Consumer Shopping Tips

Samuel Mungadze

South African consumers are more confident and feel comfortable to shop online, a survey conducted in November last year shows.

The survey, conducted by PayU, a South African online and mobile payment service provider, revealed that 75% of the respondents actively participated in and recognised the important role that e-commerce would play in shaping the country’s future economy.

The survey feedback complemented Arthur Goldstuck and his team at World Wide Worx, whose 2011 research also showed a surge in online shopping.

World Wide Worx said online retail in South Africa ballooned in 2010, surpassing the R2bn mark, and is set to grow, with the industry consensus forecast pointing to 40% growth this year. Analysts said this would represent the highest rate of growth for online retail in almost a decade.

The survey said in the three months leading up to the festive season, 85% of the respondents also claimed to have shopped online.

Mark Chirnside, CEO of PayU in Middle East Africa, said the results were an indication of potential growth for online enterprises.

“We are excited about the future of online shopping in South Africa and believe that the potential for growth in this industry can be very promising for local businesses,” said Chirnside

He said that from the…………… continues on The New Age Online