Free gifts and items are always welcomed by consumers when they buy products and services from retailers. Recent research has revealed that ecommerce merchants can benefit from offering small perks for shoppers when they purchase items online. Increased customer retention and satisfaction can be boosted by these efforts.

Two out of five Americans would be more likely to continue doing business with an online retailer that offered them a free gift with their purchases, according to a study by IDR Marketing Partners. When ecommerce merchants include unexpected free items for consumers who are buying from their websites, these businesses will see increased retention.

"Customers are more loyal to online retailers that make an authentic effort to connect with them," said Doug Guyer, co-founder and president of IDR Marketing Partners. "Receiving a free product that is relevant to the customer creates a 'surprise and delight moment' that they not only remember, but share their positive experience with friends and reward the online retailer with additional purchases."

For the upcoming holiday season, internet retailers could increase their sales amounts by offering free gifts with purchases. Econsultancy reports that there are several other strategies that web merchants can follow to boost retention. This includes providing fast and free shipping, making repeat purchases easier and allowing customers to access their accounts quickly.

This entry was posted by Retail Pro on Friday, November 16th, 2012 at 4:32 am .