Lingering health and safety concerns, pantry stocking, and online shopping may continue after consumers become vaccinated, reports CNBC. Currently, about a third of the U.S. population has gotten the COVID-19 vaccine, according to data from the CDC, however the global health crisis will continue to shape consumers’ mindset and purchases for years to come.
According to a January survey by AlixPartners, the U.S. has the highest level of consumers who are “most anxious” about their health and finances. For retailers, these concerns heighten the importance of keeping up safety protocols. In addition, the survey revealed that 30 percent of consumers plan to spend more on grocery purchases in the future and 44 percent plan to spend less on dining out.
Experts believe that online shopping will also see continued success long after the pandemic is over. A report by Mastercard Economics Institute predicts that grocers and discount stores will see the most dramatic and permanent e-commerce gains coming out of the pandemic.
Younger consumers, in particular, are eager to return to in-person activities once they get vaccinated. According to a survey by the IBM Institute for Business Value, nearly 30 percent of Gen Z respondents said they plan to interact with other people more than they did before the pandemic. In addition, a Piper Sandler survey found that nearly half of young shoppers plan to fly on a plane over the next six months. Full Story
Related: Global Opportunities in Three Megatrends; Advice for Specialty Retailers, Producers Amid Rising Concern About Price.