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High Point University Poll Shows COVID-19 Changing Holiday Shopping Behaviors

Outside Visual Index in downtown Winston-Salem. Image courtesy: Toni Tronu

A High Point University poll shows that over half of respondents say they will not be shopping on Black Friday this year, and a majority of those who will say they'll shop online. That could have a big impact on local businesses. 

About 40 percent of those polled say that COVID-19 has greatly affected their holiday shopping. And this time of year is often crucial for local retailers. 

Toni Tronu owns Visual Index, an art gallery in downtown Winston-Salem that sells works by artists from all 50 states.

“October, November, December are pretty big months and can sometimes float me the rest of the year if need be,” she says.

Tronu says the drop in foot traffic to the shop this year has been significant. On a busy Saturday pre-pandemic, she says the store might have 75 to 150 visitors. Now, that number is more like 15 to 30.

In order to adapt, Tronu created an online shop connected to her website. “It's gone great online, and I think that's really held me over during the drop of foot traffic."

Tronu is the business's sole employee. She says she was hoping to turn a profit this year, but will likely break even.     

For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus in North Carolina, visit our Live Updates blog here. WFDD wants to hear your stories — connect with us and let us know what you're experiencing.

Bethany joined the staff of WFDD in the fall of 2012. She received her B.A. and M.A. in English Literature from Wake Forest University and focused on Anglo-Irish writing. Between undergraduate studies and graduate school, Bethany served as the intern to Talk of the Nation at NPR in D.C., participating in live NPR Election Night Coverage, Presidential debate broadcasts, regular Talk of the Nation shows, and helping to plan the inaugural broadcast of ‘Talk of the World.' She enjoys engaging with her interests in books, politics, and art in the interdisciplinary world of public radio. Before becoming Assistant News Director, Bethany was a reporter and Associate Producer for WFDD's Triad Arts and Triad Arts Weekend. Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, Bethany enjoys calling the Piedmont home.

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