In the first half of 2026, consumption patterns suggest an inclination toward proximity as a convenience factor. At StatMark Research, we analyze how physical closeness, combined with a gradual adoption of digital tools, is allowing traditional trade (bodegas and local shops) to maintain a relevant share of daily household expenditure.

Digitalization: A Tool for Resilience.
The retail trade has shown a remarkable capacity for adaptation. We are not speaking of a full digital transformation, but rather a functional integration: the use of instant messaging for orders and the acceptance of various mobile payment methods. This phenomenon, observed with different nuances in markets such as El Salvador and the Dominican Republic, indicates that the agility of small businesses is a valuable resource for competing in fragmented consumption environments.

The Transnational Environment: The Flow from the Diaspora.
An element that seems to sustain this proximity dynamic is the link with the Venezuelan diaspora. The flows of economic support coming from countries like Colombia, Ecuador, Chile, Peru, Argentina, the United States, and Spain play a facilitating role in local Venezuelan consumption.

  • Impact at the Point of Sale: We observe a trend where the migrant not only sends resources but occasionally interacts with platforms that connect directly with businesses in their city of origin, simplifying access to the basic basket for their relatives.

What Does This Imply for B2B Strategy?
For consumer goods companies, the challenge centers on logistical capillarity. Visibility on the proximity shelf requires a more atomized distribution. Brands that achieve a constant presence at these points of sale, adjusting to the shopkeeper’s replenishment frequency, could consolidate their position in this quarter.

Analytical Note: Loyalty in the traditional channel in 2026 seems linked to immediate availability. The ability of companies to synchronize their supply chain with the needs of neighborhood businesses will be a factor to monitor closely in the coming months.