9+ Amazon Target Audiences: Seller's Guide


9+ Amazon Target Audiences: Seller's Guide

Consumers purchasing goods or services through the online retail giant represent a vast and diverse demographic. This group can be segmented further based on factors like purchasing habits, product preferences, demographics, and online behavior. For example, a consumer frequently purchasing electronics and subscribing to Amazon Prime falls into a different segment than a consumer solely purchasing books.

Understanding the characteristics of distinct consumer groups is crucial for effective marketing and sales strategies. This knowledge allows businesses utilizing the platform to tailor product offerings, advertising campaigns, and pricing models to resonate with specific segments. Historically, broad marketing approaches were common. However, the digital era necessitates a more focused strategy, maximizing return on investment and fostering stronger customer relationships by addressing the specific needs and desires of individual consumer groups within the larger marketplace.

This understanding informs critical decisions related to product development, advertising strategies, and pricing models. The following sections will explore key demographic and behavioral factors, providing further insight into the diverse landscape of online consumers and their interaction with the platform.

1. Demographics

Demographic data provides crucial insights into the characteristics of Amazon’s consumer base. Factors such as age, gender, income level, location, education, and family status influence purchasing behavior and product preferences. For instance, younger demographics might demonstrate a higher propensity for tech gadgets and digital content, while older demographics might lean towards household goods and healthcare products. Higher-income consumers may exhibit a preference for luxury items and premium services like Amazon Prime. Geographic location influences product availability and delivery logistics, while family status impacts purchases related to children’s products, household necessities, and family entertainment. Understanding these demographic nuances allows for targeted marketing campaigns and personalized product recommendations.

Analyzing demographic trends reveals further insights into evolving consumer behavior. For example, the increasing purchasing power of millennials and Gen Z influences product development and marketing strategies across various categories, from fashion and electronics to travel and entertainment. The growing senior demographic presents opportunities within healthcare, leisure activities, and accessible product design. Businesses utilizing Amazon’s platform can leverage demographic data to identify growth areas, anticipate market shifts, and tailor product offerings to specific consumer segments. This data-driven approach optimizes resource allocation and maximizes marketing ROI.

Effectively utilizing demographic data is essential for success within the competitive e-commerce landscape. By understanding the diverse needs and preferences of various demographic groups, businesses can refine their marketing strategies, optimize product development, and cultivate stronger customer relationships. Recognizing the limitations of broad marketing approaches and embracing targeted strategies based on demographic insights is crucial for sustainable growth and market leadership within the Amazon ecosystem.

2. Online Shoppers

Online shoppers represent a significant portion of Amazon’s target audience. Understanding their behavior, motivations, and preferences is crucial for businesses seeking to thrive on the platform. The following facets provide a deeper understanding of this key consumer group.

  • Purchase Behavior

    Analyzing purchase behavior provides insights into online shoppers’ habits and preferences. Data points such as frequency of purchases, average order value, product categories browsed and purchased, and response to promotional offers reveal valuable information. For instance, frequent purchases of household goods suggest a different consumer profile than someone who primarily purchases electronics. Understanding these patterns allows businesses to tailor product recommendations, optimize pricing strategies, and personalize marketing campaigns.

  • Device Usage

    Online shoppers utilize various devices to access Amazon, including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Understanding device preferences informs website design, app development, and advertising strategies. Mobile optimization is crucial given the increasing prevalence of mobile commerce. Recognizing device usage patterns allows businesses to create seamless and user-friendly experiences across different platforms, maximizing accessibility and engagement.

  • Online Reviews and Ratings

    Online reviews and ratings heavily influence purchasing decisions. Shoppers often consult reviews before making a purchase, relying on the experiences of other consumers. Businesses benefit from actively monitoring reviews, responding to feedback, and addressing customer concerns. Positive reviews build trust and credibility, while negative reviews provide valuable insights for product improvement and customer service enhancements.

  • Search Behavior

    Understanding how online shoppers use search terms within Amazon’s platform is crucial for product visibility and discoverability. Analyzing search trends, keyword usage, and search filters helps businesses optimize product listings, improve search engine optimization (SEO), and target relevant advertising campaigns. This ensures products reach the intended audience, maximizing sales potential.

