UK consumers are expected to spend £5 billion online this festive season, an almost 19 per cent year-on-year increase from last year, with around 20,000 click-and-collect points likely to be used.
The rise in popularity of online shopping in the UK means that Deloitte estimates a 3.5 per cent rise in total Christmas retail sales bringing it up to a sum of £40.3bn. Ian Geddes, Deloitte’s UK head of retail believes that flexible delivery could be the key the hearts of UK shoppers as they are “expected to loosen purse strings off the back of rising consumer confidence and improving economic conditions.” We are told that the UK shopper’s “expectations around flexible delivery over the coming festive period are higher than ever before. Store collection is now seen as a basic offering”. More than a third of Brits would appreciate the chance to pick up smaller parcels from collection points near their place of work or home.
No one enjoys the yearly hellish last minute Christmas crush, understandably a good reason to turn to our computers rather than going on the high street to buy gifts. With cash-back services offered by websites such as Quidco saving a little something from each purchase, those online shoppers can take advantage of the best deals, without having to trek from one shop to another in freezing, wet weather, to compare prices.
Amazon is just one of the retailers which is looking to extend its click-and-collect service after enquiring about the possibility of using London Underground’s soon-to-be-empty ticket offices for deliveries. Royal Mail is predicting that this Saturday will be the busiest day for Christmas sales online this year as upgraded apps are released by online retailers making it even easier for consumers to buy through their smartphones and tablets.
Has anyone finished their Christmas shopping yet?
