What will retail look like post-pandemic—Will it be like the “roaring 20’s?”

It’s been nearly a year since Governor Newsom issued his first shutdown order for businesses, and we have seen several more such orders since. Most experts agree that the shutdowns and pandemic protocols have led to conservative consumer spending and a renewed interest in religion, reading—and binge-worthy Netflix shows. As we rang in the new year, many hoped the pandemic would be over—but we all know now that we still have a long way back to any sense of normal. We have to negotiate frustration and fatigue, and hope that Dr. Fauci is right that we may attain some sort of new normal by the holidays.

There are many indications that we still have a long road to retail recovery. One such indicator is the lack of inventory that shoppers are finding in brick-and-mortar locations. Recently I visited the Nordstrom Bobbi Brown counter to stock up on essentials; the salesperson was embarrassed to tell me she didn’t have one single item I had hoped to leave with. The same thing happened when I went to purchase shoes at Bloomingdale’s. I chose four styles, and the salesperson could not find one of them in a size 7. As an avid lover of beauty products, it is frustrating to be unable to sample products in person for color perfection, or to feel the product on my skin. The lack of inventory has made it more and more difficult to shop local and stay away from Internet shopping. It’s discouraging when your salesperson says “I’m sorry, but you will have to go online to purchase this product.” Wholesalers are not sending multiple sizes to stores because retailers are scared product will sit on shelves. I feel guilty to admit that I purchased my first piece of clothing from Amazon. The guilt led me to leave the tags on and keep the box so that I could send my purchase back. I refuse to stoop to a retail low! This is my business and I cannot cannibalize local retailers and turn to Amazon!

There is hope, however. More and more retailers are telling me that things are actually getting better; every week they are seeing small gains. Surprisingly, many restaurants that I thought would close by end of last year are still standing. The owners are reporting they are surviving and have been saved by delivering their products and creating “meal deals.” Carnage may still be close, but overall restaurateurs know that people want the comfort of their food, whether they dine out or order in.

What will it look like when local retailers are fully open, and we have capacity to return to their shops and restaurants? Some predict there will be huge gatherings, festivals and more socializing than ever before. Those who are living in quarantine will uncoil and join in again. People will be starved for fun and familiarity. Last Saturday, I invited a few friends to join me and my husband to an early game of fun at Top Golf, with dinner to follow. When my husband and I tried to reserve a booth for our gathering, we found a six hour wait! This put a damper on our night, but if this is an indicator of things to come, we need to be ready for the surge. Retailers, restaurants, concerts, bars, travel and activities will soon be sold out. I hope retailers gear up with more employees, more inventory and prepare for the business coming their way.

By the end of the year, I predict we will turn the corner with less reading and religion and more splurging and spending. I can’t wait to go to Las Vegas and shop, see a show, go to dinner and party at the pool!