CONSUMER
COVID-19 is changing the shopping habits of consumers.
Shoppers change behaviour as COVID-19 takes hold New research shows that consumers are changing their habits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Food & Beverage Industry News looks at why this is happening.
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ew research from consumer intelligence specialists, Mintel, shows that there has been changes in consumer sentiment and behaviour as a result of the spread of COVID-19 across Australia and New Zealand. “With the COVID-19 novel coronavirus continuing to spread in Australia and New Zealand, government-imposed social distancing measures and a stimulus package to safeguard jobs, the impact of the virus on the economy is already starting to
show. However, effects vary by sector; while some industries are fighting for survival, others have proven their quick adaptability to the new environment,” said Elysha Young, Mintel trends manager for APAC. “Our research shows how changing consumer sentiment and behaviour in reaction to the virus is having profound effects on certain sectors. In response, we’re seeing some companies and brands adapting to meet new – or newly important – consumer needs.”
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Concern is on the rise Mintel research shows that over half of Australian consumers (63 per cent) are concerned about the risk of being exposed to COVID-19. In the 48 hours from 25-27 March, Google Trends reported the search “symptoms of coronavirus” by Australians had spiked by 1,180 per cent. However, as the curve begins to flatten, there is an expectation that concern around exposure will similarly ease off, replaced with concern over the effect the
outbreak will have on lifestyles. Australian consumers are worried how the outbreak might impact their lifestyle, with over one third (36 per cent) saying they are “extremely worried”. Given the speed of the crisis, it was noted that almost one quarter (24 per cent) of Australian consumers remained unsure whether to be worried about exposure, even as they entered the third week of restrictions. As government shutdowns remain in
