The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the world forever, say experts. Countries witnessed unprecedented lock-downs, travel and other restrictions and the notion of our preparedness. The crisis has forced the US to rethink its strategy.
On the businesses also a lot of changes are taking place. For the first time, people are increasingly feeling the need for neighbourhood kirana stores, as they provided better services than retail chains. In Tamil Nadu, for instance, local neighbourhood stores stocked up better to serve their customers as opposed to bigger retail chains. Brand loyalty for essential items has gone for a toss with people taking whatever is available amid the lockdown enforced to fight the spread of Covid-19 pandemic.
Likewise, dhelawalas (pushcart vegetable vendors), in many places offered home delivery and made it sure that there is regular supply of veggies of choice. “We never used to depend on dhelawalas for our vegetables. We used to order from Big Basket and other retail chains. Although they continue to deliver veggies, waiting time is long. Now we depend on our dhelawala who delivers them at our doorstep,” said Pritam Singh, a resident of an upscale housing society in Delhi.
In Chennai also people have realised the importance of small-time vegetable vendors. They managed to procure fresh fruit and vegetables from wholesale markets despite lockdown and erratic movements of essential commodities.
Moreover, these outlets witness a steady flow of customers. On the other hand, bigger retail chains have limited or run out of stocks. The smaller shops have stocks as compared to departmental stores.
He said prior to the lockdown, distributors used to deliver the products at our stores and there will be a one week credit period. “Now we have to take delivery from the distributor’s place for cash. There is no credit,” Suresh, a resident, said.
Chemists and pharmacists have also said they did not face any problem in supply of essential medicines. “The only thing that often run out are hand sanitizers. There is a huge demand for it,” said Rajesh Sharma, a chemist.
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