The Asia-Pacific e-commerce sector is expected to continue growing during the post Covid-19 period as people prefer the convenience and safety of online shopping, according to a survey conducted by GlobalData.

The data and analytics company found that more than 70 per cent of respondents worked from home during the first quarter of this year, which has led to a continuing increase in online shopping. More than 30 per cent said they bought groceries online more frequently. 

“The shift to online has become more of a permanent lifestyle as people embrace the joy of shopping online,” said Ankita Roy, retail analyst at GlobalData. 

The research found the two factors attributing to the growth of the e-commerce sector in the region are convenience and time-saving aspect, which accounted for 73 per cent and 67 per cent. Consumers also enjoy lower prices and variety and choice available online. 

“Retailers must continue to focus on personalisation as a differentiating factor to stand out in a crowded market,” Roy added. “This will help the retailers to attract 83 per cent consumers who are always/often influenced by how well a product is tailored to their needs and personality.”

According to Roy, customers are also more likely to buy products made from natural ingredients, risk-free products as well as to choose from brands having better levels of transparency.