Five years after the pandemic began, consumer behavior continues to reshape retail, dining, and entertainment. A new report shows how spending has polarized toward value-driven and premium experiences, with efficiency and perceived value guiding decisions.
A Return to In-Person Experiences
Retail and dining visits in the first half of 2025 are higher than pre-pandemic levels. Consumers are eager to return to stores and restaurants, proving that offline experiences remain essential.
More Intentional Shopping
Convenience no longer guarantees loyalty. Shoppers are willing to visit multiple stores to find the exact product or brand they want, prioritizing fit and quality over speed.
The Power of Value
Businesses that deliver strong value — and a clear perception of it — are reaping the rewards. Since the pandemic, value-oriented retailers and restaurants have seen a surge in visits, with customers gravitating toward places that help them maximize their budgets without feeling like they are sacrificing too much.
A Polarized Market
Spending habits have split between budget-conscious and premium options. This bifurcation is driving growth at both ends of the spectrum while squeezing many mid-market players. Consumers are increasingly choosing either high-value essentials or standout premium experiences, leaving less space in between.
Shifts in Entertainment
The out-of-home entertainment industry looks different than it did before 2020. Eatertainment venues and museums have found stability at a lower but steady level, while movie theaters face unpredictable swings tied directly to box-office releases.
Work and Routine Reimagined
Hybrid work has left a lasting impact on office life. Visits to office buildings remain a third lower than in 2019, even with return-to-office efforts. This shift continues to affect not only workplace dynamics but also the surrounding businesses that once thrived on daily commuter traffic.
🔗 https://go.placer.ai/wp2/6-trends-still-defining-post-pandemic-consumer-behavior
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