The e-tailing group’s Omnichannel Consumer Insights, 1st Annual Survey, provides a “consumer-facing evaluation” of the shopping experience. According to this survey, 84% percent of shoppers surveyed strongly/somewhat agree that they enjoy the efficiency of shopping online combined with the touch and feel of the retail store. In addition, most shoppers identify themselves as multi-channel, with 38% using a combination of channels to complete their shopping.
However, according to Lauren Freedman, President of the e-tailing group, omnichannel represents an opportunity which has not yet been fulfilled. She states that, “significant gaps exist between what shoppers expect and what retailers are currently delivering.”
This survey, done in cooperation with B2C Partners, highlights the expectations of shoppers for consistency across channels:
-When it comes to price parity, 91% of respondents believe that product pricing should be consistent.
-86% would like to see consistent free shipping across channels.
-Assortment consistency is desired by 74% of shoppers.
Among the in-store mobile technologies considered very/somewhat valuable by consumers
-Technology that assists shoppers in finding the exact location of a product within the physical store (aisles/maps may be accessible on your mobile phone).
-Notification via mobile phone that an item in your cart is available/in-stock when you arrive at the store.
-Mobile devices for check out to avoid waiting in line.
The research includes statistics on in-store mobile technologies desired by shoppers include and compares the technologies preferred by shoppers with what is actually offered by retailers. The gaps in retail performance are highlighted.
The article concludes with an Omnichannel Clout Checklist. Some of the recommendations for retailers:
-Consistency should be a strategic initiative, particularly around price.
-Provide adjustments to cross-channel customer experiences in order to provide a faster and more productive shopping experience.
Emphasize the role of the store, and play up its advantages as shoppers use all shopping channels
Embrace both the self-service shopper and those customers who desire assistance.
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