The List/Data HeraldAccording to The List's graph, Whole Foods saw an average of 85,000 visitors each month, with a spike in visitors each January, presumably as people stock up on fresh veggies and healthy foods to kick off their New Year's resolutions. But when the pandemic hit in March 2020, foot traffic dropped below 50,000, as Whole Foods continued to see significantly less visitor averages each month while people navigated their safety and comfort levels.In May 2022, the grocery store took another hit as foot traffic plummeted below pandemic era averages, steadily declining throughout the summer. COVID-19 is most likely not the cause of Whole Foods' recent struggles; rising prices may be to blame.
Grocery shopping could change forever due to inflation — prices of groceries and essentials continue to climb as hard decisions are made about what stays on people's grocery lists. "A price increase is like a loss, and we feel pain when we experience that loss," professor of behavioral marketing Deborah Small told Vox, reflecting on how inflation has caused many to rethink how and where they spend their money.
According to Insider, a Numerator survey reported that 31% of shoppers are "switching to less expensive brands" as they navigate the rising prices. Shoppers are frequenting discount stores and wholesale clubs, prioritizing price over quality for their grocery essentials.
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