Internet shopping becoming more popular with Czechs

2010-02-01

During 2009 Czech customers were found to be more cautious with spending and tended to shop around for cheaper and more practical goods, according to Tomas Richter, CEO of the Kasa.cz and Obchodni dum.cz holding. The holding has observed an increase in telephone orders, which can be interpreted as a success in encouraging less-experienced internet users to make their first online purchases.
Mr Richter expects that internet retail will experience further growth in 2010 at the expense of traditional stores. This will be largely attributable to the more favourable prices offered by internet stores (the holding plans to include cheaper brands in its product portfolio), however, in order to compete with traditional shops the holding intends to broaden the range of services offered customers. These new services will include the introduction of home delivery, assistance in unpacking the order, inspection of goods delivered as well as simplifying the online ordering process and making it more convenient for users.
In 2009 Czech customers made purchases less frequently and the average-order value fell compared to the previous year from CZK 5,250 (€202) in 2008 to CZK 5,150 (€199). However, demand for energy-efficient consumer electronics (i.e. those categorised as class A, A+ and A++ class) increased.