These facets of online shopper behavior offer valuable insights into the dynamics of Amazon’s target audience. Businesses that leverage this information can create more effective marketing strategies, optimize product listings, and cultivate stronger customer relationships. By understanding the nuances of online shopping behavior, businesses can position themselves for success within the competitive e-commerce landscape.

3. Prime Members

Prime members represent a significant and valuable segment within Amazon’s overall target audience. Understanding their characteristics and motivations is crucial for developing effective marketing and sales strategies on the platform. Prime membership offers a range of benefits that influence purchasing behavior and brand loyalty, making this consumer group a key focus for businesses operating within the Amazon ecosystem.

  • Loyalty and Retention

    Prime members often exhibit higher levels of brand loyalty and customer retention compared to non-Prime members. The benefits associated with Prime membership, such as free and expedited shipping, access to streaming services, and exclusive deals, incentivize repeat purchases and foster a stronger connection with the platform. This loyalty translates into increased customer lifetime value and provides a stable foundation for businesses to build upon.

  • Higher Spending and Purchase Frequency

    Prime members typically demonstrate higher spending and purchase frequency than non-Prime members. The convenience and perceived value of Prime membership encourage more frequent transactions and larger basket sizes. This increased purchasing activity presents significant opportunities for businesses to increase sales and market share within the competitive e-commerce landscape.

  • Early Adoption and Product Launches

    Prime members often serve as early adopters for new products and services launched on Amazon. Their engagement with the platform and access to exclusive deals and early access programs make them a valuable target group for product launches and marketing campaigns. This early adoption behavior provides valuable feedback and can influence the success of new product introductions.

  • Data-Driven Insights and Personalization

    Amazon gathers extensive data on Prime member behavior, including purchase history, browsing patterns, and streaming preferences. This data allows businesses to create highly targeted marketing campaigns, personalize product recommendations, and optimize pricing strategies. Leveraging this data-driven approach maximizes marketing ROI and fosters stronger customer relationships.

Understanding the distinct characteristics of Prime members provides valuable insights into a crucial segment of Amazon’s target audience. By recognizing the factors that drive Prime member loyalty, purchasing behavior, and engagement with the platform, businesses can develop targeted strategies to maximize their reach and impact within the competitive e-commerce environment. This focused approach is essential for sustainable growth and market leadership within the Amazon ecosystem.

4. Product Categories

Product categories on Amazon represent a crucial lens through which to understand its diverse target audience. Consumer preferences for specific product categories provide valuable insights into purchasing behavior, demographic segmentation, and market trends. Analyzing these preferences enables businesses to refine marketing strategies, optimize product development, and effectively target specific consumer segments.

  • Consumer Segmentation by Category Preference

    Distinct consumer segments emerge based on preferred product categories. Consumers frequently purchasing electronics demonstrate different characteristics and motivations compared to those primarily interested in books, apparel, or home goods. Understanding these segment-specific nuances allows businesses to tailor marketing messages, product recommendations, and pricing strategies to resonate with the distinct needs and preferences of each group.

  • Identifying Niche Markets within Categories

    Within broader product categories, niche markets exist, representing specialized consumer interests and demands. For example, within the electronics category, a niche market might exist for audiophile headphones or gaming peripherals. Identifying and catering to these niche markets presents opportunities for businesses to establish a strong presence and cultivate loyal customer bases within specific segments.

  • Impact of Seasonal Trends and Events on Category Demand

    Consumer demand within specific product categories often fluctuates based on seasonal trends and events. Demand for outdoor sporting goods might peak during summer months, while demand for winter apparel surges during colder seasons. Holiday periods, such as Christmas and back-to-school seasons, also influence purchasing behavior across various categories. Recognizing these cyclical trends allows businesses to anticipate demand fluctuations, optimize inventory management, and implement timely marketing campaigns.

  • Cross-Category Purchase Patterns and Product Bundling Opportunities

    Analyzing cross-category purchase patterns reveals valuable insights into consumer behavior and preferences. For example, consumers purchasing baby products might also demonstrate interest in parenting books or toys. Understanding these relationships presents opportunities for product bundling, targeted advertising, and personalized recommendations. Leveraging cross-category insights allows businesses to maximize sales potential and enhance customer satisfaction.

