Shopping around the web
Article Abstract:
Online shopping accounted for 1% of US retail spending at Christmas 1999 and is important in a narrow range of goods, such as books, music and toys. Business-to-business transactions dominate electronic commerce, but retail sales are growing rapidly. This development could take off once critical mass has been achieved, and traditional retailers have not always been able to compete well online, so they are concerned. There are similarities with catalog shopping, which has allowed catalog companies to compete well in this market. Internet shopping is likely to grow, and will affect pricing.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 2000
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Define and sell
Article Abstract:
Electronic commerce involves transactions over the internet, though the internet can influence sales, for example as a source of information on what products to buy. Business-to-business accounts for most electronic commerce, especially links between suppliers and large companies. Consumer-related transactions may be between consumers, or consumers and businesses, either consumers buying from businesses, or businesses seeking to sell to consumers. Technological change means the possiblities are in flux, and one factor that will help e-commerce develop is the introduction of more secure systems of payment.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 2000
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Something old, something new
Article Abstract:
There have been shifts in opinion on the relative advantages of newcomers and traditional retailers in electronic commerce. Newcomers were initially seen as more effective, then traditional retailers started to have more success with their online ventures, while new online retailers have failed to make profits, though new online retailers have tended to predominate in terms of numbers of the top sites. Traditional retailers may fear cannibalizing markets. A combination of online and offline activities could be a major development for the future.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 2000
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