As retailers climb back on their feet under Unlock 1.0, the industry might have to brace itself for a sustained downturn, as a majority 67% consumers showed little to no excitement in shopping post the lockdown. This is one of several findings in a consumer sentiment survey, released on Tuesday by the Retailers Association of India (RAI).
Surveying over 4000 respondents across the country, the ‘Unlocking Indian Consumer Sentiment Post Lockdown’ survey in association with LitmusWorld sought to understand the likely behaviour and shopping preferences of Indian consumers in a post lockdown environment.
Consumers in the survey expressed caution as they were asked to evaluate if, how, when and where they would like to shop once the lockdown lifts.
62% respondents said they were inclined to visit stores within the first three months post lockdown. This number goes up to 75% in tier 2 and tier 3 cities. However, 78% said their shopping expenditure would decrease. Only 6% said they would increase their spending. This would mean a slower recovery for the retail sector, which has seen near-zero revenue and sustained losses over the last few months.
In a reflection of the ‘new normal’, 75% respondents said regular sanitisation of stores was their most preferred measure and expectation to feel safe and secure while shopping. 57% said they would prefer minimal staff interaction, with 30% indicating their preference for virtual trial rooms.
Commenting on the survey’s findings, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, Retailers Association of India, said, “With most consumers demonstrating hesitation to resume shopping in the coming months, the retail sector needs the support of all stakeholders to revive sentiment. Retailers will need to prioritise safety and hygiene measures to reassure consumers that they will have a safe shopping experience. Despite a strained quarter, the sector will have to make investments in implementing the necessary safeguards to win back consumer confidence.”
The survey also asked consumers to prioritise their shopping lists. At 52% each, food & grocery and apparel & clothing continue to top consumer wish lists. As consumers were compelled to adapt to their restricted lifestyles, consumer durables & electronics; beauty, wellness & personal care; and footwear feature in the top 5.
However, consumers expressed low interest in spending on restaurants, travel & leisure. furniture & furnishing, jewellery, watches & personal accessories were least prioritised.
Even though shopping priorities may have changed, it appears that consumers still prefer an in-store experience. 75% respondents in Tier 2 & 3 cities said they would still prefer to buy offline. Respondents in Tier 1 cities showed an equal preference for online & offline mediums. Even amidst the caution and fear, 67% respondents above the age of 45 said they preferred offline over online shopping.
"The Indian consumer's optimism will revive the retail economy within 3 months of the unlock phase. The people pulse survey along with Retailers Association of India (RAI) also exhibits trust and value for money being leading indicators for retailers to lead the bounce-back agenda," said Khushaal Talreja, Head of Marketing & Partnerships, LitmusWorld.
The respondents comprised 73% men and 27% women. More than two-thirds were between the ages of 25 and 44. 80% were from Tier-1 cities such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, while the rest were from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.