The coronavirus pandemic has prompted a major spike in online orders of sporting goods, hardware, software, toys and games according to new analysis from digital marketing business Bazaarvoice, which has analysed data from its global network of more than 6,200 brand and retailer websites.
Orders of sporting goods in March increased 86% year-on-year, as consumers look for ways to keep fit and exercise indoors, while orders in the food and beverage sector grew by 85%, as shoppers increasingly buy their groceries online.
There was also a significant increase in orders within computer hardware, up 65%, and software, up 61%, as people adapt to working from home.
Orders of toys and games also grew significantly, increasing by 60%, with online page views in this category up 90%, as parents seek out ways to entertain children stuck at home.
Meanwhile, there was a significant drop in orders within the luggage and bags category, which decreased by 39% against the backdrop of advice to avoid all non-essential travel.
Suzin Wold, SVP Marketing at Bazaarvoice, says: “Online retail has a hugely important role to play in helping people to adapt to the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. Our data shows that online retailers are playing a much larger role in the most fundamental aspects of our lives – including how we work, enjoy leisure time and feed our families. We believe the sector can step up by providing clear, accurate information that enables people to make informed decisions when buying products during these challenging times.”
