The proportion of money being spent online has increased year-on-year to 80%. According to a survey commissioned by Royal Mail, 54% and 53% of respondents said choice and price comparison respectively were the key reasons they would shop online instead of in-store. Meanwhile, 49% said convenience was the key reason.
The study asked 1500 UK online shoppers about their shopping habits and preferences. It found that over a period of three months, online shoppers claimed to make 80%of purchases – excluding groceries – online, up from the 74% in the previous survey.
Royal Mail said that as online shopping has grown, the cost and speed of delivery has become a key battleground for retailers. It found that 84% of survey participants considered a seller’s delivery rating as a crucial factor when choosing where to buy.
In addition, a quarter of online shoppers now pay for delivery subscriptions, which allow unlimited next day delivery on all orders within a pre-paid period – with a just over three-quarters of those surveyed saying they have a subscription with Amazon.
Royal Mail Parcels managing director Nick Landon said: “Despite consumers tightening their purse strings, online shopping continues to grow.
“How you deliver is as important as what you sell and a quarter of shoppers are now paying an upfront fee for unlimited delivery.
“Businesses of all sizes need to make sure they respond to this demand or risk being left behind.
“By selecting high quality services from Royal Mail, online sellers can ensure they set themselves up for success.”
