There is more awareness of delivery companies and the capacity they can work at this year, meaning more people are likely to shop online, an expert has claimed.

There is more awareness of delivery companies and the capacity they can work at this year, meaning more people are likely to shop online, an expert has claimed.

Chris Russell, director of market research firm eDigitalResearch, said that the Royal Mail postal strikes has seen people gain more awareness of other delivery companies.

He added: "The revision of some contracts following industrial action by the postal workers has certainly brought some more realism this year to available capacity."

Speaking about online shopping, he said that the development of smartphones and iPhones means that people can compare prices more easily, which fuels internet buying.

Another factor is bad weather, as Mr Russell said that the wind and rain leads more people to stay in the comfort of their own home, buy items and wait for the parcel delivery.

His comments follow findings from the Interactive Media in Retail Group, which showed that 93 per cent of people plan to shop online for presents this year.

Posted by Rob Elliott

Article Added: 09/12/2009 16:50:13