Times change, and so do shopping habits. Younger generations aren’t spending their money the same way their parents and grandparents did, leaving some once-popular products struggling to survive. Outdated technology, shifting priorities, or a push for sustainability all mean certain items just aren’t selling like they used to.
Here are some products that are on their way out because young people just aren’t interested.
Landline Phones
Not long ago, nearly every home had a landline. But for younger generations, who have had cell phones since middle school, the idea of paying for a separate phone line is ridiculous. They see landlines as outdated and unnecessary, especially when mobile plans offer unlimited talk and text.
As a result, telecom companies are losing business, and landline subscriptions are vanishing fast.
Traditional Wedding Rings
Diamonds may be forever, but young adults aren’t rushing to buy them. Many couples are skipping expensive engagement rings in favor of more affordable alternatives like lab-grown gems, simple bands, or no rings at all. With changing attitudes about marriage and a preference for spending money on experiences rather than material items, traditional jewelry stores are seeing a decline.
Cable TV
There was a time when cable television was the ultimate entertainment necessity. Not anymore. Young people prefer streaming services, where they can watch what they want, when they want, without paying for hundreds of channels they’ll never use.
Cable companies are losing subscribers every year, and it’s clear that traditional TV is struggling to stay relevant.
Department Store Clothing
Department stores used to be the places to shop for clothes, but younger consumers are ditching them in favor of online shopping and fast-fashion brands. Convenience is key, and the ability to order trendy, affordable outfits with the click of a button makes traditional retail stores feel outdated. Even luxury department stores are struggling to attract younger shoppers who prefer digital-first experiences.
Fabric Softener
Generations before used fabric softeners religiously, but younger consumers don’t see the point. They believe it’s just another unnecessary expense and worry about the chemicals it contains. With high-efficiency washing machines and detergent brands offering built-in softening agents, traditional fabric softeners are disappearing from shopping lists.
Printed Magazines and Newspapers
Newspapers and magazines were once a daily habit, but digital media has taken over. Young people consume news and entertainment online through apps, websites, and social media, making printed publications feel outdated.
Declining subscriptions mean many well-known magazines and newspapers have shut down their print editions and gone entirely digital to stay afloat in a world where information is just a tap away.
Single-Use Plastic Water Bottles
Eco-conscious younger generations are ditching disposable plastic bottles in favor of reusable alternatives. With growing awareness of environmental issues, refillable brands have become more popular than traditional bottled water. Many of today’s young people see single-use plastics as wasteful and unnecessary, pushing beverage companies to rethink their packaging and sustainability strategies.
Expensive China Dishware
Fine china sets used to be a must-have for weddings and dinner parties, but younger people just see them as impractical. They don’t want to spend their hard-earned money on delicate dishes that require special care, especially when casual dining is the norm.
Instead, they’re opting for everyday dishes that are functional, affordable, and easy to clean.
Bar Soap
Generations before grew up using bar soap for everything, but younger consumers prefer liquid body wash and hand soap. They feel that bar soap dries out their skin, and the idea of multiple people sharing the same bar isn’t appealing. With body washes offering moisturizing formulas, pleasant scents, and easier application, traditional bar soaps are losing their place in the nation’s bathrooms.
Lottery Tickets
Hoping to strike it rich with a lottery ticket isn’t as appealing to young people anymore. Many see it as a waste of money, especially when financial security feels out of reach these days. Instead of spending cash on scratch-offs, they’re looking at other ways to make money, like investing in stocks or starting side hustles.
Paper Checks
With mobile banking, online transfers, and payment apps, there’s almost no reason to use paper checks anymore. Writing a paper check to pay for something feels like a thing of the past for most young people.
Many banks are even phasing them out, and businesses are moving toward digital payments. Paper checks look like becoming completely obsolete in the near future.
Alarm Clocks
To wake up to the loud buzz of an alarm clock used to be the norm, but smartphones have made them unnecessary. Most people now use their phones to set alarms, check the time, and even customize wake-up sounds. Traditional alarm clocks are collecting dust on store shelves, with younger generations seeing them as one more outdated gadget that no longer serves a purpose.
Canned Tuna
You’re probably surprised to find canned tuna on this list, but young consumers just aren’t buying it like previous generations did. Many don’t like the smell, while others are concerned about mercury levels and sustainability.
With fresher, healthier options readily available, they’re choosing alternatives like fresh fish, plant-based proteins, and ready-to-eat meals, making canned tuna a fast-disappearing store cupboard staple.
Traditional Greeting Cards
Paper greeting cards for every holiday and special occasion aren’t purchases that younger generations prioritize. Many feel that they’re overpriced, wasteful, and impersonal compared to a heartfelt text or digital card.