New research conducted by iZettle (the small business payments technology company) shows one in three British consumers believe they are ‘addicted’ to online shopping and ‘one-click’ buying from giant retailers such as Amazon. One in 12 admit to making purchases every day.
This study, coupled with predictions that the high street crisis could leave 100,000 retail stores empty in the next decade, prompted iZettle to create a unique ‘rehab’ centre, which opened in London’s Shoreditch on Friday and Saturday (October 12-13).
Run by trained therapists, The Giant Corp Rehab Centre offered a variety of interactive sessions to help consumers break with addictive shopping habits, realise the effects their habits are having on the high street, and embrace the benefits of face-to-face shopping in bricks and mortar outlets. Sessions included group therapy and a ‘digit distraction’ class plus workshops with independent business owners (including a coffee and latte art master-class).
The Giant Corp Rehab Centre is part of a wider iZettle marketing campaign encouraging UK consumers to shop with local, independent businesses such as cookshops and housewares stockists. The campaign is appearing in tube stations across London and is being broadcast online, in cinema, and on primetime television this month.
Edward Hallett, md at iZettle UK says, “Our research shows that it is time for consumers to start thinking about their shopping habits, and choices, to keep the high street alive. Small businesses are the backbone of the economy and create a world with choice and diversity.”
Top: The Rehab Centre held Group Therapy sessions for people who claim to be addicted to online shopping. The highest number of ‘addicts’ are in Greater London, West Midlands, Yorkshire, North West and North East, according to research by iZettle.
