Perhaps as a way to avoid the colder temperatures, consumers are expected to go online in large numbers this holiday season to purchases items and gifts. Retailers that offer internet options should begin preparing now, not only for the next few months, but for growing ecommerce in general.

Internet Retailer cites research by eMarketer, which found that American consumers will spend approximately $54.47 billion online over the next few months. This represents a 16.8 increase from last year's season, which saw a total of $46.63 in internet purchases. The study anticipates that online gift buying will account for 24.3 percent of holiday shopping. In the middle of the recession, online sales decreased. However, since economic conditions have been improving, ecommerce has been steadily growing. It also adds several benefits to the shopping experience, notes the source.

"Consumers will turn to the internet to stay within their budgets, locate hard-to-find gifts and avoid crowded stores," stated the eMarketer report.

Online sales in the U.S. have been strong for the past few years and are continuing to grow. According to comScore, the second quarter of 2012 saw a total of $43.2 billion in ecommerce, representing a 15 percent increase from the same time last year, reports Power Retail.

This entry was posted by Retail Pro on Thursday, September 20th, 2012 at 1:54 am .