While I love to do my shopping online, once in awhile I’ll stop by one of my local stores to purchase an item. The other day I stopped by an electronics store to select a small laptop computer for about $600. 45 minutes into the deal and 12 upsell attempts from the salesman (yes, 12!…argghhh…), I walked out of the store with nothing in hand.
Bill Bruce sums up nicely some reasons why shopping online is great. While you’ll find the article posted below, Trader Lou would love to know why you shop online and what you would improve about online shopping.
We would like to hear from you! At the bottom of this page, post a reply and state at least one reason why you like to shop online AND one thing you would do to improve online shopping. Each person that posts a reply will be put in a drawing held Oct 17th. 20 Winners will receive a sterling silver gemstone pendant from the Trader Lou collection!
1. No Lines
We went to Target last night and bought a cartload of stuff. It was an hour before they closed, so they only had about 5 registers open. We stood in line for at least 7 minutes waiting for a free register.
2. Fast checkout
When we finally got to the checkout, it took another 5 or 8 minutes to get everything checked out and rung up. Sure online you have to enter your shipping info, credit card info, etc, but it’s still not going to take you anywhere near 5 or 8 minutes to fill out a shopping cart checkout page.
3. Little/No human error
Our cashier scanned a few items 3 or 4 times on accident during the checkout. Luckily he caught it and removed the duplicate items from the total, but what if he hadn’t? Or what if he charged twice on purpose? When you’re standing there 8 hours a day getting paid $6.00 an hour there is little motivation to take your job seriously. Online you can see exactly what you are being charged before you enter your credit card info. If there is an error, it’s most likely your own. The computers could still make mistakes due to bad programming, but I still trust a good web site more than some teenager at a checkout line.
4. Faster than going to the store
Bruce says it’s faster to drive to the store, hunt for what you want, wait in line, checkout, load your car, and drive back to your house than to just order something on a web site in your own living room. What? I don’t think so. We were gone shopping for 2 and a half hours the other night. I could have accomplished the same thing online in less than ten minutes. This isn’t counting shipping time of course, which is the only bad thing about shopping online, no instant gratification.
5. Easier to not over-spend
My wife and I got to the checkout line and decided not to get 3 of the items we had in our cart because the total was coming out to be a lot more than we anticipated. Most online shopping cart systems have a real-time total displayed showing you the total of all the items you currently have in your cart, so you know exactly how much you will be spending as you add items to your cart. Also because you’re going to have to wait at least a day to get the item, you don’t buy things on a whim as easily. For instance the candy bars, sodas, and cheap DVD’s they put at all the checkout lines at Target. If a web site offered you a similar item, you wouldn’t buy it because you might not want that item in 2 days. Now I know candy bars and sodas aren’t offered on many web site checkout systems, but similar impulse buys are easier to avoid online in my opinion.
6. No traffic
You don’t have to deal with driving through crowded streets and packed parking lots, hunting for a space, then walking half a mile to the store. Sit in your own house in your own office in your own comfortable chair and order whatever you like. Then it’s delivered right to your house in a few days. You don’t waste gas, don’t have the stress of overcrowded streets, etc. You also don’t have to walk a 5 mile marathon to find stuff like you do in any of the thousands of enormous Wal-Marts out there.
7. More information available on the products you are buying
Bruce says he thinks there is more information available in the store, which seems completely backwards to me. All you have in the stores is what’s printed on the box in most cases, and that is 90% marketing drivel written by the manufacturer, so how useful is that? Ask a salesman? Yeah right. 95% of the sales guys out there will just pick up the box and read you the bullet list of features if you ask them for help. Most electronics stores have a bullet list and short description of the product printed on the price tag on the shelf, but frequently these are out of date, inaccurate, or not even for the right product.
Online there is usually a similar bullet list of features, but with a quick button press or two you can search for reviews of the product in question and find dozens of objective user reviews from any number of sites. Some e-commerce sites like Amazon.com even have a review system built-in, so it’s like asking 20 other customers in the store what their experiences were with this product before you spend your money on it. You can also access the manufacturer’s site with a click or two and most likely download electronic versions of the manuals, find any support issues in their knowledgebase, etc. Look up their number if you need to call them to ask a question like Bruce says you can do with a cellphone and the number on the box.
