tracking consumer sentiment on the impact of covid-19 · 2 days ago · in the coming weeks,...

Tracking Consumer Sentiment on the Impact of COVID-19

Weekly Update – 16th June 2020

Travel & Mobility, Leisure & Hospitality, Personal finances

IntroductionWith queues forming outside Primark, zoos and safari parks re-opening their doors, rumours

abounding of an earlier than anticipated re-opening of Britain’s beer gardens, and an

expectation of at least some parts of the hospitality industry re-opening on 4th July, slowly but

surely the restrictions on our way of life are being lifted. With this in mind, consumers will be

bringing forward their estimations of when life will be returning to something close to normal,

right?

Sadly, not so. When we started this series of reports, all but an ultra-pessimistic minority

thought that it would be ‘over by Christmas’. Over the ensuring weeks, however, more and

more of us have come to believe that the road to normality will be neither quick nor easy – for

the first time this week, more than half of UK adults believe it will be 2021 before normality

resumes.

Nevertheless, when it comes to the various ‘on the move’ sectors tracked in this report, we are

finding that demand typically follows supply. Freedom to shop has resulted in greater appetite

for shopping; access to parks, gardens and zoos has brought forward the desire to visit such

attractions; and so, we believe that when it comes, the government’s green light on hotels,

staycations, pubs and restaurants will bring about a significant uptick in immediate purchase

intentions.Matt CostinManaging Director, BVA BDRC

Suzy HassanManaging Director, Alligator Digital

A question marketers will be asking, is which segments of our consumer population are most

likely to contribute to a much-needed post-lockdown spike in demand? We have shown in

previous reports that as a general rule, higher income households have fared reasonably well

through this crisis, benefiting from cuts in day-to-day expenses and re-funds on previously

committed spend. This week’s report indicate that this remains the case, with no real

deterioration in financial circumstances since we asked the same question in early April.

Nearly 1 in 3 UK adults agree that they are ‘looking forward to a splurge’ when life is closer to

normal. Those aged under 35 and families with children are the most likely to be

contemplating a loosening of the purse strings.

In the coming weeks, we’ll be turning the spotlight onto communications and consumer

awareness, as one of the key success factors in the recovery phase. Subscribe to our weekly

update to make sure you don’t miss a report.

Stay tuned and stay safe!

https://share.hsforms.com/1xFcXXje6S8CoYIA36mYtbA34rlz

Executive Summary

Lead-times for staycations continue to shorten – but no change in short term intentions

Lead-times for taking a UK holiday are dropping, but not at the rate that point to a summer staycation boom. The proportion anticipating a summer UK holiday has been consistent for the last three weeks suggesting that many of the British public need further reassurances before booking one. Confirmation of accommodation re-opening dates will be one of these reassurances, as will evidence of how trips are working in practice.

Uptick in intention to walk & cycle

In the lead-up to face masks being compulsory on public transport, the UK public are increasinglylooking for alternative transport options. Commuters are less likely to travel by bus/coach,underground/tramway and by train this week. Walking, cycling and car travel are each likely tobe preferred.

Younger consumers more likely to ‘splurge’ and most likely to be missing overseas holidays

Under 35s are almost twice as likely as 65s and over to ‘splurge’ and treat themselves whenlife is closer to normal. Overseas holidays, restaurants and pubs are likely to be the focus oftheir spending. Families also show a desire to treat themselves in particular in going to visitorattractions and on UK holidays.

Slight weakening in confidence in government – but more feel worst has passed

For the third consecutive week, more Britons are ‘not confident’ in the government’shandling of the crisis than are ‘confident’. Despite falling support for the government andincreasing pessimism around when ‘normal’ will return, an increasing proportion of thepopulation think the worst has passed. Perhaps linked to the gradual lifting of restrictions,this indicates that people are at least starting to think beyond the crisis.

Lead-times for attractions fall again….change of policy on zoos has an impact

Following the successful re-opening of some leading visitor attractions, and the news thatzoos can now follow suit, the lead times for going to a visitor attraction have fallen for thefifth consecutive week. The proportion anticipating a visit to a zoo in the next 3 months isalmost double last week, further emphasizing the impact the lifting of restrictions has onleisure intentions.

No ‘back to normal’ until 2021, say the majority

When we first asked this question in early April, a mere 14% were pessimistic enough topredict that it would be 2021 before life returned to ‘something close to normal’. Since then,progressively more of us have formed the view that we are in for the long haul. This week,for the first time, the majority of us feel that it will be 2021 before we can expect normality.

Contents

Page No.

The mood of the nation 5

Travel and leisure 12

Transport 33

Personal finances 38

Appendix 43

The mood of the nation

After the initial recovery period at the start of the crisis, the mood of the nation has remained remarkably consistent – this continues this week.

Q5: How would you rate, between 0 and 10, your mood today? (%)

15

28

43

14

9-10 ratings 7-8 ratings

5-6 ratings 0-4 ratings

57% 7-10 ratings

9-11 June 2020

Average mood

6.6

43%0-6 ratings

9-11 June

6 6.1 6.16.5 6.7 6.6 6.7 6.7 6.7 6.7 6.6 6.6

23-24March

30-31March

6-7April

14-15April

20-22April

27-28April

4-5May

11-12May

19-22May

26-29May

2-4June

9-11June

Average mood week-on-week(UK Adults)

A comparison with other nations tracked on the same metric reveals that the UK’s national mood remains well behind the U.S. and slightly behind France.

Q7: Regarding the situation of Coronavirus in the UK and the way it is going to change in the coming month, which of the following best describes your opinion? (%)Q5: How would you rate, between 0 and 10, your mood today? (%)

9-11 June 2020

Average mood

6.6

31

38

31

COVID 19 situation

11 June 2020

Average mood

6.7

2 June 2020

Average mood

7.1

29 15

45 34

36 47

24 36

35 38 31 30

The worst is still to come Things are going to stay the same The worst has passed

5-8 June 2020

Average mood

6.2

10-11 June 2020

Average mood

5.8

While the week-on-week difference is not statistically significant, confidence in the government’s handling of the crisis drops to the equal lowest point since the start of tracking.

