The online/in-store answer for etailers

Ecommerce hubs are working hard to improve their websites to increase user engagement and revenue. But the best solution could be as simple as in-store pick-up. Some indicators point to pick-up being the key for future online shopping.

by Kristina Knight

Rather than waiting for an item ordered online to be shipped, many online shoppers prefer the in-store pick-up option. Many of these shoppers will actually visit several etailers to find in-store availability so that they can have the item as soon as possible. When in-store pick-up isn't available, for instance with online-only retailers, a new service from Shopatron can be used. The Shopatron platform helps etailers connect with brick-and-mortar stores in the consumer's area so that practically any item ordered online can be picked up within a few hours or a day.

This isn't the only advantage of the Shopatron platform, however. The platform also offers trending reports for the past day, past week or a few months so that etailers can determine what the hot sellers are and can adjust their own campaigns.

"Viewing those reports you can see the trend data in late October/November to see what will be hot for Christmas," said Ed Stevens, CEO of Shopatron. "This can help in tailoring campaigns for future campaigns and selling points."