LIFE AS WE KNOW IT (NOW)
In our Navigating the Next Normal round-up, we look back on all the ways the COVID-19 pandemic has changed life for consumers and manufacturers.
The start of 2020 signalled a new beginning for us all. As the world continues to navigate its way through this post-pandemic reality, what affect has this had on consumers and the manufacturers trying to keep up with their demands? Take a look at our series and get a better understanding of this “new normal”.
Buying into a new world
COVID-19 has irrevocably shaped our shopping habits, from what we want to buy, to how we want to buy it – with more focus on foods and beverages that improve our health and wellbeing, and increasing demand for online shopping opportunities. What do these changes signal for businesses worldwide?
The power of omnichannel
The way the world shops has changed significantly over a short period of time. And what started as a flurry of online panic buys from consumers wishing to stock up on certain products has turned into a rapidly growing market for home goods and furniture – with omnichannel marketing at its core.
Consumption in a remote world
How has a prolonged period of social distancing and working from home changed consumers and businesses? From the emergence of viral culinary trends to renewed focus on shelf-stable and convenience foods, this new world has presented the food and beverage industry with a wide range of opportunities to innovate.
The era of conscious consumption
With a sizeable portion of the world having spent most of the past 18+ months at home, it should come as no surprise consumers have had more time to develop a better understanding of what they are buying and where it comes from. As the world learns to shop more responsibly, how has this reflected on manufacturers?
Trends to norms: the post-pandemic shift
Is COVID-19 still a factor in the way consumers shop? Strict hygiene standards appear to remain in place in shops, supermarkets and so on, and health and wellness products continue to rank as top priorities, but what else has changed – and is it here to stay?
What will become of today’s new normal?
Suffice to say, certain consumer behaviours that developed at the start of 2020 don’t appear to be budging any time soon. And so, with more focus on health and wellbeing and responsible manufacturing, this puts the onus on manufacturers to continue shifting towards smart factory models and sustainable business strategies. At SIG we’re well versed on both topics, with the solutions and skills to back us up. Thus, allowing us to support your goals through thick and thin and ensure your supply chain keeps on going.
For more stories like this sent straight to your inbox subscribe to the SIGnals Update, our exclusive bi-weekly newsletter.
- October 20, 2021