Mobile Commerce by the Numbers: What Stats Reveal About eCommerce Shoppers as We Approach the End of 2024

As we come towards the end of 2024, the mobile commerce landscape in the UK has reached new heights, reshaping how consumers shop and interact with brands. With an increasing reliance on smartphones for shopping, having a mobile-friendly website design is essential for eCommerce businesses that aim to stay competitive. Understanding the latest trends and statistics is key for brands looking to optimise their mobile experiences and engage effectively with users. As we look forward to 2025, it’s clear that these trends will continue to evolve, presenting new opportunities and challenges for retailers. Let’s explore some compelling stats that showcase the current state of mobile commerce in the UK and what’s on the horizon.

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1. The Mobile Commerce Surge

2. Consumer Preferences Evolving

3. The Rise of Social Commerce

4. Future Trends in Mobile Commerce

1. THE MOBILE COMMERCE SURGE

Mobile Shopping Dominance: As of late 2024, mobile commerce accounts for an impressive 55% of all eCommerce sales in the UK, up from 48% at the beginning of the year. This growth emphasises the ongoing transition to mobile shopping platforms and the need for businesses to adapt swiftly.
Smartphone Usage Statistics: Currently, about 91% of UK adults own a smartphone, with 76% having made at least one purchase via their mobile device in the past six months. This solidifies the smartphone’s role as an essential shopping tool for most consumers.
Time Spent Shopping on Mobile: UK consumers now spend an average of 2 hours and 50 minutes per day on mobile shopping apps, reflecting a 30% increase from the previous year. This growing engagement indicates that people are not only shopping more frequently but also dedicating more time to their mobile commerce experiences.

2. CONSUMER PREFERENCES EVOLVING

App vs. Mobile Web Trends: By the end of 2024, 68% of mobile commerce sales are expected to occur through dedicated shopping apps, while only 32% will happen via mobile web browsers. This shift highlights the importance of offering seamless app experiences to capture consumer spending effectively.
Preferred Payment Methods: A significant 74% of mobile shoppers now prefer using digital wallets, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, for their transactions. With convenience and security being top priorities, eCommerce businesses should ensure they offer diverse payment options to meet these consumer preferences.

3. THE RISE OF SOCIAL COMMERCE

Social Media Influence: Social commerce continues to thrive, with over 56% of UK consumers expected to make purchases directly through social media channels by the end of 2024. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are becoming essential sales channels for brands, driving engagement and conversions.
Influencer Impact: Approximately 45% of UK shoppers report being influenced by social media posts from their favourite influencers. Collaborating with influencers can significantly enhance brand visibility and foster trust among consumers, making it a vital strategy for eCommerce brands.

4. FUTURE TRENDS IN MOBILE COMMERCE

As we look towards 2025, several key trends are expected to shape the future of mobile commerce:

Augmented and Virtual Reality Integration: The use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in mobile commerce is set to rise, with 34% of UK eCommerce businesses planning to implement these technologies. By enhancing product visualisation and customer engagement, AR and VR can significantly transform the shopping experience.
Sustainability in Shopping: As we approach the end of 2024, 70% of mobile shoppers express a strong preference for brands that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. Looking forward to 2025, we anticipate that this number will continue to grow, as consumer awareness around eco-friendly practices increases. eCommerce businesses that prioritise ethical sourcing and environmentally-friendly initiatives will likely attract a dedicated customer base.
AI-Powered Personalisation: In 2025, we expect to see an uptick in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for personalising the shopping experience. Approximately 65% of consumers are likely to respond positively to tailored recommendations and offers, making AI-driven strategies a necessity for retailers looking to enhance customer engagement.
Voice Commerce Growth: With the rise of voice-activated devices, voice commerce is anticipated to gain traction. By 2025, about 20% of mobile shoppers are expected to use voice commands for making purchases, highlighting the need for eCommerce platforms to optimise for voice search and shopping.

As we approach the end of 2024, the mobile commerce landscape in the UK is more dynamic than ever. With a substantial number of consumers embracing mobile shopping, businesses must swiftly adapt to these trends by optimising their platforms, enhancing user experiences, and integrating innovative technologies.

These statistics not only illustrate shifting shopping behaviours but also highlight valuable opportunities for brands to forge deeper connections with consumers. By understanding and leveraging these trends, eCommerce businesses can not only survive but thrive in this mobile-first environment.

Looking ahead to 2025, embracing the mobile commerce revolution will be crucial for success in the ever-evolving world of eCommerce. Whether you're a small business or a major retailer, now is the time to unlock the full potential of your eCommerce strategy.

At 8th Dial, we are here to help you navigate this exciting landscape. As a website design and development agency, we specialise in creating custom web design and digital marketing solutions crafted to enhance your eCommerce brand. Our dedicated team of experts is committed to working alongside you to optimise your online presence, improve user experiences, and increase conversions.

We understand the unique challenges faced by eCommerce businesses and are passionate about providing strategies that drive results. Explore our case studies to see how we have successfully partnered with clients to elevate their eCommerce strategies. If you’re ready to take your brand to the next level, get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help your business flourish in 2025 and beyond!