While the pandemic accelerated trends like working and shopping remotely, it also had other lasting effects on American life and the U.S. economy.
In “The Introverts Have Taken Over the US Economy,” Bloomberg columnist Allison Schrager describes how the pandemic made Americans less fun—or at least less likely to stay out late. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that, post-pandemic, younger Americans (under the age of 50) are starting their nights out earlier. While it was fashionable pre-pandemic to arrive at a restaurant at 8 p.m. or later, now 5:30 p.m. seems like a more reasonable time to meet for many.
The younger crowd is also less likely to drink—or even go out at all. With more at-home entertainment choices, people are more inclined to stay in and get delivery, resulting in less need for “going-out tops” and more demand for athleisure wear. Restaurants will need to up their delivery game to offset this trend.
While drinking less will make the younger generation physically healthier in the long run, the lack of social interaction may take a toll on their mental health, which Schrager says may be the strongest argument against the Introvert Economy.
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