subject: Online Christmas Shopping HOT Again In 2010 [print this page] Holiday Shopping online increased almost 25 percent this year as bargain conscious hunters often opted for virtual malls instead of fighting crowds at traditional brick and mortar outlets, according to a survey.
Shoppers cited convenience, variety and low prices as the three top reasons they bought gifts online, according to the survey.
"Online shopping contributed significantly to overall 2009 holiday sales by attracting consumers through a broad product selection," Heather Dougherty, senior retail analyst at Nielsen// Net Ratings, said in a statement.
Clothing once again remained the most popular purchase, as consumers shelled out $3.2 billion, or 17 percent of total online sales for merchandise. The toy, video and electronics game market, much like in traditional stores, was a big holiday seller, accounting for $2.1 billion, or 12 percent of online revenue. The electronics category rounded out the top three with $2.2 billion, or 11 percent of total of online sales.
"Consumers have become accustomed to purchasing online over the years and look to the Internet to find comprehensive product information, competitive prices and easy gift delivery, allowing them to have more time to spend on other holiday activities," Dougherty said.
Electronics made the biggest strideslast season, with sales on the Internet increasing 113% to $1.9 billion. In 2009, it failed to reach the billion dollar mark with total sales endingat $887 million.
The report also suggests consumers have become more familiar and trusting with their online buying options.
Thirty-six percent said avoiding crowds was the primary reason they purchased online, while the same percentage said lower prices were why they beat a path to the computer rather than Main Street. Another 34 percent cited increased product selection.
The survey also showed42 percent were "very satisfied" with shopping online during the holidays, while 22 percent were "somewhat satisfied." Thirty percent said their online shopping experience had improved over 2008.
Online Christmas Shopping HOT Again In 2010
By: Kevin
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