German Buying Habits

German Costumers Buying Habits Online According to figures released by the German Association for Consumer Research (GfK), 34. 1 one million million million German consumers buy merchandise or services on the Internet (2010). Among the most popular purchases are books, clothes, travel and concert tickets, and cars. Unlike in opposite European countries where there is a reluctance toward online shopping by seniors, almost half of Germans between the age of 50 and 69 buy merchandise on the Internet. Decision Making The Internet also plays a major role when it comes to decision-making among German consumers.Before buying merchandise or services,, they usually consult the web for training and to compare prices. The cheapest bidder is non always the winner tidiness, easy-return options, sustainability and quality of the product are more important in the decision-making than the price. International Shopping German consumers do not necessarily choose German products. The most popular o nline vendors in Germany are eBay and Amazon, with their international communities. Food and wine, consumer electronics, and even cars are among the most popular imported article. corporeal Social Responsibility 4% of consumers want to see more ethical behavior. And they hold both the disposal and brands accountable to deliver up 34% compared to 2007 for government and up 23% compared to 2007 for corporations. Small correlates to accountable in our respondents minds. 68% said small businesses act more responsible. By stark comparison only 16% thought big business could be responsible, irrespective of sector or origin. National pride and Made in Germany continue to gain relevance in the area of CSR. 52% of consumers believe national brands are more responsible, with the exception of the financial services.This is evident by their choice of the Top 5 most responsible brands (all German) Landliebe, DM, Bosch, Audi and Tchibo. By comparison, 37% believe European brands act responsibl y, 18% for UK brands, 11% for USA brands, and only 7% for brands from Asia. Companies and brands are an integral part of German society. And as such, society looks up to them to find the solutions. 47% of Germans see this as a critical factor for their brand choice (up from 43% in 2007) As we welcome stated before, strong brands that engage in CSR initiatives that dovetail with their offerings are better positioned to reap the rewards. And the research backs it up.