Expected changes to consumer spending due to the coronavirus U.S. February 2021

Over the course of the next two weeks from mid-February 2021, consumers in the United States intended to increase their spending on groceries and food for home by nearly 20 percent and household supplies by roughly four percent. Shoppers stated that they expected to decrease their spending for most product categories. Spending on jewelry and accessories was expected to be reduced the most over the measured period.

How was shopping behavior influenced by the pandemic?

Over the many weeks and months since the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic began, consumers around the world and in the United States had exhibited changes in their shopping behavior. In early 2021, specifically, an estimated 85 percent of American shoppers reported that the crisis impacted their usual shopping habits. Some of the changes seen over the past year included reduced spending, an increased interest in online shopping, the use of home delivery options, as well as a decreased convenience store shopping frequency.

What industries were hit the hardest?

During the first months of the coronavirus pandemic, consumers had spent far less than usual on all kinds of items, including out-of-home entertainment, apparel, jewelry, and accessories. Between March and May 2020, related sectors, such as motor vehicles and parts dealers as well as clothing and accessory stores, had seen a heavy decline in sales in contrast to the previous year. By the end of 2020 and the first months of 2021, however, many of the industries had once again experienced positive sales growth numbers.

For further information about the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, please visit our dedicated Facts and Figures page.