A recent report reveals seven critical factors that online merchants should consider to optimize their sales and operations for American consumers this holiday season. The study underscores the dominance of online marketplaces and the shopping behaviors of U.S. consumers. Amazon leads the pack, with 92% of U.S. shoppers purchasing from the platform.
Walmart (68%), eBay (47%), Temu (32%), Etsy (28%), and Shein (21%) follow. A significant majority, 61%, of American shoppers buy online at least once a week. Popular items include clothing and footwear (63%), consumer electronics (33%), and health supplements (30%).
Delivery options play a crucial role in purchasing decisions, with 94% of shoppers saying it influences where they buy. Moreover, 45% of consumers abandon their shopping carts if their preferred delivery option isn’t available. Interestingly, 75% of consumers prioritize free shipping over fast shipping, and 57% focus on free shipping even more than price.
Forty-three percent of Americans have an online shopping subscription, with pet food subscriptions notably popular. Social media also plays a significant role, where 61% of shoppers seek inspiration, and 26% have made purchases directly from social platforms. Thirty-seven percent of Americans buy from international online retailers, with 70% making purchases at least once a month.
Optimizing holiday sales strategies
Around 49% of these international shoppers primarily buy from China, followed by the U.K., France, Canada, and Germany. Despite 58% of shoppers valuing sustainability, they are not necessarily willing to pay more for sustainable delivery options.
The ongoing port worker strike on Canada’s west coast, particularly affecting the ports of Prince Rupert and Fraser-Surrey, could cost Canada $765 million a day in lost trade. The strike primarily impacts container and general cargo operations, although grain vessels and cruise ships remain unaffected. The disruption is also causing ripples through neighboring U.S. ports, which are scrambling to accommodate the diverted cargo.
In other industry news, Mode Global has acquired Jillamy, a third-party logistics (3PL) firm, expanding its national footprint. This acquisition will add over 200 employees and facilities across various states and Ontario, enhancing Mode Global’s logistics and freight management capabilities. The Clorox Co.
is partnering with Manufacture 2030 to advance its net-zero emissions goal by 2050. This initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions throughout its supply chain by collecting emissions data and coordinating reduction efforts with its suppliers. Everstream Analytics introduced a new product to quantify the impact of climate risk on supply chains, offering forward-looking projections on various climate indicators.
This tool aids organizations in integrating climate risk forecasts into their decision-making processes up to the year 2100. These insights and updates offer a comprehensive overview of the shifting landscape in online shopping, logistics, and sustainability efforts.