Q6: Would you say that you are completely confident, somewhat confident, not really confident, not at all confident regarding how the British government is handling the crisis? (%)

Q6: Would you say that you are completely confident, somewhat confident, not really confident, not at all confident regarding how the British government is handling the crisis? (%)

56

6763 64 61 63 66

47

53

48 48 4742

3137 35 38 36 33

52

46

51 51 52

2 2

11 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1

23-24 March 30-31 March 6-7 April 14-15 April 20-22 April 27-28 April 4-5 May 11-12 May 19-22 May 26-29 May 2-4 June 9-11 June

Don’t knowNET Not confidentNET Confident

Despite declining confidence in the government, the proportion of adults believing the worst has passed equals those who fear the worst is yet to come this week – the most positive outlook since early May.

Q7: Regarding the situation of Coronavirus in the UK and the way it is going to change in the coming month, which of the following best describes your opinion? (%)

86 81

76

61

39 30

25

36 33 32 36 31

14 14 18

29

44 45 43 45 43 39 38 38

-5 6

10

18 25

33

19 24

29 27 31

23-2

4 M

ar

30-3

1 M

ar

6-7

Apr

14-1

5 Ap

r

20-2

2 Ap

r

27-2

8 Ap

r

4-5

May

11-1

2 M

ay

19-2

2 M

ay

26-2

9 M

ay

2-4

June

9-11

June

The worst is still to come Things are going to stay the same

The worst has passed

After last week’s pause, the “shift to 2021” resumes this week and, for the first time, more expect normality next year than do this year

1% 2%

6%

14%

26%

22% 22%

5%2%

1% 3%9%

23%

49%

71%

93%98% 100%

0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1

1.2

1.4

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

Jun-20

Jul-20

Aug-20

Sep-20

Oct-Dec

2020

Jan-M

ar 20

21

Later

2021

2022

or la

terNev

er

This week (12) cumulative %Week 11 cumulative %

Week 10 cumulative %

Week 9 cumulative %Week 8 cumulative %


Week 5 cumulative %


There’s also a drop in those expecting normality by the end of September.

This year Next year

Q16: Given what you know today, when do you think life will return to something close to normal?

69% 66% 53% 46% 35% 33% 32% 29% 29% 23%

Week3

Week4

Week5

Week6

Week7

Week8

Week9

Week10

Week11

Week12

Total % Expecting Normality by…

86% 81% 73% 69% 59% 55% 54% 51% 52% 49%

Week3

Week4

Week5

Week6

Week7

Week8

Week9

Week10

Week11

Week12

1% 1% 1% 1% 2% 3% 3% 2% 2% 2%

Week3

Week4

Week5

Week6

Week7

Week8

Week9

Week10

Week11

Week12

September 2020 This year Never

From social media: key themes underlying positive and negative sentiment

# Innovative ways to gain customers

# Loss of service continuity

# The future

# Failing systems

# Failing systems

# Innovation

Rail passengers can now be warned of busy trains & stations before they leave home as part of a UK industry system designed to help maintain physical distancing & safe travel during the coronavirus pandemic <what about the Ad Trackers @nationalrailenq

@DoubleTree I think you need to train your staff in the UK call centres/hotels on who is allowed to book rooms...30 mins on the phone and still not allowed to book for a funeral when the gov state it’s allowed. Not impressed, booked online. We shall see if reservation exists fri.

The wonderful @Aimuseums have made their conference digital, free & open to non-Members #museums #COVID19 #heritageSo what do you do when you’re feeling down

because you’ve had to move the wedding by a year and not go to the Maldives Book 6 nights @The_Pig_Hotel#staycation#pignearbath #pigatcombe #pigonthebeach#pigintheforest #thepig will make us smile for sure

One industry that’s really suffered as a result of coronavirus is travel and tourism. It actually feels quite surreal to think that a few short months ago, it was possible to book a flight to anywhere in the world, get up and go.

@British_Airways Can you please advise when you will be announcing what you are offering your Executive Club members who have tier point earning expiry dates in July and August? You seem to be dragging your heels with this.

# Failing systems

Profiting from Covid. @thetrainline you should be ashamed of yourselves. Cancelled train and yet no sign of a refund or alternative travel date given. #disappointed #shameful #COVID19

If Covid-19 makes #Museums and other cultural organisations more accessible and inclusive of disabled visitors then it will have been a silver lining in a storm that has isolated too many. @JB_DandI @RSMuseumStudies @museumDCN@MuseumsAssoc @bernarddonoghue

# Inclusion

Travel and leisure

Lockdown has generated a range of additional activity compared to normal, and there is an intention to maintain much of it as restrictions are lifted

QCD1a: Compared to normal have you done more, less or about the same of the following activities since lockdown began in late MarchQCD1b: When the UK lockdown is fully lifted and assuming they are available, do you expect to do more, less or about the same amount of these activities compared to before lockdown started? - Taken up a new or lapsed hobby (Please specify)

9594

7773

5241

9153

4543

3634

8569

5654

Watched TVOnline shopping

Watched Netflix, Amazon Prime or an equivalent subscription…Watched music videos online (e.g. on Youtube)

Online gamingWatched sport re-runs (e.g. on Youtube)

Eating healthily

Taken up a new or lapsed hobbyParticipated in health and wellbeing exercise online

Watched cultural performances onlineWatched self-development talks online

Attended cultural festivals or events online

Taken exercise in your local area

Looked for new trails, walks or other new green spacesLooked for places of cultural interest

Participated in nature activities

NET participation since lockdown began

compared to normal (%)

+ 53+ 37+ 60+ 30+ 35+ 17

+ 3+ 42+ 14+ 11+ 8-25

+ 28+ 22-18+ 10

Activities done since lockdown began in late March (%) NET intended participation after lockdown compared

to normal (%)

+ 6+ 10+ 11+ 4-2-2

+ 22+ 25+ 19+ 2+ 6-8

+ 28+ 21+ 3

+ 14

99

90

94

In-home entertainment

Wellness and self-development

In your local area

Britons appear to be longing for a return to their social lives – ‘meeting friends/family’ and visiting restaurants or pubs the most missed leisure activities

QTF1: X- To what extent do you miss doing the following since the coronavirus crisis started?

