 22% Sporting events - 21% My kid’s sporting event - 20% Movie theater - 20% Wedding - 19% Happy hour - 19% Job interview - 18% WHAT ARE PEOPLE MOST GUILTY OF WHEN “HANGRY”? Sneaking to eat leftovers knowing a roommate or significant other was saving – 42% Eating kids’ snacks – 39% Eating discarded food off the top of the garbage can or that’s been thrown out – 28% Eating expired food – 27% Stealing someone else’s food/leftovers from the office or shared kitchen – 27% WHAT WOULD PEOPLE DO TO NEVER BE “HANGRY”? Stock my fridge/freezer with a month’s supply of food - 49% Give up social media for a month - 32% Eat only my favorite food for a month - 30% Get a tattoo of my favorite food item - 26% Run 5 miles - 26% Change my name to my favorite snack - 25% Wear the same clothes for a week - 16% Not watch my favorite sports team for a whole season - 12% 5.2 “hangry” episodes a week x 52 weeks = 270.4 a year x 78.79 years (average U.S. life expectancy) = 21,305

Every task counts — a new survey has revealed “absolute chaos” ensues for three in four front-line industry workers if they forget something during their shift. The poll of 1,000 American employees in front-line industries — food and beverage, hospitality, and more — found the average worker has 11 tasks to complete by the end of each shift. And early shifts appear to be the busiest: respondents who work mornings reported an average of 23 daily tasks, almost twice as many as the overall average. Three out of four (76%) said that if they forget even one of those numerous tasks, everything at work is thrown into chaos. Commissioned by Wisetail and conducted by OnePoll, the survey asked respondents to look beyond these specific tasks, exploring the skills, behaviors and training they need to do their jobs successfully. Seventy-four percent of respondents said they use a number of critical life skills for their job, most frequently time management (42%), multitasking (41%) and critical thinking (40%). Following that, respondents cited the ability to keep things presentable and organized (40%) and the ability to prioritize tasks (39%). And there’s no doubt these skills come in handy: 68% of workers surveyed said their job is stressful, and 24% said this stress impacts the quality of their work. When asked what would help ensure things are done correctly, one respondent said it’d be beneficial if their employer “would train employees better.” Perhaps as a result, 53% of respondents admit they’ve missed a step in an important task, which has created a dangerous or unpleasant situation at work. Making mistakes at work can stem from a number of different causes, according to respondents — not having access to things needed for the job (40%), taking on another employee’s tasks (38%) and working with malfunctioning equipment (36%). At the core of the issue: all of these mistakes are avoidable, with proper training and oversight. Consequences often include receiving customer complaints (62%), breaking pieces of work equipment (58%) and even someone getting hurt (57%). “Frontline workers are stressed - and not having the right technology to help manage their day coupled with proper training and communication only magnifies the issue, putting team members and the business at risk,” said Ali Knapp, Wisetail president. Findings from the survey suggest it’s common for employees to receive their first training through an online system, either company-provided (44%) or hosted through a third-party (28%). Overall, 61% receive continual job training sessions for their current roles. The survey also held a few interesting insights on how to implement better training opportunities for their employees. First, it can be important to know what learning style people prefer — results found 31% of respondents were auditory learners, while 29% said they were visual learners. Second, the survey found 75% of respondents believe that managers should explain why certain tasks are important when sharing them with employees, to create a deeper understanding. “Creating an engaged workforce goes beyond initial training,” continued Ali. “Technology has allowed for organizations to create more consistency in their learning and development programs, but it doesn’t account for day-to-day activities that frontline workers are responsible for. As organizations, we need to do more to support our employees and mitigate stressed-induced errors by encouraging shoulder-to-shoulder learning in their everyday activities.” WHAT CRITICAL LIFE SKILLS ARE MOST USED BY FRONT LINE WORKERS? Time management — 42% Multitasking — 41% Critical thinking — 40% Keeping things presentable and organized — 40% Ability to prioritize tasks — 39% Reasoning — 37% (tied) Task management — 37% (tied) Keeping a sense of timing — 35%         Cleaning — 35%         Cooking — 30% De-escalation — 24%

