The shift from online shopping to in-store purchases is accelerating, contributing to the gradual recovery of the freight industry, according to a recent study by Ryder System.
In-store shopping had already gained momentum as the retail sector adjusted following the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. The upcoming holiday season is expected to further drive this trend.
Ryder System Inc. recently released its 10th annual e-commerce consumer study, highlighting a continued interest in online shopping, but also a notable rise in preference for in-store experiences. The study showed that 61% of consumers now shop in-store because they enjoy the experience, a 21% increase from the previous year. Additionally, 35% of shoppers choose brick-and-mortar stores to avoid waiting for online deliveries, while 15% do so to avoid package theft, both showing year-over-year growth.
Apparel and beauty shoppers are especially inclined to return to physical stores. The survey found 54% of respondents prefer to buy clothing in-store, a 9% rise, while 41% prefer purchasing cosmetics in person, a similar increase.
This growing preference for in-person shopping is part of a broader shift to an omnichannel retail environment, blending online and physical experiences.
Retailers are responding by increasing their stock. August saw a 7.7% year-over-year rise in truck visits to retailers, according to Motive Technologies’ Big Box Retail Index. Record warehouse visits were reported for sectors like department stores and apparel, which saw a 27.1% increase, while grocery and superstore visits were up 14%, marking the highest levels in four years.
Retailers are expected to continue restocking ahead of the holiday season, with inventory-to-sales ratios climbing.
Brick-and-mortar sectors are leading this restocking effort and sales are expected to keep rising through the end of 2024.
The analysis suggests that the trucking industry is positioned for growth in 2025. The current trend appears strong, benefiting both full truckload and less-than-truckload carriers, particularly small to medium trucking companies.