1

-

4

8

9

4

3

28

4

-

10

18

23

13

15

30

5

-

11

14

15

15

16

7

11

-

24

14

17

25

29

12

20

-

22

20

15

22

19

9

59

-

30

26

20

21

19

13

Meeting your friends/family

Going to a restaurant

Going to the pub/bar

Going to the cinema

Going on a day out to a visitor attraction

Going on a shopping trip / to a shopping mall

Going to the gym

Don't know / Not applicable 1 - Not missing at all 2 3 4 5 - Missing a lot

How strongly Brits are missing these activities

Travel activists

70 50 56 63 63

41 29 25 26 31

42 20 22 24 37

33 20 15 13 23

27 30 14 15 29

28 26 12 11 18

22 16 10 7 14

% Missing activity a lotEmpty

Nesters (65+ & No child)

Older Independent

(36-64 & No child)

Families(16-65+ with

children)

Pre Nesters (16-34 & No

child)

The lead time for going to a visitor attraction has consistently dropped in the last five weeks, as more venues successfully re-open

5.3 5.35.1 5.2 5.3

5.1 5.0

4.44.2 4.1

2.22.0

2.72.4

2.7

2.3 2.42.2

6-7 Apr 14-15 Apr 20-22 Apr 27-28 Apr 4-5 May 11-12 May19-22 May26-29 May 2-4 June 9-11 June

Go on a day out to a visitorattraction

View online content for avisitor attraction

Average time before undertaking leisure activities

Mon

ths

In the week that zoos were given the green light to re-open, the proportion intending to go to a visitor attraction in the next 3 months has inched upwards

Go on a day out to a visitor attraction

Q12. Given what you know today, when do you anticipate doing the following? Base all

Planning on doing it but don’t know when

This week

Within the next month

Within the next 6 to 12 months Within the next 3 to 6 months

Within the next month to 3 months

4 3 4 4 3 5 2 2 3 6 6 57

16 1311 16 14 17 1222 21 21 2410

25 272529 27 25 33

27 27 26 2529

21 2319

20 24 23 1918 16 15 1633

22 2124

21 2219 20

24 21 22 218287 87

8390 92

87 8694 91 90 91

23-24 Marc

h

30-31 Marc

h

6-7 April

14-15 Apri

l

20-22 Apri

l

27-28 Apri

l

4-5 May

11-12 M

ay

19-22 M

ay

26-29 M

ay

2-4 June

9-11 June

Average time before the activity

4.1 months

This week


2.2 months

View online content for a visitor attraction

Not planning on doing it

Total planning to do the activity Total planning

to do the activity

32 29 23 26 25 27 31 29

13 1414 12 13 12 10 13

13 1413 10 13 9

12 12

8 510

7 76

8 5

1312 13 15

1714

14 19

7873 72 70

7568

75 78

20-22 Apri

l

27-28 Apri

l

4-5 May

11-12 M

ay

19-22 M

ay

26-29 M

ay

2-4 June

9-11 June

At 29%, intention to visit an attraction in the next 3 months is at its highest since the research began in late March. This is likely linked to the announcement that zoos can now join parksand gardens in opening to the public. The success stories of leading visitor attractions such as Kew Gardens, Blenheim Palace, Painshill Park and Castle Howard may also have providedconfidence to potential visitors.

2 0 0 1 13 4 2 5 513 10 11

10 9

11 1410

119

23 1820

21 25

5247

4348 48

27-28 April 4-5 May 11-12 May 2-4 June 9-11 June4 2 1 2 211

7 713 12

2223 24

20 19

2327

16 15 18

22 2031 25 25

81 78 7975 76

27-28 April 4-5 May 11-12 May 2-4 June 9-11 June

Without any major announcements around re-opening, the lead time to visiting indoor attractions remains at 5+ months – higher than the attraction average

q12bnewr: X- And when do you anticipate doing the following

5.4 months5.0 months5.0 months

Total planning to do the activity


Visit an indoor play centre Visit a museum/gallery Visit an aquarium








Within the next month to 3 monthsNot planning on doing it

3 2 0 1 16 3 2 6 5

109 10

8 8

911 8

9 8

1110

1011 15

4034

3036 37


The announcement that zoos can now re-open has almost doubled intention to visit in the next 3 months and reduced the lead time to visit by one month

q12bnewr: X- And when do you anticipate doing the following

1.6 months

Go to a country park or scenic area


6.2 months 4.8 months



Visit a zooVisit a theme park








20 2032

44 43

22 22

20

23 2521 17

20

10 1113 18

66 514 13 18 13 1190 91

96 96 95

27-28 April 4-5 May 11-12 May 2-4 June 9-11 June3 1 1 2 14 2 1

7 7

1313 14

11 8

1517 14

1513

2616 18

14 21

63

49 48 49 49

27-28 April 4-5 May 11-12 May 2-4 June 9-11 June4 2 0 1 24 3 2

7 1112 13 15

11 10

1816 11

13 11

2220

2124 24

6053

4956 58


The increase in intention to visit zoos, amidst relative stasis for other attraction types, further underlines the impact that government announcements have on the public’s behaviour. Itdemonstrates that people are responsive to changing restrictions, and have a hunger for a return to previous leisure behaviour. More broadly it highlights the value in advocacy fromorganisations such as ALVA in pushing for these venues to open when safe to do so.

