According to Experian Hitwise, December 6 and ‘Cyber Monday’ December 7 were the joint busiest days for online retailers so far this year; a week later than last year’s pre-Christmas peak
By Jennifer Denby
The results suggest that customers are leaving Christmas shopping later this year to hold out for bargains.
Robin Goad, Research Director at Experian Hitwise said: “This year, the pre-Christmas online shopping peak moved a week closer to Christmas - over the last couple of years it has been the last Sunday in November rather than the first Sunday or Monday in December. Bargain hunting will have almost certainly played a role, with many consumers leaving it later to order in the hope of finding better deals.
“Many consumers spend time browsing and comparing products and prices on the Sunday, before making their actual purchases on Cyber Monday itself.”
Reputable retailers with a strong presence, namely Amazon UK, followed closely by Marks and Spencer, John Lewis and Littlewoods, saw an increase in visitors compared to last year.
“The popularity of established names and stores with a high street presence the closer we get to Christmas clearly illustrates a preference for multiple delivery and dispatch options. For retailers to win trust at this time of year they must provide customers with both flexibility and security in this area” Goad added.
Edited by Chris Farnell