The average American is willing to pay more than twice as much as the sticker price for products that last a lifetime. A new poll of 2,000 US adults found on average, people would pay 108% more than the listed cost of any item they’re shopping for, as long as it lasts at least 20 years. Three in five respondents claimed they’re more inclined to spend money on quality items than something that’s cheaper both in price and quality. Items that last the longest were reportedly the most “valuable” to 69% of respondents. Sixty-one percent even believe some of the oldest things they own are ageless — seemingly always in style. Commissioned by Slickdeals and conducted by OnePoll, the study found the average person has held onto their oldest owned items for 15 years, but some go rarely used. The top oldest items owned and used daily include phones (25%), cars (13%) and watches (8%). Meanwhile, rarely used and held-onto items are shoes (15%) and coats (9%). According to two-thirds (67%), some things are always worth paying more for, provided they last longer than average — cars (34%), kitchen appliances (34%), cookware (30%), TVs (28%) and phones (26%). Over six in 10 (63%) have been burned by buying the cheap version of a product before. “A cheap upfront cost does not always mean you won’t end up paying for it later,” said Louie Patterson, personal finance manager for Slickdeals, “The concept of buy it for life can be a valuable one. Investing in a higher quality item can ultimately save you on replacement costs, as well as the time and energy spent researching and shopping for a new item.” Seven in 10 (71%) said they make sure their oldest items stick around, giving them any maintenance they need to keep them in working order. Half of respondents (49%) also said they own an item they are sentimental about and hope to one day pass it down to future generations. Over half (57%) base the value of their longest-lasting items based on sentimentality, rather than money. However, if forced to sell the long-lasting items that mean the most to them, the average respondent said they’d list it for no less than $1,243. Results also revealed a third of Americans (31%) have purchased items with lifetime warranties. Twice as many (62%) knew their items would stand the test of time the instant they were bought. More than three-quarters (77%) bought lifetime warranty products over alternatives strictly because of the warranty they came with. Thirty-two percent of lifetime warranty holders have never had to use them. “Overlooking quality by simply focusing on price is a mistake consumers sometimes make when looking for the best deal,” added Patterson. “Our community of millions of real shoppers is a great resource to ensure you’re getting the best products at the best prices.” TOP ITEMS WORTH THE MONEY, IF THEY LAST FOREVER Cars - 34% Kitchen appliances - 34% Cookware - 30% TVs - 28% Phones - 26% Jewelry - 26% Watches - 25% Exercise equipment - 22% Dishware - 19% Shoes - 19%

Seven in 10 Americans (72%) treat their health as an “investment” that will gain value over time. The recent survey of 2,000 U.S. adults found the average person would spend $827 more on fitness apparel and equipment this year if they knew they would be in the best shape of their life 20 years from now. Nutrition, including healthy groceries, topped the list of recent health-related spends (48%), followed by health and wellness tech such as apps and fitness wearables (45%). The survey, commissioned by Paceline, a fitness app and credit card that provides rewards for working out, and conducted by OnePoll, found that among millennials, more than two in five recently invested in their financial wellness (45%) and in wellness experiences (41%), including wellness-focused travel. Meanwhile, investing in personal growth, including a career adviser or life coach, was most popular among Gen Z respondents (46%). The pandemic also shifted how different generations are spending their time and money in health and wellness. Compared to boomers, more millennials plan to increase spending on their financial health in the next year (39% vs. 23%). Gen Zers are ramping up spending on recovery services such as massages, physical therapy and acupuncture, with 44% placing this on their radar for the next year compared to 36% before 2019. The average person expects to see results in about three months to feel that their investment in fitness equipment, health tech, or groceries has paid for itself. While seeing physical results (48%) and earning financial rewards (39%) topped the list to incentivize people to invest more in their health and wellness, people would also invest more in their health if it increased their earning potential (31%), decreased their hospital bills (31%), greatly increased their social media following (30%) or spiced up their love life (26%). “Our research found that 46% of American adults are spending money on wellness apps or platforms, but many may still see their pursuit of fitness as very separate from their finances,” says Joel Lieginger, Founder and CEO, Paceline. "We want everyone who invests in their physical health to fully realize its financial value as well.” Results also revealed how different generations are defining preventive health, as part of their overall health and wellness. Boomers were more likely than other age groups to connect preventive health with check-ups (82%), while millennials linked the term with health or life insurance (57%), and Gen Z defined it as taking care of one’s mental or emotional health (68%). Other ways Gen Z defined preventive health include fitness (67%) and nutrition (54%). “That younger generations are expanding how they think about preventive health is a powerful signal of change to come, because today’s healthcare is - in many ways - sick care,” Lieginger concluded. “It’s important for people to get moving and be proactive about their health. Science shows incentivizing good health behaviors improves health outcomes, which is good for individuals and good for the world.” Among all respondents, more than two-thirds (67%) believe it’s cheaper to pay for health and wellness products or services today than to have hospital bills in the future. And three-fourths (75%) believe any health or wellness product should be tax-free.

