Tis’ that time of year again when businesses promote their holiday gift giving ideas and individuals begin their holiday shopping. Much has changed when it comes to gift buying yet it still remains the same.
Traditionally
The holiday shopping season is typically November and December and tends to go into full swing starting on Black Friday and the first half of December. It’s been this way for decades. Department stores and the like increase their sales staff and stay open late to accommodate shoppers. Stores have sale upon sale enticing shoppers into their store in hopes of holiday purchases, and perhaps even something for the shopper themselves. Long hours are spent walking the malls or driving from here to there in hopes of finding that special gift for the many special someones in their life. It was and still is quite painstaking. Traffic increases, tempers flare, and the crowds of people – oh my!
Thanks to the Internet
The history of the computer began decades ago but it wasn’t until twenty years ago or so that home computers (PCs) became popular. PCs, lap tops, and now tablets can be found in just about every home. The onset of PCs in the home changed shopping and browsing as we know it.
Over the past decade, online shopping has become an integral part of the shopping experience, especially when it comes to holiday gift buying. Sale upon sale can also to be found on the Internet. In fact, a same item found at a mortar store can often be found online for less and it may even ship for free.
Holiday Shopping Forecast
Even in our nation’s tough economic times: our continued high unemployment rate, gas prices, and in general, our nation’s shaky economy, people are still expected to spend money this holiday season. It is expected that online sales will increase to more than 17% above that which was spent last year at this same time.
The reason for the shift in holiday shopping and buying is simplicity. Consumers are now able to shop at home online when it fits into their schedule. No more sore feet from walking the mall! They’re able to shop for those hard-to-find gifts, avoid the crowds of people, and avoid fighting the traffic. It’s also easier for shoppers to stay within their budget. Online businesses have simplified the shopping experience with ecommerce platforms and enterprise ecommerce solutions.
Prospering For The Holidays
Just as the shopper has a list of gift ideas, the online business must also have a list or rather a game plan to make this holiday season a fun and prosperous one.
E-businesses must be prepared for the season. Having a marketing plan/promotional ideas set in place prior to the season helps prepare the business for what’s ahead. Have red hot deals available everyday throughout the season, offer coupons, gift cards, and after holiday sales in January. Offer free shipping or gift wrapping as a courtesy. Show the shopper why it is they should buy from your online business. Entice them.
But, along with a good marketing plan, have inventory available! Ship on time, and if need be, have a third-party fulfillment center, such as Amazon. The cost is not cheap but it provides faster service, exposure, and increased sales opportunities.
Candy Turner writes on a variety of subjects, including shopping, ecommerce and women’s fashion.