Melbourne, Australia, 2017-Aug-16 — /EPR Retail News/ — With Christmas 2017 fast approaching, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) are proud to release the findings from the #StateOfXmas 2016 report. The ARA have partnered with Temando to discover how retailers are tapping into the benefits of shipping and fulfilment technology to excel over the Christmas trading period.
The #StateOfXmas report produced a number of findings. One key message from the report identified how a lack of innovation and unavailability of in-demand shipping options currently cause friction in the online shopper’s journey, which severely impacts the performance of Australian retailers over the festive season.
With sales in the 2016 Christmas period declining 0.1 percent against a forecast rise of 0.3 percent, #StateOfXmas comes just in time for the 2017 holidays.
ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmerman said the report highlights an opportunity for retailers to embrace change, especially in the face of increasing online competition locally and abroad.
“Traditional systems and out-dated processes are crippling many retailers – preventing them from providing seamless end-to-end shopping experiences to the multitude of consumers in a cost-effective manner,” Mr Zimmerman said.
“As Christmas is the biggest trading period of the year, it is important that retailers re-think their shipping and fulfillment strategies to give them a competitive edge.”
The #StateOfXmas report found that despite consistently high demand from shoppers, a lack of variety in shipping options is leading to an increase in cart abandonment. However, retailers who succeeded in improving their shipping and fulfillment processes enjoyed a range of benefits including better customer satisfaction, operational efficiency and conversions.
Temando’s Vice President of Marketing, Hamish Grant said those retailers who improved their shipping and fulfilment practices will reap the rewards from the 2017 Christmas trading period.
“Last-minute shoppers need to know that their holiday orders will arrive in time, but only 2 percent of retailers provided extended after-hours or weekend delivery over this period,” Mr Grant said.
“Standard cut off times are already limiting Christmas transactions, so retailers focused on capitalising on this season must offer quick, easy and fast shipping options that work for every type of shopper.”
Mr Zimmerman echoed Mr Grant’s comments and said the #StateOfXmas results speak for themselves.
“Retailers will enhance their profit margins when they improve their shipping and fulfilment practices. These wins will not only extend customer lifetime value, they’re absolutely essential for survival,” Mr Zimmerman said.
To download a copy of the #StateOfXmas report please click here.
About the Australian Retailers Association:
Founded in 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is the retail industry’s peak representative body representing Australia’s $310 billion sector, which employs more than 1.2 million people. The ARA works to ensure retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 7,000 independent and national retail members throughout Australia. For more information, visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.
For interview opportunities with ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmermancall the ARA Media Line on 0439 612 556, or emailmedia@retail.org.au
Source: Australian Retailers Association (ARA)