Alternative delivery options are becoming increasingly attractive to customers according to research by German market research company yStats.com.

Customers are increasingly using click and collect services, or collecting from local shops. Over 60% of UK online shoppers have collected goods via click and collect where a large number of French e-commerce shoppers have collected goods from local shops. Customers in Germany are increasingly using parcel locker schemes.

The report, “Europe B2C E-Commerce Delivery 2015”, suggests however that home or workplace delivery options are still the most preferred. Alternative delivery methods are next, where people may be too busy to receive their goods at home or at work.

The growth in alternative delivery options has already been seen in the rapid growth of Doddle in the UK where customers can collect their goods from shops at train stations and other convenient locations during their commutes to and from work. Other companies have seen opportunities in the market, with Argos recently extending its relationship with eBay, allowing shoppers to collect their goods bought on eBay from local Argos shops. Royal Mail is extending its business where customers of certain retailers can collect goods from Post Offices.

One of the options that is widely cited as a reason for a shopper to go to an e-tailer is the free delivery option. This was found to be a deal maker right across Europe according to the survey. Customers are willing to wait a few days in return for no additional cost.

With e-commerce a major growth industry, alternative delivery methods can make or break a deal. Many people find themselves too busy to receive goods, and given the option of click and collect they can receive goods at a time of their own choosing.