Camera sales have dropped a massive 64% in the last year – largely due to COVID-19

The current year definitely hasn’t got off to a good start, and our world has changed practically overnight. A recent report from Stackline shows just how much our habits have changed, at least when it comes to online shopping. It shows that camera sales have dropped a massive 64% – making them the third most declining category in online sales!

The report consists of 100 fastest growing and fastest declining categories in e-commerce. It compares March 2019 to March 2020, and it’s based on the data collected across the U.S. Although, I believe the results would be similar even if the data were collected globally. Of course, the dramatic change is most likely due to the coronavirus pandemic. It has changed everyone’s lives and messed up everyone’s plans: from individuals like you and me to huge companies. A recent report from BNC Raking shows a “catastrophic” 50% drop in mirrorless camera sales in March, blaming it on the coronavirus pandemic.

As for Stackline’s report, it’s probably not a surprise that luggage, suitcases, and briefcases are the fastest declining categories, taking the first two places with 77% drop in sales. But cameras are right behind, with 64% drop in online sales. “Camera sales are declining rapidly since many travel plans, weddings, sports activities and other events have been postponed, Stackline writes. In a way, the decline in camera sales is in correlation with the following categories. Swimwear, bridal clothing and men’s formal wear follow the cameras closely, declining between 64% and 59%. As mentioned, most people have canceled holiday plans and weddings, so these results are not strange.

Camera lenses and video cameras are also on the list, taking the 32nd and the 36th place respectively.  According to Stakline’s report, the online sales of camera lenses have dropped by 47%, while video cameras follow them closely with 46%. Once again, no wonder, considering all canceled plans. After all, the launch of many new cameras and lenses has been postponed as well.

As I mentioned, Stackline has also compiled the list of the fastest-growing categories. Quite a lot of items are food or food-related stuff, medical supplies, and of course toilet paper and paper towels. On this list, you’ll also find computer monitors, mice, and keyboards, as well as office desks. Considering that many people have switched to working from home, it’s not surprising to see a growth in the sales of these items.

You can see the full report on Stackline’s website. I found it pretty interesting to analyze and think about all the changes in our lifestyle that affected it, and I wonder what it will look like when our lives are back to normal.

[via Photo Rumors]