8. Easy to find the products you want
We spent 5 minutes looking for a Bill Engvall CD last night on Target’s cluttered shelves. We looked in all the categories, under the B’s, under the E’s… etc. We asked an employee for help, and he said without looking up, “Look under the E’s. Should be there”. Gee, thanks buddy! I didn’t think to try that! Alternatively, I just found every Bill Engvall CD available on Target.com in less than 15 seconds. Sure most searches on web sites could be better, but it’s already a whole lot easier than searching high and low on shelves in different parts of a store for the item you want. And what if someone picked up the last copy of that CD you wanted, then decided they didn’t want it when they were in the clothing section, so they just threw it behind some t-shirts? Now you can’t find it or buy it, even though the store has it in-stock. Online you know if the store has something in-stock, and you know it’s sitting in a warehouse somewhere, categorized and ready to be put in a box.
9. No Salesmen to Pressure You
Every time I walk into Best Buy or Circuit City and just want to look around to kill time, I get hassled by 3 salesmen in every department asking if I need help finding something or have questions. If I stay there for 10 minutes or more, they ask me again, and again, and again. Of course if I actually have a question, they are nowhere to found. Online you can spend as much time as you want looking at things, researching them, etc. If you need help there is usually a 1-800 number you can call for the store itself or a manufacturer. Sure you might have to wait in a call queue for a few minutes, but it’s worth it to me.
10. Don’t have to deal with the other customers
Another plus of ordering online from your own home. You don’t have to dodge other customer’s buggies, listen to cellphones going off, try to tolerate some kid screaming in the next aisle because his parent wouldn’t buy him the latest Poke’mon toy, etc.
Popularity: 25% [?]
October 14th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
I agree 100% with the ten reasons you gave for shopping online. You can compare items at different websites to get the best price. Whatever time it is, day or night, they are always open. You can relax in your favorite PJ’s without any makeup and buy as many items as you need. With the unbelievable gas prices we are dealing with, sit in your study and leave the auto in the garage. No chance of an accident or being robbed in the mall parking lot when you shop from home. The packages are delivered right to your door; again saved gas, time, and no problems with bad weather to hinder you. Most businesses will allow you to inspect/try out the purchase and return for a refund if unsatisfied. You can track the packages online to know when they will arrive. At busy times such as Christmas giving, most items can easily be ordered in one day. Sure beats fighting traffic, looking for a parking space, and hoping the store has not sold out of the item you wished to buy!
October 14th, 2008 at 10:04 pm
JUST LOVE MY MYSTIC TOPAZ NECKLACE AND EARRINGS! I HAVE HAD SO
MANY COMPLIMENTS ON THIS NECKLACE. A FRIEND OF MINE COLLECTS
JEWELRY AND JUST COULDN’T BELIEVE THIS PIECE AND HOW AFFORDABLE
IT WAS. SHES HOOKED ON TRADER LOU JUST AS I AM.
JEWELRY MAKES ME HAPPY. YOU CAN SPEND YOUR MONEY ON A NICE
DINNER AND THE NEXT DAY YOU HAVE NOTHING TO SHOW FOR IT BUT
HAVING A BEAUTIFUL PIECE OF JEWELRY LASTS A LIFETIME!
KAREN
October 14th, 2008 at 10:09 pm
I love ordering from Trader Lou because of the great selection and quality of the jewelry. Fast delivery and no shipping are definately a plus! The only thing I can think of to change is the economy; so I could afford to by more. The website is just fine, no improvements I can think to offer.
October 14th, 2008 at 10:11 pm
What’s not to love? I do virtually ALL my shopping online due to disability so I am very aware of what is available on the web. I just LOVE Trader Lou’s site-especially the Jewelry! I’ve been able to find stones here that I can’t find anywhere else (Pink Mystic Topaz and Purple Turquoise). I’m able to order fantastic pendants for all my friends at incredible prices (almost all under $20!) and they all think I’m spending around $100 on each of them! The jewelry is worth much more than what you are paying, you are just getting fantastic deals. I would suggest you bookmark Trader Lou and do your holiday shopping NOW! THIS IS THE PLACE TO BE
October 14th, 2008 at 10:12 pm
I definatley love shopping online. It is so convenient to do from home or office, because you can do it at your convenience without leaving home/work. I like being able to shop at any hour also. Sometimes the only free moments to shop are late in the evening or early in the morning when stores are closed. I love Trader Lou and thier sister sites like Gilbert and Frech and the outlet store. I have absolutely LOVED and been COMPLETELY SATISFIED with the many items I have purchased from them! I get compliments all the time and tell people about the websites. The one and only thing I would do to improve online shopping is make sure the photos that are paired with each item are the actual photo that belongs with the item. Several times the description will be a necklace or earrings and then there will be a picture of a different item than described. Thanks again for all the great jewlery and other items you offer! Keep up the good work!!
