The popularity of online shopping has sky-rocketed over recent years, with companies like Amazon and eBay listing millions of items. However, with this rise in online shopping we have seen a decline in the performance of high street and independent stores.
It’s easy to see why so many people rely on online shopping. Firstly, it’s quick, easy and done in the comfort of your home without having to withstand inconvenient queues. Many clothing shops offer more range online than in store and it is often more practical when comparing prices. Items also tend to be cheaper online as there is no need for operating costs like rent, employee wages and heating.
These advantages make it very difficult for many local shops to compete with online shopping, but does this mean it’s the end of the local store? Or is there a way that the high street can adapt to these changes and continue to supply the sense of community they provide?
I reached out to Alice Milner, the manager of Bumbles, a high street gift shop in Ashtead, Surrey. The shop has been open since October 2016 under new management, though the original Bumbles shop has been in the village for over 20 years. They have offered their merchandise online for around two years, ranging from fashion to wellbeing products. I asked about the decision to start selling online, to which she replied that ‘online shopping is the future, as much as we love having our store we need to go with the times’ and that having a website offers ‘more avenues to gain revenue’. The website has also been beneficial for the store allowing more frequent sales. Lastly, Alice wrote that ‘all shops need an online presence if they have a high street store’ as it’s ‘the way forward and can only be positive to your business’.
Overall, it’s important to understand that times are changing. Online shopping comes with immense benefits, like practicality and affordable prices, although it’s important to support your local stores.
