Change is the inevitable constant but will the impact brought about by change always stay constant? This is the question that is buzzing around in the minds of not just buyers but also business owners.
Following the pandemic, we have seen a noticeable difference in the way we go about our daily lives. From working in the presence of colleagues to working from home, from shopping at grocery stores to ordering in essentials, we have noticed many such activities that require human contact being replaced with convenient alternatives.
Whether these changes will have a last effect, we can’t truly say. But what we can address is how business owners can adjust and make the most of this scenario.
As people have slowly but willingly adapted to this modified way of living to suffice their day to day needs. It becomes imperative for businesses across the globe to fixate on categories that have encountered a diverse level of growth and are propelling this shift.
Let’s discover these consumer behavioral shifts and popular trends to better understand how brands can branch out into these thriving categories:
Purchasing Essentials and other Commodities Online
The shutting down of local stores couple with the current stay-at-home situation has compelled people to buy essentials through online shopping. In turn, leading to an exponential increase in the demand for not just basic essentials but groceries too.
In order to fulfill this rise in demand, businessmen associated with buying and selling of such essential commodities should definitely try expanding to online channels. Furthermore, consumers could also opt for bulk buying these basic goods which further propel this increased demand in the near future.
Prioritizing Locally Prepared Products
A remarkable demand from varied segments is expected to come knocking on the doors of businesses that are into manufacturing products from locally sourced ingredients. The goal here is to proactively capture the market by increasing visibility of your presence and approaching the right set of consumers that are looking to buy such products
The best way to boost your business in the current scenario is to find a way to be reachable to local consumers. Focusing on meeting local demand or engaging with consumers locally through known mediums can be a few ways to try out.
Along with these, re-strategize your marketing plans and try out things that people can relate while also keeping the current inhibitions in the back of your mind.
Making Good Health the primary focus
In the research study undertaken by Accenture, creating more health-focused strategies can be the primary differentiator for businesses. As people become more health conscious of tier choices and seek sustainable options, businesses should consider making this a key part of their portfolio.
The shift towards a more health-centric attitude has given rise to a demand for health products, primarily for immunity building. For businesses, this surge in demand creates a very lucrative opportunity to tap into these categories and reap good returns.
Putting Hygiene on a Pedestal
The pandemic has pushed hygiene and safety way up in the priority list, along with good health. The means, businesses will now have to implement safety measures for not just their employees but also the consumers buying their product. One of the most important safety practices that can ensure smooth business functioning is safe and hygienic delivery methods. Contactless delivery is your best bet as people seek out brands that can deliver products in no contact manner.
Businesses must rethink and redefine their logistics and marketing practices by keeping safety at the forefront. This is as important as educating consumers about the best-practices adopted by your business.
After all, people prefer to buy from a brand that is setting the correct example in the market.
A situation like this pandemic has brought about unpredictable changes and shifts in the behavior of consumers which could have long-lasting effects or not. What is more important for businesses is to reimagine their business plans by keeping in mind this situation and altered consumer behavior brought about by it. In this outbreak situation, brands, and products that meet consumer needs satisfying their concerns such as safety and hygiene would have a better chance to compete in the market. All things considered, vigilant brands hold a stronger footing in serving the ever-changing consumer attitude, behavior, and interests in an efficient and beneficial way!