The average American estimates they’ve made four wrong major decisions in their life, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 adults found that nearly a third say they’ve made even more (31%). This may be why 71% wish they had more guidance when it comes to making large life decisions. From investing (38%) to purchasing a new home (33%) or making a career change (29%), respondents said these are some of the toughest decisions they’ve ever had to make. Typically, respondents shared they’re more likely to turn to friends/family (54%) or the internet (40%) for advice, as opposed to informational shows (25%) or podcasts (16%). Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Atom Finance, a global investment intelligence platform for enterprises, the survey found that 71% said even when they do their research, they worry about making the wrong decisions. Money may be on respondents’ minds, with three in four sharing that one of their goals is to educate themselves about important decisions they’ll have to make when it comes to their money (76%). And when it comes to investing their money, seven in 10 admit they’re intimidated. When they hear the word investing, respondents said they’re interested (35%) and inspired (27%), but also nervous (27%). While a fifth of Americans revealed they feel unknowledgeable about investing (21%), more than half believe that they are (57%). And respondents followed through, with 61% correctly identifying the definition of “asset allocation” and a similar percentage accurately defined what a “bid” is (62%). However, there’s still more to learn for the 45% who misidentified what a “dividend” is and 43% struggled to name an “ask.” “Everyone deserves easy access to tools and resources necessary to make well-informed financial decisions,” said Atom Finance founder and CEO Eric Shoykhet. “We’re on a mission to address the information gap we know many people experience when trading stocks and partnering with enterprises of all sizes to deliver engaging and helpful investment intelligence that lead to successful investor outcomes." Fifty-four percent have already taken a chance and invested their money in stocks before. Those who haven’t said they’ve tried to grasp investing, but can’t seem to figure it out (50%), or have just put it off for a long time (50%). Other respondents haven’t invested because they think the market is too risky (57%), or because they don’t know what stocks they should invest in (22%). For some, it’s even harder than it looks – on average, people who have invested have lost money through an investment four times, and 80% of these respondents said it’s hard for them to trust their own judgement after losing money. “Individual investors often aren’t sure where to turn for information they can understand, and importantly - trust,” said Wendy Ivanoski, chief operating officer at Atom Finance. “Every business and every vendor wants to build deeper connections with their clients; they want to offer solutions that support confident investing, especially during periods of extreme market volatility. Resources like investment intelligence platforms help solve those problems seamlessly, by putting institutional-grade investment research tools and data in the hands of the investor, for decisions of any size.” WHO DO YOU TURN TO FOR ADVICE WHEN MAKING MAJOR DECISIONS? Friends/family – 54% The internet/research – 40% Industry professionals – 28% Informational books – 26% Informational videos/TV shows – 25%

For nearly four out of five Americans, the ideal welcoming committee has four legs. That’s according to a new poll of 2,000 pet owners, where 78% agree that seeing their pet when they come home is the best part of their day. So it’s no surprise that 71% said they regularly put their pet’s needs before their own. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Chewy, the survey aimed to uncover the degree to which pet parents prioritize their pets’ happiness when making major life decisions and planning their daily activities. According to respondents, pets influence what trips they take (40%), where they live (37%) and the people they hang out with (35%), and one-third (36%) said their pet even impacts how they spend money. Pets also play a significant role in all aspects of day-to-day activities with nearly half of respondents (49%) admitting they plan their free time around being with their pet. More than two in five (43%) would change plans so their pet could be included, and 39% would rather cancel to spend more time with their pet. Almost two-thirds (62%) of respondents have gotten another pet for their pet and 33% would consider getting another. Most commonly, it was to keep their pet from getting lonely (66%), but 51% did so to give their current pet more exercise. “Pets have become our whole world, so it’s no surprise to see them claim a place of prominence in the household,” said Dr. Katy Nelson, senior veterinarian at Chewy. “This reflects the larger trend of ‘pet prioritization,’ or placing our pets’ needs above our own when considering major life decisions or planning our social calendars and daily behaviors.” To bolster their pet’s well-being and happiness, 23% have cooked them a homemade meal and 21% let them choose where they’d like to sleep in bed first. Almost half (46%) of pet parents have spent more on their pet’s medical needs than their own. Getting a pet has changed respondents’ lives in ways they couldn’t have imagined. Since getting a pet, respondents believe they’re more responsible (40%) and empathetic (32%). Almost three in 10 (28%) even feel more prepared to have kids. About half (51%) of respondents say they’re equally in tune with both their and their pet’s emotions, and two in five (20%) say they're more in touch with their pet’s emotions than their own. This essential bond has allowed pet owners to pick up on their pet’s love language: more than half (55%) said their furry friend has a love language, and 36% of them believe it to be physical touch in the form of petting, kissing and hugs. Another 24% believe quality time is the way to their pet’s heart. “The deep understanding of our pets’ emotions and personalities increases our attentiveness to their needs and the desire to provide them with premium care and comfort,” said Nelson. "Although this can sometimes lead to high costs, affordable options like wellness and insurance offerings and online vet visits through Connect with a Vet can empower pet parents to keep their pets as happy as possible." Understandably, this may be why many respondents find it harder to leave pets at home. More than half (62%) wish they could bring their pets with them when they leave either “all of the time” or “most of the time.” And for those times when it’s better to leave them at home, pet parents give them hugs and kisses (42%), give them their favorite toy or blanket (39%) and turn on the TV (35%) to make sure they are comfortable and happy. It’s no surprise that 35% of pet owners cited “giving me kisses when I get home” as a way they bond with their four-legged friend. Other common rituals pets and their parents share are watching TV or a movie together (38%) and lying next to one another in times of stress (36%). But others share more intimate rituals. like taking a nap together (34%) or being “supervised” by their pet when they are in the shower or bathroom (32%). TOP DECISIONS INFLUENCED BY PETS Getting another pet - 62% Medical expenses - 46% Changing plans – 43% Canceling plans – 39% Trips and vacations - 40% Where you sleep in bed - 21%

