By Gina Acosta, Progressive Grocer // October 13, 2020
More than half of Americans say they are stockpiling groceries or plan to stockpile over worries about supply chain disruptions due to COVID-19 surges and political unrest due to the presidential election.
According to a new report from market research firm Sports and Leisure Research Group, roughly 52% of Americans plan to stockpile this fall. Of those who are stockpiling, the majority are concerned about an increase in infection rates, but a smaller share of people say they are worried about unrest surrounding the election next month.
In August, Acosta reported on new research finding that 53% of shoppers plan to stock up if another pandemic shutdown occurs.
More specifically, the new research found that:
- 38% of consumers stocked up at the beginning of the pandemic and would do so again with a new shutdown.
- 15% of consumers did not stock up earlier this year when the outbreak started but would do so if there is a new shutdown.
- 17% stocked up at the beginning of the outbreak but will refrain from doing so again.
- 24% didn’t stock up last time and have no plans of starting.
The main message from all that, according to Acosta?
Retailers should prepare.
