The recent CareerTech State Board Meeting highlighted the innovative work of students from Stillwater, who are tackling the pressing issue of inflation's impact on consumer spending in grocery stores. Aubrey McQueen and her partner Trinity Bloche presented their findings from a project that surveyed consumer willingness to pay more for healthier food options, such as organic and gluten-free products.

Their research revealed a significant divide in consumer behavior between traditional grocery stores, like Walmart and Aldi, and specialty stores, such as Whole Foods and Sprouts. While shoppers at specialty stores appear less affected by inflation and are willing to adjust their budgets for healthier options, those shopping at traditional stores are more hesitant to spend extra, even for items they may prefer.

The students emphasized the broader implications of their findings, noting that the reluctance to pay more contributes to food waste and economic strain on agricultural producers. They suggested that traditional grocery stores might benefit from reducing the variety of premium labels they offer, as consumer demand does not support the current inventory.

McQueen and Bloche's project not only earned them national recognition as back-to-back champions but also underscored the importance of connecting academic research to real-world issues. Their work reflects a growing need for awareness around consumer choices and the economic realities faced by both shoppers and producers in today's challenging market.

As they prepare for their next project, the students remain committed to addressing relevant community issues, showcasing the vital role of education in fostering informed and engaged citizens. The insights from their study could influence how local grocery stores approach product offerings, ultimately benefiting both consumers and the agricultural sector.