DB:LF

The Retail sector has long been hailing the arrival of a crisis with the rise in the internet shopping boom, this Christmas has shown that the desire for in-store, face-to-product shopping, is not waning. Reports indicate the buzz on the high street is very much alive and set to continue into ‘08.

In-stores dreaded nemisis, online shopping, has shown it is not here to destroy the high street, indeed online shopping needs to be embraced, online shopping enhances the oportunities for consumers to part ways with their hard earned cash, when the shops are shut or when tangibile inspection of a product is not necessary there is still opportunity to buy.

Online and in-store shopping needs not be opposites, they do not detract from each other, but should work in unity. increasing sales through joint ventures rather than detracting from each other. 2008 will see people further utilising the internet to research products and choose when it is necessary to to follow up in-store. Digital and mobile communications in 2008 will give more power to the consumer to make educated choices across all market places. We, the consumer want and expect to be able to make an informed choice, and the internet provides that very well curreently, but if on the go inforamtion is to progress, access to reviews and price comparison is necessary on the move. Personalised mobile communications  and viewing information on a mobile device will speed up the lag time between researching a product online and entering the store to review and purchase. Why cant we pop to the nearest wi-fi zone and review the product instantly, before nipping back to purchase that laptop or flat screen TV.

Wouldn’t that make life much easier and much more integrated, online and on-street needn’t be divided, perhaps in 2008 they will unite and make shopping easier… what do you think?