From local shop to laptop: What on-line shopping means for New Zealand
As internet shopping becomes more popular, Kim Laubscher looks at the implications for New Zealand-based retail stores.
Contrary to the popular belief that women love nothing more than spending hours at the mall trying on clothes with their friends, many women are turning to the internet for faster, more convenient shopping.
New Zealand retailers have voiced concerns over the revenue lost to foreign-based shops. Retailers Association chief executive John Albertson is lobbying the government to put GST on items bought from overseas. He says international companies have an unfair advantage over local shops because their products are tax free. Online shoppers only have to pay GST if their total purchase comes to $400 or over including shipping costs.
However, the attraction of internet shopping goes beyond it being GST free. Victoria University Student, Kate Holland does 30% of her clothes shopping online. Her favourite websites are UK based stores Asos, Dorothy Perkins and TFNC London. She sais international shops have ‘unique pieces’ that you don’t find in New Zealand. It’s also easier to find specific items online because you don’t have to trawl through lots of different shops.
“Trying on clothes is not important to me as I know my size and generally what suits me,” Holland said.
To compete with international shops, she suggests New Zealand shops put more effort in to marketing. The New Zealand stores that get her business are the ones that send her updates on their ranges.
“I see things in adverts, websites, or in catalogues, and I decide I want that item and then generally go into their store. It’s just easier than constantly rummaging through racks of clothing.”
Another drawcard of online shopping is that it is open 24/7.
“It is an enjoyable thing to do at night when the shops are closed,” Holland said.
Hamilton resident Kelly Hunt suggested that longer opening hours would help New Zealand stores to be competitive.
“On my weekend I don’t want to be in a mall but many shops aren’t open outside of work hours.”
Hunt said that she liked that with online shopping she can get what she wants delivered to her door without having to worry about finding parking or the mall being too crowded.
She noted that some New Zealand businesses now offer their products online as well, giving customers “the best of both worlds.”
