While it is expected that millions of American consumers will hit retail stores over the next few months to purchase gifts for the holiday season, it seems as though ecommerce will also see its fair share of activity, as customers are increasingly using their computers and mobile devices to buy products. To capitalize on this trend, there are several strategies that merchants can follow to boost their winter sales.

Ecommerce trends for the holiday season

According to a recent study from PriceGrabber, one of the main reasons as to why consumers are increasing their online shopping is to avoid the long lines and wait times that can occur at brick-and-mortar locations during the holidays. Another aspect shoppers like about internet purchasing is the free shipping and other elements that are offered. The third reason is that buying items and gifts on the web can be done at anytime and is not limited to store hours.

Purchasing products from retailers is increasingly being done on mobile devices. Sixteen percent of customers surveyed stated they will be shopping on their phones, up from 13 percent who said the same last year. Many consumers also said they will be using their devices to look up prices, reviews and information about retailers, the report states.

"We anticipate that online and mobile shopping will continue to increase in popularity this holiday season because it allows consumers to easily compare products and read merchant reviews, as well as locate the best price on every product without having to visit each and every brick-and-mortar store," said Rojeh Avanesian, vice president of marketing and analytics of PriceGrabber.com. "Online and mobile shopping allows consumers the ability to monitor prices and to shop around the clock. Today's busy and money-conscious consumer is looking at these channels as go-to options for finding the best deals during a frenetic period like the winter holiday season."

How retailers can boost holiday ecommerce sales

For retailers that are offering online and mobile shopping options for customers, there are several methods that can help to boost holiday sales this year. Independent Retailer writes that merchants need to make sure their options such as free shipping and return policies are stated clearly for consumers. Targeted email campaigns can also be effective, as this gives businesses the chance to showcase their holiday deals and discounts. Maintaining easy-to-use and attractive websites is another aspect that can increase retail sales as well as customer retention, the source states.

This entry was posted by Retail Pro on Monday, November 5th, 2012 at 4:14 am .