The past year has been a bit of a whirlwind – the unimaginable happened – we entered a global pandemic. COVID-19 has undoubtedly changed the way we live our lives, whether it be visiting family and friends in their house or jumping on an airplane for a last minute get-away.
Both of those examples were put to a stop, the virus affected almost every aspect of life in the UK, and people have had to adapt to these changes.
Emotional Logic (we) recently asked 1,000 UK adults what they will be doing post-COVID; to understand the first activities consumers will be doing post-COVID restrictions and what their top priorities are once the lockdown has been lifted.
These trends are likely to continue as the impact of COVID-19 will last for a long time and as consumer habits become the new normal. Here are the two most popular activities consumers want to do once restriction are lifted to try and understand how consumers will act.
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Nights outs are on the agenda
One of the biggest impacts that COVID-19 has had, is its impact on nightlife. Because of restrictions, people have suffered from not being able to let their hair down on a night on the town. And by the looks of things, this is on the top of people’s agenda.
Many different small, independent or big businesses can benefit from lockdown lifting.
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Hello eating out!
It comes as no surprise that eating out is on consumers radars with pubs, restaurants and cafes possibly reopening in England from 12 April, and dining in potentially allowed from 17 May consumers are wanting to escape their kitchens to dine out.
Having a meal in a restaurant seems very appealing to consumers, especially those over 65 followed by 25-34-year-olds.
What are your top 3 priorities for 2021?
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Health and Wellbeing
With people having more time on their hands from us being in a national pandemic, consumers have had more time to do physical activity (mainly through the daily exercise allowance) and eat more healthily – both which contribute to good health and wellbeing.
The COVID-19 pandemic has influenced and encouraged the importance of physical fitness.
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Family time
It comes as no surprise that family time is high on the priority list for consumers.
I think we have all realised the importance of spending time with our loved ones because of the pandemic; having to keep a 2m distance, not being able to celebrate together and missing family time has certainly taken its toll. It’s time to make time for family and appreciate the moment.
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Financial security
If anything, the pandemic has brought a lot of uncertainty for consumers, especially financial security. This increases with age until over 65’s and then dips, however, it is still their third priority on their list.
For more information on what to expect from consumers in the coming months, look out for our Post COVID Consumer Report.
Whether you need insight to adjust your strategies for existing brands to the new normal or are thinking about launching new products we can help you get it right. Emotional Logic is a specialist behavioural insight agency and we offer a range of cost-effective research solutions to ensure your strategy connects with the constantly shifting needs of the consumer. Please get in touch for a free consultation.
