U.S. “Nonstore” Sales Grew 14% In July Compared To The Previous Year
According to the U.S. Commerce Department, nonstore sales grew by more than 14% in July, (when compared to the same time last year) suggesting that e-commerce alone could have grown as much as 20%.
Note: “nonstore” sales mainly occur on the web; however, they also include declining retail sale methods such as mail and phone orders, as well as door-to-door sales.
This follows a positive growth in June, meaning that e-commerce sales are enjoying a healthy and upward trend, while store sales remain flat.
So, what’s this mean for you and your future sales?
Behaviors Are Shifting: Online Is Preferred
Over the course of the last couple of years, we’ve reported on data that clearly marks a trend toward an increase in online shopping. Years ago, shopping on the web was seen as something new and exciting. Then, it evolved into something extremely convenient. But today, people view it as the logical way to shop.
Of course, this isn’t the case for every niche or industry. People looking to buy clothes, for example, still prefer to try outfits on before they buy.
However, an overwhelming number of shoppers prefer to conduct a portion – if not majority – of their shopping online.
That includes holiday shopping.
The reasons for this vary, but include:
- Convenience, of course
- Greater inventory from which to choose
- The ability to find the best price
As a retailer or online advertiser, however, this means there is an incredible amount of competition out there.
What Can You Do To Stand Out As An Online Retailer?
That’s exactly the question we are committed to answering here at OperationROI. Of course, what it often comes down to is being able to reach the right customers at the right time with the right messaging.
That may seem like a complex science, and it is; however, we’re fortunate in 2016/2017 to have incredible access to the behaviors and actions of online consumers. Whether it’s the use of retargeting or nailing down those so-called micro-moments, there are ways to ensure that your advertising hits the mark each and every time, and does not fall on blind eyes and deaf ears.
What the latest news from the U.S. Commerce Department reminds us of is there is plenty of opportunities for you to reach motivated consumers willing and able to convert online. The magic is being able to find these consumers and convince them to convert with you.
So, How Do You Go About Making That Happen?
It starts, of course, with the data. Market and industry research is key, as is understanding the mindset and behaviors of your target audience. From there, you can begin to create the type of messaging (both in text and visuals) that speaks to your audience. However, it’s key to understand that each of your prospects ventures through a variety of mindsets over the course of his buyer’s journey.
For example, if you sell cameras, then your prospective customer will likely start out by finding out more about cameras. Should he buy a DSLR? Should he look into the exciting new mirrorless camera? At this juncture, he’s just getting to know the marketplace.
But as he moves through his journey, he’ll begin to compare and contrast brands and models. He’ll look at reviews, articles and more. Finally, once he believes his research is complete, he’ll make a conversion. Targeting your customers at only one point of this journey is simply not enough. You need to have a presence everywhere he goes online (which is why retargeting has become so popular).
OperationROI can help. We specialize in making online retailers connect with highly motivated customers to increase conversions and return on investment. We follow your customers throughout their journeys to help nurture a trusting and recognizable relationship between you and the folks you’re looking to convert. Learn more by calling us at 1-888-277-5429 or by filling out our contact form. To learn more about OperationROI, find us on DesignRush.
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