How COVID-19 is Impacting Consumer Spending

Marshal Cohen
Chief Industry Advisor, Retail

“Uncertainty, unique needs, and continuous change will be driving forces behind the 2020 back-to-school shopping season. Traditional back-to-school spending will be delayed and compressed, while other spending will be pushed beyond the traditionally defined season and linger longer as parents acclimate to the new schooling environment. Consumers living and purchasing in the here and now is impacting every industry, and stay-at-home learning will have a widespread effect on our lives, and retail, that goes well beyond educational needs. Retailers across many industries need to remain at the ready for the consumer dash when the next ‘need bell’ rings.”

Leen Nsouli
Executive Director, Industry Analyst, Office Supplies

“With schools delaying start dates to formalize a fall reopening plan and shoppers delaying purchases to last minute, September has seen year-over year BTS gains in the first two weeks.”

Ben Arnold
Industry Analyst, Consumer Electronics

“In many ways, the 2020 BTS season began in March as students rushed to purchase PCs, printers, and other productivity accessories in order to finish out the school year. Sales of PCs surged this summer, reaching historic levels in July and August. At the same time, supply-component shortages, manufacturing slowdowns, and shipping delays have all led to low inventory levels of PCs during a time when demand has never been higher.”

Kristen Classi-Zummo
Market Insights, Apparel

“Parents will still buy clothes for their kids this BTS season, but basics and comfort categories will play bigger roles. Apparel purchases will be more spanned out, as many kids will be learning remotely to some degree, and won't need a full wardrobe to show off in their first weeks of school.”

Kristen McLean
Industry Analyst, Books

“Sales of educational book categories surged after COVID-19 lockdowns, however, sales have recently started to slow down. Consumers have secured what they think they need for BTS, whether they are schooling from home or in person.”