AliExpress, a major global online retail marketplace and an official Worldwide Olympic TOP Partner, recently released its Summer Consumer Insights Report. This report, which surveyed thousands of consumers across France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK, provides a comprehensive look at the evolving online shopping habits and consumer behavior in Europe, particularly in the context of an active sports summer.
Increased Accessibility and Participation in Sports
The findings of the report are quite revealing: 60% of respondents said that online shopping has allowed them to try new sports and fitness activities.
Approximately 46% agree that it has made sports more accessible overall. The influence of the summer sporting events, including the anticipation of the Olympic Games Paris 2024, has motivated a notable percentage of Europeans to engage in sports like football, running, swimming, and more.
The report emphasizes not just the physical benefits of sports, but also the social and psychological ones. A significant 69% of participants feel a sense of community through sports, while 68% acknowledge that sports have helped them connect with people from various cultural backgrounds. Impressively, 84% of respondents noted an improvement in mental wellbeing due to their participation in sports.
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AliExpress and the Olympic Games Paris 2024
Looking forward, AliExpress plans to celebrate the Olympic spirit with a special showcase event on August 8, 2024, on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris. The event, open to the public, aims to engage visitors with various Olympic sports activities and offers them opportunities to win prizes.
Sports and Entertainment: Top Online Shopping Categories
The research also highlights that sports and entertainment-related products rank among the top five categories for online consumer spending in Europe. During a three-month period, the average expenditure on these products was €78, with French consumers spending the highest average amount at €94.
Robust Online Spending Trends
Despite varying economic conditions, online spending remains strong. For example, British consumers spent an average of £623 (around €739) online over three months, showcasing a stable online market. The research also found that consumers spend several hours per week browsing and researching products online, with those aged 35-44 being the most active.
The Popularity of Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces continue to dominate as the preferred shopping channel, with 63% of consumers using them. This preference outstrips traditional retailers’ websites and apps, highlighting a shift towards digital-first shopping experiences.
Gary Topp, AliExpress European Commercial Director, expressed enthusiasm about the report’s insights, noting the powerful role of sports in uniting people and the pivotal role e-commerce platforms play in making sports more accessible.
