Online retaling powers ahead
Consumer e-commerce will nearly double to £78bn in 2010 according to market specialist IMRG, and Collate I.T clients are gearing up to take full advantage.
IMRG reports UK consumers spent £42bn online in 2006, up from £30bn in 2005. Sales were just £1bn in 2000. As further evidence that e-commerce is now an indispensible part of everyday life, over 40% of the population made internet purchases last year.
Online retailers are investing heavily to keep ahead in a fast moving game. E-commerce sales rose 54% over Christmas 2006, to £7.7bn, and in April 2007 for example were up 55% on the same month last year.
We are seeing more diversification into niche websites for special product ranges. Site upgrades are making the customer experience richer and more satisfying, which in turn drives up sales.
Firms which have previously resisted e-commerce have seen competitors beating them into the online market and are having to react fast. In boardrooms around the country the debate is not 'if' but 'when'.
Other factors are coming into play too. Campaigns such as 'Go Green - Go Online' are highlighting the positive contribution e-commerce is making to reversing climate change, as well as helping companies improve their carbon footprint.
If you are planning a new e-commerce store, particularly if it is aimed at Christmas 2007, now is the time to talk with us.