”“

”

Kew Gardens is one of many sites that have re-opened, and the reception on social media has been overwhelmingly positive

““

”

I can't begin to say how good it felt to pass the gate of @kewgardens again today. Thanks for reopening. “ ”“ ”

“ ”So nice to be back at #kewgardens . Just a few pictures from my visits this week since the reopening on Monday. Perfect place for social distancing.

Great to see @kewgardens reopening. Looks like booking ahead is how our lives will be now.... #london

My happiness cup overflowed today. My beloved @kewgardens has opened again (booked slots only) and I was able to walk for hours through their heavenly grounds. It felt amazing, despite the drizzly weather. I missed you so much, Kew! #NatureTherapy #Mindfulness #Healing

Replying to @kewgardensWhy are the gardens only open by appointment slots? The gardens are huge, there is enough room for everyone.

“ ”How wonderful to be back in Kew Gardens. It’s looking good. @kewgardens

Such a lovely day at @wakehurst_kewtoday. The reopening has been managed brilliantly, so much space and so good to be outside and able to keep a really good social distance! So good to…

6.66.8

5.9 6.05.8

5.35.5

5.8 5.75.9

5.4 5.3

4.6 4.5 4.45.2 5.1

5.35.6

5.45.1

4.6

4.0 3.9 3.8

3

6

9

6-7 Apr 14-15 Apr 20-22 Apr 27-28 Apr 4-5 May 11-12 May 19-22 May 26-29 May 2-4 June 9-11 June

Go on a UK holiday

Book a UK holiday

Plan a UK holiday

Average lead times for planning, booking and going on a UK holiday continue to inch downwards, although not at the speed witnessed at the start of May

Average anticipated lead time before planning, booking or taking a holiday

Mon

ths

9th May14 day quarantine

First mentioned

Despite declining average lead times, intention to go on a summer UK holiday remains relatively low, and has not increased for three weeks.

Plan a UK holiday



This week




5 7 6 7 4 4 6 412 11 12 108

11 10 8 13 11 11 16

20 24 20 229

21 2421 21 23 2225

1820

17 1828

1720

1822 24 23

22 1814

17 1830

28 222725 23 22

20 23 1919

217882 82 81

85 85 8287 90 88

8489

23-2

4 M

arch

30-3

1 M

arch

6-7

Apri

l

14-1

5 A

pril

20-2

2 A

pril

27-2

8 A

pril

4-5

May

11-1

2 M

ay

19-2

2 M

ay

26-2

9 M

ay

2-4

June

9-11

June


3.8 months

This week


4.4months

Book a UK holiday

Although average lead times are slowly inching downwards, they are not yet doing so at a rate that suggests a surge in summer staycations. There is a sense that the public are waiting forannouncements and evidence that UK domestic holidays are an option this year. Confirmation of accommodation opening dates, and examples of guests staying at them will likely pushthis intention upwards.




Go on a UK holiday


5.8months


This week

0 1 2 1 1613 16 15 16

2923

27 25 25

29 3126 27 30

2222 18 17 17

8690 89 85

89

11-12 M

ay

19-22 M

ay

26-29 M

ay

2-4 June

9-11 June

3 6 5 3 2 2 3 2 6 7 8 769 9 8 12 12 10 13

19 19 19 219

22 2424 20 19 21 22

21 24 19 1832

17 2018

25 24 26 2321 18 19 21

30 28 263026 26 23 25

22 19 18 2179 81 83 81 84 83 82 8589 87 84

88

23-2

4 M

arch

30-3

1 M

arch

6-7

Apri

l

14-1

5 A

pril

20-2

2 A

pril

27-2

8 A

pril

4-5

May

11-1

2 M

ay

19-2

2 M

ay

26-2

9 M

ay

2-4

June

9-11

June

8.79.1

8.78.4 8.4

5.9 6.06.2

6.06.3

7.2

7.7

7.06.8

7.1

5.3 5.3

6.15.9

6.2

6.8

7.3

6.66.4

6.6

3

6

9


Go on an overseas holiday

Book an overseas holiday

Plan an overseas holiday

As talk of ‘air bridges’ peters out, the average ‘planning’, ‘booking’ and ‘going’ lead times for overseas trips have either stagnated or increased since last week

Average anticipated lead time before planning, booking or taking a holiday

Mon

ths


First mentioned

3 4 3 2 3 3 5 2 3 2 4 36 8 7 7 6 5 5 4 6 8 8 6

717 2015 14 17 12 16 15 16 16 14

28

1923

21 24 22 2737 39 35 35 44

36 31 2631 31 29 30

2325 26 22

2178 78 79 77 79 77 79 8287 87 85 88

23-2

4 M

arch

30-3

1 M

arch

6-7

Apri

l

14-1

5 A

pril

20-2

2 A

pril

27-2

8 A

pril

4-5

May

11-1

2 M

ay

19-2

2 M

ay

26-2

9 M

ay

2-4

June

9-11

June

Winter destinations remain the most likely overseas option for the majority of our travel activists

