Consumer survey finds brick-and-mortar making a comeback — with safety in mind
March 25, 2022 | Marianne Wilson | Chain Store Age
Men are helping to lead the resurgence of the IRL (in real life) shopping experience.
That’s according to 5WPR’s third annual “Consumer Culture Report,” in which more than half of the consumers surveyed said they now prefer to find new products in-store as opposed to online. These shopping preferences are especially predominant in consumers between the ages 25 and 34. Also, of those who responded, 56% of men prefer to find new products in-store compared to 48% of women.
“In-person shopping is not a dying trend as once believed, but consumers are expecting more from their visits and options at every stage, from exclusive in-store offerings to events and activations,” the report stated.
The study also found that the top three elements that inspire in-store shopping are: in-store experiences, sales staff support and advice, and an activity to share with friends. Also, 84% of consumers said that retail outlets’ safety measures are important, compared to just 16% who claimed this didn’t really bother them.
