Back to the Store: Retail Foot Traffic Surges in Q1

In the most recent KBMI, 56% of retailers reported in-store customer traffic jumped, compared to just 35% in Q4 2020, with clients seeking upgrades in quality.

Apparently, we’re shopping — in stores — once again.

Not only did kitchen and bath retailers report a sharp increase in Q1 2021 foot traffic, but there was a demand shift to higher-end products and higher-priced projects. This was among the findings in the Q1 NKBA/John Burns Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI). In fact, one in four retailers reported a significant — 20%+ — bump in traffic. This marked the third straight quarter of growth.

As in-store traffic rose, so did consumer interest in more expensive products and finishes. Retailers lamented, however, that supply-chain issues and skyrocketing materials costs were dampening the mood.

To read more of this exclusive research report, visit NKBA’s Insights page.