Increased cleaning and disinfecting efforts by retail shops, restaurants, and other public facilities have paid off in increased consumer confidence.

A new survey conducted by GP PRO found that almost half (48 per cent) of respondents increased their participation in away-from-home activities in the previous 60 days.

Of that group, 32 per cent listed the efforts businesses have taken to provide a safe and hygienic environment as one reason they are confident leaving home.

“Consumers are now taking to the streets with renewed confidence, and businesses deserve credit for making health and hygiene a priority and, as a result, playing a role in consumers re-engaging in the everyday activities they avoided for the better part of the past year,” said Michelle Auda, GP PRO senior director of insights.

The survey found:

• 61 per cent of respondents are participating in away-from-home activities at the same level as they were before the pandemic.
• Among the 61 per cent, 31 per cent are taking virus-related safety precautions—such as wearing masks—if required, and 30 per cent are taking such precautions whether required or not.

When asked which away-from-home activities they are participating in:

• 74 per cent of those surveyed said in-store grocery shopping
• 61 per cent said going to a drive-thru restaurant or coffee shop
• 56 per cent stated in-store retail shopping
• 50 per cent said socialising with close friends and family
• 46 per cent said indoor dining at a restaurant
• 38 per cent said they have gone to work in an office environment in the previous 60 days

This article was first published by ISSA 

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