December 16, 2008 – (HOSTSEARCH.COM) – Web host
1&1 Internet has conducted research that suggests that around 80% of online shoppers judge an online retailer’s reputation before making a purchase, it was reported recently. The research also suggested that consumers are now confident about using small online 'etailers' and most consumers “share shopping experiences via web reviews and recommendations”. According to the research, 9 out of 10 consumers read online reviews or recommendations before making a purchase and around 63% are willing to publish a review online.
1&1 Internet, recognized as “the world's largest web host by known servers”, engaged MaCorr Research to conduct the survey which took in “over 1000 North American consumers”. The research also suggested that 89% of those asked “intentionally stay away” from companies that receive “negative online reviews and postings”, with 66% actively buying elsewhere after reading negative reviews about a company.
"Consumers have clearly learned to do their homework before buying online,” explained 1&1 Internet Inc.’s CEO, Oliver Mauss. “It is significant that the average online shopper will now invest time in appraising a retailer's online reputation as an integral part of their buying decision."
Despite consumers’ growing trust in the Internet, over 75% suggest the most popular method of sharing online shopping experiences remains word-of-mouth. 70% of those asked believed they “receive the same standard of service online as they do 'over the counter’” while 49% are concerned about security, and 34% concerned about etailers’ speed of delivery.
"At a time of online advertising-overload, consumers clearly see great value in sharing their knowledge,” added Mr. Mauss. “This is perhaps contributing to their growing confidence to experiment with smaller online retailers. It is impressive that consumers are as keen to contribute as they are to consume market intelligence."