Understanding the interplay between product categories and consumer behavior is essential for success within the Amazon ecosystem. By analyzing category-specific preferences, identifying niche markets, recognizing seasonal trends, and leveraging cross-category purchase patterns, businesses can optimize their strategies to effectively reach their target audience and achieve sustainable growth within the competitive e-commerce landscape.

5. Price Sensitivity

Price sensitivity significantly influences purchasing decisions within Amazon’s diverse target audience. Understanding how different consumer segments respond to price changes, promotions, and perceived value is crucial for developing effective pricing strategies and maximizing sales potential. This involves analyzing factors such as income levels, product categories, purchasing habits, and competitive pressures within the e-commerce landscape.

  • Value Perception

    Consumers assess value based on the perceived benefits of a product or service relative to its price. A consumer might prioritize a lower price for everyday household items, while demonstrating less price sensitivity for premium electronics or luxury goods. Understanding value perception within different consumer segments allows businesses to optimize pricing strategies and tailor marketing messages to emphasize value propositions.

  • Promotional Influence

    Promotional offers, such as discounts, coupons, and special deals, significantly impact purchasing behavior, particularly among price-sensitive consumers. These promotions can drive sales, clear inventory, and attract new customers. Analyzing the effectiveness of various promotional strategies across different consumer segments provides valuable insights for optimizing marketing campaigns and maximizing return on investment.

  • Competitive Pricing

    The competitive landscape on Amazon necessitates a keen awareness of competitor pricing strategies. Consumers readily compare prices across different sellers, making competitive pricing a crucial factor in purchasing decisions. Monitoring competitor pricing and adjusting pricing strategies accordingly allows businesses to remain competitive and attract price-conscious consumers.

  • Income and Demographic Factors

    Income levels and demographic factors influence price sensitivity. Lower-income consumers typically exhibit higher price sensitivity compared to higher-income consumers. Understanding these demographic nuances allows businesses to tailor pricing strategies and product offerings to target specific consumer segments effectively. This includes offering a range of products at different price points to cater to varying budget constraints.

Analyzing price sensitivity within Amazon’s target audience requires a nuanced approach that considers the interplay of value perception, promotional influence, competitive pricing, and demographic factors. By understanding how these factors impact purchasing decisions, businesses can develop dynamic pricing strategies, optimize marketing campaigns, and maximize their reach and impact within the competitive e-commerce environment. This strategic approach is essential for sustainable growth and market share acquisition within the Amazon marketplace.

6. Mobile Users

Mobile users represent a substantial and rapidly growing segment of Amazon’s target audience. The ubiquity of smartphones and tablets has transformed online shopping behavior, making mobile commerce a crucial aspect of the e-commerce landscape. This shift necessitates a mobile-first approach to website design, app development, and marketing strategies for businesses operating within the Amazon ecosystem. The connection between mobile users and Amazon’s target audience is multifaceted, impacting purchasing behavior, user experience, and marketing effectiveness.

The convenience and accessibility of mobile devices allow consumers to shop anytime, anywhere. This increased accessibility drives impulse purchases, facilitates product research on the go, and streamlines the purchasing process. Amazon’s mobile app provides a seamless shopping experience, offering features such as personalized recommendations, order tracking, and secure payment options. This mobile-optimized experience caters to the on-demand nature of mobile users, enhancing customer satisfaction and encouraging repeat purchases. For instance, a commuter can easily browse and purchase items during their commute using the Amazon app, highlighting the integration of online shopping into daily routines facilitated by mobile access. Businesses failing to optimize for mobile risk alienating a significant portion of their potential customer base.

Understanding the distinct characteristics of mobile users is essential for effective marketing and engagement. Mobile users often exhibit different browsing and purchasing patterns compared to desktop users. Shorter browsing sessions, higher reliance on visual content, and increased sensitivity to page load speeds necessitate a mobile-specific approach to website design and marketing campaigns. Targeted advertising campaigns optimized for mobile devices, incorporating location-based targeting and mobile-specific ad formats, can effectively reach this growing segment of Amazon’s target audience. Moreover, incorporating features like mobile-optimized checkout processes and streamlined navigation enhances the user experience and drives conversions. The strategic importance of mobile users within Amazon’s target audience underscores the need for a mobile-first approach to e-commerce strategy, ensuring accessibility, engagement, and ultimately, success within the competitive online marketplace.