Plan an overseas holiday

This week


6.6months

This week


7.1months

Book an overseas holiday


3 6 7 5 4 3 5 2 4 4 6 356 8 8 8 7 7

5 7 8 9 89

192018

13 16 15 22 16 18 18 19

28

2020

18 25 23 2932 37 34 33 39

35 272432 29 30 23

21 23 23 18 1979 77 79 80 79 79 7883

87 87 8488

23-2

4 M

arch

30-3

1 M

arch

6-7

Apri

l

14-1

5 A

pril

20-2

2 A

pril

27-2

8 A

pril

4-5

May

11-1

2 M

ay

19-2

2 M

ay

26-2

9 M

ay

2-4

June

9-11

June







Go on an overseas holiday


8.4 months


This week

0 1 0 0 04 4 4 6 512 13 15 13 13

45 46 45 46 51

2023 23 20

208187 87 85

89

11-12 M

ay

19-22 M

ay

26-29 M

ay

2-4 June

9-11 June

After some positive movement in recent weeks, there’s limited evidence of the public intending to take an overseas holiday, either in the summer, or the autumn this year. A steadilyincreasing proportion plan on taking a trip in the next 6 to 12 months though, suggesting strong potential for winter holidays. This may be an opportunity for ‘Winter Sun’ destinationssuch as The Canaries and The Caribbean to make up for summer losses (see our blog for more on this audience)

https://www.bva-bdrc.com/opinions/the-prospects-for-overseas-tourism-in-2020/

Despite lukewarm intentions to take them any time soon, around half of Britons are missing their overseas and UK holidays, suggesting there is some potential to convert to bookings.

QTF1: X- To what extent do you miss doing the following since the coronavirus crisis started?

11

7

5

17

11

12

9

10

11

14

21

24

17

22

25

32

29

23

Going on an overseas holiday

Going on a weekend/short break away

Going on a UK holiday

Don't know / Not applicable 1 - Not missing at all 2 3 4 5 - Missing a lot

How strongly Brits are missing these activities

47 30 26 27 46

35 35 24 24 38

21 31 18 20 30

% Missing a lot

Travel activists

65+ & No children

Older Independent

(36-64 & No child)

Families(16-65+ with

children)

Pre Nesters (16-34 & No

child)

The typical lead times for going shopping and to restaurants have dropped the most consistently in the last four weeks

4.1 4.0 4.13.9

4.3

3.84.1

3.43.2

2.9

5.04.7

4.5 4.64.9

4.7 4.6

4.13.8

3.6

5.2 5.3 5.4

5.85.6 5.6 5.6

5.0 5.0 4.9

4.3

4.74.5

3.9

4.6

5.04.8

4.4

3.94.2

6-7 Apr 14-15 Apr 20-22 Apr 27-28 Apr 4-5 May 11-12 May19-22 May26-29 May 2-4 June 9-11 June

Go shopping or to ashopping mall

Go to a restaurant

Go to the cinema

Go to the gym

Average time before undertaking leisure activities

Mon

ths

Anticipated lead-times for returning to the gym remain at around 4 months – cinemas at nearly 5 months

Go to the gym



This week




6 5 5 4 4 4 5 2 3 2 4 26 11 10 8 11 11 10

511 13 12 10

810 1014 10

16 1517

13 13 1413

129 8 10 10

5 1110 10 9 7 9

19 11 1011 13 13 8

11 12 10 10 1450

45 4348 48 50 48 45 48 48 46 49

23-24 Marc

h

30-31 Marc

h

6-7 April

14-15 Apri

l

20-22 Apri

l

27-28 Apri

l

4-5 May

11-12 M

ay

19-22 M

ay

26-29 M

ay

2-4 June

9-11 June


This week


4.9 months

Go to the cinema

Although the long lead times are likely to be worrying for the sector, their ease of access means that intentions are likely to drop when visitsbecome a possibility.



5 5 4 4 3 3 2 0 2 2 3 1

8 10 1210 12 11 124

12 15 14 14

12

26 2523 23 21 2229

25 23 23 24

26

18 19 19 22 25 2319

20 18 20 20

28 19 1625 20 22 2024

22 22 21 21

78 77 7682 81 81 79 76

82 80 80 79

23-24 M

arch

30-31 M

arch

6-7 April

14-15 Apri

l

20-22 Apri

l

27-28 Apri

l

4-5 May

11-12 M

ay

19-22 M

ay

26-29 M

ay

2-4 June

9-11 June


4.2 months

Despite consistent falls in average lead times, near-term intention to visit restaurants or to go shopping have not moved.

Go to a restaurant



This week




6 7 5 5 5 4 4 2 4 5 7 58

19 1618 23 23 2217

2531 26 29

19

28 3436 30 32 30 3731

28 30 2828

192218 17 18 22 20 15

15 13 1429

21 1519 17 18 17 18 23 17 20 1789 92 92 95 93 95 95 94

97 96 96 93

23-24 Marc

h

30-31 Marc

h

6-7 April

14-15 Apri

l

20-22 Apri

l

27-28 Apri

l

4-5 May

11-12 M

ay

19-22 M

ay

26-29 M

ay

2-4 June

9-11 June


3.6 months

This week


2.9 months

Go shopping or to a shopping mall

Despite the long queues that welcomed the re-opening of non-essential shops this Monday, there is a significant proportion of people who do not intend to visit in thenext 1-3 months. Indeed, the slight drop in intention to go shopping since last week, suggests that after the initial excitement, some may have had second thoughts. Inthe coming weeks, the retail sector will need to reassure the public that shops are effectively enforcing social distancing and that they are safe places to visit.



13 14 14 10 11 11 5 8 14 18 15

19 16 18 24 25 24

18

2927

2926

26 28 28 28 29 2537

27 26 2223

1015 15 16 13 20

1212

13 1311

1916

17 14 14 1417

19 12 141686 89

93 92 91 9489

95 93 9692

30-31 Marc

h

6-7 April

14-15 Apri

l

20-22 Apri

l

27-28 Apri

l

4-5 May

11-12 M

ay

19-22 M

ay

26-29 M

ay

2-4 June

9-11 June


On social media – as summer approaches, the public draw their attention to festivals and outdoor activities they miss e.g. BBQs and spectator sports

”“ Wish this covid-19 would go away already so

I can get back to flying and seeing the world Sooo, having seen the weekend's activities, are Leeds Festival / Rock Werchter / Download back on?? I miss going to festivals! #Covid19 #uklockdown #ukprotests“ ”

“ ” “ ”When Covid-19 ruins your summer schedule of BBQ and cider festivals. I miss #Grillstock

I love the new kit designs! I know what I'll be treating myself to tomorrow! Now all I need is for #COVID19 to sod off so I can watch my beloved #AFCRD play in their new kits!

