The online retail sector turned over $17 billion last year, compared with $15.9 billion in 2018. Supporting this upward trend, new research from leading parcel delivery service, Couriers Please (CP) has revealed that nearly half (43%) of Australian consumers plan to shop more online than in bricks-and-mortar stores in the next 12 months.
The younger the shopper, the more likely they will shop more online with 55% of under-30s, compared with 46% of 40-59-year-olds, and just 25% of over-60s.
However, just over one-third (38%) admit they will be spending the same online as they would in-store. This increases incrementally with age: just 25% of under-30s, compared with 41% of those in their 50s, and 57% of those over 60.
CP spokesperson, Jessica Ip said e-commerce has changed purchase behaviours, with many taking their shopping online due to convenience and the ability to compare prices.
“We’re seeing tech-savvy shoppers embrace ecommerce more than older generations, which could be due to retailers focusing and targeting the younger market through social marketing platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. However, it’s important that retailers don’t forget about the older market, as they are generally the ones with more disposable income,” she said.
“Many are turning to online shopping to save them time, too. As such, they don’t want to wait around for parcels to be delivered. CP enables parcel recipients to pick up their shopping or drop off their returns at small local retailers such as newsagents and petrol stations, or a parcel locker. Shoppers can also reschedule their parcel delivery online if they know they won’t be home.”