Online shopping in Kenya has grown as years pass; this is perhaps due to the fact that internet connectivity is growing at a faster rate or most people are bored by conventional shopping methods. Foreign Investors such as The African internet group (A.I.G) whose top brands in Kenya include Jumia and Kaymu have seized these opportunities and invested in the Kenyan market. Local brands are also not left behind; some of them e.g. mamamikes, Cheki e.t.c are well known country wide.
Getting to know the advantages or disadvantages of online shopping is an added knowledge to most shoppers before shopping online. Here are reasons why most consumers prefer online shopping to conventional shopping:
1. Better prices.
The price gap between online stores and conventional store is high. This is because most online stores get their products directly from the manufacturer and thus no middle men are involved eliminating additional charges incurred. Online stores also offer discounted prices regularly. Coupons and rebates are also offered to loyal customers.
2. Convenience.
Shopping during late hours? Online shopping gives you this opportunity. You can shop straight from the comfort of your bed. Also you get to avoid queues associated with conventional shopping.
3. Saves Time
Time is a hinder to most activities but not online shopping. With online shopping you can shop for your products in just a couple of minutes. Online shops are also opened 24/7 making it easy and secure for most of us who are busy working all day.
4. Too ashamed to buy
Ever wanted to buy anything out of the ordinary; could be undergarments, adult toys or lingerie. Online shopping gives you the much needed privacy to shop for such products.
5. Reviews
Reviews take online shopping to a higher level. The reviews of buyers on the seller’s service and goods will help other customers make informed decisions before Purchasing. Reviews are based on firsthand experience and express buyer’s satisfaction or dissatisfaction.
6. Save Energy and fuel
Not all of us live around or close to conventional shopping malls. The energy or fuel used to travel long distances to purchase products is saved when we opt to use online shops.
Disadvantages
1. No bargaining
Most of us who like shopping tend to bargain, but when it comes to online shopping pricing of most products is either fixed or requires you to buy more to get a discount.
2. Refunds
Have you ever bought something only to find it is not what you had in mind? Well, with online shopping refunds can be tedious since you have to ship back the item/items to the buyer. This can be a costly process depending on the policies of return the seller has in place.
3. Shipping/Delivery costs
Shipping charges are charges paid for transport of the bought products from the seller to the buyer. Most online shops will have different prices depending on your location or accessibility to your location.
With online shopping the advantages or disadvantages might be there. For you to be in a better position you should discover better ways to shop online with less hassle. Before buying a product research more about the seller, you can do this by checking other customer reviews or on social media.Labels: Business
