IEDR: Research data shows that small and medium-sized enterprises with websites receive an average of 22 more orders per year than those without websites

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Small and medium-sized businesses with their own website can earn €24,000 more per year than those without one, according to new research from Internet service provider IEDR.

Research data shows that SMEs with websites receive an average of 22 more orders per year than those without, and earn an average of €1,089 per order. SMEs in Dublin receive an average of 41 more orders, followed by those in Leicester, which receive an average of 16 more orders. The fewest are in Connacht and Ulster, with only 12 orders.

A study conducted in March by Ignite Research, an Irish research firm, also showed that nearly three-quarters (71%) of Irish customers would prefer to buy from businesses that have a website.

Despite this, only 51% of consumers believe their local stores and businesses have adapted to the online age. In fact, 74% of consumers say it’s frustrating to find out a business doesn’t have a website.

Ignite Research's study also found that 65% of consumers want to be able to browse and research local businesses' products online; 83% of consumers believe that small and medium-sized enterprises should have a basic website with contact information and opening hours; 68% of consumers believe that if a business does not have its own website, then that business is out of date; and 60% of consumers said that if the store they like does not have an online store, they will choose to shop at a competitor.

"For small and medium-sized businesses, having a company website is an essential part of doing business in the 21st century," said David Curtin, CEO of IEDR. "The benefits are obvious: small and medium-sized businesses with websites can get more orders and make more money than their peers without websites. Having a website means that businesses can reach more customers, sell more products and expand into new markets."

"The Internet has changed consumer expectations. Consumers love the convenience of the Internet. Most people think that a business that lacks its own company website is outdated."

“Selling online is now easy thanks to the many cheap and easy-to-use tools available. Through e-commerce, Irish SMEs can access platforms where their potential customers are, anytime, anywhere. Ireland’s e-commerce economy is worth billions and will only grow as more people and businesses get involved.”

“Our research shows that 80% of Irish consumers search for business information online. If your company doesn’t have any online presence, you’re missing out on a huge number of potential customers.”

Compiled from Hugo.net