October 14th, 2008 at 10:12 pm
I love shopping online because it gives me the opportunity to select from a wide variety of items without leaving my home. I have been able to buy quality jewelry at a fraction of the price of jewelry stores or even mall kiosks. Best of all, is not having to deal with sometimes overbearing sales staff, or lack of service in general
October 14th, 2008 at 10:21 pm
I LOVE shopping online cause i get so much stuff at a fraction of the normal cost
I love this site cause i have so much beautiful jewerly from here that i got for an amazing price!!!
How can you not love it?
Plus it beats going out and dealing with crowds and such
October 14th, 2008 at 10:24 pm
I love Trader Lou’s site. I have been back many times to purchase items and have had exceptional service each time. I have recommended the site to many people who are blown away when I tell them the deals I have gotten from the site. The selection is amazing. The return policy is fabulous. The service is wonderful and the free shipping rocks! The only thing I would improve is that sometimes I find the description does not match the picture and that can be confusing.
Thank you so much! I love this site!
October 14th, 2008 at 10:26 pm
I enjoy the Trader Lou’s site immensely because of the presentation; simplicity of finding items; The classes and technique that you give to us to make our products in quality are a blessing.
Thank you for being such an outstanding place to shop. Those 10 reasons are at the top of my a-list!!
October 14th, 2008 at 10:27 pm
nothing beats shopping around the clock, when ” i feel like it”. if i can’t sleep , or i’ve forgotten a special occasion, or just because i deserve it,….trader lou’s always open ! no long lines, high gas prices, unpleasant people. my time my way. being a person who does almost every transaction by cash, it’d be great with all this technology to be able to do check’s via web. other than that thumbs up to a wonderful company that i’m glad i stumbled on by chance.
October 14th, 2008 at 10:39 pm
I love shopping online with Trader Lou. You get to take your time and figure out what you really like. I rarely sign on and not buy anything. It’s kind of dangerous!! but since the prices are so good, I don’t do too much damage to my bank account. This is a great site!!! I wouldn’t change a thing.
October 14th, 2008 at 10:41 pm
I am a new “Online Shopper”(w/in the last couple years)
I really enjoy shopping online for sooo many reasons!!
The number one reason is because i can find wonderful things that i would Never find in stores.
Then there are “those stores”… unfortunetly not fun
I love to buy from smaller businesses. I love to sign up for newsletters and get discounts that i wouldnt normally receive at a store.
I love finding new shops and sharing them…my friends can check them out on their own time without leaving the house of course:)
October 14th, 2008 at 10:45 pm
While browsing the internet for pendants, I found Trader Lou.com and I think I am hooked. I purchased 3 pendants and should receive them in a few days. I hope they are as pretty as they looked online. If so, they have a customer for life. Their pricing is great – very affordable. Don’t change a thing as it was easy and straight forward.
October 14th, 2008 at 10:46 pm
I was in the jewelry business for many years, and I can honestly say that Trader Lou and G&F jewelry delivers an outstanding value for the price. I live in a semi-rural area, and would have to drive many many miles to see anything comparable to what is available 24/7 on the website, and I would certainly have to pay more as well. I have bought many items for gifts, as well as loose beads and pearls for my own creations.
The fact that I can thoughtfully consider my purchase, and proceed at my own pace is a big advantage over shopping at a mall. That, and shopping in my P.J.’s.
The only way it could be better would be if my computer brewed coffee for me while I shopped.
Thanks for everything ! Maria K.
October 14th, 2008 at 10:46 pm
Buying online from Trader Lou gets you better merchandise at the best price.
I would love to see the Trader Lou site suggest other items customers might be interested in.
I have bought several items from Trader Lou and love all of them.
October 14th, 2008 at 10:51 pm
I love shopping online, because it allows me to shop anytime of day or night and at my convenience. I can take as long as I like to make decisions without anybody breathing down my neck or trying to do a hard sell. You offer incredible shopping opportunities with good prices. I have always been pleased with my purchases from you.
October 14th, 2008 at 10:52 pm
The shipping is SO fast. I buy all my friends’ presents on Traders Lou
October 14th, 2008 at 10:52 pm
I love to shop on line, because with raising gas prices, it is the best way to go. Here I can search till I found what I am looking for, and I don’t have to shop right away, I really can take time. Quality items, fair return policies and a friendly customer service make shopping on line easier.. On the web side I like to see good pictures and a clear text to describe the item.
October 14th, 2008 at 10:52 pm
That will do nicely.
October 14th, 2008 at 10:54 pm
I love shopping online, because it allows me to shop at my convenience; day or night. I can take as long as I like to make my decisions without anyone pressuring me or breathing down my neck. I especially enjoy shopping with you.