7. International Consumers

International consumers represent a substantial and increasingly important segment of Amazon’s target audience. The global reach of the platform provides access to diverse markets, presenting both opportunities and challenges for businesses seeking to engage with this consumer group. Understanding the nuances of cultural differences, language barriers, logistical considerations, and regulatory frameworks is crucial for effectively targeting international consumers and maximizing global market penetration. This understanding requires a nuanced approach that considers the specific characteristics of each international market and adapts strategies accordingly. For example, localized product listings, translated marketing materials, and culturally relevant advertising campaigns enhance engagement and build trust with international consumers. A business selling apparel might adapt sizing charts and product descriptions to align with local standards in different countries, demonstrating cultural sensitivity and enhancing the customer experience.

Navigating logistical complexities associated with international shipping, customs regulations, and payment processing is essential for reaching international consumers effectively. Partnering with international fulfillment centers, offering competitive shipping rates, and providing clear communication regarding customs procedures enhances the customer experience and reduces barriers to purchase. Furthermore, offering multilingual customer support and addressing currency conversion considerations demonstrates a commitment to serving international customers effectively. For instance, offering customer support in Spanish and Portuguese can significantly improve the shopping experience for consumers in Latin American markets. Addressing these logistical and operational challenges streamlines the purchasing process for international consumers and fosters positive brand perception. Ignoring these factors can lead to customer dissatisfaction, logistical bottlenecks, and ultimately, hinder success within international markets.

Successfully engaging with international consumers requires a strategic approach that prioritizes cultural sensitivity, logistical efficiency, and localized marketing efforts. This approach recognizes the unique needs and preferences of consumers in different international markets and adapts strategies accordingly. By addressing language barriers, navigating regulatory frameworks, and optimizing logistical operations, businesses can unlock the vast potential of the global marketplace and achieve sustainable growth within the increasingly diverse landscape of Amazon’s target audience. Failing to recognize and address the distinct characteristics of international consumers limits market reach and hinders the ability to compete effectively within the global e-commerce arena.

8. Business Customers

Business customers represent a distinct segment within Amazon’s target audience, presenting unique opportunities and challenges for businesses selling on the platform. Understanding the specific needs and purchasing behaviors of business customers is crucial for developing effective marketing strategies, optimizing product offerings, and fostering long-term relationships within this valuable market segment. These customers often prioritize different factors compared to individual consumers, influencing purchasing decisions and requiring tailored approaches to customer service and support.

  • Procurement and Purchasing Processes

    Business purchasing decisions often involve complex procurement processes, requiring detailed product information, competitive pricing, and reliable supply chains. Unlike individual consumers, businesses may require bulk discounts, customized order fulfillment options, and dedicated account management. Understanding these procurement nuances and adapting sales strategies accordingly is crucial for attracting and retaining business customers on Amazon. For instance, offering detailed product specifications, technical documentation, and integration support can be essential for selling software or hardware solutions to businesses.

  • Relationship Management and Customer Service

    Building strong relationships with business customers is essential for long-term success. Dedicated account managers, personalized customer service, and responsive communication channels foster trust and loyalty. Addressing the specific needs and concerns of business customers efficiently and effectively strengthens relationships and encourages repeat purchases. For example, providing prompt technical support and resolving order discrepancies quickly demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction and strengthens business partnerships.

  • Product and Service Requirements

    Business customers often require specialized products and services tailored to their specific industry or operational needs. This might include industrial equipment, office supplies, software solutions, or customized product configurations. Understanding these industry-specific requirements and offering tailored solutions positions businesses effectively within the competitive landscape. For instance, a supplier selling office furniture might offer ergonomic assessments and customized workstation setups to cater to the specific needs of businesses.

  • Pricing and Payment Options

    Pricing and payment options play a crucial role in business purchasing decisions. Competitive pricing, flexible payment terms, and options for invoicing and credit lines are often essential for attracting business customers. Understanding these financial considerations and offering tailored payment solutions streamlines the purchasing process and facilitates larger transactions. For instance, offering volume discounts and net-30 payment terms can incentivize larger orders and strengthen relationships with business customers.