Move over onions, step aside mushrooms — the humble spud has been voted America’s favorite vegetable. A poll of 2,000 adults revealed the top vegetation for the nation include broccoli (31%), mushrooms (26%), spinach (25%) and onions (34%). Also among the top 20 most beloved veggies were sweet potato (27%), cabbage (27%), peppers (27%), peas (23%) and, ironically, tomatoes (37%) – the fruit that often masquerades as a vegetable. In fact, adults across the country love these greens so much that four in 10 (37%) couldn’t imagine not being able to buy staple fruits and veggies in their local store. However, 28% have no idea plant diversity is in danger and that this might impact the future of their dinner plate. The study, commissioned by kimchi brand, Jongga and conducted by OnePoll, also found 97% are worried about the effect’s climate change will have on plant diversity. Experts at Seed Savers Exchange, a non-profit that preserves heirloom plant varieties through regeneration, distribution, a seed exchange network, and educational programming estimate many hundreds of varieties of vegetables, once widely available as seed and produce, have disappeared. And if this pattern continues, consumers could face a future lacking in plant biodiversity, putting some vegetables enjoyed today at risk. “Increasing biodiversity is at the heart of our work to save and share open-pollinated varieties,” said Sara Straate, seed historian at Seed Savers Exchange. “The more people we can engage in becoming long-term seed stewards in their home, market, and community gardens, the greater the opportunity these varieties have to adapt to ever-changing environmental pressures. "A lack of biodiversity," she continued, "can leave food production vulnerable to stress events – such as outbreaks of disease, pests, and climate change – which ultimately could impact the fruits and vegetables available to future generations.” The study also found Americans are increasingly going green with their eating habits, with 67% eating more of their “five-a-day” now than they did five years ago. With 27% of these respondents doing so because it’s better for the planet, while 46% want to do more for their health. Out of the 18% who aren’t as green minded and eating fewer veggies, more than a third (37%) said this is due to the lack of variety they see stocked on the shelves. The research also found, of the meat and fish eaters of the country, seven in 10 already are, or plan on, adopting a more plant-based diet. And 42% of those polled will incorporate fruits and vegetables into their meals at least nine times a week. Americans aren’t just upping their intake of greens because of the positive nutritional benefits though, as 95% enjoy eating fruits and vegetables — meaning biodiversity challenges could be impactful for most if not all Americans in generations to come. “As our intake of fruit and vegetables continues to rise, it’s paramount we begin raising awareness of the latest sustainability crisis,” said Jennifer Lee, head of global business unit, Daesang, representing Jongga. “Many see the food in their fridges as a never-ending resource, but sadly this is not the case. Shockingly, over the last century, 75% of plant diversity has been lost, with 95% of cabbage varieties disappearing from our plates.” “Fermentation and preservation go hand-in-hand. It’s a technique that has been utilized by civilizations for centuries to preserve ingredients we rely on to make meals for our families, friends and communities, especially during times of hardship. But it is times of bounty that we must remain vigilant to the mission and make sure future generations enjoy robust biodiversity.” TOP 20 FAVORITE VEGETABLES Potatoes Tomatoes Onions Lettuce Cucumber Carrots Broccoli Garlic Sweetcorn Green beans Peppers Cabbage Sweet potatoes Mushrooms Spinach Peas Cauliflower Celery Asparagus Olives

Holding back gas or other symptoms results in 338 close calls a year — almost one a day, new research suggests. The recent survey of 2,000 adults found most of these incidents occur in a dining establishment (47%) or while traveling (47%). And if you’ve ever had FOMO because of gas and bloating, you’re not alone. In fact, 34% of people have abandoned birthday parties and dinner parties due to the discomfort caused by these symptoms. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Gas-X, the survey also found that gas is not only affecting Americans socially, but also in their professional lives. With the topic of returning to work on the top of everyone’s mind, the poll discovered over a quarter (26%) think the worst place to accidentally experience gas is during a work meeting or professional outing. “You’re on mute,” is a phrase that has become common during virtual meetings – often considered a technology faux-pas. However, more than half (55%) of Americans have admitted that they have purposefully muted themselves in a virtual meeting to relieve symptoms of gas! While a completely normal bodily function, most survey respondents agreed that they consider gas (68%) to be more embarrassing than finding food in their teeth (44%), something in their nose (49%) or even having their zipper down (43%). Additionally, 55% of respondents said that they try to stifle their gas symptoms more in the summertime compared to other times of the year. Seven in 10 (68%) people said they socialize more in the summer and don’t want others to notice their gas and/or hiccup. When experiencing symptoms of gas or other bodily functions in public, 26% of people have pretended it didn’t happen or attempted to prevent it from happening. “It might be embarrassing, but passing gas is a completely healthy and normal function of our digestive systems and stifling gas, can cause pain due to increased pressure on your gut,” said Jennifer Lo, Associate Brand Manager for Gas-X. “While nearly half (49%) of those polled reported eating and drinking slowly to try to avoid gas and heartburn symptoms, and the same amount steered clear of carbonated beverages, these methods aren’t always foolproof.” While many may be embarrassed of passing gas, most people don’t consider it a relationship deal-breaker. In fact, 24% would just give their date a look, 23% said they’d joke about it and 19% would pretend nothing happened. Even more, the average person is comfortable enough to stop holding in gas after about six dates. And while 44% have had an evening of love ruined by their own gas or heartburn, a similar amount (43%) pointed the finger at a partner. “Whether preparing for a friendly outing, an important meeting or a night of romance, having over-the-counter symptom-relief can come in handy for alleviating gas, bloating and heartburn,” Lo added. WHAT ARE PEOPLE MOST EMBARRASSED ABOUT DOING IN PUBLIC? Passing gas - 68% Having something in their nose - 49% Hiccupping - 46% Burping - 45% Finding food in their teeth - 44% Snorting - 44% Sweating - 44% Discovering their zipper is down - 43% – 6.5 “close calls” a week holding back gas or other symptoms x 52 weeks = 338 “close calls” a year.