October 14th, 2008 at 10:58 pm
I like my privacy,what I buy is nobodys business,so if im buying at home I dont have to explain it to anyone,an it can be delivered to my door,with no problems
October 14th, 2008 at 10:59 pm
I love shopping online because no sales tax:) yet!!!!! and you can do it day or night and it is so much fun. Thank you.
October 14th, 2008 at 11:03 pm
I love shopping on TraderLou. You can look and find pieces that match or just buy something new and different. I too agree with your reasons listed. The ease of not having to leave your home and the items being delivered right to your door are a major convenience as well as not having to fight the crowds. The variety is wonderful and the prices are great. Thanks for your website.
October 14th, 2008 at 11:19 pm
I am disabled so shopping on line is very convient for me as leaving my home requires help. I feel a lot of the description of merchandise on line is either not accurate or is not very descriptave. Sometimes the photos are so poor you really cant tell what the item really looks like. I buy by description and the photo and if I cant really see what Im buying I go on to somewhere else on the Intrnet.
October 14th, 2008 at 11:23 pm
IF there’s another site to buy such nice quality jewelry as here…I haven’t found it yet. Customer service is there…and always willing to do the best possible for you..THE CUSTOMER! So nice not standing in lines… and paying high prices for the less than quality pieces you may have found. Keep doing what you’re doing… YOU are great!!
October 14th, 2008 at 11:28 pm
I am a busy working Mom. My time is a precious commodity. I commute 60 miles one way to work so gas is a real expense. I love shoping on line a Trader Lou’s because it helps me conserve both and reduce my carbon footprint! When I want to find a piece to complete a set of a certain type of stone or gem I can type in the name to the search bar and see your entire inventory all at once! What a bonus.
The only time I am disappointed is when an item I’ve selected is out of stock! I would love to have a message sent to me when it comes in and I can order.
Christmas shopping for my sisters will be a breeze this year!
Kathy
October 14th, 2008 at 11:29 pm
What can be better after shopping for my business for over two years to KNOW where I can get the best quality for the least amount of money?
And, add quality service, great information, and personal attention and you can’t beat TRADER LOU’S. And that is a knowledgable statement. I have been buying and bidding off the web for a long time.
And, Trader Lou, I am only on hiatus do to the economy and the upcoming elections. Then I will be back in full force. It is the difference between uttering “WOW” when you open your package or “GEE, I WONDER WHAT I CAN CHARGE FOR THIS”?????
October 14th, 2008 at 11:33 pm
I love shopping online because thousands of stores are available at a touch. The inventory is endless!
Reduce the steps involved for return customers.
October 14th, 2008 at 11:36 pm
I whole heartedly agree with all ten!
I like to be able to shop for something when I think about it; compare prices; wait as long as I want to decide whether or not to go ahead with the purchase and no matter what time of day it is I can if I am shopping online.
I have always had great service from online businesses; certainly better service than in-store anywhere. Seems they try harder.
Thanks Trader Lou for being one of my favorite places to shop!
October 14th, 2008 at 11:36 pm
I live 40 miles from the nearest bead store. It is so nice to buy on line and have it delivered to my door.
I would love to be able to buy groups of tear shaped beads and pendants at a discount for my jewelry. I make jewelry using tear shaped beads and ppendants as a fund raiser for the Memorial of Perpetual Tears, the NM National DWI Victims’ Memorial
October 15th, 2008 at 12:15 am
I love to shop on line because of all the great deals and selection
you have on beautiful pieces of jewelry, and one thing about Trader Lou is the great selection.
The only thing I can think of to suggest is maybe showing more than
one picture of the item , and mostly when showing rings , sometimes you just cant see the underlay of the ring . Keep up the good work .
October 15th, 2008 at 12:27 am
I love shopping online for numerous reasons 1.) great slection 2.) best prices 3.) convienent when I can shop with my busy schedule and not just when stores are open and 4.) hassle free.
One improvement that can be made is make it easier for return customers to give their information. Maybe have an auto save or auto fillin for information and also having some sort of “based on your shoppping trneds- we think you might like this” for example. I always like when an online store recognizes what I like and makes it easier for me to find my interests!
Great job Trader Lou- it has been a great experience!