I miss wickerman🔥#feedtheflames🔥 if and when I return I'm going try and ride and many rides as possible because of COVID-19 😁 if not this year hopefully 2021 😁

“

I’m definitely missing trips for food, a takeaway isn’t quite the same in the confinement of your own house I miss @stacknewcastle with the work girls, Grainger market and holidays filled with eating new food “ ”

”The most personal piece I've written for a while - why church is what I've missed most during lockdown“ ”

#COVID19 update: wishing I had 5 other friends, and a garden to meet them in.

”“@VisitScotland when the pandemic passes, I'm going straight to Scotland“ ”

Going away for a weekend to a nice wee lodge sounds amazing ”“

On social media – The public were concerned about the reopening of pubs on the provisional date of 22nd June. Since the announcement of pubs reopening 4th July, the public are generally positive, with some concerns.

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 01 02 03 04 05

JulyJune

“

“ ”“ Allowing pubs and

restaurants more freedom to operate outside with careful restrictions makes perfect sense. Let's get them open!

Planning to reopen pubs and restaurants in two weeks time surely has to be a joke, right? nobody cares about being able to go for a meal or for a pint, we care about trying to stop people dying, wanting to see & actually hug family, friends and partners without consequence

I’m so excited to get back to some sense of normality.. 10am-10pm.. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Now introducing the beer garden at The Ridley House

” ””

“ @MattHancock @BorisJohnson@PHE_uk let me tell you if pubs and restaurants re open on the 22nd June but fathers of new babies being born aren’t allowed onto the hospital ward with the mother and baby then there’s something MASSIVELY wrong

Big hangovers on the 23rd then Ministers aiming to accelerate plans for restaurant and pub reopening

”“All my pubs and hotels are gearing up for July 4th opening. With screens/social distancing. Let’s get the show on the road “ ”If your thinking the pubs reopening on July 4th is exciting then you’re going to be disappointed. The amount of rules and regulations are going to make them extremely sterile. ”“All my pubs and hotels are gearing up for July 4th opening. With screens/social distancing. Let’s get the show on the road “ ”

The bloody pubs had better be open on the #4thJuly! Sod the #RNumber! #DailyBriefing“ ”

When do respondents expect to book hotel accommodation again?

Book hotel accommodation

Planning on doing it but don’t know whenThis week


Within the next 6 to 12 months




5.7 months

Q12. Given what you know today, when do you anticipate doing the following? Base all*https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-52389285


4 6 3 3 4 3 4 2 3 4 4 26

119 8 11

8 129 11

14 13 1111

22 27 2323

2321

2122

22 22 25

33

1524

2124 28 25 29 28

25 24 30

31 3323

2925 27 25 22

29 24 26 228387 86 85 88 88 86 84

93 90 90 91

23-24March

30-31March

6-7 April 14-15April

20-22April

27-28April

4-5 May 11-12May

19-22May

26-29May

2-4 June 9-11June


• After a (relative) surge in May, the proportion expecting to book within the next three months is receding as June progresses.

• But, overall, the cumulative proportion expecting to book within the next twelve months reaches a new high at 68%, with just over half of that expecting it to be within the next six months

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-52389285

The proportion intending to book a flight in the next three months has remained consistent with recent weeks, although there has been a slight increase in those intending to do so in the next 12 months

This week


6.6 months








4 3 4 4 4 6 4 2 3 3 4 34 8 8 8 7 7 95

7 10 8 8715

22 16 14 16 1417 17 16 15 17

3023

1817 23 23 22 32 34 31 31 36

32 25 2430 30 23 26

2525 23 21

2376 74 76 74 78 75 7581

86 83 7987

23-24 M

arch

30-31 M

arch

6-7 April

14-15 Apri

l

20-22 Apri

l

27-28 Apri

l

4-5 May

11-12 M

ay

19-22 M

ay

26-29 M

ay

2-4 June

9-11 June


Book a flight

On social media – with considerations shifting towards domestic summer holidays, the public are considering alternatives like lodges and UK spa resorts, with preferences shifting away from caravans and camping.

”“ I’ve got a list of places around the U.K. that I’m going to visit a little while after the lockdown has been eased completely. There are so many scenic places and top notch spa hotels outside of London.

Just booked my Newcastle trip for the long weekend! Found a cute boutique hotel above a pub. “ ”“ ”

“ ”With the thought of airport chaos and uncertainty surrounding foreign travel, the UK holiday market is thriving as we look closer to home. Choosing a self-catering home means you can keep contact with others to a minimum whilst enjoying a family break.

Another £200 voucher tonight cant wait to go away and book a weekend away when lockdown finishes.

Delighted to hear that Hotels and B&Bs can reopen on the 29th of June.Ireland can start planning that #staycation

“By camping I mean getting a lit little cottage somewhere in the country somewhere lool ain’t no way I’m sleeping outside under some stars“ ”

”As part of a walk I walked through a holiday park 2 weeks ago it was busier than ever a car park by every caravan on the site could it be-that everyone on the site moved to their holiday homes for the whole of lockdown“

”

after lockdown a spa weekend is a must

“”

Transport

Greater media coverage around the 14 day quarantine last week again delays the intention of booking a flight

4.9 4.9 4.94.5 4.7 4.7 4.8

4.3 4.14.24.2

4.44.0

3.8 4.44.0

4.23.6

3.03.4

5.45.5

6.0

5.7 5.7

6.8

7.3

6.5 6.46.6

0

3

6

9


Take the train

Take a bus

Book a flight

Average time before taking the bus, train and booking a fight


First mentioned

Mon

ths

Over the last month the proportion of those planning to use the bus has dropped by almost 10 percentage points. Sales of pushbikes but also scooters and lower-powered mopeds have soared during lockdown.