Branded t-shirts, pens, mugs and more — a new survey has found Americans “love” collecting promotional swag. A poll of 2,000 adults revealed when receiving such products, the priorities are how unique it is (38%), the use they will get out of it (38%) and (35%) how sustainable the item is (34%). More than half (53%) love getting products from brands and 51% regularly use them in their day-to-day life. Among the top 50 best items to receive according to Americans were water bottles, tote bags, calendars, and phone covers. T-shirts came top — 41% agreed wearing or using items with certain brand logos helps represent their personality. Commissioned by VistaPrint and conducted by OnePoll, the study found three quarters have changed their perception of a brand in a positive way after receiving a promotional product from them. And people are more likely to write a positive review online (40%), recommend the brand to others (40%) and follow them on social media (39%) if they get merchandise. Similarly, an unusual design (45%), distinctive brand name (38%) and quote or catchphrase (37%) are most likely to make people remember a brand. Almost half (49%) prefer receiving merch from small businesses while 46% enjoy getting promo products that they can regularly use. “The research shows how much Americans love using branded physical products to reflect a bit of their personality,” said Llorenç Sola, General Manager of VistaPrint Promotional Products, Apparel and Gifts. “Our data shows that many people prefer to receive promotional products from small businesses and unknown brands. This indicates how effective promotional products and merch can be for small businesses in helping spread the word and give off a positive perception of their brand. “By seeing others wearing a t-shirt or carrying a bag or water bottle, those who may never have heard of a brand before will be introduced to it.” The study also the most common place to receive free swag is job fairs (50%). Other places Americans have stocked up on promo items included college open days (47%), venue openings such as cafes or stores (41%) and their own place of work (33%). Similarly, 83% have worn or used a product from the company they work for, including t-shirts (44%), notebooks (34%) and travel mugs (32%). And the benefits for employees receiving merchandise were found to be feeling rewarded (58%) and building team spirit (49%). Two-thirds typically keep and regularly use merchandise, while 58% have gifted items to others and 34% take products such as mugs into their workplace for communal use. Four in 10 claim they are loyal to brands, with clothing (35%), mobile phones (34%) and shoes (34%) the type of companies Americans are most loyal too. Llorenç Sola added: “With American customers prioritizing how unique a promotional product is, we recommend brands get creative when it comes to designing their physical branded products.” TOP 50 PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS ACCORDING TO AMERICANS: T-shirts Pens Mugs Water bottles Headphones Tote bags Sunglasses Hoodies Calendar Umbrella Cap USB charger         Hand sanitizer         Phone covers         Flashlight         Laptop/tablet case         Travel coffee cups         Blankets/throws         Chocolate bar Lunchbox         USB stick         Car air freshener   Sweets Fridge magnets         Tea towel/dish towel         Backpacks Drinking glass e.g pint glass, shot glass Mousepad First aid kit Bottle openers        Face masks (PPE)         Portable speakers Glasses case Baked goods e.g. cookies/brownies         Keyring       Laptop sticker         DIY tools Socks         Car sticker         Coasters     Stress ball Sweatbands         Bookmarks         Drink koozie Tape measure Pop socket Bicycle reflectors Photo frame Packet of plant seeds Beanie hat

Should wearing clothes and then returning them for a refund be considered a serious crime? Nearly half of Americans think so, new research suggests. A study of 2,000 adults examined their views about policy abuse and “friendly fraud” (when a consumer requests a chargeback from their bank), and revealed that 46% think wearing clothes for an occasion and returning them for a full refund, also known as wardrobing, should be considered a serious illegal offense. How about creating multiple emails to take advantage of customer discounts or free trial subscriptions? Forty-three percent and 40% of respondents, respectively, think those are serious crimes too. Compared to sentiment on dining and dashing (44% think it’s a serious crime) and secretly recording another person (45%), this research may represent growing awareness around online fraud. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Forter, the survey also presented hypothetical scenarios to respondents regarding friendly fraud and policy abuse, which 55% believe is harmful to both consumers and retailers. When asked which activities associated with friendly fraud and policy abuse they’ve considered doing in the last 12 months, a quarter said borrowing a friend’s subscription to avoid paying fees (25%). Others have considered creating multiple email accounts to take advantage of free trial subscriptions (25%) and canceling or disputing a purchase with their bank despite the merchant fulfilling their order (24%). Hypothetically, items people felt most comfortable considering committing return abuse – returning perfectly good items or faking receipts to receive a refund – were big-ticket items like kitchen appliances (23%), electronics such as phones (22%), clothes (21%) and home essentials (19%). When specifically asked about a looming recession and whether that might change their likelihood to commit friendly fraud, 39% expressed they would likely do so, compared to 36% of those who said they wouldn’t engage in those types of activities and a quarter who remained neutral. In terms of morality, the results were a bit mixed. The majority believe it’s never OK to steal from mom-and-pop and big chain stores (80% and 76%, respectively). However, more respondents find it acceptable to steal from big chain retailers than mom-and-pop stores (14% vs. 11%) “The bottom line: friendly fraud is damaging to both loyal customers and retailers,” said Oksana Balytsky, director of product marketing at Forter. “Our goal is to enable trust within digital commerce so that the buyer’s journey is as seamless as possible without leaving room for fraud, ultimately saving millions in lost revenue.” And when respondents encounter an unpleasant retail experience, some think disputing a charge is worth the hassle. A third (35%) believe filing a chargeback claim with their bank is easier than going through a merchant’s customer service. Despite those thoughts, 67% have never disputed a legitimate credit card charge, while 27% have done so. What would a retailer need to do to make things right with the consumer so they don’t file a chargeback claim? Respondents suggest having good customer service (55%), providing a speedy refund (53%), credit/points (36%) and a complimentary free item (35%) as a start. “We believe providing consumers with seamless online shopping experiences is critical to a merchant’s success—and that includes issuing returns and refunds,” added Balytsky. “We help our customers enhance their policies and customer experience, all while reducing fraud.”

