According to the latest survey from PayPal, almost half of Canadians will forego “mall mayhem” and do their holiday shopping by mobile device. The survey stats are small and were conducted by market research firm Pollara between November 11- 14th of 1503 Canadians (including 987 smartphone/tablet users).
Apparently 48% of respondents say that shopping from their mobile device (smartphone or tablet) “is a better option than shopping in store during the busy holiday season.” The main reason for those to shift to mobile shopping is to avoid long lines (68%), and the flexibility to shop when and where they want (55%). Fifty-two percent plan to purchase a gift while watching TV, while 38% will buy something while in bed.
PayPal also notes that Canadians will spend $243 on buying gifts from their smartphones or tablets. The survey also revealed that ‘showrooming’ will be big this year, with 52% of Canadians expecting to use their mobile device to research products to find the best prices.
If $243 is this year magic number, it’ll be very interesting to see next years stats. The rise of mobile commerce, specifically with the carriers bringing mobile payments to the forefront, will increase the adoption rate and make Canadians feel a bit more comfortable in transferring money by a mobile device. Rogers, TELUS and Bell have all taken first steps that will allow Canadians to pay with their mobile phone or tablet. Other companies like Square — who has recently processed over $100 million in mobile transactions — have also increased their presence in Canada.
Source: CNW
