The most recent numbers released by the Census Bureau of the Department of Commerce show that retail e-commerce in the U.S. had a strong second quarter this year. On a not-adjusted basis, sales totaled $31.82 billion, which is equivalent to 3.1% of total retail sales for the quarter.
"The Department of Commerce data defy the expectations of a number of e-commerce analysts who believed the market would slow down considerably this year," said Jeffrey Grau, Senior Analyst at eMarketer.
The total for the second quarter of 2007 reflected a 20.7% jump from the same quarter in 2006.
After citing an accurate eMarketer projection in May, Grau also added that "The Internet's strength as a shopping channel offering convenience, good prices and wide selection continues to drive consumers to increase their online spending."
In terms of the best channel through which retailers can reach online users, the American Marketing Association’s "Mplanet" survey from December 2006 showed that TV advertising was the best medium to reach Internet users with information about new products and services.
The Internet and e-mail or e-newsletters also ranked high on the list, while billboards and social networking sites ranked low.
Source:
http://www.emarketer.com/Article.aspx?id=1005285
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