If it were up to Australian consumers, they would choose a store for next year.
The study provided by Bazaarvoice, Inc. released the annual Shopper Experience Index, which found that 64% of shoppers selected in-store shopping as their method of choice.
When it comes to online shopping and product research, Aussies are heavily influenced by User Generated Content (UGC).
Out of eight countries examined, Australia is linked to Spain, as it is the least likely to buy a product without a UGC on the product side.
"Australians are uniquely positioned to shop in-store as the ability to do so is largely influenced by the relatively low prevalence of Covid-19 compared to some of the other countries studied," said Kate Musgrove, MD of Bazaarvoice APAC.
“Our findings have shown that UGC is of tremendous importance to Australian shoppers as displaying UGC online through prior product research ultimately influences people in the store's purchasing decisions.
"To take this into account, retailers should take an omnichannel approach so their consumers can meet them where they want, when they want, which is aligned with global results."
Other important findings are:
- Social commerce has become mainstream. One in three shoppers made a purchase on social media in the past year.
- Digital shopping does not replace stationary retail, but it surpasses it. However, most buyers want a mix. Retailers need to provide an online option. This is reflected in our customer network of over 11,500 brands and retailers, where online ordering worldwide in 2020 increased 39% year over year.
- Product samples help replace the store experience. Over half (52%) of shoppers say the most important part of an in-store shopping experience is the ability to touch, see and try on products.
- Private label is preferred by buyers. Last year, 53% of shoppers bought private label.
"Covid-19 not only dramatically changed consumer shopping habits, it also accelerated trends that were in motion before they began," said Keith Nealon, CEO of Bazaarvoice.
"Regardless of the channel consumers use to shop through, brands need to bring the store experience to the buyer's doorstep and give them confidence to make the right purchase decision."
Click here to view the Shopper Experience Index.
