As consumers and retail leaders alike observe the five-year anniversary since COVID-19 temporarily closed down the world, the staff at Retail Dive is remembering that era and examining its impact on the retail industry. 

In March 2020, our staff embarked upon an effort to track the industry’s response. Store by store, we attempted to keep up with how retail was altering operations to provide products and services to shoppers while still keeping safety at the crux of decision-making. There were temporary store closures, staff furloughs, changing mandates regarding mask requirements and social distancing procedures. (Remember plexiglass shields? Holding merchandise that had been tried on for 24 hours? Stores finally allowing a limited number of customers back in stores?) 

It was a difficult and confusing time — one where retailers had to remain flexible in order to serve their customer base. While life since that time has largely returned to normal, the pandemic left a lasting impact on how consumers interact with stores and how their expectations have changed.

Below is a collection of reported stories that explore the time during the height of the pandemic and its extensive influence, even today.