Grocery shopping online in China booms due to virus outbreak
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Grocery shopping online is poised for explosive growth in China, with more than half consumers saying they are buying more online even after stores reopen.
According to research by GlobalData, consumers in the region got used to purchasing online during the Covid-19 lockdown and the habit has stuck.
The data shows 56 percent of Chinese consumers are now grocery shopping online more frequently than before the pandemic hit.
“The impact of Covid-19 will leave a permanent mark on how we shop for groceries,” said Globaldata retail analyst Thomas Brereton, “with demand for home fulfillment soaring around the world as consumers follow the ‘stay at home’ message from many governments.
“With a population of 1.4 billion, the potential value growth in the Chinese online grocery market is phenomenal.”
Chinese food delivery service Meituan – founded in 2010 – is an example of the trend, recently hitting a US$100 billion valuation.
Questions & Answers
Q.What percentage of Chinese consumers are now buying groceries online more often than before the pandemic?
What percentage of Chinese consumers are now buying groceries online more often than before the pandemic?
Research by GlobalData indicates that 56 percent of Chinese consumers are currently grocery shopping online with greater frequency compared to pre-pandemic levels. This suggests a lasting shift in shopping habits following the Covid-19 lockdown.
Q.Who provided the research data indicating the boom in online grocery shopping?
Who provided the research data indicating the boom in online grocery shopping?
The research indicating the significant increase in online grocery shopping frequency among Chinese consumers was provided by GlobalData. Their findings highlight how purchasing habits established during lockdown have persisted.
Q.Which Chinese food delivery service is mentioned as an example of this online trend?
Which Chinese food delivery service is mentioned as an example of this online trend?
Chinese food delivery service Meituan, established in 2010, is cited as an example of the growing online grocery trend. The company recently achieved a valuation of US$100 billion, reflecting this market's potential.
Q.What is the primary reason cited for the sustained increase in online grocery shopping in China?
What is the primary reason cited for the sustained increase in online grocery shopping in China?
The primary reason cited is that consumers in the region became accustomed to purchasing online during the Covid-19 lockdown. This habit has endured, with many continuing to buy more online even after physical stores reopened.