November 2020 | COVER STORY

As governments issued stay-at-home orders because of the coronavirus pandemic, many people’s personal and professional lives were further pushed online, and shopping was no exception as consumers sought ways to limit potential sources of exposure. The National Retail Federation reported in August that the pandemic accelerated interest in online shopping, but research also found that retailers were adapting to address concerns around the coronavirus, including blending online and offline channels through curbside pickup or personal shopper services. However, these shifts in buying habits and business operations are also linked to evolving risks.