Since April 1st of this year, the entire population of Shanghai has been under lockdown. Today marks the 17th day of lockdown for the population in West Shanghai and the 13th day for East Shanghai. All brick-and-mortar stores, except for home delivery services, are closed. While online platforms allow purchases, there is no guarantee of prompt delivery.
Two days ago, some residential compounds were released from lockdown due to zero-Covid cases within their premises. The residents are now permitted to move within their compound but not outside their community district. Despite wandering aimlessly on the deserted streets, you can sense their joy and see the glimmer of hope in their eyes.
Professionals are compelled to work from home, an adjustment that many are not accustomed to or familiar with. The last time a work-from-home protocol was enforced was in 2020, and it lasted only for a short period. Businesses should prepare themselves for the new norm, as many other countries have done, and be ready for the anticipated surge in consumer spending, often referred to as “revenge” consumption.
It is not hard to imagine the rush of people flocking to restaurants, coffee shops, and malls once the lockdown is lifted. Are brands prepared and well-positioned at the starting line before the “hungry” consumers are set free? What are your plans to attract shoppers to your store, strengthen your presence, and convert them from potential customers to loyal patrons?
Today could be the ideal time to start strategizing, as the early bird catches the worm.
Photo by Alexandre Trouvé on Unsplash