subject: Trends in Online Shopping [print this page] Trends in Online Shopping Trends in Online Shopping
Online shopping has come a long way since the opening of the first online store in 1996. Convenience is key and Americans now shop online for everything from clothing to airline tickets. As online shopping continues to soar, new trends in customer-centered services are helping to create a more efficient experience for online shoppers. Here are some of the top trends in online shopping this year:
Online Reviews
Buyers benefit from social networking when they use it as a tool to share and compare product information. In an online shopping world filled with endless choices, shoppers rely on the opinions of their peers to guide them toward the best products. Some retailers allow customers to rate and review their products within their websites, making it easier for buyers to see the pros and cons of a particular product are as they consider a purchase. There are also websites dedicated to creating communities to review e-retailers, like ResellerRating.com, BizRate.com, and SiteJabber.com.
Retailers on Social Media
The rise of social media has greatly affected the online shopping experience as well. Services like Facebook and Twitter allow retailers and individual brands to directly connect with consumers. This is a win-win situation for both sides - Retailers have direct access to current and future buyers, and customers are rewarded with exclusive deals, up-to-the-minute news, discounts and other incentives.
Group Deals
Speaking of deals, group buying (i.e. Groupon) is a huge trend that emerged in 2010. Companies like Groupon create partnerships with local retailers, who agree to offer discounted products and services to customers who buy vouchers for their businesses. For example, a popular online boutique may offer a voucher valued at $30 that customers could purchase online for only $15 for a 24-hour period. Retailers win by bringing in new business and customers win by getting great exclusive deals.
Online reviews, social media and group deals have helped create a better all-around online shopping experience for all. With policies that cater to customers and more choices than anywhere else, online shoppers have nothing to lose. One example of an online retailer that utilizes these facets of online shopping is Peacock Plume, an online clothing boutique based in Austin, TX.
welcome to Insurances.net (https://www.insurances.net)
