Most consumer products (69%) have the same price online and offline, according to a recent report from Anthem Marketing Solutions.
However, when there is a price difference between the two, 65% of the it's the time online channels that are cheaper than offline (in-store) channels, the study found.
The report was based on an analysis of the prices of commonly purchased consumer products across multiple categories, including personal care, books, electronics, entertainment, home improvement/household items, and office supplies.
Below, additional key findings from the report.
Average Savings
- When there is a difference, online prices are usually lower than in-store prices. However, on the increasingly rare occasions when the price is less in-store, it is often substantially lower (32% average savings in-store vs. 26% average online).
- For example, in the entertainment category, when a price difference was observed, there was just a 15% chance of finding the better deal in-store. But, in those situations, the average savings was 76%, suggesting it continues to pay to do price comparisons for certain categories.
Savings by Price Tier
The trend of general price parity, and an online advantage when there is a difference, was observed at all price levels:
Same-Store Comparisons
- 8 of the 12 retailers examined in the study offered more favorable pricing online than in-store.
- Prices for Walgreens, Best Buy, Target, Kmart, and CVS were lower online than in-store more than 70% of the time.
- Wal-Mart offered a nearly even split, with 47% of prices favoring offline and 53% favoring online.
About the research: The report was the seventh installment of a semi-annual study comparing online and in-store pricing of consumer goods across a range of commonly purchased categories (including personal care, books, electronics, entertainment, home improvement/household items, and office supplies).
FAQs
Typically, online prices are lower to account for shipping costs and the cost of running a physical store is higher, so their prices are higher. If an online item is available at your local store, you can place a store pick-up order to receive the online price.
Are online prices cheaper than in-store? ›
Key Takeaways. Online shopping is often cheaper than in stores because online retailers may have fewer overhead costs. Online shopping also may come with the chance to apply more discount codes so you can save even more money. You may even be able to find cheaper gently or never used items on second-hand shopping sites ...
Is it cheaper to buy everything online? ›
Comparing Product Prices Online vs.
Older research1 found that a large majority – 69% – of consumer goods had the same price online as in-store, so online shopping is certainly not cheaper all the time. However, when there was a price difference, online was cheaper 65% of the time.
Are target online prices higher than in-store? ›
Do item prices vary between Target.com and Target stores? shows more content. Pricing, promotions, styles and availability may vary by store and online. We match Target.com prices on in-store purchases and in-store prices for Target.com purchases.
Are Walmart prices the same online and in-store? ›
The merchandise and prices available on our website do not reflect the merchandise and prices available in our stores. Currently, we do not have access to store inventory lists or price lists at this website.
Are Best Buy prices the same in-store as online? ›
We match our online and app prices on in-store purchases and our in-store prices on online and app purchases. If we lower our in-store, online or app price during the return and exchange period, we will match our lower price, upon request.
Are Home Depot online prices the same as in-store prices? ›
Just as prices in our stores vary by region, our online prices will sometimes differ from those at your local The Home Depot. What is your price matching policy between homedepot.com and the local stores? Homedepot.com does not match store prices and stores do not match homedepot.com prices.
Is it better to shop online or in store? ›
More variety. While brick-and-mortar stores must deal with the limitations of shelf space and retail agreements, online shopping presents few restrictions. There are many options to choose from, such as whether your product comes from brands or sellers — both local and international.
Is it cheaper to buy shoes online or in store? ›
Cost-effective: Buying shoes online can be cost-effective as compared to physical stores. Online retailers often offer discounts and deals that you may not find in brick-and-mortar stores. You can also save money on transportation costs, parking fees, and other expenses associated with visiting a physical store.
Do people buy more online or in stores? ›
Nearly 60% of consumers prefer to shop online
The latest commerce report from GWI shows that 59% of global consumers prefer to shop online rather than in-store. Among age groups, millennials are most likely to want to shop online (63%) while baby boomers are the only age group who prefer to shop in-store (54%).
FAQ – Location-Based Pricing
Sometimes geographical pricing difference in cost can be determined by how much shipping cost would be to that location, but sometimes other factors come into play too such as what people are willing to pay there – even before accounting for any taxes or fees!
Are online grocery prices higher than in store? ›
It turns out grocery delivery is roughly 10% more expensive than doing the shopping yourself. Because of membership, delivery fees and tipping, you might think having groceries delivered is way more expensive, but the final tallies were remarkably close.
Are prices cheaper in store than online? ›
Online pricing and in-store pricing can vary. Typically, online prices are lower to account for shipping costs and the cost of running a physical store is higher, so their prices are higher. If an online item is available at your local store, you can place a store pick-up order to receive the online price.
Does Walmart mark up online prices? ›
Is there a mark-up on Walmart+ delivery orders? Nope! We don't add additional fees to your orders of $35 or more.
Is online shopping worth it? ›
For items you regularly use (such as a laptop, phone charger, luggage, or textbook), the internet may be the best place to compare offers. For things you require to have long-lasting value (like a car) or must get right away (such as groceries), shopping in person may be best.
Why are phones cheaper online than in store? ›
Competitive Pricing
Online stores often provide aggressive pricing because of decrease overhead prices in comparison to brick-and-mortar stores. You can locate appealing offers, reductions, and promotions that may not be available in bodily stores, potentially saving you money to your mobile telephone buy.
Why is furniture cheaper online than in store? ›
Online furniture stores often offer competitive pricing and sales, which can translate to potential cost savings for the consumer. In addition, online retailers don't have the overhead costs associated with maintaining a physical store, which means they can pass on those savings to their customers.