Go digital or die: Retailers finally embracing online shopping

We know that 87% of retailers are heading online on a weekly basis for work-related tasks. But what exactly are they doing, and how does the web help them run their business?

Here’s a breakdown of the numbers:

69% go online to order from their distributor or wholesaler. We hear time and time again that retailers love online ordering because it streamlines a time-consuming process, and it helps with inventory management.

67% go online to do their banking. Online banking saves time and allows retailers to choose when and where they do their banking. For busy retailers, this can be a great time-management tool.

60% go online to research new products and information. There’s a lot of information on the web, and retailers are taking their education into their own hands by heading online.

46% go online to communicate with their sales rep. Retailers and sales reps are busy, but steady communication is more important than ever. Email is a great way to stay in touch with your rep to ensure you’re not missing out on tips, deals and offers.

25% go online to engage in social media. Connecting with customers outside of the store is important, and many retailers are beginning to see the benefit to this type of social engagement.

21% go online for remote access to their store via laptop or smartphone. Technology affords many retailers the opportunity to check in on their stores when they’re not there. This is a great tool for single- or multi-site owners who can’t be in their store all the time.

16% go online to read and participate in industry forums and blogs. Other retailers represent one of the biggest learning opportunities, and going online to connect in a blog or forum is a smart way to build a community of like-minded individuals.