Consumer behaviour in online shopping 2025

Written on September 12, 2024. Posted in Ecommerce.

Online shopping is part of everyday life and people are buying online everything from groceries to home appliances. But how exactly is consumer behaviour in online shopping changing? Let’s dig into what’s happening this year and why it’s important for your business.

Is consumer behaviour in online shopping different than in-store?

Consumer behaviour in online shopping is different from in-store shopping in several ways.

Online shoppers prioritize convenience and speed, often purchasing from the comfort of their homes. They tend to spend more time researching, comparing prices, and reading reviews before deciding. The ease of access to multiple websites also means price sensitivity is higher online, with consumers always looking for the best deals and discounts.

In contrast, in-store shoppers value the tactile experience. They can see, touch, and try products before buying, often leading to more immediate decisions. Impulse buying is more common in physical stores, thanks to strategic product placements and in-store promotions. Trust is less of an issue in stores since shoppers can interact directly with products and staff.

Consumer behaviour in online shopping

Let’s see how consumers behave during their online shopping and what you, as an ecommerce owner, can expect in 2025.

Smarter and pickier than ever

Hey, it’s 2025! Today’s shoppers know what they want. Consumers are more informed and selective than ever. They read reviews, and compare prices, and they won’t hesitate to leave your site if something’s off.

Your website needs to be quick, easy to use, and straightforward. If it’s slow or clunky, people will bounce—and fast. Make sure your site is awesome so customers stick around. Take a look at these 5 quick ecommerce tips.

Choosing DTC over marketplaces

Online marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, eBay, and Etsy are still huge drivers of ecommerce. They offer convenience, fast delivery, and the comfort of familiar platforms. According to Shopify’s Consumer Trends report, over half of online shoppers prefer buying directly from a brand’s website when given the choice. This is particularly popular among younger demographics, who value transparency, personalized experiences, and a direct connection with brands.

While Amazon remains a dominant force in ecommerce, the growing preference for DTC channels underscores the importance for brands to invest in their own digital storefronts. By doing so, they can build stronger customer relationships and maintain greater control over their brand narrative. Why stick to only one channel?

👉 Time to go DTC and build your own store? Book a free consultation.

Sustainable shopping is a big deal

One major shift in consumer behaviour in online shopping for 2025 is the growing focus on ethics and sustainability. Shoppers are increasingly concerned about the impact of their purchases. They’re not just looking for the best price. Now, they want to buy from brands that reflect their values.

If your business isn’t clear about how products are sourced, who’s making them, or what the environmental impact is, you could lose out. On the flip side, showcasing your commitment to responsible practices can attract loyal customers who care about more than just the bottom line.

Mobile shopping rules

It’s no surprise that mobile shopping is huge in 2025. With smartphones always within reach, people are shopping anytime, anywhere. More and more purchases are happening on mobile devices.

If your site isn’t optimized for mobile, you’re likely missing out. A responsive, mobile-friendly website is very important. Make sure your site loads quickly and looks great on smaller screens to keep customers engaged.

Good speed is the new norm

Consumers expect everything to be fast (loading times AND delivery). They want their purchases in hand as quickly as possible.

Same-day and next-day delivery options have set new standards, and anything slower could lead to lost sales. If your shipping process is slow, it’s time to step up your game. Customers won’t wait around.

The trust and transparency factor

Shoppers want to know they’re buying from a brand they can rely on. Clear return policies, honest customer reviews, and straightforward communication are all key to building that trust. And it makes sense.

Online shopping comes with risk, from the customer’s perspective. Shoppers can’t touch the product, ask questions, or speak to anyone face to face. So they look for signals that make them feel safe.

Make it easy for customers to reach out with questions or concerns, and be upfront about everything. Trust is what turns one-time buyers into repeat customers.

Data is your best friend

In ecommerce, consumer behavior can change in a flash. That’s why you need to use data. It’s not about guessing what works, it’s about knowing. Use heatmaps and traffic data to get insights into how customers interact with your site. Maybe they’re dropping off because a page is slow or your mobile layout isn’t clicking with them. Data keeps you agile, and in 2025, agile wins.

The bottom line – keep up or get left behind

In 2025, consumer expectations are rising fast. Shoppers are more informed, demanding, and conscious of their choices. They want a nice shopping experience that aligns with their values and delivers quickly. If you’re ready to meet the new standards in ecommerce, let’s talk about how to position your brand for success. Contact us!