Following recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), a marketing agency is warning retailers that a failure to move online is likely to put their business at risk in the future.
Purpose Media is a full-service marketing agency in Derbyshire, offering businesses support with building and maintaining websites, as well as help with their digital marketing efforts. After the ONS announced that high street retail sales have fallen for the fifth consecutive month – a new record – the marketing agency are warning that failure to adapt quickly and move online could leave businesses out in the cold.
The ONS claims that in every pound spent online, 10p goes to department stores with an online presence. In September 2021, online retail sales rose to 28.1% which is significantly higher than the 19.7% figure in February 2020 pre-pandemic.
Director of Economic Statistics for the ONS, Darren Morgan, has commented that stores with an online presence are leading the way: “Despite the lifting of restrictions, in-store retail sales remain subdued, with many consumers still opting to shop online.”
Purpose Media recently helped a number of Derbyshire businesses move online as part of the Chesterfield Digital High Street project.
Funded by Chesterfield Borough Council and delivered by East Midlands Chamber, local businesses can apply to set up a digital presence – supported by grants and expert advice – so they can increase their opportunities to trade online and get their brand noticed. Applications are still open and businesses in the Chesterfield borough area are encouraged to apply now.
Matt Wheatcroft, Managing Director at Purpose Media, said: “Consumers have become heavily reliant on online shopping over the past 18 months and it’s not surprising to see the high street is in a period of continuous decline, especially given the logistical issues currently gripping the country.
“Many shoppers are still cautious about going to the high street, which is why businesses with an online presence are seeing the benefits as we come into a peak time for retail. Our agency has helped many business move online and I can only encourage others to do the same to protect themselves longer-term.
“This Christmas period is going to be make or break for so many high street businesses and those without an online presence face a battle to compete with online retailers who can deliver on convenience.”
