How Brands Can Improve Deliveries While The World Stops

More retailers are shuttering physical stores during the coronavirus pandemic but keeping their online businesses going strong.

A new survey by brand intelligence platform Red Points showed that e-commerce sales have grown in the weeks during the coronavirus outbreak, as consumers rely on purchasing digitally and having their goods delivered to their door.

The Red Points survey found that 58% of consumers agreed they would be more likely to shop online during the pandemic, while 46% said they would be more likely to purchase apparel online at this time. That’s a rare bit of good news for retailers — assuming, of course, they can keep up with demand and deliver the orders.

“Retail is easily becoming one of the biggest industries impacted by the coronavirus,” said Krish Iyer, head of industry relations and strategic partnerships at logistics service ShipStation. “In fact, 20% of respondents we surveyed have already had an e-commerce delivery delayed or cancelled due to the coronavirus. This new dynamic affects everyone across the supply chain — from the suppliers of raw goods and transportation carriers to the retailer and the end consumer.”

Logistics networks are coming under increased pressure as online orders pile up, with Amazon recruiting an additional 100,000 employees to help manage the surge in demand. Shipping experts recommend that retailers try to maintain their standard of delivery by regularly checking in with their providers, so that they can give consumers up-to-date information and realistic expectations for delivery.