Majority of consumers have shopped online
As ecommerce software provides greater security and more robust features, shoppers are increasingly trusting the channel and turning to online resources to complete transactions. According to a recent Javelin Strategy & Research report, the vast majority of consumers have shopped online, with 9 out of 10 having made a purchase in the last year. Only 7 percent indicated they had never shopped on the Internet, down from 22 percent in 2009.
As merchants bolster their online retail marketing strategies, customers are coming to expect greater service and convenience across platforms.
"Ecommerce shoppers want convenience, they want speed, and they want security, and it is up to e-commerce platform vendors to provide merchants the tools to allow these wishes to be fulfilled in order for e-retailers to stay competitive," said Nick Holland, senior analyst, payments at Javelin Strategy & Research.
Tech Cocktail noted that the key trends for ecommerce this year include mobile, personalization, simplicity, speed, availability and enhanced experiences. Merchants rely on sophisticated ecommerce technology and well-planned marketing strategies to effectively engage shoppers and drive sales. To stay competitive, retailers should consider incorporating recent innovations into their online offerings, such as broader payment options like Google Wallet and MasterCard's MasterPass, Javelin advised.