eBay.co.uk has submitted a “Mobile Manifesto” to the UK Government to support and strengthen the mobile economy, responding to research that shows many consumers are frustrated by mobile internet speeds.
The company consulted with retailers, network operators, industry bodies and consumer groups to shape a strategy that will encourage growth in mobile commerce.
New research from eBay and Populus, surveying 2,000 consumers, found that nearly half are unhappy with mobile browsing speeds, and almost three quarters would spend more via mobile if retailers offered optimised websites and experiences.
Rosie Srao, Mobile Business Development Manager at UK retailer Marks & Spencer, commented: “Our customers increasingly use their mobiles to make shopping more convenient while on the go. It’s our responsibility to ensure the customer journey is simple, fast and engaging.”
In its manifesto, eBay urged Ofcom to accelerate the rollout of 4G and called for reductions in roaming charges. The company also highlighted the need to improve mobile internet coverage on railways and roads, noting that about a third of consumers shop on their mobiles while travelling.
Miriam Lahage, eBay’s Vice President of Global Fashion, said: “As smartphone and tablet ownership grows, so do the rewards for companies that invest in mobile—especially retailers. In the UK, around 10% of eBay’s sales by value now come from mobile devices, but we need the right infrastructure to support this demand.”
She added that retailers should make mobile central to their strategies and ensure sites are optimised for every device.
To explore the future of multiplatform apps and learn how marketers, developers, businesses, brands and operators are benefiting from rapid market growth, visit the Apps World Europe event in London on 29–30 November to hear from leading global brands and industry experts.