GLP-1s Are Reshaping Consumer Spending and Employer Health Benefits
A panel at Aspen Ideas: Health argued that GLP-1 drugs are becoming an economic force well beyond pharmaceuticals, changing what households buy while forcing employers, insurers, public programs, pharmacy benefit managers and manufacturers to rethink access to expensive chronic-care medicines. PwC’s Ali Furman pointed to spending shifts in groceries, restaurants, apparel and travel; Eli Lilly’s Laura Steele described new direct-to-consumer and employer channels built around demand; and economist Kosali Simon cautioned that the benefits may not show up simply as lower medical costs.
The Aspen Institute·Jun 24, 2026·19 min read
