"Do I Really Need This?"

As consumers consider recouping pre-lockdown spend, Alex Hammond explores what this means for retailers as they begin to re-open in the next few weeks.

Like many of us, my shopping habits in lockdown have changed drastically, with most of my disposable income now going on essentials such as food and drink as opposed to new outfits and accessories. I no longer while away my lunch hour browsing in shops close to my office, instead choosing to sit in my garden to take a break from my computer screen.

Changing behaviours

For many non-essential retailers, the change in shopping habits of consumers has accelerated the move to a more omni-channel approach, in the hope of securing online sales despite not being able to open their physical stores. And the shift to online shopping brings a spike in returns. Now that the government has relaxed restrictions around store closures, many non-essential retailers are facing new challenges.