Acosta Finds More Than a Third of Shoppers Are Worse Off Financially Than They Were Pre-COVID-19

New research finds Millennials are the hardest hit generation

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Jul 09, 2020, 11:00 ET

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., July 9, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Acosta, a leading full-service sales and marketing agency in the consumer packaged goods industry, today released its eighth insight report on the continuing evolution of consumer behavior and outlook amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The report, which found low prices will be a priority for 45% of shoppers post-pandemic, also provides suggestions to help retailers best meet customers' needs.

Acosta's eighth insight report on the continuing evolution of consumer behavior and outlook amid the COVID-19 pandemic found low prices will be a priority for 45% of shoppers post-pandemic.

"As the pandemic stretches on, we see the toll it has taken on shoppers financially. Millennials have been hit the hardest, with 43% of shoppers worse off than they were before the outbreak," said Darian Pickett, CEO of Acosta. "A recession is here and will significantly impact the shopping habits of those affected. Low prices and promotions will be among the most important priorities for consumers post-COVID-19, though product availability remains their top concern."

Acosta's eighth round of COVID-19 research, gathered via online surveys conducted between June 12 and 17, provides insight into consumers' concerns and habits as well as recommendations to help retailers prepare for the future, including:

Mental & Financial Toll

As the pandemic continues, shoppers are far more cautious than optimistic about the future, with 64% looking ahead with caution and only 24% looking ahead with optimism.
The recession is adding stress for many shoppers, with 37% worse off financially than they were pre-pandemic — including nine percent who are much worse off.
Millennials are the hardest hit generation, with 43% worse off.

Health-Oriented Habits

Many shoppers have found time for more relaxation (53%) and more sleep (40%) during the pandemic.
Fitness and nutrition have posed more of a challenge, with 37% of shoppers exercising less and 33% eating less healthy than before.
Thirty-two percent of shoppers reported consuming more vitamins and supplements, while 21% are eating more natural, organic or vegetarian foods.

The Future of Retail

Shoppers reported product availability (53%), social distancing (48%), low prices (45%), customer safety (43%) and availability of promotions/deals (29%) will be their top priorities post-pandemic.
With product availability proving to be an ongoing issue, supply chain and SKU rationalization must be a priority for retailers.
Shopper focus on health, wellness and safety is more important than ever.
The shopping experience has been interrupted, and shoppers will welcome opportunities that make them feel "back to normal."

Acosta's research was gathered via online surveys using the company's proprietary shopper community between June 12 and 17, 2020. To access the full report, visit www.acosta.com/news.

Acosta will continue to conduct research and will share updated data and recommendations for retailers and manufacturers on how to best meet consumers' needs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

About Acosta
Acosta is the sales and marketing powerhouse behind most of the trusted brands seen in stores every day. The company provides a range of outsourced sales, marketing and retail merchandising services throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe. For 90 years, Acosta has led the industry in helping consumer packaged goods companies move products off shelves and into shoppers' baskets. For more information, please visit www.acosta.com.

SOURCE Acosta