Lockdown Life in SA continues with a little bit more Freedom and a lot of Fatigue
- Six weeks into Lockdown life and our 2nd pay day reflects consumers’ needs for shelf stable foods and comfort/convenience foods, but also more snacking products, fresh fruit and veg and meat.
- With certain restrictions lifted, they took the opportunity to purchase gardening and DIY products, kids entertainment and clothing and cellphone, computer and audio products to make working from home and staying in touch easier.
- Convenience food was not part of the top growing categories this week, partly as hot food deliveries are now open and the effect of month-end pantry loading.
- COVID-19 Sentiment Posts are both positive (community cohesion) and negative (the impact on health). Lockdown fatigue is evident through negative social sentiment increasing on the ban of Tobacco and signing petitions are a way for consumers to be heard.
- Searches for homemade alcoholic brews are increasing. No longer just pineapple beer but also homemade vodka recipes which drives more pressure on the Yeast supply.
- Baking continues to be a trend but the pressure on Yeast supply is forcing consumers to be creative. Consumers are reconnecting and sharing experiences with baking and home cooking and mostly share positive posts about their ‘new found’ hobbies (for some).
- Beauty routines are moving in-home with the current restrictions, especially for ethnic hair and the care thereof. Hair clippers are searched for presumably for short hair styles.
- Fresh Fruit & Veg is a key focus for consumers as they focus on wellness and are cooking at home more.
