Something old, something new

Article Abstract:

There have been shifts in opinion on the relative advantages of newcomers and traditional retailers in electronic commerce. Newcomers were initially seen as more effective, then traditional retailers started to have more success with their online ventures, while new online retailers have failed to make profits, though new online retailers have tended to predominate in terms of numbers of the top sites. Traditional retailers may fear cannibalizing markets. A combination of online and offline activities could be a major development for the future.

author: Peet, John

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

CAPTCHA

Over the counter e-commerce

Article Abstract:

Ways that companies can mix traditional retailing with teleshopping are examined in detail, with an example, Seven-Eleven. The future of electronic commerce is also assessed.

GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORES, Retail stores

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

CAPTCHA

Frictions in cyberspace

Article Abstract:

There have been claims that the advent of the Internet could herald a move toward perfect competition, with a reduction in profit margins, yet this has not been the case, in that price dispersion occurs among Internet retilers. This could imply market inefficiency. Dispersion is not a result of different products being compared, since it occurs with physically identical products. Convenience may explain part of the price differences, since there are costs involved in searching and switching from one online retailer to another. Consumers may also prefer to buy goods at sites they have faith in, so they can be sure of delivery.

Competition (Economics)

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

CAPTCHA


subjects list: Economic aspects, Internet, Retail industry, Retail trade, Electronic commerce, E-commerce, Home shopping, Online shopping
This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.