Description

The pandemic has permanently changed the U.S. economy. During the pandemic, most people avoided the local food, hardware, clothing and other stores and instead ordered a substantial percentage of what they needed online. In doing so, they avoided the local retailers they had often patronized, and instead patronized those companies that had a stronger shipping and logistics presence.

Since the pandemic, retail bankruptcies have included: Neiman Marcus, J.C. Penney, Brooks Brothers, Lord & Taylor, Guitar Center, Chuck E Cheese, General Nutrition, Pier 1, J Crew, Belk, Ann Taylor, Stage Stores, Modell’s, Gold’s Gym, Town Sports, and hundreds of thousands of local retailers.

On the other hand, some of the larger chains with strong logistics capabilities have thrived. Since March 2020, shares of Walmart, Amazon, Costco, Target, and Best Buy and up anywhere from 50-125%, while shares of Dick’s Sporting Goods are up 550%.

When the pandemic does abate, will people return to their old habits or will the swing to buying from companies with strong online and logistics capabilities continue to accelerate?

How will this change the U.S. economy? Is the day of the small businessperson and the independent shop keeper at an end? If so, how will this impact the economy, politics, and society?

What other changes in the way people are living have been and will continue to be impacted by the pandemic? What companies and industries stand to benefit, who will be the major losers?

Please join us for a discussion on the lasting impact of the pandemic on the structure of the U.S. economy.

Participants must register by NOON on January 18th to receive details on joining the discussion. The Zoom link will be sent out 24 hours before the event.