As the world becomes more and more focused on online interactions and transactions, retail and in person shopping seemingly has become something “of the past”. However, I have been reading and thinking more about this issue and I believe that retail stores still have a place in the sales world.
In fact, COVID may be a blessing for the retail industry in an odd way. This is due to an increase in desire from consumers for face to face and human interaction. According to Forbes, 50% of customers surveyed said that they immediately intend to head back to brick and mortar stores to begin shopping once the pandemic is over.
Furthermore, there are certain products and services that simply work better when they are experienced in person: such as grocery stores, many clothing stores, and shopping for vehicles. These are industries in which many people prefer to go to the store in person so they can pick the exact bunch carton of strawberries that is the perfect ripeness, the jeans that fit just right, or the car that they feel comfortable and safe in. These experiences are difficult to replicate in an online buying experience.
In conclusion, I think that the COVID pandemic, which would seemingly reduce in person shopping has lead to a mini revival in brick and mortar shopping as people crave human interaction and stores are better equipped with technology to meet their needs.
Article Link: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2021/06/04/is-experiential-retail-still-relevant-in-2021/?sh=55940fb34392
BoweryJE22
I find this very interesting. It is fascinating that covid would have the side effect of people desiring more in- person shopping and interaction, but it makes sense. Also I definitely agree that some things are simply better to purchase in person rather than online. Interesting post!
I definitely believe there is a place for brick and mortar in retail well into the future and so do may large luxury goods makers. Cheaper markets are always the first to adopt online users; Amazon, eBay, etcetera are all examples of how we like to use online retail to save money but when people really want a high end luxury good they turn to the Apple Store, Neiman Marcus, or an exceedingly premium Tom Ford location where they serve you champagne as they tailor your clothes. I think the more high-end the market a brand caters to the more important it will be for them to retain brick and mortar locations.
I agree with you wholeheartedly. I still primarily shop at brick & mortar stores if I can and prefer it to shopping online. It is more convenient for me because I like to see and hold products before I buy them. I’ve been burned too many times buying things online that aren’t what they seem (especially build-quality wise – I like things to last).
It would be wonderful if COVID causes a resurgence of brick & mortar sales.
It is always very interesting when something, like COVID, happens and people expect a certain result, like the death of brick and mortar, but in reality it has the inverse effect.
I thought that this post was very interesting, on one hand, you would think that there is still somewhat of a stigma against being in person because of COVID still being a thing. However, I do agree that many people want to get out and have things go back to normal.