Satya Kumar, a PR officer at National University of Study and Research in law (NUSRl) purchased his pets, camera and formal dresses from online shopping websites. He feels it is convenient to shop through internet as it saves time and offers discount on every purchase. He also shops accessories and stationary items for his wife through the same mode.
Similar is the case with Nawnil Jaiswal, a Senior Software Professional residing at Main Road. He rarely gets time from his office or home to go for shopping.
“We can find out the latest design of a gadget or dress or shoes on Internet at a discount rate. Also, small household items like screwdriver or wallet are easily available on such sites. The same rarely happens in malls or shops. I found my favourite dog breed while surfing a social networking. Immediately, I called up the customer care on the website and they delivered two puppies at my doorstep within a week,” Satya said.
The trend seem to increase this festive season as residents are often seen surfing their tablets, mobile phones or computer for weekend or Durga Puja offers available on Flipkart, Amazon, Jabong, ebay and Yepme.
“I often have to stay on tour wherein it is not possible to visit the nearest brand store for my dress materials or computer equipments. I purchase those through Flipkart or Amazon.com,” said Rajiv Ranjan, a resident of Birsa Chowk.
However, retailers who are suffering loss due to the online trend feel online shopping’ not a trustworthy concept.
“Online shopping is the easiest way to fool a consumer. They cannot guarantee that a product be it a pendrive or facewash is original. Anyone can supply duplicate items in original form,” said an employee of VlCC.
Big Bazaar staff confirmed that they are suffering a little loss almost everyday because of online shopping. “The loss is comparatively more in electronic goods,” said a staff.
Notably, sources maintain that the trend of online shopping has increased in the recent scenario due to payment through online banking, credit card or cash on delivery.
“Online payment has made shopping easier but I have seen people ordering and getting a wrong product on delivery. The process of exchange is time taking,” said Jayendra Pratap, a student of Indian Institute of Management, Ranchi.