Talking Retail Grocery and product news for independent retailers
The latest IGD Shopper Confidence Index shows December’s score remained unchanged from the previous month (-6) and is still at the highest level since February 2020. Confidence appeared to be held up by Christmas food and grocery shopping and the rollout of the first virus vaccine.
The research reveals that confidence has changed significantly by region, with notable declines in London and the South East, corresponding with a tightening of restrictions in these regions. In addition, confidence has increased the most among 45-54-year-olds.
Simon Wainwright, director of global insight at IGD, said: “While it’s encouraging that overall confidence is still the highest it’s been in nearly a year, we can see that December was a turbulent month as shoppers navigated the constant changes brought on by rising Covid-19 cases.
“This uncertainty will likely continue for the foreseeable future as we enter a new national lockdown and shoppers contend with the deepening economic downturn. It will be key for retailers and suppliers to remain agile in responding to further changes in shopper behaviour and to demonstrate value for shoppers across all physical and digital touchpoints.”
