MEMPHIS, Tennessee — In Thursday’s Ransom Note: Christmas during COVID.
This pandemic is causing a lot of hardship on a lot of businesses and people, but FedEx isn't one of them. Its stock is at an all-time high, and it can't hire employees fast enough.
The reason, of course, is people just aren't shopping in brick and mortar stores like they used to. In fact, a new survey by the marketing firm Allocadia had some startling findings:
- 36% of Americans said they're not comfortable shopping in a store right now.
- For the first time, more people say they'll take part in Cyber Monday than Black Friday.. 61% to 52%.
- 59% plan to shop early due to supply shortages.
- We're going to be buying more practical gifts: 52% will give things like clothes, food, and money.
- 39% say no, it's time for fun things like tech gadgets and toys.
Economists are worried. They say without a new stimulus package many businesses won't last beyond Christmas, which means even more workers may lose their jobs.
Consider this my pitch, probably not my last, to support our local businesses. They really need us.
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