Why shoppers still buy in-store

Some shoppers like seeing the product in-store before buying online.

Brick-and-mortar stores will likely continue to thrive as 60% of shoppers say they like shopping in-store because they prefer to see and try products first. 

In its 2023 Asia Pacific Retail Flash Survey, CBRE found that 41% of shoppers shop in physical stores because the products are immediately available, whilst others visit stores to get help from salesperson (28%), access the overall in-store experience (28%), and see more variety (27%). 

“Although most retailers no longer view brick-and-mortar stores as their sole sales channel, shops can be redesigned and equipped to better facilitate online sales transactions,” the report read in part.

Read more: Most shoppers want to see products in-store before ordering online

CBRE recommended placing larger quantities and wider range of goods on display as well as setting up dedicated areas for trying on products. 

Meanwhile, consumers who prefer online shopping say there is more variety online (48%), better offers and promotional deals (46%), and easier price comparison (43%). 

Moreover, shoppers see more product information online (36%), whilst others already know the product and find no need to see or try it in-store (28%).