What: Descriptions of neglected stores reopening across the US

Why it is important: Stores have not been the main focus during the pandemic. But they need to be ready to welcome customers back.

CNBC has reported on neglected and unwelcoming stores reopening across the country. Retailers have been facing many challenges during the pandemic. These include supply chain delays as well as a focus away from stores towards e-commerce. Some Walmart and Macy’s stores have been pictured selling crumpled clothes, from half-empty empty shelves with piles of unopened inventory on the floors. Especially when the stores have been used for kerbside pickup.

The coming months may be very important for retailers as they try to get shoppers back into stores, where sales tend to be more profitable. Some consumers have money they’ve saved on commuting costs, eating out and traveling. Some have stimulus cheques waiting to be spent. These shoppers may start looking for merchandise that has been off their radar for months: dresses, jackets, more formal shoes, swimsuits and cosmetics.

As Americans return to shop in stores, some retailers are still a mess