After a week of active campaigning to consider alternative modes to public transport, short term intentions to use bus and rail services recede again

Take the bus

This week


3.4 months

This week


4.2 months

Take the train

7 9 6 5 8 8 7 29 7 10 8

614 1412

15 13 1612

14 18 1814

14

15 2625

21 27 2126

2224 21

1826

18

1816

21 1618

1517 14 15

17

25 201825 19 18 18

2021 20 16 22

77 7582 83 83 83 80

7683 84

79 79

23-24 M

arch

30-31 M

arch

6-7 April

14-15 Apri

l

20-22 Apri

l

27-28 Apri

l

4-5 May

11-12 M

ay

19-22 M

ay

26-29 M

ay

2-4 June

9-11 June


14 14 8 9 11 13 10 5 10 15 19 14

9 161414

18 17 1714

1516

1714

1215 2822

21 17 1723

19 1615

13

1914

11 1513 12 17

1011 11 9

12

21 16 1614 14 14 13

1620 15 14

16

75 74 77 75 7773 75

67

7773 73

68

23-24 M

arch

30-31 M

arch

6-7 April

14-15 Apri

l

20-22 Apri

l

27-28 Apri

l

4-5 May

11-12 M

ay

19-22 M

ay

26-29 M

ay

2-4 June

9-11 June







100

-8-4

-14

341 110

-2-1

-8

-1

2

-6

1

-2

-

-3-3

-14

-1

3

-3

0--

-3-5-10

-4

3411 -

-5-5-8

-3

3401

-8-6

-12

25

2 01 -

-1-4

-7

034

Commuters in particular are looking at alternative transport modes following advice from the government and campaigners to avoid public transport

Q41: Before the coronavirus, how did you tend to travel…Q42: After lockdown has ended, how do you expect to travel …* Added 27-28 April

Commuters - Post lockdown net change in expected usage (%) Base (n= 168)

3

-1-1

-7-11

-8-8-5

54 52

-3

-15-18

-6

-17

-1

5

-5

6

-1

-9

-23-22

-12-17

-2

105

-2-3

-18

-25

-12

-18

23

-2

6

0

-8

-14

-23

-9-14

-6

0

-2

5

-2-4

-18 -14

-6-11

-2-6-6

6

-2-4

-13

-6-4-9

-3

0

-5

5

-3

-12 -11 -7

-12

-1 -2 -3

Walking Cycling By trainBy carBy underground/

tramwayBy bus/Coach By plane Other

I will still avoid going out after

lockdown By ferry*

Leisure/business - Post lockdown net change in expected usage (%) Base (n= 214)

Walking Cycling By trainBy carBy underground/

tramwayBy bus/Coach By plane OtherBy ferry*

26-29 May19-22 May11-12 May4-5 May27-28 April20-22 April

26-29 May19-22 May11-12 May4-5 May27-28 April20-22 April

2-4 June

2-4 June 9-11 June

9-11 June

On social media – whilst there is support to use face masks on public transport, the delay of the policy implementation combined with logistics cause irritation

”“ Feels right time to switch from do

not use transit and keep 2m apart elsewhere to the shops are re-opening so if you have to use transit wear a face covering

Face coverings to be made mandatory on public transport from 15th of June”.... 4 months after the pandemic began, 3 months after lockdown announced.... #coronavirusuk“ ”“ ” “ ”

All these announcements about a face covering being mandatory if you’re visiting hospitals, or using any UK public transportation but only from 15 June - that’s nine days away. Has Corona gone on a break? Thought we were only allowed essential travel!

Those who can't wear masks but need to use public transport - what are your plans for next week? Medical note or just tell them and see what happens? Doctors surgeries will be overwhelmed if a note is needed. #facecoverings #facemasks #mask #COVID19 #Covid_19 #coronavirus

How will people social distance on flights and how will you ensure they don’t take their masks off???!!!! #Ryanair #airtravel #Covid19UK

“Whatever you do, please wear a face covering on public transport and in enclosed spaces as per WHO advice and good practice in countries where the #COVID19 response has been better than here. Out of all possible “restrictions” this simply isn’t one: it can help protect us all.“

””

I am sure that a face mask is needed in shops and on public transport to protect others in close proximity when I leave shielding I certainly will wear a mask when outside ”“

So you get a free face mask when you travel on the London transport but Drs and Nurses don’t have enough PPE. Am I missing something?? @SadiqKhan #Covid19UK“ ”

Personal finances

Since the beginning of the crisis, there has been only modest change in how consumers assess their financial position

Q30. Thinking about your overall financial situation, taking into account your household income, your total outgoings and any savings, investments or other assets you may have, which ONE of the following statements best describes your feelings about your own situation, right now?

There has been little change since April in how consumers see their financial circumstances – 13% feel well off/wealthy while at the other end of the scale 1 in 10 (11%) are struggling.

Other sources indicate an increase in the proportion of consumers who feel they are unaffected by the pandemic (or are even slightly better off) – from 33% in April to 45% in June.

Wealthy Well off Comfortable Managing Struggling Don’t know / None of these

2% 13% 36% 35% 14% 1%

2% 11% 38% 34% 11% 3%

WEEK 3(6-7 April)

WEEK 12(9-11 June)

Having previously looked at investments, this week the financial spotlight moves to more day-to-day money matters.

With most at least “managing” financially, three quarters of consumers claim to keep on top of their finances, while half have a plan for a financial emergency

Q58. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements?

