Online shopping: a look into consumer habits

 

Considering the growth of online shopping, a study was conducted among 9000 shoppers across the globe to have an insight on consumer habits. It revealed that 61% of them are more likely to browse for new products on the Web rather than in-store. Additionally, 64% find this process to be easier and 54% more enjoyable. However, when it comes to completing the purchase, they are not so confident.

The research was conducted by Bazaarvoice. It reveals that while the majority of consumers are looking for and discovering new products online, they are more likely to make spontaneous spur-of-the-moment purchases when they are in a physical store. We cannot deny the fact that e-commerce is more convenient and offers greater product choice without having to move around. However, it has been proven that clients still wish to physically touch, feel and see an item before paying for it. This experience is the most popular reason why people are sticking to brick and mortars. As such, merchants increasingly have to leverage user-generated content (UGC) to build trust and confidence among buyers.

The study also revealed that 52% of customers prefer to use their smartphone to browse online. 23% use laptops and 11% desktop computers. Since shoppers can now access products just by a few taps or clicks, they spend more time browsing for products online than in-stores.


Consumers want to physically see an object before buying © Royalty-free image

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