The Perks of Mobile Shopping

So you’re in Banana Republic and see a to-die-for camel coat for fall.  But before you make the purchase you check with Gap and J Crew to make sure they don’t have something similar at a better price.  Instead of getting into your car and going across town or heading home to your computer, you use your smartphone to get the answer in a matter of seconds – saving you both time and money.

According to a recent survey by miBuys, women are overwhelmingly open to mobile marketing and shopping.  Respondents said they love using the mobile web overall; 94% said they use their phones to surf even when they’re at home and can access much more powerful devices, such as laptops and desktop PCs.  The survey results send a clear message to advertisers that women are already engaged and eager to explore new cell phone services, and that cell phones and portable devices can play a significant role in helping brands build relationships with their female customers.

That certainly makes sense, as mobile is easy and accessible. New apps such as Twemple (a location-based service for products which transform a users city into a giant store) allow users to share purchases with friends, earn points and become opinion leaders within their social networks.

Women and Mobile Shopping

Here are some other findings from the survey:

• 85% use the mobile Internet almost daily.
• 70% expect their mobile Internet usage to increase in the future.
• 84% notice mobile advertising.
• 67% are interested in receiving mobile coupons or vouchers.
• 93% are always on the lookout for bargains.

Do you agree with these findings? Do you like the idea of using your phone for more shopping, or do you have enough social media in your lives already?  Are retailers moving in this direction quickly enough?