The option of online shopping was introduced recently in the past decade which came as a relief for all those time-starved moms, dads, and working people who just could not find time to get out. Though ordering everything online is very comfortable, as humans, we also desire some human interaction and maybe that is the reason why brick and mortar stores still exists even though almost everything is available online. So one might think during this holiday season, what would be the best way to conduct your shopping. Should you go to your local mall or should you shop online? Let us take a look at the pros and cons of both options in brief.
Availability of Brands
There are countless sites online which offer everything and anything under the sun so brands are available online. If you are a big fan of local products and brands then brick and mortar store is the place for you. Sometimes quality products are available at the local mall but unavailable online. Small companies that sell exclusive hand made products like soap, scented candles, lampshades which make great gifts may not be selling their product online yet. So visiting their store is the only option. Also new products cannot be tested online. If you are at the local store, a new product you can immediately touch, feel and smell it whereas online you cannot. Incase you have questions then the customer rep is nearby to answer those. This is however not possible online.
Payment options
The most preferred method is credit card or debit card payment. Though many boast that their websites are secure, there still exists a tiny possibility of your card details being captured. Local stores accept cash and other options as well. You cannot pay using cash online. Also cash on delivery option is available only for major selling sites like amazon.com.
beautiful young woman holding credit card with laptop. Christmas Shopping hours
An online shop is open 24/7 however a local store will rarely remain open all night except maybe a larger convenience store. So this puts restrictions on the shopping time decided by people. Those who find time at night will prefer online shopping. Online shops also facilitate emergency orders where products are delivered the next day incase you forget to buy gifts this holiday. There is no queue at the payment counter and time is saved.
Human Interaction
The fun part of shopping at a store is to check out who is buying what. Many a time people get great gift ideas watching other people buy products at the store. Some people are often confused about what to buy for their loved ones. A store is a great place to watch and ask people for their option. The true holiday spirit often reflects when one shops for their near and dear themselves whether it is online or through a brick and mortar store. It makes the time spent worthwhile
There are both pros and cons of online shopping and it depends on the types of lifestyle one leads to decide which is more preferable? People who have time will ultimately choose going to the local store while people who have a hectic schedule to keep during this holiday season will shop online. However with Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, it looks like online shopping has a slight edge. For myself I will be shopping online and then the last few days I like to go out into the hustle and bustle and get the holiday spirit going. How are you going to shop this Holiday Season? Online or through your local brick and mortar store?
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