Of course, we all know that not every order will come with free shipping. Yet, online shoppers find limited reasons to pay for free shipping. Thus these online shopper reasons are instructive and can help retailers know when these fees are deemed acceptable among the online community. Simply wanting the product is highest on the list for 41% of respondents. 32% look at the cost of the order and, if palatable, will pull the trigger. Knowing they can’t meet the threshold in the cart was a factor for 26%. In the same vein, 19% paid for shipping when receiving a product discount greater than shipping. And let’s face it, with private label products, there may only be one choice for buying a product. Lastly, fast matters and 18% of those surveyed wanted same-day delivery.
Most of us seem to be on the same page: it can work—or not—depending on whether or not there is sufficient in-store staffing so as not to neglect in-store customers (yes, not everyone shops online…really!). I would think those retailers who “get it (staffing) right” are the same ones who get other retail issues “right”…and those who don’t are the same underperformers who will be the subject of future RW “how can they get back on track?” articles.