A groundswell of support from consumers wanting to ‘buy local’ highlights an opportunity for Australian businesses to strengthen their online presence and offer new ways for people to access their products and services.
The nbn™ Behavioural Change Survey investigated how attitudes to, and engagement with, local business and e-commerce have changed as a result of COVID-19. Research conducted by Venture Insights and commissioned by NBN Co found that 49 per cent of respondents have increased online shopping during the COVID-19 crisis. Significantly, 70 per cent now consciously supported local businesses online and the same number would like to support more local businesses, but felt they had a limited online presence.
Developing a stronger online presence, adding innovation to product and service offerings and providing home delivery were selected as the top strategies local businesses could adopt to make it easier for people in their communities to support them. Consumers also valued regular communications from local businesses.
The survey highlights how consumers have increased their online activities during the COVID-19 crisis and have a desire to engage more with businesses online.
The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently conducted its own research that indicates many businesses are already adapting their operations and making the shift online.
James Pearson, Chief Executive Officer at the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry said: “Our recent national business conditions survey found that many businesses have adapted their operations to continue trading during the pandemic crisis, with almost a third expanding their online presence, and a quarter changing their mode of delivery or diversifying into new product lines and services.
“These new insights reinforce the importance of businesses developing a digital strategy and online presence. It’s certainly encouraging to hear that so many Australians are eager to support the local businesses in their community and this should provide even more incentive for businesses to meet that demand online.”
For more information on the nbn™ Behavioural Change Survey and to learn more on what NBN Co is doing to support Australian businesses through COVID-19, please visit: www.nbnco.com.au/campaigns/covid-19
