Online FMCG shopping: Top factors that influence purchase decisions
As more consumers go online to shop for groceries, e-commerce is emerging as a crucial channel for FMCG sales. We conducted a survey to understand how consumers in the US shop for FMCG products online to find out how brands and retailers can better deliver on the expectations of evolved, digitally-savvy consumers. Here’s what we found:
Cost savings key factor in driving online sales
Low prices, discounts, and free shipping are the reigning factors influencing consumers to shop online. In fact, a majority of our respondents claimed that they were more likely to purchase a product online if it’s cheaper than at a regular store.
While price plays a pivotal role in consumers’ purchase decisions, competing solely on price is not a sustainable option for brands and retailers. Thankfully, there are other areas they can compete on that are also highly important in the online path-to-purchase. Our study revealed that, other than low prices, consumers also value factors such as product content, ease-of-use, convenience services, and availability of their preferred brands.
Consumers expect detailed product information
As much as FMCG consumers enjoy the comfort of shopping online, they miss using their sensory abilities to touch and feel products. So it’s no surprise that shoppers regard product information highly when it comes to making online purchases. They expect product pages to include detailed and accurate information and with high-
Nutritional information is another key aspect where both FMCG brands and e-tailers need to share the onus of ensuring 100% accuracy as it plays a vital role in winning the trust of the online shopper.
Additionally, our respondents pointed out product reviews and ratings to be an important aspect of product information they seek.
Based on Netscribes study What online FMCG consumers want : 2019 US Consumer Survey
To know more about the findings of our survey, download the report What online FMCG consumers want? 2019 US Consumer Survey.
As FMCG sales shift online, understanding evolving consumer behavior and preferences will be crucial for capitalizing on the e-commerce opportunity. Netscribes supports FMCG brands and retailers with holistic consumer and market insights and develops rich product content to help them win online. To request a consultation, write to us at info@netscribes.com