Half of Americans believe they’ve got a great idea for the next big food trend. A new poll of 2,000 US adults found 73% think trendy foods need to be healthier and include nutritious qualities. Just as many (74%) said they’re more likely to try a food trend themselves if it’s healthy. To really make a trend take off, these food-fluencers need to set their sights on social media. More than a third (37%) said they discover food trends from one of four major platforms — Facebook (67%), YouTube (62%), Instagram (58%) and TikTok (45%). Outside of social media, cooking shows or segments (34%), friends (34%) and family (33%) are leading sources for learning about trendy foods and recipes. Over two-thirds (68%) said they’re likely to try a new food trend and nearly as many (66%) claimed it’s because trying new things is an “exciting” experience. More than half (58%) also stated they are more likely to try a new food if they see it’s been endorsed by celebrities, chefs or food influencers. Commissioned by Beef + Lamb New Zealand and conducted by OnePoll, the study discovered food trends were found to be most appealing to respondents when they were either convenient to prepare (23%), nutritious (21%) or used flavors they already like to use and eat (20%). Some of the trendiest foods that check all these boxes are avocado toast (24%), fermented foods (21%), restaurant-inspired dishes (20%), street food (19%) and cauliflower as bread replacement (19%). Many respondents also shared that trendy foods also need to include ingredients that have added nutritious benefits — things like yogurt (32%), garlic (29%), ginger (29%), turmeric (29%) and dark leafy greens (28%). This could explain why 59% claimed trendy diets are just as appealing to them as trendy foods. The trendiest diets right now include flexitarian (35%), low-carb/no-carb (29%), carnivore (29%) and Mediterranean (29%). When it comes to future food trends, respondents suggest it may be a new kind of burger, avocado tacos, something spicy, or even budget-friendly meals. “People often look to food trends because they want to try something new and exciting, but that doesn’t mean they need to compromise on nutrition and taste,” said Michael Wan, Global Manager at Beef + Lamb New Zealand. “By combining trending flavors or ingredients with familiar favorites, consumers can enjoy the best of both worlds.” For seven in 10 Americans, it’s important they can find nutritious foods. Nearly as many (68%) said they pay close attention to the nutritional value of most things they eat. Respondents are especially concerned about not getting enough vitamins (38%), protein (36%), fiber (32%) or Omega 3s (31%) in their diets — enough for 74% to actively look for ways to increase their protein and nutrient intake from natural food sources, such as grass-fed beef and lamb, rather than processed ones. They’re also paying attention to claims when purchasing food products. High protein (38%), low sugar (37%), all natural (35%) and low fat or organic (31%) are some of the leading claims, while sustainable (26%) and regenerative (20%) are also top of mind when shopping for food. Sixty-nine percent are willing to try imported food products if they better meet their dietary preferences than domestic food products and 70% said they’d be willing to spend the extra money on foods they know are going to be healthier for them. “Getting the most out of a nutritional food trend starts with being a more conscientious shopper and examining what goes into it,” continued Wan. “Using quality, nutritious, and sustainably raised ingredients to replicate food trends at home is a recipe for success. And with half of Americans saying they have a great idea for the next big food trend, we’re bound to see some delicious new ideas popping up on social media soon.” TOP TRENDING FOODS Avocado toast - 24% Plant-based meat / seafood - 21% Fermented foods (sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, etc.) - 21% Restaurant-inspired dishes - 20% Cauliflower as bread replacement - 19% Street food - 19%     Cauliflower as protein replacement - 18% Turmeric lattes - 18%      Loaded fries - 17%         Seeds (hemp, chia, flax, etc.) - 17%           Baked feta pasta – 17% Grass-fed proteins – 17% Salmon rice bowl – 17% Pesto eggs – 17% Air-fried pasta – 17%

Despite the sun’s year-round presence, 39% of Americans mistakenly believe sunglasses are only for summer, according to new research. The study of 2,000 Americans looked at people’s awareness of how to take protective measures to keep their eyes and body safe and found that similarly, 40% believe sunscreen is only for the summer. While a majority of respondents are the most careful in the summer (72%), 68% claim they take protective measures every time they go outside – even if for a short period of time. For some, these measures include wearing sunglasses (62%) or staying hydrated (61%) and for others, it’s applying sunscreen (53%) or wearing clothing that covers their skin (51%). Conducted by OnePoll for Maui Jim, the survey also found that 42% of respondents admit they don’t think about how their eyes are being affected when spending a long time outside. Half of Americans spend upwards of five hours outside in the sun every week (51%) with those in the midwest (60%) and west (53%) being most likely to spend longer than five hours outside per week. When it comes to their daily dose of sun, a third of respondents (34%) didn’t know they shouldn’t be spending more than the recommended 30 minutes outside in the sun every day. While their western counterparts get more sun, those in the northeast are more likely to wear sunscreen (56%) and tie with southwesterners (63%) to wear sunglasses when going out for everyday chores like errands. However, two-thirds of respondents know that being out in the sun, even for short periods of time, can be damaging to your eyesight, and a similar percentage know it’s important to wear sunglasses even when it’s cloudy (64%). Still, nearly half of respondents who drive admitted they don’t always wear sunglasses when driving during the day (49%), and just a quarter knew that yard work has an effect on their eyes. Similarly, only 24% knew that playing sports can affect your eyes, and just 29% could say they knew the same about drinking alcohol or using power tools. Two-thirds of people have ignored signs of eye strain like watery eyes (20%) and headaches (19%) without realizing they’re related.

