Consumers expected to spend £320m online as Cyber Monday hits
Today has been dubbed ‘Cyber Monday’, with consumers expected to spend £320m online, and estimates of 115 million visits to online retail sites.
Experian has suggested that since the leap year means that Cyber Monday falls earlier than usual, the second and third Mondays in December will perform “significantly” better than last year.
Last Cyber Monday, Rakuten’s Play.com found a 43 per cent increase from the previous day, with almost two thirds of the new spikes coming from new customers.
Adam Stewart, marketing director at Rakuten’s Play.com, said: “Cyber Monday has landed in the UK and is here to stay, as December sets in and shoppers begin buying Christmas presents in earnest.
“This US export is a fantastic opportunity to engage with online shoppers and retailers should take it with both hands, whether that means offering a special deal, free delivery or just ensuring that shoppers can find the top sellers on your site. Retailers and merchants can host Cyber Monday with a British twist and make it successful by understanding their customers shopping habits and offering a great, personalised online experience.”
The IMRG has predicted that UK online sales made through a mobile device could reach £1 in every £5 by Christmas 2012.
Amazon managing director Chris North said: “Monday 3 December could be the busiest day in the history of Amazon.co.uk.
“As people increasingly shop on mobile devices and benefit from fast broadband at home, we’re seeing a move towards customers buying their Christmas gifts later in the evening when they are at home relaxing.”