Record numbers go online for essentials and experiences during lockdown

57% of Brits are shopping online more than ever during the coronavirus outbreak, with hair clippers, dumbbells and books among the most popular products, according to research from Mastercard.

The payments giant surveyed 12,500 people across 15 markets. It also found that record numbers are signing up to virtual experiences like home fitness classes, TV and film subscriptions and online learning during lockdown.

The times we are living in have also made us more generous with 37% saying they have donated to charity online in the last month and 20% donating for the first time.

Online shopping habits also seem to mirror real life behaviours, with 44% of typical in-store bargain hunters spending hours searching different sites to find the best deals. Two in three self-confessed window shoppers regularly browse and create wish lists but don’t always buy. 45% of new online shoppers are remaining loyal to real life counterparts.

63% of Brits worry about becoming a victim of online fraud or ‘scamming’. 75%, therefore, tend to stick to familiar retailers, 73% check site or buyer reviews and a quarter will contact new or unknown sellers before purchasing.

Mark Barnett, President, Europe at Mastercard, says: “We are all adjusting to a new way of living and are understandably shopping more online, though it’s not just for essentials but for virtual experiences ranging from films to fitness too.”

“Tough times can bring out the best in us and we can take comfort and heart from the increases in people donating online and the huge numbers of people learning new ways to manage their day-to-day lives online. Now more than ever people need access to the digital economy.”