Before Corona and After Corona as New Global Milestones in The Theory and Practice of Consumer Behaviour: Evidence from Vending Industry

Abstract

Research background: In the light and shadow of contemporary global situation, Corona pandemic crisis can be established as new milestone in economic and managerial theory and practice. It has flew over national markets as black swan and it has totally destroyed so far formulated models and patterns. No one industry has stayed untouched. Purpose of the article: The aim of this paper is to identify changes in consumer behaviour caused by Corona pandemic crisis in relevant industry of national economy. Methods: The aim of this paper will be fulfilled by applying comparative analysis on the case study of vending industry provided on chronological basis. The reason for choosing this industry lies in the specifics of this industry – i.e. elimination of personal contact and nonstop functioning not only in closed but also in open air places. Thus, it can be expected that the impact of Corona pandemic crisis characterized by lockdown, social distancing and strict hygienic steps would be minimal in this case. Findings & Value added: It has been already stated that Corona pandemic crisis has a potential to modify so far formulated theoretical approaches to consumer behaviour. By providing own research, this fact has been proven. Based on these findings, it is possible to identify future trends in purchasing behaviour not only in case of chosen industry but also generally. These are mainly connected with the shift in perception of consumption and savings, the preference of cash less payment and the change in philosophy of personal alimentation.