They Research, Shop & Buy

The unique shopping behavior of at-work consumers is staggering. According to the Department of Transportation, their average commute is 16 miles one way; therefore, to save time and money they take advantage of their workday driving by shopping on their way to/from work or during lunch. In addition, they utilize their time at work to conduct online research and shopping. Here's what consumer intelligence firm, BIGresearch, found in a study that gauged the shopping behavior of working consumers:

At-Work consumers make purchases along their commute route

How often do you purchase these items during the workday? (driving to/from work, during a lunch break)

  Regularly or Occasionally

  Working Consumers    

  Dining Out

  74.2%

  Food/Groceries

  71.7%

  Beverages

  71.1%

  Apparel

  61.0%

  Medicines/Vitamins/Supplements

  55.8%

  Beauty Care/Cosmetics

  52.8%

  Personal Services (eyewear, dry cleaning, etc.)  

  48.9%

  Shoes

  47.5%

Working consumers conduct online research before making purchases 

Which of the following have you researched online during the workday over the last 90 days prior to making a purchase in a store?

  47.2%

    Electronics

  39.8%

    Apparel

  34.5%

    Dining Out

  21.8%

    Appliances

  20.6%

    Food/Groceries

  20.2%

    Shoes

           

       
Source: BIGresearch, At-Work Consumer Media & Shopping Behavior Survey, December 2007