WHAT ARE WE BUYING?
Virtual baskets don’t necessarily mirror physical ones. In fact, the relationship between the two is often an inverse one. So which categories have the most potential for digital success? Generally, stock-up categories like personal care and household products are prime selections for e-commerce inventory. As an example: 34% of UAE respondents say they intend to buy Shampoo / Conditioner online in the next six months, followed by toothpaste (33%) and cleaners (29%).
Consumers have more shopping choices than ever, and as channels proliferate, protecting and building store loyalty is no easy task. To keep customers coming back for more, understand what drives them to leave one store for another. Money makes the world go round so it’s no surprise that price is the top driver of store switching behavior—by a wide margin. In the UAE, 66% say price, followed by quality (57%) are store-switching motivators. Special promotions (54%) and cleanliness (45%) are drivers for half of respondents, while Convenience (42%), and selection/assortment (34%) are reasons for about one-third. Store staff is a factor for just over one-quarter (29%) of respondents.
While digital is here to stay, the majority of consumers will continue to shop for the bulk of their purchases in store—even If the channels they’re using are changing. Shoppers will use whatever format best suits their needs for convenience, choice and value. Therefore, it is critical that retailers and manufacturers leverage physical and digital assets to optimize the in-store experience.