Three in four coffee-drinkers cannot go a single day without their cup of joe. According to a new poll of 2,000 coffee-drinking Americans, the average Java enthusiast enjoys two cups per day, needs 21 minutes to finish each cup, and will refuse to pay more than $3 for a regular-sized café brew. Among those polled, the most popular ways to brew coffee are via drip (19%), espresso (16%), cold brew (14%) and pour over (13%). Forty-five percent feel that coffee has become more popular across the nation over the past three years due to coffee-related trends (48%), remote working (47%) and working overtime (45%). Results also suggest that chocolate (43%), breads (34%), cheeses (31%) and fruits (26%) are the most popular things to pair with coffee. In fact, chocolate was found to be so closely tied to coffee, 75% of coffee/chocolate pairers said they felt emotionally better when they have the two together and 84% can improve their day with the duo if they can sip/savor their coffee whenever and wherever they choose. Commissioned by Kinder Bueno and conducted by OnePoll, the study found that for 67% of respondents, how much they enjoy their coffee depends on how much time they have to make it. If they’re not in a hurry, half of respondents said they like to experiment with different brewing methods — most notably drip (24%), Aeropress (14%), pour over (14%) and cold brew (14%). One percent was also found to drink instant coffee. Respondents also noted they love enjoying their coffee either at home (33%), while reading (17%) or at a café (16%). More than half (54%) believe their productivity during the day depends largely on whether or not they were able to enjoy their coffee earlier. However, six in 10 (61%) said drinking coffee is less enjoyable to them if they’re stressed. “Chocolate has the power to help you slow down and savor a crispy, creamy, chocolatey moment with your coffee,” said Shalini Stansberry, vice president of marketing, Kinder Snacking. “We’ve all experienced the daily grind when we down a cup of coffee while feeling hurried or rushed. Chocolate and coffee make for the perfect pairing as both are meant to be enjoyed and not treated as fuel to help us get to the next task.” Respondents said they spend an average of three days per week feeling rushed from one thing to the next three days out of the week. Seventy-one percent said their day feels significantly worse and inconvenient if they have to rush through things they enjoy. The most inconvenient places to drink coffee, such as while commuting (17%), doing laundry (17%) and while exercising (16%). One in four respondents said they especially find drinking coffee in their car to be inconvenient. Some respondents even shared anecdotes about where they’ve had to rush their coffee-drinking: airplanes, at doctor appointments, in the bathroom, during a car breakdown, and even in an empty elevator. Yet 78% said that getting the chance to sip and savor their coffee whenever and wherever they choose would improve their day overall. In fact, respondents would willingly give up elements of their routine for more time to relax and enjoy their coffee — watching the news (32%), exercising (30%), their morning meditation (30%), hair grooming/styling (28%) and even brushing their teeth (25%). More than a third (34%) would especially give up checking their emails to make time to relax with and enjoy their coffee. Three-quarters (74%) said they compare having coffee to having time to enjoy their own company, also known as “me time.” THE BEST PLACES TO ENJOY COFFEE At home - 33% While reading a book - 17% On a balcony/porch/patio - 17% While watching the news - 16%    At a café - 16% THE WORST SITUATIONS TO DRINK COFFEE While commuting - 17% While doing laundry - 17% While exercising - 16% While cooking - 16% While on the phone - 16%

About two in five Americans say they’re living the dream with remote work while less than one in 10 wish to work on-location full time. That’s according to a new poll of 2,000 employed Americans which revealed that if given the opportunity to build their dream schedule, 42% would opt for mostly remote work with occasional days in-office. Respondents would also be much more likely to choose an entirely remote schedule (26%) than entirely on location (9%). In reality, the majority (39%) work remote most of the time with occasional days in-office and almost one quarter (24%) work entirely remotely. Only one in five people surveyed have more in-person workdays than remote. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of DoorDash, the survey also explored how certain activities and perks bring employees together — in-person or Zoom style. Respondents do believe there are several activities that are better suited for in-person work styles. Compared to remote, things like one-on-one meetings (57% vs 30%) and sharing meals (51% vs 28%) ranked at the top for best in-office activities. To that same tune, more respondents prefer meeting in person for social activities such as “lunch and learn” presentations (51% vs 31%) and happy hours (46% vs 32%). Respondents also feel they pay attention in meetings (59% vs 29%), connect more with their co-workers (53% vs 30%), and engage in company culture (51% vs 30%) more effectively on-location. While most generations were closely split on whether they’re better at multitasking in-person or virtually, millennials were most likely to accomplish it remotely (43% vs 34%). Fully remote work appeals to respondents because of the ability to have a flexible work schedule (49%), spend less time commuting (47%) and having more time to spend with family and friends (47%). Half of respondents believe they will leave their current job within the next year. Currently, “soft perks” such as training