• 60% are prepared to pay more for products that make life easier
• Almost half (48%) of online shoppers in Wales regularly purchase clothes online
• Compared to UK online shoppers in general, shoppers living in Wales are more likely to make purchases via a mobile device

Shoppers in Wales spend on average £99 per month (excluding groceries); with £74 of monthly spend occurring online, according to a study commissioned by Royal Mail. Compared to the UK average of £112 per month in total and £89 for online, spend in Wales is lower. The study also found that shoppers in Wales typically purchase items online twice a month.

When it comes to recommendations, 86% of online shoppers living in Wales refer to the internet before making a purchase. Six in ten (60%) are prepared to pay more for products that make life easier and 27% of online shoppers in Wales now pay for delivery subscriptions.

Almost half (48%) of online shoppers in Wales regularly purchase clothes online, 29% purchase footwear, 21% toiletries & make-up and 8% shop online for second-hand items. Trainers are the most popular clothing item to purchase (34%), followed by t-shirts & vests (28%) and polo shirts (25%).

Compared to UK online shoppers in general, those living in Wales are more likely to make purchases via a mobile device. 36% of online shoppers in Wales shop via their smartphone and 32% on their tablet, compared to 28% and 25% in the UK, respectively. Over half (54%) of online shoppers in Wales make purchases via their laptop, compared to 58% in the UK.

Almost half (44%) of online shoppers in Wales feel the need to check social networking sites on a daily basis and three in ten (30%) said they constantly look to see if they have a message or email on their mobile phone.

A spokesperson for Royal Mail Parcels said “Shoppers in Wales are regularly purchasing goods online – especially clothes. It’s important for retailers to understand the distinct shopping habits of consumers in different regions and countries in the UK. For Welsh residents, the internet is key for making decisions when it comes to shopping and they are increasingly looking for services that make life easier.”

Source: Royal Mail