Predicting the unpredictable

As the devasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the globe, everything from the way we work, to the way we shop has been turned on its head. In just eight weeks, social distancing, panic buying, major staff shortages and stretched supply chains have all put FMCG manufacturers and retailers under pressure.

This experience represents the biggest shift for retail in decades, with the emergence of new needs that will drive a fundamental change in the industry and require a new response.

The unequal extent to which different groups across society are affected by the crisis and an economic recession with no clear view of a recovery timeline will lead to some notable implications for the FMCG sector in the next normal.

This whitepaper outlines seven key trends for the Dutch FMCG sector that are amplified by the COVID19 pandemic and will have an impact on the consumer and retail landscape. We believe these trends will persist in the aftermath of the pandemic, potentially for years to come.