The classic debate – online vs brick & mortar
I have a running argument going in my household which becomes very obvious at this time of the year. My children- who are all young adults- swear by the deals and the convenience of shopping on-line. I, on the other hand, like to give stores the first crack at my business. While I don't like the crowds this time of year, I find being able to ask questions about an item with a store employee or comparing shopping notes with another person in line at the checkout, to be a much more satisfying experience. Plus I want stores to be around for awhile!
So who's right? Does it have to do with personal preference, or is it the generation gap rearing it's ugly head finally? With the downturn in the economy, an increasing number of people are turning to on-line sites, or e-tailers, partially due to the ease of comparison shopping. Sometimes buyers can avoid local sales tax by purchasing on-line as well as receiving free shipping, saving on the gas it takes to get to the mall.
The National Retail Federation (US) reported that retail sales grew by 1% in 2008, but were expected to decline by 3% this past year. On-line sales grew by 13% in 2008 and grew by another 11% in 2009. So how are the bricks and mortars fighting back? They are encouraging something called "multichannel" shopping where people can buy the same items from the same retailer in a number of different ways – on-line, by mobile phone or in the store. Retailers who have on-line sites can direct customers to their locations to view and/or buy the products. This increases sales and foot traffic in the stores.
Want to find out more information on the science of retail? Check out these books available at the Toronto Public Library.
Whichever way you decide to shop, enjoy the experience.
One thought on “The classic debate – online vs brick & mortar”
How to decide….the apple or the grapes?
While (like shopping in general) both are needed, I enjoy the power of choice. Faceless (internet)shopping allow me to buy what I want; but retail allows everyone to try on/sample.
Love them both!!