Shopatron Sees Tablets Emerge as a Preferred Online Shopping Device

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif., July 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Tablet computers are quickly emerging as a preferred online shopping device. Shopatron, an eCommerce and order management solution for over 1,000 brands, found that, across all client stores, purchase rates are equivalent between tablet and desktop users.

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In recent months, the conversion rates for tablet shoppers have been a mere 5-8% below the conversion rates of desktop-based shoppers. In addition, conversion rates from paid search ads have actually been higher on tablets (up to 3%). In a month-long analysis across several sporting goods clients, Shopatron found that click-through rates for paid search ads on tablets were 51% greater than those on PCs, and the average cost per click was 7% less.

"With fewer advertisers to compete with, tablet advertising is costing less than advertising to desktop-based shoppers," noted Greg Squires, Shopatron's Online Marketing Manager. "This has resulted in a noticeably better return on tablet advertising investments: $7 in sales for each $1 in advertising spend versus $6 in sales per $1 in spend for desktop advertising."

To-date in 2012, about 6% of all Shopatron orders have come from an Apple iPad, and that number continues to grow with increased tablet computer usage. An April 2012 Forrester Research, Inc. blog post entitled "Why Tablets Will Become Our Primary Computing Device" predicted that 375 million tablets will sell globally in 2016.

"It's no surprise that conversion rates on tablets are nearing or outpacing the conversion rates of desktops," says Mark Grondin, Shopatron's SVP of Marketing. "Browsing on a tablet is intuitive and user friendly, providing portability without sacrificing interface quality or functionality. And the fact that this device can be easily used in a cafe, on the couch, or even in bed make it the perfect down time shopping companion. It's hard to think of a better shopping device."

Convenience is quickly becoming an expectation for today's shoppers, who have grown to expect 24/7 shopping and support. To support this, Shopatron provides all clients with mobile optimized online stores. Whether a consumer is using a tablet, desktop, or smart phone, they can easily review and purchase products, whenever and wherever they like.

To learn more about Shopatron's retail-integrated eCommerce and distributed order management platform, visit ecommerce.shopatron.com or call 866-625-5050.

About Shopatron
Shopatron is the world's only eCommerce solution that increases sales online, while also increasing sales through retail stores. Shopatron's eCommerce and order management solution provides an innovative and flexible approach to online sales that matches the unique needs of branded manufacturers, multi-channel retailers, and online marketplaces. Founded in 2001, Shopatron works with over 1,000 branded manufacturers and 20,000 retail partners across more than 40 industries. Clients include top brands such as Bosch, Suzuki, Polaroid, Mizuno, Ducati, JL Audio, K2, Intermix and Sport Chalet. The company has offices in San Luis Obispo, California and Swindon, United Kingdom.

SOURCE Shopatron