Whilst there is little difference by age in terms of regularly reviewing finances, consumers under 35 are less likely to be aware of their spending (67%), or to have a plan in the event of a financial emergency (48%) , and more likely to live day to day (32%).

There is little difference in attitudes by level of wealth in terms of being aware of what is being spent and regularly reviewing finances, but, not surprisingly, the 1 in 10 who are currently struggling are much more likely to be living day to day (38%) and much less likely to know what they would do in a financial emergency (29%).

29%

8%

4%

3%

25%

12%

5%

5%

20%

24%

17%

16%

19%

31%

38%

36%

6%

25%

36%

40%

I live day-by-day, withoutplanning ahead financially

I know what I’d do financially if I had a financial emergency (such as losing a job for a

month or two)

I’m constantly aware of my spending and bills are rarely a

surprise

I regularly review my finances

Disagree strongly Disagree slightly Neither/nor Agree slightly Agree strongly

Total agree

76%

74%

56%

25%

4 in 10 consumers have, or would consider, a financial wellness service that helped them manage their money

Q59. Many financial providers are developing or already offer services to help customers track their expenses, predict how much money they will have left at the of the month and save more. Which of the following statements best describes your experience and thoughts about these services?

1 in 10 consumers are already using a financial wellness service to help them track their expenses and manage their money, while a third would consider doing so in future if the right option came along (a quarter of whom are ‘lapsed users’ who have tried such a service and given up, potentially making it less likely they will really try one again):

I currently use a service like this

I have used a service like this in the past, and would do so again if the

right option came along

I have never used a service like this, but would consider doing so if the

right option came along

I have used a service like this, but am unlikely to ever consider doing so

again

I have never used a service like this, and am unlikely to ever consider

doing so

9%

10%

24%

7%

42%

There are clear differences in appeal depending on people’s age and current

financial situation, with overall appeal highest at the two financial extremes:

• 64% of the wealthiest consumers use or would consider using such

a service: 15% are currently using and a further 49% would

consider it, although 8 in 10 of them are ‘lapsed users’

• 58% of those who are struggling use, or would consider using,

such a service: 18% are currently using, and a further 40% would

consider in future, fewer of whom, 4 in 10, are ‘lapsed users’

• Meanwhile 6 in 10 of those who describe themselves as

‘comfortable’ or ‘well off’ and those aged 55-64, said they would

not use such a service, increasing to 8 in 10 of those aged over 65

43%Users/Potential

users

49%Non-users

The youngest and the wealthiest are most looking forward to treating themselves and their family when they can

Q58. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements?

Given the financial control already exhibited, it is perhaps not surprising that not everyone thinks there will be a “spending spree” for treats when life gets a bit more back to normal. Overall 1 in 3 are looking forward to loosening the purse strings, but this is clearly governed by their financial circumstances – while a quarter of those ‘struggling’ or ‘managing’ are planning a treat, this increases to 55% of those who are ‘wealthy’.

Almost half of those under 35 are planning a “splurge” (42%) and families with kids are twice as likely to be planning to splurge (41%) as empty nesters are (22%). Across England, ‘splurging’ is slightly more likely in the Midlands (40%) and London (38%), while the devolved nations (Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) and the South of England are much less likely to have such plans.

‘Splurging’ intentions by age and life stage:

20% 19% 29% 21% 11%

I am looking forward to a big ‘splurge’ to treat

myself / my family when life is closer to normal

Disagree strongly Disagree slightly Neither/nor Agree slightly Agree strongly

Total agree

32%

22%

41%

23%

31%

27%

42%

Empty nesters

Families with children

65+

55-64

35-54

Under 35

% Agree

‘Splurging’ intentions by region:

23%

24%

29%

38%

40%

South

Scotland, Wales andNorthern Ireland

North

London

Midlands

% Agree

Appendix

MethodologySurvey of ConsumersNationally representative online survey, conducted weekly. This week we surveyed 1,758 British adults.

During the first 8 weeks of tracking, our otherwise nationally representative survey filtered on people actively engaged in two of the following sectors:

1. Public transport / mass-transit

2. Visitor attractions

3. Hotels & paid-for accommodation

From Wave 9 onwards, we have not filtered on engagement with these sectors, but provide a directly comparable sub-sample of those who would have met the equivalent criteria.

For ease of reference in our reporting we use two icons to distinguish between the two audiences:

Social media analyticsWith customers increasingly communicating directly with organisations and their peers through online channels, these conversations cannot be ignored in the assessment of the COVID-19 crisis on brands.

Our social analytics capability gets closer to the conversations happening in the online space, by listening to how brands are talked about across social media and how brands’ reactions to the situation is viewed online.

Rigorous content cleaning and checks are set and regularly reviewed to ensure data quality. The analysis is focused primarily on conversations around the coronavirus over the past week.

Similar to the quantitative survey, social media will be analysed on a weekly basis. For this report we’ve examined:• 34,386 posts for the transport sector• 10,922 posts from the leisure sector• 9,322 posts from the hospitality sector• 2,252 posts from financial sector

= ‘Travel Activists’ (based on the definition above and used in Waves 1 - 8)

= ‘All UK Adults’ (nationally-representative)

Contact

Matt CostinManaging Director

Tim SanderDirector

Diana MeternaSenior Research Executive

Caroline AhmedDirector

Jon YoungDirector

Thomas FolqueAssociate Director

James BlandDirector

Max WilleyDirector

07772 605 303

[email protected]

07875 148 051

[email protected]

07980 712 563

[email protected]

07919 383 728

[email protected]

07875 685 838

[email protected]

07989 165 658

[email protected]

0207 490 9149

[email protected]

0207 490 9139

[email protected]

Monica KumariJunior Research Executive

0207 400 1014

[email protected]

Suzy HassanManaging Director

07795 662 548

[email protected]

tracking consumer sentiment on the impact of covid-19 · 2 days ago · in the coming weeks,...

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