US electronics buyers get more satisfaction online

Most consumers prefer to research electronics online but buy in a store. US based Consumer Reports (similar to the UK's Which? magazine) surveyed 90,000 US consumers about their electronics buying preferences. The majority found shopping online more satisfying than visiting shops due to the wider choice and better prices. But most still go to a store to complete the purchase.

This survey reinforces the idea that most actual buying will remain on the high street. But it also highlights why retailers need excellent websites that provide all the answers researchers are looking for. Why is it better? What is the difference? How will it make MY life easier? If shoppers can't find the answers they want on your site then they'll keep looking and you may lose a customer.

Half of US web users will buy online this Christmas

A survey by Burst Media has found a dramatic increase in the percentage of US web users expecting to shop online this Christmas season - in 2006 37.6% bought online and this year 50.7% plan to buy something from the internet.

I wonder what are the equivalent figures for the UK?