UK shopper spends 11% more online

Nowadays, the average shopper in the United Kingdom spends 83 pounds (about 91.5 euros) per month online. Last year, this was 75 pounds (82.7 euros). The coronavirus outbreak has for sure contributed to this 11 percent year-on-year increase.

But it’s not only the changing purchasing habits that have led to this growth, but it’s also because of social media influence. That’s what Royal Mail concludes in its annual Delivery Matters study. Currently, 25 percent of people buy products online after seeing posts or comments by others. This behavior can be seen specifically among younger shoppers (47 percent of 18- to 34-year-olds) and women (30 percent).

25 percent of people buy items online after seeing content by others.

Two-thirds of shoppers prefer home delivery

Two-thirds of shoppers say they prefer home delivery. But if this delivery method isn’t offered by the online store, the most trusted alternative  (73 percent) is picking up the order at the post office. Picking up at a local Royal Mail Customer Service Point was preferred by 67 percent of online shoppers in the United Kingdom.

The outbreak of the coronavirus has led to more online shopping, but that’s not to say that it’s game over for the high street. This study shows that 90 percent of online shoppers continue to purchase in-store. “The pandemic has increased the amount consumers are spending online as well as changed online shopping habits”, Nick Landon, Chief Commercial Officer at Royal Mail, comments.

Environmental concerns are rising

The study also asked respondents about their thoughts regarding the environment. These concerns are getting more and more important for consumers it seems. Currently, 62 percent of younger shoppers say it’s important that retailers offer environmentally-friendly delivery.

62% of younger shoppers want eco-friendly delivery.