Back in 2007 it was predicted that laptop sales would grow by 16.1% year on year until 2011, significantly outperforming desktops PCs who were forecast to grow by 3.8%.
That was back in 2007, so how have laptop sales performed?
By 2008 industry analysts still echoed that prediction in some aspects… desktop PCs grew moderately while laptops still continued to lead the way. The UK was the strongest European market in 2008 with mobile computing accounting for 64% of total PC shipments. The introduction of mini-notebook created excitement and things looked good.
What about 2009?
There has been some speculation that mobile devices would steal some of the laptop market. That has inevitably happened as the mobile phone giants roll out iPhones, Android-based phones and Windows Mobile enabled products.
However, it is not all bad news, the hardcore users that need computers while on the move will still revert back to laptops. This loyalty has been recognised by the likes of Nokia who have started to develop their own range of laptops.
Large brands such as Acer still lead the market, particularly as netbooks are increasingly being seen as effective work machines for those on the move. The question now on industry analysts is whether netbooks will take over laptops.
Electronics sales grow
Research also shows that in 2009, one of the fastest sectors to grow online sales was the electrical market, second only to fashion. This trend is expected to continue.
2010 and onwards?
To compete effectively, companies selling laptops online need to have significant web presence. SEO is key to this.
Laptop sales are not impulse buys and e-commerce sites need to:-
• provide a wealth of product information. Research shows online shoppers now carry out a significant amount of research prior to purchasing. Make sure you leave no questions unanswered and write compelling content
• search phrases are becoming longer, move away from the “vanity” or highly competitive search phrases, look to implement long tail SEO
• transfer some of the “brick and mortar” cost savings onto your clients
• make sure that images are scalable
• allow customer feedback and interaction
• look to build a customer opt-in newsletter as this will be a valuable marketing base for the future
• try subtle design tweaks to see which elements convert more visitors into customers. M-VAP is ideal for this
Overwhelmed?
Contact us now for a no-obligation chat about how we can help improve your online presence. Call us no on 0845 555 5040.
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