Ecommerce sales are becoming more and more effective. In fact, a recent survey by ChannelAdvisor found that 47% of ecommerce retailers are expecting an increase in online sales compared to 2015. Over 21% of these expect an increase of more than 10%.
People say Christmas starts earlier each year. Here’s a factual reminder of how far it really is: 50% of the survey respondents said they started their 2016 Christmas campaigns in August or earlier! When comparted to 2015, only 42% online retailers started preparing for Christmas by summer.
Now you can figure how far ahead of Christmas online retailers are. We just want you to prep up.
So which days are online retailers gearing up for this year?
- For 26% of the retailers, Black Friday is the most profitable day
- Followed by Amazon Prime Day for 22%
- And lastly, Cyber Monday for 15%
What are the most popular tactics?
Digital marketing and advertising remain the most popular tactics.
- 62% said Facebook was the top social platform for sales conversions
Mobile apps are not far behind.
- 66% of online retailers are offering a mobile app so customers can buy on the move
How are online retailers attracting customers?
- 52% are offering same-day delivery
- 66% are offering next-day delivery
What about payments?
After credit/debit cards, PayPal is the most popular payment method. At 19% Amazon Payments is not far behind, while 6% cosnider Apple Pay to be a popular payment option.
What are the biggest challenges online retailers face?
Not surprisingly, 51% of the respondents said order fulfilment is the biggest challenge this year. This is mostly because Christmas Day falls on a Sunday. As a result, 38% of retailers are offering a 20th December cut-off date this year for guaranteed on-time deliveries.
Sage advice for online retailers
According to Mike Shapaker, managing director, EMEA at ChannelAdvisor,
"Consumer expectations continue to increase. They expect high quality products at a competitive price, delivered quickly and for free. As we approach the busiest time of year for online retail, these expectations are amplified. In this highly competitive environment, retailers that can deliver on consumers' high expectations will dominate."
