Hispanic consumers in the US have origins from more than 20 countries, account for approximately 20% of the US population, and are estimated to contribute up to $3.7 trillion in GDP as of 2022. With such a breadth of heritage and large population, Hispanic culture and communities around the country can be vastly different. Commonalities of shared language, a focus on family, cultural pride and resilience are near-universal elements. And while these themes resonate, marketers have explored them at length, leading to Hispanic consumers feeling generally seen, but lumped together, and not personally and authentically represented.
Brands that invest in understanding different groups’ unique cultural norms, household dynamics, dialects/slang, traditions and celebrations – as well as how younger generations are both challenging traditions and embracing their heritage – will stand out from the sea of sameness in Hispanic-centric marketing.
This report looks at the following areas:
- Macroeconomic and social factors impacting Hispanic consumers
- Demographic characteristics of US Hispanics
- Hispanic consumers’ relationship with American mainstream and heritage culture
- Elements that define community, and how they connect with their community and LATAM heritage
- Elements informing personal identity
- Perceptions of representation in brand marketing and advertising
- Attitudes toward Hispanic community and culture – positives, challenges, connections and recognition
- Marketing and brand examples to leverage Hispanics’ pride in their culture and identity
Hispanic culture emphasizes family, communal values and cultural pride – drivers influencing their consumer behavior and brand preferences.
Fiona O’Donnell, Senior Director – Lifestyles, Culture & Identity, Multicultural, Travel & Leisure
Market Definitions
Similar to the US Census, Mintel defines Hispanics as those who report being of Hispanic or Latino origin or descent, such as Latin American, Mexican, Puerto Rican or Cuban. There are over 63.5 million Hispanics in the US in 2023, representing 18% of the total US population.
“Hispanic” entails anyone who has origins from a Spanish-speaking country, and “Latino” denotes individuals who have origins in a Latin American country, regardless of whether it is a Spanish-speaking country. This Report covers both Hispanic and Latino consumers, and the term is used interchangeably throughout to reflect the diversity of this demographic.