In today’s InternetRetailing newsletter, we’re reporting as research suggests that UK shoppers will visit the store as much as they shop online this Christmas. Indeed, 63% of consumers told researchers for Barclays, they still valued the high street in their shopping experience, though bringing digital technology to stores would improve the experience.
Even as retailers are optimising their services for these British shoppers that want to see, touch and feel the items they’re considering buying before they part with the cash, they are also being urged this week to ensure that Chinese consumers can use their websites, ahead of Singles Day. The day, says Worldpay, is fast turning into a global phenomenon and boosting sales within the UK at the same time.
John Lewis has also been studying how shoppers want to take delivery of their online orders, and this week formalised a partnership with Clipper Logistics around third party click and collect services.
Meanwhile, Next and Morrisons both updated the markets with their figures, with Next is pointing towards flattening online sales and falling offline ones.
Today’s guest comment comes from Tom Chapman of Headstream, who considers new ways for retail brands to reach their audience.
Finally, Martin Shaw, head of research at InternetRetailing, has an update on IRUK Top500 research into website speeds which looks ahead to our Black Five Day coverage later this month.
Our webinars
Our next webinar is in November, when Michael Langguth, co-founder of app developer Poq, will be addressing the business case for mobile apps in retail, using case study examples from retailers including Missguided and House of Fraser. Learn how apps can drive your retail business is on November 9 at 2pm. To find out more and to register for the free event visit the Poq webinar page.
Click to visit the Internet Retailing webinars page to catch up on the latest webinars, which are also available to view again on the IRTV channel.
