With the number of cases rising again in Australia, most people accept the fact that travel and major events are not going to take place over a long period of time (most likely while clenching their teeth).
The Toluna Covid-19 Barometer is a bi-weekly index that draws on a community panel of more than 30 million members and provides accurate and up-to-date information on how the world is perceiving the coronavirus.
"As the country is in various phases of lockdown, Australians have adjusted to the reality that travel and major events will get out of hand for some time," says the Business Director of Toluna Australia & NZ.
"This has made consumers more cautious about their spending, but the good news for local cafes and retailers is that they are still spending money and eating out high on the agenda."
Although 40% of respondents say they will be more careful about where they spend their money in the coming months, 45% plan to eat out in the coming months.
Other local businesses that consumers will want to go to in the next 1 to 2 months include:
- Hairdressers / salons – 30%
- Cinemas – 21%
- Gyms – 16%
Food statistics
Aussies still do their shopping in stores more often. 65% made their purchases in the last two weeks, while only 19% made online purchases.
Stocking up potential locks could potentially play a role on people's minds as the following items have been added to shoppers' carts in the past two weeks:
- Long life or canned food – 40%
- Frozen food – 53%
- Cleaning products – 50%
- Hand wash or disinfectant – 40%
- Toilet paper – 48%
- Pasta – 43%
- Vitamins – 30%
However, buyers remain concerned as 62% of Aussies are now more afraid of a second wave of Covid-19 than the ensuing economic downturn, compared to 32% who are more concerned about the economy.
Mr. Walker says, "As the pandemic progresses, it is important for companies to monitor evolving consumer perceptions and habits and adjust their services accordingly."
