E-commerce vs. Traditional Retail: A Comparative Analysis of Consumer Preferences
摘要
This research provides a comparative study of consumer choice between e-commerce and offline retail channels. Employing a mixed-methods research design, primary data were gathered using structured questionnaires from a representative sample of adult consumers, whereas secondary data were drawn from literature and industry reports. The study investigates the most significant factors that drive consumer decisions, such as convenience, trust, perceived risk, and customer experience. Statistical analysis of differences in preference according to demographic factors like income and age indicates that although e-commerce is preferred for convenience and greater variety, traditional retail is still preferred for personalized service and instant access to products. The research points out the changing nature of retail and offers insights to businesses looking to realign their strategies with customer expectations. Limitations are that the study was regional in focus and based on self-reported information. Future studies may investigate emerging technologies and how they affect shopping behavior.