Despite difficult economic conditions and the events of
September 11, worldwide on-line holiday shopping sales are
projected to reach $25.3 billion this year, a 39% increase over
last year, according to US-based researchers Gartner.
"The increase in on-line holiday shopping sales will be driven
by increases in on-line users, buyers, and most importantly, the
experience level of on-line buyers, which our research indicates is
the single most important predictor of online spending," said Mike
Cruz, a Gartner analyst.
Of the total on-line holiday sales, 53% or $13.4 billion, will
be made outside of North America compared to 50% last year. While
North America will continue to lead all regions in on-line holiday
sales, the other regions are showing stronger growth rates.
"In 1999, many consumers were disappointed
with the operational and customer service performance of on-line
vendors. The result was that over half of those who bought gifts
on-line in 1999 stayed away from holiday buying on-line in 2000,"
said David Schehr, research director for Gartner. "Satisfaction was
much higher in 2000, with three-quarters of buyers saying they were
very satisfied with their experience. This means there will be less
attrition from those who bought on-line last year, and those
returning this year are likely to increase their spending
levels."
