UK: A report by JLA has revealed that two-third of Britons will boycott hospitality and retail venues with poor reputations for infection control, with hygiene expectations raised for 77 per cent of the public.
A survey of 2,000 members of the public has revealed that 34 per cent would never use an offending business again, and would also warn others to avoid these businesses too.
33.6 per cent admit they are less likely to use a business with a poor reputation for infection control, with only 6.3 per cent stating that hygiene ratings will not be an issue for them.
87.6 per cent consider it important for businesses to maintain a good reputation for hygiene and infection control, with 58.1 per cent stating that a positive standing for hygiene is “extremely important”.
Overall, 77 per cent have greater concerns around hygiene, with 80.5 per cent reporting that tangible proof of businesses prioritising hygiene and customer safety would be reassuring.
Ben Gujral, CEO at JLA, said: “The events of the past year have laid bare the potential consequences for companies that do not demonstrate the highest standards in infection control, as well as the growth opportunities for organisations that do invest what is needed now to reassure worried customers.
“Expectations of the businesses customers will trust their money – and their health – with are virtually unrecognisable from even a year ago and, as our findings demonstrate, consumers will be quick to condemn any business that does not meet their heightened standards when it comes to infection control.
“At a time where businesses across a range of industries need the continued loyalty of their customers more than ever before, it is crucial that they use the coming weeks to action all possible infection control measures to put their minds at ease. Those that take the time to do this now will reap the benefits once doors are able to reopen properly, offering potentially millions in boosted revenues, as well as the loyalty of customers both old and new, for years to come.”
Further information about the research findings in JLA’s Infection Control Insight Report 2021 can be found here.
