Where Consumers Prefer Shopping

Info
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Source: NP Digital
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Date: May 2025
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Category: Ecomm & User Behavior
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Study Methodology: NP Digital survey of 1,204 global consumers on shopping preferences across retail channels.
Essential Statistics
- Online marketplaces lead at 24% preference.
- Big box retail follows at 21%.
- Brand websites represent 18% of consumer preference.
- Social shopping accounts for 11%.
- Local boutiques represent 10%.
- Specialty stores earn 6%.
- Secondhand platforms and subscription boxes each hold 3%.
- Another 3% report no preference.
Key Takeaways
- Online marketplaces dominate due to convenience and trust.
- Retail preferences remain diverse, consumers don’t shop in one place.
- Social shopping is rising, but still secondary to traditional ecommerce.
- Local and boutique stores remain relevant through experience and uniqueness.
- Brands should adapt to consumer habits instead of trying to redirect them.
Actionable Insights
Sell Where Demand Already Exists
Expand listings into marketplaces to capture ready-to-buy traffic.
Strengthen Brand Website Experience
Improve UX and transparency to increase direct-site preference.
Leverage Social Commerce
Streamline checkout on platforms like TikTok Shops.
Support Offline Partners
Give boutiques and specialty stores unique SKUs or incentives.
Optimize for Omnichannel
Make sure shoppers can move seamlessly between online and offline touchpoints.