Chile’s retail e-commerce saw a 20.1% decline in 2023, including a 7% decrease in the fourth quarter, as the National Chamber of Commerce (CNC) reported.
The CNC highlighted major reductions in online sales of electronics and furniture.
Specifically, these sectors saw decreases of 25.9% and 23.9%, respectively, from January to December.
Clothing, home goods, and footwear categories also faced downturns over the year, though less severe.
The CNC’s press release mentioned that the downturn in the last quarter of 2023 was less steep than in the previous quarter.
This trend mirrored the in-store sales pattern, which also showed a gradual decline over the year.
The CNC linked these results to a high comparison base due to record sales in 2021 and 2022.
Increased liquidity at the time and a consumer spending slowdown in 2023 affected all retail channels.
Higher inflation, market uncertainty, and job market weaknesses drove notable declines in non-essential consumer spending, as noted by the CNC.
The report indicates that online sales continue to represent about 20% of the retail market. This is higher than the levels seen before the pandemic.
It also pointed out that one-third of large store sales are currently conducted digitally.
Background
This decline in e-commerce sales in Chile is significant, reflecting broader economic challenges.
The shift in consumer behavior underscores the dynamic nature of the retail landscape.
Despite the overall decline, the enduring strength of digital sales highlights the changing patterns of consumer purchasing.
This trend is vital for businesses to understand and adapt to in the evolving economic climate.