New research conducted by LivingSocial, reveals that us Brits are not losing the urge to shop; we have simply found a new way to do it.

A staggering 93% of people now opt to shop online as it is more time and cost effective and a further 89% prefer this option because it allows them to discover and try a more diverse range of experiences, services and products therefore helping to reconnect customers with local businesses.

Previous research by LivingSocial found that 9 in 10 of us admit to feeling a rush when they find a bargain on a major purchase. Conversely, Over 73% of Brits feel a little left out when we miss out on a great deal, which explains why 1 in 5 of us scout daily deal sites twice or more a day, showing a genuine trend in consumer behaviour.

Two thirds of Brits claim their shopping habits have evolved with technology, with 4 in 10 people now putting more stock in online product reviews than more traditional influences, like celebrities, advertising and family members.

Peter Briffett, Managing Director of LivingSocial in the UK and Ireland, said: "What we are seeing here is a fundamental shift in the way we shop as consumers. The rise of social media has changed the way we shop, search, and share information on a daily basis. Businesses need to communicate with customers on these new platforms."

The research results also showed that a mere 16% of Brits stick steadfastly to their preferred brands when shopping online and surprisingly only 7% have a clear idea of what they want to purchase before actually logging on to the Internet.

Peter Briffett continued: "The implications of these results for local and national businesses alike are extremely clear. Huge possibilities exist for forward-thinking organisations of all sizes to embrace the opportunities the social media revolution brings. With less of us sticking to brands we have used for years and more of us turning to online shopping for inspiration, businesses have a lot of scope to inspire and secure customers using these channels."

-ENDS-

About LivingSocial:

LivingSocial is the local marketplace to buy and share the best things to do in your city. With unique and diverse offerings each day, we inspire members to discover everything from weekend excursions to one-of-a kind events and experiences to exclusive gourmet dinners and luxury spa days to family aquarium outings, skydiving experiences and much more. We help local businesses grow by introducing them to high-quality new customers and give merchants the tools to make our members their regulars. Founded in Washington, D.C., LivingSocial now has more than 70 million members around the world.