October 15th, 2008 at 12:49 am
It took me a while to get over the fear of online shopping but, once I quelled the concerns, I found that my options are far greater than in stores, my savings are substantial, and the choices are much more comprehensive. In stores, I had begun to accept the wrong color instead of the one I really wanted…or would accept a half-size smaller because they didn’t have my size… or would spend hours driving from store to store to find that perfect gift… only to end up back at the original store with an item that “would do” or out of frustration would by a gift certificate. Shopping had become a very stressful and unrewarding experience. This doesn’t even cover the crowds and clerks who are either overwhelmed by it all or don’t really want their job but had no other options so they chat with friends on phones and over registers and show annoyance at being bothered with questions. I now surf and watch television and chat with family and accomplish far more without spending a dime on gas.
What would I change to improve the system? I love stores that offer free shipping or a free ‘pick up at the store’ option like Sears and Best Buy and others. I order more and specifically order from those vendors who don’t gouge me on the shipping. I think it is fair to charge the consumer for returning merchandise when there is nothing wrong with it… they should have to bear that cost… but the initial shipping should be free.
October 15th, 2008 at 1:01 am
The Convenience of Shopping From Home,Without Long Lines To Wait In.
I Would Try To Improve The Long Lines,To Have More Lines Opened
October 15th, 2008 at 1:26 am
I love the fact that shipping is free. I have spent more on shipping than on some of the items I have purchased on Ebay. I would like to see a more detailed description on the jewelry items. Sometimes I can’t see the details from the photos alone.
Great site, great products and free, fast shipping!
October 15th, 2008 at 1:41 am
I just love the ability to shop for bargains, look for coupons, and compare prices. I have so many more choices!
The only think I would change is the confusion over shipping. Sometimes, I get my package before it says it has shipped. That confuses me!
October 15th, 2008 at 1:42 am
Because my previous job expected it, I had to look my best every time I commenced work. It hasnt changed since leaving, and when I go downtown I dont feel dressed if I havent got my best clothes on and also my makeup.
Shopping online has been the greatest thing, I can shop in my pyjamas at anytime of the day.
I have more choices than actually trudging downtown, getting tired fom going from store to store. I can easily compare prices so I get the best bargains.
October 15th, 2008 at 1:55 am
I agree with all top ten. I do not like to shop one bit. The crowds, pushy sales people, or inattentive sales people and spending so much time going from place to place. I love the fact I can go to a website, shop at my leisure and get great deals in the process.
October 15th, 2008 at 2:23 am
TraderLou has the best prices with excellent value that I have ever encountered on line. I look forward to getting a email from them to discover what surprises they have to offer each time. Thank you very much for free shipping.
October 15th, 2008 at 2:33 am
The one thing I like about shopping online is not having to fight the crowds. Plus when shopping online you are almost guaranteed to find what you are looking for. The only thing that I can think of to improve on is reducing the steps for repeat/return customers.
October 15th, 2008 at 2:35 am
I so enjoy all my mystic topaz items!! Get so many compliments!!
Do love shopping online…so many choices available right from my chair at home.
Love Trader Lou’s…and the many bargains available!!!!! Look forward to your emails and all the information you provide!!!
October 15th, 2008 at 2:39 am
I love the convenience and ease of online shopping. You can do it on your schedule without worrying about pushy salesmen or long lines. Its also great to get something you cannot find in the stores where you live. I like websites that are well organized and easy to search. That is very important in online shopping.
October 15th, 2008 at 2:47 am
I love that online I can find things I can’t find near home. I get an amazing selection at a good price.
I only wish there were more places online that were hooked into PayPal. That’s by far the easiest way to go.
Kelley
October 15th, 2008 at 2:52 am
i absolutely love traderlou, i feel so glamorous when i`m wearing your jewelry,and no guilt because it is so affordable.thankyou so much. carol hunter
October 15th, 2008 at 2:56 am
I absolutely love TraderLou,i feel so glamorous when i`m wearing your jewelry,and no guilt because it is so affordable. Thankyou so much. Carol Hunter.
October 15th, 2008 at 4:31 am
I love shopping online for many of the reasons listed above: no waiting in lines, no sales pressure, I can browse multiple stores at a single time (rather than running all over town), I save time, $, and gas! There is no dealing with crowds, parking lots, and “I’m sorry, but we’re out of stock at this locaion.”
October 15th, 2008 at 4:32 am
I like being able to review and adjust what’s in my cart before completing my purchase when buying online. The downside of shopping online is not being able to see the dimension and handle the products…and fully comprehend their size (esp. with beads/pendants).
October 15th, 2008 at 4:36 am
I love the convenience of shopping online and the ease of comparing prices. You can also can’t beat having your purchases delivered right to your door! The one thing I would change is that more sites offered free shipping.
October 15th, 2008 at 5:55 am
I love to shop online because I cannot drive. I am disabled. I can browse all I want while sitting down. No sales pressure. Lots of things to look at.
