Will Brick-And-Mortar Survive This Holiday Season?

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(Newswire.net — September 9, 2019) — As the holiday season approaches, everyone has their eye on when and where to get the best deals for their gift shopping. What happens if customers can complete all of their purchases before they even leave the house? 

Offering almost anything from Esty to custom author sites, e-commerce has opened up a whole new world for both business owners and consumers alike. Is it even worth going to a physical location anymore? 

The Impact Of E-commerce

The change has already begun. There is a chance you have noticed plenty of stores closing in your area this year. According to Coresight Research, an estimated total of 12,000 stores will close by the end of 2019. 

E-commerce has affected more than just the way we shop; it has influenced fashion as well. Fast fashion is a term for “inexpensive clothing rapidly produced to follow current trends,” and it aims to be as fast as the internet. 

The Pros And Cons Of E-commerce

This form of shopping may not be suitable for everyone. Some shoppers feel more secure buying online from companies that they have already visited in person. Businesses that are solely online also have to gain a strong reputation before they can be successful and gain trust. Let us compare the highlights of online shopping:

Pros

  • Fast and convenient shopping experience

  • Can access from mobile devices or PC 

  • No hours of operation, available 24/7

  • Can carry a larger selection of products

  • Compare prices quickly and set up Wishlists

  • Lower cost compared to brick-and-mortar


Cons

  • Transactions are not as secure 

  • Packaging and delivery fees

  • Must wait on shipment to arrive, except same-day delivery

  • Limited customer service

  • Greater chance of customer dissatisfaction

The Pros And Cons Of Brick-and-Mortar

E-commerce could never replicate the experience of visiting a physical store, and some shoppers prefer that experience. Even web-based businesses like Amazon have opened locations to strengthen customer relations. Benefits of shopping in person include:

Pros

  • Offers the experience of browsing in person and testing out products 

  • Interacting and asking questions face-to-face with employees

  • Easier to establish a connection and trust with clients

  • The instant gratification of making your purchase and taking it home on the spot

Cons

  • Higher costs compared to online prices

  • Limited to opening hours 

  • Not as easy to compare prices from store-to-store

Is The Brick-and-Mortar Business Model Dead? 

Businesses that initially were physical chains are now cutting down on locations in exchange for a stronger online presence. This hybrid business model, also known as “click and mortar” or “bricks and clicks,” allows businesses to reap the benefits of both forms of commerce. 

As cost-efficient as online commerce is for businesses, it does not carry the same holiday cheer as traditional stores. Nothing will compare to the experience of shopping with our loved ones this holiday season.