Alternative data vendor SimilarWeb created a heatmap that notes the staggering difference between weekly web traffic for multiple industries right now and weekly traffic in 2019. Due to COVID-19, some traffic drops have been so steep that certain companies have gone bankrupt.
This will shock no one. Websites like Saks Fifth Avenue, Chanel, Gucci, and other high-end brands have witnessed decreased web traffic. Interestingly, however, Dior, Prada, and Hermés are three luxury brands that have actually seen traffic increase, per SimilarWeb. This could be explained by the three companies' comparative adaptability.
With gyms closed, people have naturally turned to sporting goods websites for not only equipment like Peloton's, but also Dick's Sporting Goods, Lululemon, and Nike. Sudden upticks can also be explained by fitness websites like PopSugar and OpenFit offering free workout programs.
COVID-19 shopping is obviously different than regular consumption habits. These patterns are being studied by machines right now, and they're having trouble with it too. It's possible these traffic trends will change over time as we adapt to the coronavirus world. In the meantime, though, it's okay to enjoy the schadenfreude you probably felt upon seeing luxury brands are suffering. Don't hide from it.