Half of shoppers to avoid goods shipped from China as coronavirus fears rise

A survey by Retail Economics found that customers are braced to change their shopping behaviour if coronavirus persists.

Nearly a quarter (23%) of shoppers believe coronavirus poses a significant threat to health in the UK, while 35% and 42% perceive it as a moderate and low threat respectively.

As a result of this, 16% of shoppers say they would avoid destinations such as shopping centres if the spread of the virus continues in a bid to lessen their chances of infection – a figure that rises to 20% of those who believe coronavirus poses a high risk.

In a bid to minimise human contact, 35% of shoppers say they would also choose to shop online, rather than venture to their local high street or retail park.

17% of shoppers would also avoid public areas such as restaurants and the cinema, while 31% say they will avoid travelling abroad if coronavirus persists.

Retail Economics chief executive Richard Lim said: “From a retail perspective, this could support some areas, but whether or not the additional cash will offset fears around spending time in public spaces and nervousness in going to shopping locations remains unclear.

“What’s more, a reduction in tourist numbers to the UK will hit luxury retailers, particular in the capital and other tourist locations. However, people have said they would shift more spend online, so retailers that have a good online proposition could benefit.”