Independent retailers are underusing the Internet in their business dealings with wholesalers and suppliers, reports The Grocer.
In a survey of 6,000 wholesale shoppers by retail analysts Him! just half were using the internet for these purposes.
Viewing supplier trade websites for prices, finding category advice and catching up on news were found to be the most popular uses of the internet. Retailers told the researchers that they were actively searching for more convenient ways to interact with suppliers such as apps and email.
Him! research director, Blake Gladman, told The Grocer: “If a retailer is looking to do more than just turn a profit – ie grow, develop, take advantage of new opportunities – then technology is a vital component.”
