The Coronavirus lockdown has transformed shopping habits among UK consumers, according to new data which showed that 61 per cent of shoppers are visiting supermarkets less frequently, in favour of corner shops.

A survey of 1,646 adults, compiled by YouGov, found that consumers have been visiting different types of shops to get their essentials, as pressure on supply chains and bulk buying led to almost all shoppers (93 per cent) struggling to find the products they needed.

Nearly a quarter (23 per cent) said they had increased visits to local corner shops, with nearly 80 per cent of shoppers saying they considered them an essential service.

However, despite predictions that social distancing would drive up online sales, nearly a quarter (24 per cent) said they had shopped online less frequently than normal for non-essential items.

Meanwhile, demand for food deliveries and essential items online is up 16 per cent, according to the survey. More than half (54 per cent) of those shopping for essentials online said they had experienced difficulties in sourcing the products they need, compared to 39 per cent of shoppers who had encountered shortages in the supermarket.

Commenting on the findings, Joel Kempson, personal finance expert at money.co.uk, said: “It is unsurprising that consumers have changed the way they buy essentials since lockdown began - these figures highlight how well people are following the government guidelines to shop as infrequently as possible.

“Additionally, with over 63 per cent of businesses reporting reduced turnover due to the effects of COVID-19, a quarter of UK businesses coming to a temporary halt and 21,000 closing down all together, shoppers are no doubt going to be managing their money and watching spending habits very carefully.”

Share Story: