Speedread
The COVID-19 effect

With countries around the world at different stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are continuing to track how customers’ needs are changing and how brands are evolving to stay afloat during this difficult time.

As brands announce their first quarter results, we’re starting to see the positive and negative effects of COVID-19 on the retail and hospitality industry. Retail stores around the world have started to re-open, with brands shaping their services to meet the new needs of customers. H&M will close Italian stores, subscription F&B service Mindful Chef has seen a 300% increase in sales and Currys PC World has introduced drive-thru shopping as its stores re-open.

Retail

Amazon earns $75bn in its first quarter but will spend $4bn on COVID-19 expenses

UK fashion retailers Oasis and Warehouse will close after they fail to secure a rescue deal in administration

H&M will permanently close 8 stores in Italy

Subscription meal kit service Mindful Chef is seeking £25m in funding as sales surge by 300%

iPhone sales declined by 7% compared to the same period last year

Arket is launching a digital store on Alibaba’s Tmall in China

Boots Pharmacies will provide safe spaces for victims of domestic abuse

Macy’s will re-open its stores as the US relaxes its lockdown

Currys PC World has launched drive-thru shopping

UK based Hotel Chocolat will open 5 stores next week for takeaways only

Selfridges has reopened its London Foodhall with social distancing measures in place

 

Hospitality

Home Suite Home, the world’s first online hotel has opened

British Airways may not reopen its Gatwick Airport terminal

Tour company Walks, has launched virtual tours of Wuhan in China to help change the city’s perception

Thai Airways rewarded its members for staying at home with free air miles

 

Campaigns

UK gambling firms are not advertising on TV and radio during the lockdown

Tik Tok now has over 2bn downloads

 

Initiatives

Hospital ICUs in the US are being designed with wellness in mind

Fashion brands make a play for the music industry

Shopify has launched an app, connecting people to local businesses

Harrods will launch a remote personal shopping service

YouTube launched its first virtual fashion show

 

Here and helping

We are continuing to work with and help our clients so please let us know if we can help you in any way.

With love, health and strength, Household

Image courtesy of Mindful Chef 

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