(New York, NY; January 31, 2003; PRNewswire) Over the next 20 years the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population will be those aged 55 and over. According to The U.S. Mature Market: New Perspectives on the 55+ Consumer, a new research report published by Packaged Facts and available through MarketResearch.com, this demographic will constitute nearly 30% of the population in 2022, compared to approximately 21% in 2002.

In addition to their sheer numbers, by 2007 the 55+ cohort will also wield a buying power of more than $2 trillion -- a figure fueled by the large numbers of boomers who are aging into the mature demographic.

"The most striking characteristic of this demographic is its tremendous potential," said Don Montuori, Acquisitions Editor for Packaged Facts. "We are looking at a collection of individuals who will control both a large voting bloc and a huge sum of money by 2007. By any definition, this is a powerful population that marketers must reckon with. And historically marketers have not done a particularly effective job in reaching this market."

The interests of the mature population of the U.S. are sure to influence some significant purchasing trends in coming years. Already, marketers of children's apparel and toys have felt the effects of the booming grandparent sector. In 2002 grandparents over the age of 55 spent almost $23 billion on goods for their grandkids. By 2007 this number is projected to jump to almost $30 billion.

The U.S. Mature Market covers spending habits, demographic profiles, and consumer attitudes within the mature market.

About Packaged Facts

Packaged Facts, a division of MarketResearch.com, produces research reports on a wide range of consumer industries and demographics, covering the U.S. markets and including information on global market trends and opportunities. For more information visit http://www.PackagedFacts.com .

About MarketResearch.com

MarketResearch.com is the leading provider of global marketing intelligence products and services. With over 50,000 research publications from more than 350 top consulting and advisory firms, MarketResearch.com offers instant online access to the world's most extensive database of expert insights on global industries, companies, products, and trends. For more information, call Alison Williams at 301.468.3650x203 or visit http://www.MarketResearch.com .