For many consumers, online shopping is one way to make purchases faster, easier, and more convenient, yet another side may argue that in-person shopping is similar and there is less risk when purchasing inside a store. Since the pandemic, in early 2020, online consumerism has increased by at least 43% just in that year, and this shopping has just stuck with us. It could also be related to an increase in small business around the world, many take place online or only can be sold online. So here at LHS, it’s best to find out what students and staff think about the different alternatives to shopping.
“I prefer in-person shopping, because I’m able to try stuff on and actually know if it fits me or not. I mean with online you get the risk of getting a scam, but with in-person you have to wait in long lines,” responded Emma Nienaber.
As known, when shopping in-person you are able to evaluate what you are buying at the time. Meaning the risk of having wrong sizes, or a wrong product is prevented by being able to observe the item. Although there are benefits, online has a more convenient way of getting to all consumers around the world at various hours of the day.
When asked “which do you prefer?” Lorri Sceroeder LHS staff, replied with,
“Online, it is easy. I can do it anytime of the day or night and I don’t have to go out in the cold. I like the fact, the convenience for one, and you can browse, and you can compare prices. I always worry about putting my information in, you know, credit cards, but with Apple Pay and Venmo, I feel a little better.”
In short, it all depends on the consumer. They both can have pros and cons, but ultimately may be beneficial for whoever is deciding to purchase in-person or online. In-person seems like a better alternative for quick purchase and receipt, as online is better for those too busy to be able to head to a store. As we get older, who knows what will happen or what will we transition to; it is best to accept the development and grow aware of the evolution that we are experiencing through our shopping choices.
