Although the timeline of full easing of restrictions has now been pushed back another 4 weeks to mid-July, we look at what the impact of this gradual easing has had on retailers, and what’s likely to happen when full restrictions are lifted.
The BBC reported last month that shopper numbers are still almost 30% below pre-pandemic levels, with only a modest rise in footfall to various shopping locations after the opening of indoor dining in May. More recently, it’s been reported that retail sales had decreased by 1.4% between April and May this year, mainly driven by a drop in food shopping, as consumers headed to pubs and restaurants again instead. On the upside, the recent good weather and anticipation of garden gatherings this summer has driven an increase in outdoor furniture sales.
However, the Head of Retail and Wholesale at Barclays Corporate Banking, Karen Johnson, suggested that as lockdown restrictions continue to ease, this will mean that consumers are given more of a choice on where to spend their money, and retailers will be vying for that share of wallet even more.
So how can retailers combat this reduced sales period and keep footfall at strong levels? Homemovers can provide the answer.
Homemovers are a huge market for retailers, particularly right now, with these consumers ready to spend in a wide variety of categories from DIY to automotive, and spending significantly more than your average consumer in the process. TwentyCi can help to deliver these high value customers that are “in market” and ready to buy from retail brands now. Customers that can be reached via email, direct mail, social, display advertising, mobile & television, and all GDPR compliant.
So get in touch with us today and find out more about how we can help your retail brand stay ahead in the road out of lockdown.