A survey released by Emerson's Commercial & Residential Solutions division shows that consumers have dramatically changed their shopping habits in response to COVID-19, putting pressure on retailers to adapt to changing consumption patterns.

More than 8 in 10 of respondents said they pay close attention to keeping food at safe temperatures throughout the supply chain during transportation and storage. This strong focus underscores the fundamental need for retailers, supermarkets and suppliers to design and invest in cold chain technology, processes and infrastructure that help ensure food freshness and safety to meet consumer expectations.

The Emerson survey, "Market Research Report: Cold Chain Consumer Survey during COVID-19", collected responses from 604 male and female adults aged 20 to 60 in Australia, China, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates. According to the survey, consumers value food safety, the hygienic shopping environment and quality refrigeration equipment more than the lower prices compared to the period before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. While 72% of respondents plan to return to more traditional fresh food locations such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, markets, and grocery stores once COVID-19 restrictions are removed, they will continue to expect the quality and freshness of food to be guaranteed. However, many consumers, including the majority of Indian and Chinese respondents, said they will continue to buy fresh food from online platforms.

COVID-19 has changed the way people eat their meals. Fewer people will have lunch out as often as before, even when the restrictions are relaxed. On average, 47% of respondents said they will choose to cook and eat at home even when the cities they live in reopen. Respondents in South Africa (84%), India (77%), Philippines (72%), Australia (61%) and Indonesia (60%) are more likely to eat at home than in restaurants. As a result, more consumers will continue to buy fresh products from retailers. The change creates new opportunities for retail stores, supermarkets and online stores looking to gain a better understanding of consumer preferences and address their food safety and quality concerns through advanced refrigeration technologies.

Some of the major Asian markets continue to see an increasing use of e-commerce channels for the purchase of fresh food. China leads with 88% of respondents now ordering fresh food from online stores or via mobile applications, followed by South Korea (63%), India (61%) and Indonesia (60%). Even after the restrictions were eased, 52% of Indian respondents and 50% of Chinese respondents said they will continue to buy fresh food online. With large quantities of refrigerated and frozen food in stock, large distribution centers face the unique challenge of preventing food loss and protecting food security on a large scale. In addition to this complexity, many are also supporting the fulfillment of e-commerce food retailing. In this context, robust refrigeration systems, powerful inspections, temperature monitoring and a holistic view of facilities, resources and shipments are essential to ensure the quality of food throughout the supply chain.

Supermarkets and markets have improved safety methods and standards since the start of the pandemic, but there is room for improvement

The majority of respondents believe that supermarkets (82%) and markets (71%) have improved their methods and standards to ensure food safety and quality. Consumers increasingly expect the food industry to comply with safety and health protocols, keep shops clean and hygienic and sell fresh, hygienic and quality food. The shift in consumer behavior will create meaningful markets for retailers who can use advanced end-to-end cold chain systems and the latest connected technologies to provide fresh, quality food and build long-term trust.