October 15th, 2008 at 7:00 am
I’m disabled with a chronic pain condition called RSD AND was just diagnosed with another pain condition called Fibromyalgia. It’s because of this that I love to shop online. It makes it easy for people that can’t drive due to disability or any other reason.
I wish that it was quicker to get refunds while shopping online. That’s what I would change.
Thanks so much!!
Michele R.(CA)
luvkittysmeowmail@gmail.com
October 15th, 2008 at 8:12 am
I love to shop at Trader Lou because of the convenience. I don’t have a sales person hovering over my shoulder. I can review the items at my leisure. The cost of every item is astonishing and when you get the product it exceeds your expectations. One more reason I love to shop at Trader Lou is because they keep in touch with you. Whether it’s how to care for the product, how determine fakes or just their wonderful sales.
Trader Lou is THE BEST!!!
October 15th, 2008 at 8:12 am
I love to shop at Trader Lou because of the convenience. I don’t have a sales person hovering over my shoulder. I can review the items at my leisure. The cost of every item is astonishing and when you get the product it exceeds your expectations. One more reason I love to shop at Trader Lou is because they keep in touch with you. Whether it’s how to care for the product, how to determine fakes or just their wonderful sales.
Trader Lou is THE BEST!!!
October 15th, 2008 at 9:53 am
i live in a small town. grew up in the suburbs nyc. on line shopping gives me a huge selection to choose from. i could never even find this many choices in a single day anywhere. world shopping is at my fingertips. and i can compare prices instantly.
October 15th, 2008 at 10:36 am
I love to go to a site that I have established trust in. They sell me a good product at a fair price. Then there is no reason to shop elsewhere if I get what I want so easily.
October 15th, 2008 at 11:06 am
The price! That is the number one reason I show here. Of course, the variety of pieces to choose from with the great customer service run a close second!
October 15th, 2008 at 11:20 am
I love shopping with TraderLou for the following reasons:
The choice is phenominal
The quality is fantastic
The prices are amazing
Free shipping is a fabulous bonus – and last but not least……
I adore every purchase I’ve made from you!!!!
From Helena in the UK, an absolutely thoroughly satisfied TraderLou on-line shopper ;o)
October 15th, 2008 at 11:46 am
I love to shop on line because I have physical disabilities which make it necessary for me to be on oxygen. On line shopping allows me to spend as much time browsing for just the right item at just the right price without over-extending myself. The only improvement I would make is to make PayPal available on all sites since I do not use credit cards.
October 15th, 2008 at 11:55 am
I spend time just plain “window shopping”. It is a great form of recreation and has the added plus of occasionally finding that gem of a site to expand my list of favorites.
October 15th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
I enjoy online shopping as I have some physical limitations, but by shopping online, I have learned so many more things about the items I purchase! I read reviews from other customers, which help me make my choice. Shopping at Trader Lou’s is so much fun – the beads and gemstones I purchase are beautiful and I love working with them. I’m just a beginner in beading and Trader Lou’s site gives so much good information. The prices are incredible and the merchandise beyond beautiful. Thanks, Trader Lou!
October 15th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
I love the quality of the products received from TL…the on line purchasing is fast and easy. The only improvment I could see would be if what I wanted was not found, so a place to add what you are looking for and then receive a response (not automated), hopefully stating that they will look for resources and will notify me first of its’ availability in stock.
Sarah in MO
October 15th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
I agree with Florence…I do spend time on the web just ‘window shopping’…just to get ideas and to educate myself on the types of stones etc. Pay-Pal would be a great addition as well….
Sarah in MO
October 15th, 2008 at 1:07 pm
great quality..affordable prices
October 15th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
convenient to shop from home
October 15th, 2008 at 1:10 pm
more variety
October 15th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
I love to shop online because I can find things that no one else has. You can find lots of different and unusual types of gems and jewelry that are not for sale in stores.
I think an improvement on online shopping would be more detail in the description and a running total plus shopping of what your order would cost up to that point.
October 15th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
I love my blue quartz braclet!!! I am so glad I found Trader Lou and will shop here for many years to come.
Gretchen
October 15th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Online shopping is great because you can do it so quickly and compare many places for a similar item. It also allows you to research information on the item and be more knowlegeable about the product before you make a purchase. It would make online shopping even better if the shipping were free or less than many sites and also if the items arrived more quickly.
October 15th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
I love shopping online because of the great deals I can find. And good ol’ search engines make it easy to find exactly what you are looking for.
I also love when the mail is delivered or the UPS truck shows up and I get to open that package and see the item in person. It makes it so much more special than buying it in the store.