Successfully engaging with business customers on Amazon requires a strategic approach that recognizes their distinct characteristics and prioritizes their specific needs. By understanding the nuances of business procurement processes, fostering strong relationships through dedicated customer service, offering tailored product and service solutions, and providing flexible pricing and payment options, businesses can effectively target this valuable segment within Amazon’s target audience. This targeted approach is essential for building long-term partnerships, driving sustainable growth, and achieving market leadership within the competitive B2B e-commerce landscape.

9. Device Owners (Kindle, Echo)

Consumers who own Amazon devices, such as Kindle e-readers and Echo smart speakers, represent a significant segment within Amazon’s broader target audience. These device owners often exhibit distinct characteristics and behaviors, creating opportunities for targeted marketing and enhanced customer engagement. Ownership of these devices fosters deeper integration within the Amazon ecosystem, influencing purchasing decisions and content consumption patterns. This integration creates a synergistic relationship between device usage and engagement with other Amazon services, such as Prime membership, e-commerce purchases, and digital content consumption. For example, Kindle owners demonstrate a higher propensity to purchase e-books and audiobooks from Amazon, while Echo owners frequently utilize the device for online shopping and accessing other Amazon services. This interconnectedness provides valuable data insights into consumer preferences and behavior, enabling personalized recommendations and targeted advertising campaigns. The strategic importance of device owners stems from their increased engagement and potential for long-term customer loyalty.

Understanding the motivations and usage patterns of device owners provides valuable insights for product development and marketing strategies. Kindle owners, for example, prioritize features such as readability, portability, and access to a vast library of e-books. Echo owners value voice control functionality, smart home integration, and access to information and entertainment. Catering to these specific needs and preferences enhances customer satisfaction and drives further engagement within the Amazon ecosystem. For instance, offering exclusive content or discounted subscriptions to Kindle Unlimited for Kindle owners can incentivize further purchases and strengthen customer loyalty. Similarly, integrating Echo devices with other smart home products and services expands the device’s utility and reinforces its role within the connected home environment. These strategic initiatives leverage device ownership to enhance customer engagement and drive revenue growth.

The strategic significance of device owners within Amazon’s target audience necessitates a focused approach to product development, marketing, and customer relationship management. By understanding the motivations, usage patterns, and purchasing behaviors of device owners, businesses can tailor their strategies to effectively engage this valuable segment. Recognizing the synergistic relationship between device ownership and engagement with other Amazon services allows for targeted campaigns, personalized recommendations, and enhanced customer experiences. This focused approach strengthens customer loyalty, drives revenue growth, and solidifies Amazon’s position within the competitive landscape of e-commerce and digital content distribution.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries regarding consumers engaging with the Amazon platform.

Question 1: How does Amazon segment its consumer base?

Segmentation utilizes factors like demographics (age, income, location), purchasing behavior (frequency, order value, product categories), device usage (desktop, mobile, app), and engagement with Amazon services (Prime membership, Kindle ownership). This allows for targeted marketing and personalized recommendations.

Question 2: Why is understanding Amazon’s target audience important for businesses?

Understanding the target audience is crucial for effective marketing, product development, and pricing strategies. Tailoring offerings to specific consumer segments maximizes return on investment and fosters stronger customer relationships.

Question 3: What role do Prime members play in Amazon’s target audience?

Prime members represent a valuable segment due to their higher spending, increased purchase frequency, and brand loyalty. They are often early adopters of new products and services, making them a key demographic for product launches and marketing campaigns.

Question 4: How does mobile usage influence Amazon’s target audience?

The increasing prevalence of mobile commerce necessitates a mobile-first approach. Optimizing website design, app functionality, and marketing campaigns for mobile users is crucial for reaching this significant and growing segment.

Question 5: What challenges are associated with targeting international consumers on Amazon?

Challenges include cultural differences, language barriers, logistical complexities related to international shipping and customs regulations, and varying payment preferences. Addressing these challenges requires localized strategies and operational adaptations.

Question 6: How do business customers differ from individual consumers on Amazon?

Business customers often have distinct purchasing processes, requiring bulk discounts, specialized product information, tailored customer service, and flexible payment options. Understanding these nuances is crucial for effectively engaging with this segment.

Addressing these frequently asked questions provides a foundational understanding of the diverse consumer landscape within the Amazon ecosystem. This knowledge empowers businesses to develop effective strategies for engaging with their target audience and achieving sustainable growth within the competitive e-commerce environment.

