With Christmas around the corner, research from SLI Systems has revealed some top consumer online searches that retailers need to take note of as they prepare their sites and inventories for the holiday buying frenzy.
The SLI Holiday E-Retail Index reviews the most popular site search terms and phrases from global online retail sites across a range of categories, including apparel, jewellery, consumer electronics, cosmetics and kids toys.
“Consumers begin purchasing Christmas gifts earlier and earlier each year,” said Thierry Costa, vice president of marketing for SLI Systems.
“Our proprietary site search data provides unprecedented insight into which items consumers are looking for this season and how they’re conducting their searches. We believe that sharing this data will help retailers better manage their inventories in the lead up to Christmas and ensure they’re providing a compelling shopping experience that more effectively converts browsers to buyers.”
The index indicated that the most popular shopping category in October was jewellery with many focused on purchasing traditional items such as diamond stud rings and men’s watches.
To follow, online shoppers are looking for chemical-free and skin purifying cosmetics in the pharmacy and cosmetics categories. They are also searching kids toys and apparel under brand names such as Lego, Barbie, Nerf and Super Soaker.
In the area of consumer electronics, there’s a trail for new computers and laptops from brands including HP, Panasonic and Toshiba. Locally, shoppers are also keen on anything Apple with iPods and iPhones ranking the highest.
Additionally, selling on a global stage, men and women are seeking the best in hoodies, cardigan sweaters and winter boots in preparation for the cool weather overseas. In particular, women are actively seeking out Maxi dresses, while men want the hottest looks in leather jackets.