opportunities (30%), free coffee or snacks at the office (28%) and mental health resources (27%) are being offered to respondents. But when asked which they’d give up for their dream job, they’d prefer to lose minor things like summer Fridays (27%), annual holiday parties (27%) and birthday gifts or messages (27%). “As companies are looking for solutions to support flexible work, food plays a leading role in maintaining a positive culture. It acts as a catalyst for employees to better connect with their teams, supports employee satisfaction and productivity, and inspires lasting memories through social gatherings over meals,” said Manushika Gabriel, Director & General Manager, DoorDash for Work. Despite the perks of working from home, top motivators to return to in-person work full-time include spending more time with their coworkers (45%), having their company pay for their commute (42%) and being offered company-supplied meals (38%). A little more than one-third (36%) believe their company culture has improved overall since the start of the pandemic. When asked what their employer can do in support of building culture, allowing employees to raise concerns in a safe space (54%) and creating a place to connect with coworkers outside of work (50%) ranked at the top of the list. The survey showed that food plays a big part in happily working together. About three-fourths (74%) agree that sharing meals together positively contributes to company culture. It’s so important, in fact, things like “free lunch” and “shar[ing] meals with my coworkers in our free time. Maybe a coffee, lunch or a cupcake, something simple”, are some of the ways respondents would feel more connected to their company culture. More than three in five (61%) believe that eating together encourages people to talk about things other than work, while 60% say they get to know their coworkers in a more casual setting. Thirty-nine percent of all respondents have changed jobs during the pandemic and for those respondents, 84% found it more difficult to engage with their coworkers. “Companies are interested in providing perks and benefits to employees, with meals being at the forefront for many. We share meals with our families and friends as a way of bonding, and it’s no different in an office setting, said Gabriel. “Eating together and sharing meals doesn’t just give employees a chance to connect with one another, it builds positive company culture and team camaraderie.”

Cash might not be the king of retail anymore, but Americans still believe it’s “unbeatable” for savings and lending. A poll of 2,000 US adults found 51% have cold hard cash stored away in their homes. Of them, the average person has $1,010 stashed somewhere safe in their home. Over half of respondents (58%) said they prefer keeping their savings in cash, just in case of an emergency. Meanwhile, 29% said they find cash useful for lending to friends and people they know, compared to mobile payments (17%) and old-school checks (15%). For the 37% of respondents currently lending cash to people they know, the maximum they’d willingly lend is a whopping average $1,499. And only 38% would only ask to be paid back if it was a large enough amount of dough. Fifteen percent wouldn’t ask to be paid back at all. Commissioned by Alliant Credit Union and conducted by OnePoll, the study found for more general purposes, a quarter still prefer using their credit cards, while 24% prefer their debit cards — all over cash (20%). Nearly half (45%) have used cash just within the past week, based on when the survey was fielded. An additional 38% have used cash within the past month. However, cash was also found to burn a hole in the wallets of 55% who said they’re “more inclined” to use cash if they have it with them. Fifty-three percent said they’d be likely to shop at a business that is cash only. Meanwhile, 17% said they wouldn’t be likely and 30% felt neutral on the issue. Yet, before deciding to shop at cash-only businesses, 61% admitted they’d look for a nearby competitor that isn’t cash only first. For 43% of cash users, purchases consist of smaller items, like coffee or conveniences. Meanwhile, more than a third use cash for grooming appointments (39%) and smaller, non-critical emergencies (35%). “What I think we’re seeing here isn’t that cash is dying out — instead, its uses are evolving,” said Chris Moore, director of deposits and payment product strategy at Alliant Credit Union. “Seeing that people still opt to use cash for savings, emergencies and lending to friends and family tells us that cash’s usefulness is the fact that it’s liquid and instantly available.” The results show a quarter of people (28%) find credit cards the most practical form of payment, closely followed by debit cards (27%). However, 21% still find cash to be the most practical. The average cash-carrier has $70 in greenbacks in their wallet. Respondents said they’re most likely to use $20 bills (30%), $10 bills (24%) and $50 bills (13%). When asked what makes money feel significant to them, people like being able to use it immediately (38%), having earned it through work (35%) and its impact on their budget (35%). Nearly a third (30%) said it has to be over a certain amount — for them, anything over $200 is considered “impactful” to their budget. “There’s no denying the convenience of pulling out a card or your smartphone instead of fumbling with cash,” continued Moore. “But knowing people still see cash as a reliable backup option can tell us a lot about how we view resiliency with our personal finances.” TOP USES FOR CASH Smaller purchases - 43% Personal grooming appointments - 39% Smaller emergencies - 35% Public transportation - 32% Grocery shopping - 30% Entertainment - 30% Gas - 25% Clothing - 23%