Life as we know it has changed, at least for the meantime. Given the circumstances, retail has taken a massive hit. With products, and experiences labeled as “non-essential”, consumers have shifted their attention elsewhere… and rightfully so. With priorities shifting, brands are getting creative. Not necessarily to fill their own pockets, rather to extend a helping hand in painting the bigger picture.
Ahead Of The Curve
Purchasing life necessities at the moment brings about anxiety, and consumers are electing overwhelmingly to stay home at all costs. Grocery stores by nature, are still major hubs for public gathering at the moment. Delivery app, Instacart, has been making life easier for consumers, prior to the recent circumstances. Months ago, they began rolling out their “leave it at the door” delivery feature, enabling shoppers to receive grocery goods, while cutting the crowd experience. During the first week of March, Instacart saw their sales grow by 1000%.
Business As Usual
QSR, and fast food retailers are seeing an uptick in business, but some brands are modifying their experience to fit the current demands. UK fast food chain, Leon, is shifting their business model into that of a mini grocery store. In attempt to make the most of in-house resources, Leon is now selling pre-packaged meals, sauces, and miscellaneous product. Customers are capable of receiving these items via delivery, satisfying the mandates of staying home, and staying safe.
Not All Heroes Wear Capes
Homage, a mid-west apparel retailer, took initiative by offering a lending hand in the fight against COVID-19. “Not All Heroes Wear Capes” is a set of products developed to honor the amazing work of Dr. Amy Acton, Ohio’s Department of Health Director. The saying itself pays homage to the heroes who are in the medical field, fighting the illness, and those fighting by staying home. Proceeds from sales go to Huckleberry House, whose programs assist youth at risk from violence, neglect, poverty, and homelessness.
What retail is exemplifying in these unprecedented times, is the ability to adapt to the circumstances at hand. As trying as times are, brands are working together for each other, rather than individually. While we’re in for a fight for the near-term, it’s refreshing to see companies looking out for their consumers, the industry, and the greater good.
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