Click-and-collect demand soaring in UK

The insatiable demand for clicky-convenience is nurturing a burgeoning market in the UK.

Recent data from Econsultancy highlighted the UK markets thirst for click-and-collect services among internet users – with around 45% of UK respondents admitting to use such a service.

Retailers have been scrambling to cash in on the click-and-collect craze, with brands launching services across the country. London’s underground is being used as a key battle-ground for connecting consumers to convenience, with Asda piloting a scheme for London’s busy commuters.

Argos is extending its current tie-up with online marketplace eBay to enable online shoppers to pick up goods at 650 stores. By the end of this year, about 65,000 eBay sellers are expected to offer items for collection at Argos, rising to 80,000 in 2015.

Tanya Lawler, the UK vice-president of eBay, said: “Retail has changed and shoppers are in the driving seat like never before. They want to shop any time, anywhere, on any device, and British shoppers love to click and collect.”

As the market expands and convenience puts consumers even closer at the centre of the shopping experience, brands must make themselves known to the new arena.