Srinagar, April 30 :The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way people shop, with more people now buying things online.
In a recent survey conducted, 74.5 percent of the 50 respondents said they preferred to shop online instead of visiting stores, especially as Eid special discounts start.
Holiday promotions can be seen everywhere as the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, encouraging shoppers to avail the discounts. According to the survey, the number one reason why people prefer online shopping is its convenience, followed by no crowds and third is no sales pressure and easy payment.
Fashion-related products topped the list of the most popular online shopping category, followed by footwear and electronics and furniture.
Meanwhile, an online entrepreneur said that female consumers are more likely to purchase everything including household goods, dress materials etc except male folk consumers who are more likely to purchase electronic products.
”Online shopping intention is influenced by the shoppers attitude and belief that it would enhance the effectiveness of their shopping, opinion about the use of online shopping by friends, colleagues, and other influencers, the consumers’ perception of the availability of necessary resources and opportunities to shop online, the usefulness it brings, and trust in the retail website or online shopping platform,” she explained.
She said consumers were motivated to shop online as it offers convenience.
“It offers convenience, opportunities to compare prices, saves time. There is better potential for reading product reviews before making a purchase, and one can avoid crowded places.”
Nazir Ahmad Banker by profession said he prefers in-store shopping over online shopping. “Call me an old type of person but I am more inclined to traditional shopping, I would like to see and feel the material of any product that I want to purchase, especially clothes and shoes.”
He added, “When we shop online, there is a certain level of unpredictability and anticipation — from not being sure when one will receive the package to tracking the order, and waiting for it to arrive. This is just simple event of anticipation and delayed gratification.”
Suhail, who has been hopping online for four years, said, “It saves time and you can do it anywhere. You don’t need to wait and pay. With a click I can check out easily and avoid the crowds of in-store shopping.”
The survey also showed that 90 percent participants used their mobile phone for online shopping while 10 percent said they used a computer.
