In today’s InternetRetailing newsletter, we’re reporting on how the Covid-19 pandemic continues to change the way that shoppers want to buy – and the way that retailers are serving them.
This week we’re seeing some early evidence from a retailer that shoppers are moving their buying online to a very significant degree. Dunelm reported this week that its online sales are now ahead of their pre-coronavirus levels. That comes as the retailer’s shops remain closed, and as it benefits from its previous investment in an ecommerce platform that gives it the potential capacity to double its internet sales.
Dunelm provides an example of how much more multichannel retailers are selling online since their shops have closed than they did before the pandemic. IMRG figures released this week, and covered in our rolling coronavirus round-up story, suggest that retailers who have now closed their shops and also sell online have seen a 68% rise in their ecommerce sales, while pureplay retailers have seen their online sales rise by a more modest 4%. The rolling round-up also covers Waitrose’s expansion of rapid delivery and click and collect services, as more shoppers opt to buy online.
Meanwhile, Aldi is selling groceries online for the first time in the UK as a result of the pandemic. The discount supermarket is selling food parcels for vulnerable and older shoppers who are advised to stay at home during the pandemic.
Today we have an interview with Rob Hattrell of eBay UK on how retail is changing as a result of factors including coronavirus and sustainability.
Marketplace provider Mirakl says it’s running a direct online channel between brands who can provide PPE and the emergency service workers that need it.
Elsewhere, Nestlé Health Services has chosen THG to run ecommerce operations for brands starting to sell direct to consumers in 20 markets around the world.
In today’s guest comment, Thor Olof Philogène of Stravito, considers how consumer goods businesses can make sure their businesses remain agile.
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