A survey conducted by Actinic on 200 SMEs selling their products and services online, showed an increase in online sales. Despite the increase in sales, the e-tailers were finding some difficulties.
The increase in online sales was by 18% revenue in the second quarter, in the three months till end of September, 2010. Though an increase in sales was seen, the e-retailers are finding it difficult to cope with the highly competitive environment amidst the Christmas season. When compared to the last year, during the same period, it was found that, the total number of orders processed by every e-retailer, increased by 13%.
The average cart value increased by 4% to £76.81 in 2010, from £73.81 in third quarter of 2009.
In wake of decreased confidence among customers, this increase in orders online, is giving smiles to the online merchants, especially during the Christmas season. According to experts, this increased in orders may be due to increse in stock levels of products for niche markets, which is helping in reducing the time gap between the time of order and delivery.