Various factors such as affordability, discounts and time efficiency are driving people towards online shopping. A recent survey conducted by AC Nielsen revealed that 81 per cent of people intend to shift to online shopping, particularly during the festive season. Many individuals have opined that online shopping is less time-consuming and requires less effort compared to traditional in-store purchases. Consequently, retailers in the city are concerned about the possibility of lower sales during the festive season due to the popularity of online shopping.

Commenting on the growing trend of online shopping, local resident Meena Gupta stated that the trend of online shopping has significantly increased among people since the Covid-19 pandemic. She personally has been engaging in online shopping during festive seasons for the past two years and plans to shop for Diwali related items through online platforms this year. The online platforms provide reasonable discounts compared to purchasing products in stores, she added. 

Another local resident Abha Gupta said "The prevalence of online shopping has seen a significant increase among individuals. In today's fast-paced society, people prioritise convenience and accessibility. Similarly, the affordability and time efficiency offered by online shopping have prompted me to make a shift towards this method. I intend to purchase essential items online instead of visiting physical stores" 

 Further, she emphasised that online shopping provides opportunities for discounts and offers, resulting in cost savings that are not typically achieved through traditional market shopping.

Electronics shop owner Ricky Kumar told this correspondent, “After the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, the sale of electronic products in the city market has notably declined, particularly during the festive season. The increasing popularity of online shopping among individuals has significantly impacted the sales of stores in the market. In the festive season, online platforms provide a substantial amount of sales and offers, which ultimately attracts people towards online shopping."

He further stated that even last year, the sales of electronic products during the festive season were low due to the dominance of online platform