The only drawback is many items are overpriced as far as shipping goes. That is the main reason I sometimes abandon a cart full of online goodies.
Trader Lou is an amzing place to get beautiful jewelry and great prices and I am AMAZED at their speed of shipping and the extras they give!
October 15th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
I shop online due to health reasons. I cannot get out to the stores, and even if I do, the walking around looking for something or the long wait on the checkout lines do me in. Also, if I’m shopping online, I can always research the merchant before I make a purchase. TRADER LOU gives you the convenience of extremely fast delivery, rock bottom prices, quality merchandise and free shipping and handling (standard). You can’t go wrong with that combination!
October 15th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
As both a buyer and seller I see both sides of the world of selling online.I prefer it 100% over shopping in person if at possible, yes there can be draw backs.But that is true if you shop in person say in a dept. store.Plus you have to deal with other people, crowds(which I hate} often rude or uncaring sales people.Lines that go on forever.They always only have maybe 4 cashiers working in a major store that has twenty chash registers that could be checking people out.I much prefer to sit in my chair and take my time play some music and relax and shop.And I am lucky.I have never had to return an item.I have canceled an item but it was hassel free.
What I would like to see all online stores do that I do for my customers, and TraderLou also does is notify you when item has shipped.Most do, but not all.It is a good feeling knowing when to expect that package.I think it should be an automatic thing all business should do.Thanks,and love your jewelry.Keep up the good work.
October 15th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
I agree with Florence about the Paypal.I beleive credit cards are EVIL and all shopping sites should offer Paypal.Thats my way of paying or I use my debit cards.
October 15th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
I love the convenience of shopping on-line. I don’t have to leave the comfort of my home, and the products are delivered to my door! The prices and selection are fantastic. The one thing I would like to see improve is the quality control process of on-line suppliers, who sometimes ship defective product that should be caught before it goes to a customer
October 15th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
I love the wide range of products you can find on-line without having to waste the gas driving all over the city.
My only gripe is inflated shipping fees. Generally, I try to comparison shop for shipping fees as well and I am more likely to stick with a company with fair shipping fees.
October 15th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
I love shopping here. The prices are great and the selection is wonderful. There are two things I wish you had. A way to flag a piece to send to a friend for a birthday reminder saying “hey, it’s my birthday and I like this piece……” and a more detailed description of what you are getting such as grams, stone size, piece size in inches, etc. But you have great items! Thanks so much for making shopping so easy!
October 15th, 2008 at 6:56 pm
I love to shop online because I have the world at my fingertips. Rather than visit 15 stores, you can search for exactly what you are looking for and have a number of selections to choose from in mere minutes. No pushy salespeople, no misinformation, no line-ups, no trying to upsell to another product or add more on to what you’ve already bought. It’s simple, it’s quiet, and it’s amazing, the selection available to you by entering a few key words. The only drawback that I have encountered so far is that sometimes the product doesn’t come exactly when you need it most ie. gift, display, order…. This can be frustrating. I miss not having it in my hands right away but weighed against all the +’s, I am learning the art of patience. Laura Hansen
October 15th, 2008 at 11:49 pm
The main thing I like about shopping online is that the stores are always open. Whether I want to shop at noon or midnight or anytime in between, the store’s always open. The one thing I would improve is for my shopping cart to always be saved for 30 days or so bc sometimes I get interrupted and have to stop my shopping session without making a final decision or without having found all the things I’m looking for.
October 15th, 2008 at 11:50 pm
Greater selection is the number one reason I prefer shopping online; this is especially important when I’m looking for something hand-crafted or uniquely personal, like jewelry. The main drawback, though, is feeling cut off from some of the sensory subtleties that real-world shopping provides. Since pictures and text are so important online, adding tabs that offer the choice of more detailed information would help. Photos showing more than one profile of a piece, for instance, could show us the backs of certain earrings, or the details of a clasp or ring setting. Trader Lou usually provides good general descriptions like dimensions, weight, stone and color, but sometimes it’s important to know more – like how high a stone rises above the finger on a ring, or whether drops are attached with single or wrapped loops. Thanks, Lee
October 16th, 2008 at 2:56 am
Well I am always busy during the day,so I love it to relax in the evening,to go online,and have all night to look at nice things,like gems and jewelry and there are a lot better prices, then in the stores.Plus the variety is endless.So that”s the reason for me to shop online.I just love it!!!! Have a great day Brigitte
October 16th, 2008 at 9:50 am
I do all my shopping online. I can scan 100’s of items in so little time. I love Trader Lou’s because I own a shop and like to buy in “ones” to keep my products unique for my customers. If it were’nt for online shopping, I could never offer my customers the variety that I do. Going to market is so expensive and usually involves buying in quanity. This is great.
