Online shopping, especially during the holidays, gets more popular each year. In fact, online shopping is expected to increase by at least 25% this year compared with the 2004 holiday season. Of course there are many reasons consumers are using the Internet to do their shopping, but this year there is a new reason to turn to the Internet: high gas prices.
Even though gas prices have hit all-time highs over the last few months, most people have the same driving commitments and needs, like getting to and from work, which makes it difficult to cut back on driving. Internet shopping, however, offers consumers a way out of adding to their weekly gas costs.
Studies show that both men and women gift givers find multiple benefits when shopping online. One of the most common reasons given for shopping online is that consumers say they find the best prices online, and about 25% of people say they find online shopping efficient.
Shoppers this holiday season will be looking for items like apparel, (88%), holiday and seasonal items (82%), and videos and DVDs (79%). Gift cards are also a very popular item online, since most merchants offer gift cards of varying amounts that can be purchased online and sent anywhere.
Even if your business does not directly sell products or services online, you can still provide your customers with great information on your web site to help them find what they are looking for this holiday season. Make sure your location, hours of operation, holiday specials or sales, etc. are up-to-date and easy for your customers to see on your web site.
So as holiday shoppers watch those gas prices rise and fall this season, make sure your business is ready to help them save time and money. Make your products and services available online and help your customers "get it done" for the bargain price of $0 per gallon.
Lauren Hobson is editor of Biz Talk, a free, subscription-based resource sent to our clients, friends, and associates interested in tips and techniques for helping small businesses make the most of their web sites and marketing efforts without spending a lot of money. Biz Talk is a publication of Five Sparrows, LLC, specializing in web sites and marketing for small business.