The weighted score is obtained by evaluating each key metric and calculating the overall impact on consumer behavior.
PHASE: Aware
As an optimistic market, the threat of COVID-19 is perceived as having "come and gone" – at least for the time being. This notion, paired with some fatigue of staying home, drives them to take advantage of their easing of restrictions. However, they’re mindful not to overdo it with excessive spending or being in large groups.
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Unemployment Rate
Rural vs Urban
Political Persuasion
Politcal Majority
Restaurant Opening
Status By State
Current Lockdow
Status By State
Death Rate
Infection Rate
Unemployment Rate | Score: 4
1 = most impact, 5 = least impact
Unemployment impacts consumers’ ability to spend, especially on discretionary purchases. The lower the unemployment rate within a DMA, the better the potential is for the economy and businesses.
Data through June 30, 2021
Rural vs. Urban | Score: 4
5 = more rural, least impact; 1 = more urban, most impact
Urbanized DMAs have the potential to be heavily impacted by COVID-19 as people are often in closer proximity, whereas more rural DMAs are likely to be less impacted.
Data through August 14, 2021
Political Persuasion | Score: 5
5 = Republican, 1 = Democrat
Based on current trends, Republican-controlled states have a higher likelihood of opening up faster than those controlled by the Democratic party.
Data through August 14, 2021
Political Majority | Score: 3
5 being the highest, 1 being the lowest
It’s likely that states with a higher Republican majority can make the decision to reopen faster, while states with a smaller majority may see delays from legislative debate.
Data through August 14, 2021
Infection Rate Percentage | Score: 1
5 being the lowest, 1 being the highest
The higher the published COVID-19 infection rate, the more likely consumers will feel less confident about returning to businesses, even if the state has relaxed lockdown rules.
Data through August 14, 2021
Death Rate Percentage | Score: 2
5 being the lowest, 1 being the highest
The higher the published COVID-19 death rate, the more likely consumers will feel less confident about returning to businesses, even if the state has relaxed lockdown rules.
Data through August 14, 2021
Lockdown Status | Score: 5
5 = no lockdown; 3 = lifted; 2 = partially lifted; 1 = still on lock down
States are beginning to relax shelter-in-place orders in a phased approach. This will continue to impact consumer sentiment if they feel there may be a potential risk.
Data through August 14, 2021
Restaurant Opening Status | Score: 5
5 = fully reopened; 3 = dine in with limits; 1 = carry-out only
Throughout the country, states are beginning to allow restaurants to reopen in a phased approach. This will continue to impact consumer sentiment if they feel there may be a potential risk.
Data through August 14, 2021
