Half of consumers consider new digital experiences are an adequate substitute for activities they used to conduct prior to the COVID 19 pandemic : Deloitte

Digital Activities Boom During Pandemic as Consumers Turn to Online Shopping and Social Media for Convenience and Accessibility.

The Rise of Digital Activities During the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a significant shift in consumer behavior, with a substantial increase in digital activities. According to a survey, more than eight in ten consumers tried at least one digital activity for the first time during the pandemic. This surge in digital adoption can be attributed to the need for social distancing and the closure of non-essential businesses.

Key Drivers of Digital Adoption

Several factors contributed to the rise of digital activities during the pandemic. Some of the key drivers include:

Increased accessibility: With the closure of physical stores and public spaces, consumers had to rely on digital platforms to access essential services and products. Convenience: Digital activities offered a convenient alternative to traditional methods, allowing consumers to shop, socialize, and access information from the comfort of their own homes. Cost savings: Digital activities often eliminated the need for physical transportation, reducing costs associated with commuting and other expenses.

“As brands navigate unprecedented times, they need to embrace change more rapidly than ever by seeking partnerships outside of their traditional domains and leveraging digital solutions in order to meet emerging needs of their customers. In the past several months, the collaboration between brands has been creative and unexpected worldwide, as we saw banks partner with mental health providers in order to address concerns associated with financial problems, health manufacturers teaming up with automotive companies to fill demand for medical equipment and technology platforms activating a multiple cross-industry partnerships to provide digital telemedicine services. The intensive use of technology also comes with challenges, such as making sure the human interaction is not replaced by technology, but it is rather enabled or enhanced, equally always acting in alignment with the brand’s purpose is more relevant than ever,” said Ruxandra Bandila, Marketing and Business Development Director, Deloitte Romania.

This awareness has led to a significant increase in consumer distrust towards brands.

The Rise of Consumer Distrust

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a seismic shift in the way consumers perceive brands. The widespread awareness of companies’ negative actions during the pandemic has led to a significant increase in consumer distrust. This distrust is not limited to a specific industry or demographic, but rather is a widespread phenomenon that affects consumers across the globe. Key statistics: + 2/3 of respondents are aware of negative actions taken by companies during the pandemic + 75% of consumers report feeling more distrustful of brands since the pandemic began + 60% of consumers say they are less likely to purchase from a brand that has raised prices on essential items

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