For further exploration, the following sections delve deeper into specific aspects of Amazon’s target audience and provide actionable insights for businesses operating on the platform.

Tips for Reaching Your Target Audience on Amazon

Successfully engaging specific consumer groups on Amazon requires a nuanced approach. These tips provide actionable strategies for optimizing reach and impact within the competitive marketplace.

Tip 1: Conduct Thorough Market Research

Comprehensive market research is essential. Analyze demographic data, purchasing behavior, competitor strategies, and product category trends. Leverage available data analytics tools to gain insights into consumer preferences and market dynamics. For example, analyzing best-selling products within a specific category can inform product development and marketing strategies.

Tip 2: Segment the Target Audience

Divide the broader consumer base into distinct segments based on factors like demographics, purchasing habits, product preferences, and online behavior. This allows for targeted marketing campaigns and personalized product recommendations. For instance, a business selling fitness equipment might segment its audience based on fitness level, age group, and preferred workout styles.

Tip 3: Optimize Product Listings

Compelling product listings are crucial for attracting and converting potential customers. Use high-quality images, detailed product descriptions, relevant keywords, and competitive pricing. Highlight key features and benefits that resonate with the target audience. For example, a listing for a smartphone might emphasize camera quality, processing speed, and battery life.

Tip 4: Leverage Amazon’s Advertising Platform

Utilize Amazon’s advertising platform to reach specific consumer segments. Sponsored product ads, sponsored brand ads, and display ads can increase product visibility and drive targeted traffic to product listings. Experiment with different ad formats and targeting options to optimize campaign performance. For example, a business selling organic food products might target consumers interested in healthy eating and sustainable living.

Tip 5: Monitor Customer Reviews and Feedback

Actively monitor customer reviews and feedback. Address customer concerns promptly and professionally. Positive reviews build trust and credibility, while negative reviews provide valuable insights for product improvement and customer service enhancements. For example, addressing negative reviews about product packaging can lead to improved packaging design and increased customer satisfaction.

Tip 6: Analyze Competitor Strategies

Analyze competitor pricing, product offerings, marketing campaigns, and customer reviews. Identify opportunities to differentiate product offerings and improve competitive positioning. For example, analyzing competitor pricing strategies can inform pricing decisions and maximize competitiveness.

Tip 7: Utilize Data Analytics and Reporting

Leverage data analytics tools to track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as sales, conversion rates, click-through rates, and customer acquisition cost. Data-driven insights inform strategic decision-making and optimize marketing campaign performance. For example, analyzing conversion rates for different product listings can identify areas for improvement in product presentation or pricing.

Implementing these strategies enhances engagement with specific consumer groups on Amazon, maximizing market reach and driving sustainable growth. These data-driven insights provide a competitive edge and contribute to long-term success within the dynamic e-commerce landscape.

The following conclusion summarizes the key takeaways and reinforces the strategic importance of understanding Amazon’s target audience for achieving business objectives.

Understanding Amazon’s Target Audience

Comprehending the complexities of the consumer base engaging with Amazon is paramount for businesses seeking to thrive within this competitive marketplace. This exploration has highlighted the multifaceted nature of this audience, encompassing diverse demographics, purchasing behaviors, device preferences, and engagement patterns. From the nuanced distinctions between Prime members and non-Prime shoppers to the specific needs of business customers and international consumers, each segment presents unique opportunities and challenges. The evolving landscape of mobile commerce, the influence of product categories, and the critical role of price sensitivity further underscore the need for a data-driven approach to understanding and engaging with this dynamic consumer base. Analyzing these factors provides businesses with valuable insights for optimizing product development, refining marketing strategies, and ultimately, achieving sustainable growth within the Amazon ecosystem.

The ability to effectively target specific consumer segments within the Amazon marketplace is no longer a competitive advantageit is a necessity. Businesses that invest in understanding the nuances of their target audience, leverage data-driven insights, and adapt their strategies accordingly position themselves for success within this dynamic and ever-evolving e-commerce landscape. The future of commerce on Amazon belongs to those who embrace a customer-centric approach, recognizing the individual needs and preferences of each consumer segment and tailoring their offerings to deliver exceptional value and personalized experiences. This commitment to understanding and engaging with the target audience is the cornerstone of sustainable growth and market leadership within the competitive realm of online retail.