A survey of more than 2,000 U.S. consumers found more that 85% reported paying more for groceries during the COVID-19 pandemic.
C+R Research conducted the survey, called COVID-19: The Impact on Consumers’ Wallets.
.“Many consumers are wondering if we will see a “second wave” of COVID-19,” a summary of the report said. According to the survey, 87% of those polled fear a second wave will lead to grocery shortages and 86% are concerned a second wave would bring even higher prices.
Some consumers continue to buy extra food supplies, according to the report.
“Two-thirds of consumers (67%) are preparing themselves by stocking up on essential food items, while the other one-third have only stocked enough food to last two weeks or less,” the report said.
Seven in ten consumers polled in mid-August said they’ve been “stress eating” since the pandemic, according to the report.
The survey found:
- 85% of American consumers report paying more for groceries during COVID-19 with an average weekly spend of $139;
- 83% still have difficulty finding grocery items they normally purchase;
- 87% are worried a second wave of COVID-19 will lead to grocery shortages;
- The top ways consumers are cutting back on grocery spending: 1. Eating less meat 2. Seeking discounts 3. Eating less poultry 4. Avoiding organic items 5. Buying in bulk.; and
- Despite masks and social distancing, 75% still feel uncomfortable shopping at a grocery store (up from 60% in April).
Permanent change?
Sixty-nine percent of consumers said they tried online grocery delivery or grocery store pick-up for the first time during the pandemic.
The survey found that 77% believe grocery shopping will change permanently due to COVID-19. Three in four consumers polled said they still feel uncomfortable when shopping in a grocery store, according to the report.
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