October 16th, 2008 at 9:58 am
I forgot to also add the PLUS that paypal is. In todays economic world, the less we use credit cards the better. I really appreciate PAYPAL. I wish everyone accepted it. Thanks Trader Lou!
October 16th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
I agree with all of the comments that have been posted so far. Shopping online allows you to save gas, time, no waiting in lines, compare prices and much more. The only problem that I have had from time to time with some online purchases is the availability to track or track accurately the shipment of the merchandise that you purchase. That’s the only item that I wish there would be some improvement on. Other than that I have loved being able to shop online.
October 16th, 2008 at 7:50 pm
I love to shop at TraderLou online because it’s so easy, photos are great, there is a huge selection, and the prices are outstanding. One thing I would change would be more stud earrings. I really like the amethyst ones. Sometimes I just like lighter earrings. This is the place to shop.
October 16th, 2008 at 8:47 pm
First of all Thank You Trader Lou, you have made my life so much easier! Really, I am a disabled person and find it difficult to get out to the stores and shop for family and friends. I am unable to drive do to a severe back and neck disease which is very disableing, therefor I shop online. The prices are fantastic and the service is absolutly wonderful. Thank you again for all your choices and of course your quality is spectacular!!
October 17th, 2008 at 9:20 am
I love shopping online.You are in the comfort of your own home. There are no high pressure sale tactics.Living in Canada it gives me the opportunity to shop in stores that are only availeble south of the border.There are so many reasons wich have already posted.
The only negative factor for me is shipping. Sometimes things shipped take forever. Then you shop again at the same place and same cost and you get your parcel very quickly.So go figure. I don’t think there is a solution anytime soon.
Regards
Penny
October 17th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
I love shopping on line with Trader Lou it is so nice to buy on line
with you . I enjoy looking at all the nice jewerly you have on line it gives me a chance to choose the right one for me .Also it beat the long waiting line at the stores. plus the sales person brothering me
losing my thought on the item.what I would inprove is the waiting time of deliverly. or maybe it’s me I just can’t wait till my jewerly arrived.
October 17th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
I have an unbelievable number of health issues which make it close to impossible to shop in local stores. While I miss that occasionally, since it would give me the opportunity to actually see and closely examine the items I wish to purchase, overall there is a lot more variety (not to mention competitive pricing) with shopping online!
One of my pet peeves, however, are those online companies and web sites that offer e-mail contact and which, once you send them a question or concern via that e-mail, NEVER answer!!! I refuse to buy from those people!
Thank heavens Trader Lou isn’t one of them!
October 18th, 2008 at 3:21 am
I enjoy being able to browse. I can look for a minute or an hour. I can walk away when I am working and come back and continue shopping. I can even shop in the middle of the night.
The only improvement I would make is to be able to shop by price range. Sometimes I am looking for a gift and I know I want to spend between $20 and $50, it would be helpful if I could narrow the field.
Great website! Even better prices!
October 20th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
I love shopping here because the quality and price are great!
The speed in receiving my merchandise is unbelievable. Please keep up the great work. Would love to see some pearl rings in the future.
October 20th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Hi,
I love unique designing and quality of products. I have 55-60 pendents and other jewlery which I purchased from your site.
October 20th, 2008 at 5:33 pm
I love to purchase on line because it sometimes takes me upwards of a week to prepare orders, sometimes from several sources at the same time to make sure I am brining in enough for a full line of jewelry. The thing I love about Trader Lou’s system is that it allows me to put items in my cart, it keeps them there until I am ready to order and it tells me how many items are left in stock. That way I know if I need to put in an order in a hurry or if there is lots of stock left. Many other sites don’t save items in your cart which means each time I go to the site, I have to re-enter all my choices. This is a real pain as far as comparison shopping and putting together several large orders goes. I also love the new system that a person receives their choice of free items depending on amount spent. I can’t say how many times I’ve purchased a large order and had a great promotion come out the next week! Trader Lou has by far been one of the most professional and easy to use systems since the beginning. Unfortunately I ordered so much from them in the beginning I’ve been working through the stock I have. I can’t wait to put in my next big order.
October 25th, 2008 at 6:39 pm
Cheers, Check out the pics of my new emo haircut
on http://tinyurl.com/59ps64
October 26th, 2008 at 6:17 am
Well, when the baby sitter cancels, online shopping is the most efficient way to get the job done! Sure beats dragging the kids from store to store.