Online shoppers’ priorities have shifted as lockdown measures ease
A new study from Royal Mail has indicated that online shoppers spent more in June than they did in May, and their priorities have shifted as lockdown measures ease.
The Royal Mail’s Delivery Matters COVID-19 survey found that on average, online shoppers spent £226 on purchasing goods in June 2020, compared to £213 in May. This compares to an average of £226 spent over a three-month period in 2019.
In a statement issued on Wednesday (12 August) about the study, Royal Mail also noted that women were more likely to have shopped online more frequently than men. Those aged over 35 years old had a significantly higher monthly spend in June than those aged 18-34 years old – £247 vs. £163.
Royal Mail commented: “Priorities have shifted as lockdown measures ease. Shoppers are still purchasing DIY equipment and gardening products but demand here is starting to return to normal levels, whilst spend on clothing and footwear, makeup and food and drink continues to grow. For food and drink, 44 per cent bought online in June 2020 compared to 28 per cent over a three-month period in 2019*.
“With 33% of those surveyed seeing a decrease in their income, free delivery is seen as a top priority. Being kept informed on delivery progress is also important.”
Royal Mail added that, in order meet the increased volumes, it has recently signed a deal with Beumer Group to design and build the automated parcel sorting system for its new fully automated North West parcel hub in Warrington.
Nick Landon, Chief Commercial Officer at Royal Mail, said: “COVID-19 and lockdown have driven major changes in consumer habits, including the way we shop. As lockdown begins to ease our research shows that online spend is still increasing but the mix of items bought continues to change as we all adjust to the new normal. Online ordering and home delivery of clothing, makeup, food and drink look set to stay as the one off or more occasional DIY and gardening purchases move back towards normal levels.”
