Study: US mcommerce to grow rapidly

Mobile ecommerce is widely regarded as the next step in the evolution of retail transactions.

Ecommerce revolutionised the retail sector by enabling vendors to offer their wares online, simply by setting up a website that can process online payments. Mobile commerce takes this one step further, by allowing customers to make purchases from any location.

Analytics firm Forrester Research recently released a new study that predicts the trajectory of the mcommerce sector in the United States over the coming years.

According to the study, the industry is expected to grow rapidly, reaching a total value of approximately $31 billion by 2016. Growth in the industry is expected to take place at a compound annual growth rate of 39 percent.

Nevertheless, the report predicted that mobile commerce will account for just 7 percent of ecommerce sales in 2016. Furthermore, it will constitute only 1 percent of total retail sales.

While some have claimed that ecommerce and online payment gateways will ultimately spell the end of traditional retail businesses, some are more optimistic about collaboration. According to a recent statement by Doug Scott, managing director of DiscountVouchers.co.uk, online and offline businesses can work together to their mutual benefit.