'Brand Britain' a big draw for global online shoppers
Figures released by the British Retail Consortium and Google in the BRC-Google Online Retail Monitor show that total retail search volumes increased by 12% in the quarter compared with the same period a year earlier.
Search volumes on tablet devices outpaced those on any other device, rising by 100% compared with growth on smartphone devices of 58% and a 10% decline in search volumes on desktops.
The BRC said the data on category searches mirrored the strong sales performance of new technology releases, gadgets and games in recent months as consumers searched for the best deals online.
Searches from overseas shoppers saw a 16% rise from the previous quarter with clothing, beauty and department stores making up the top three search categories.
Helen Dickinson, BRC director general, said: "These figures highlight the strong foothold that UK retailers have on the international stage, and the major potential for further growth. The growth in global customers searching for UK retailers online is up by an impressive 23% on the previous year and shows how the quality, range and accompanying service offered by ‘Brand Britain' is something respected around the world.
"We're again seeing strong growth for searches on tablets and smartphones, showing that these are playing an increasingly integral role in the customer journey. Retailers are continuing to invest significantly in their multichannel offer, so that they can provide customers fast and user-friendly ways to browse and buy whether in-store, at home or on the move."
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