17% of Brits would shop from their mobile

Another study — this one from Lightspeed Research, reports that 17% of their 1,000 respondents would buy products and services via their mobile phone.

Here’s a little more from their announcement:

The survey results indicated a positive response to the idea, with 17% of respondents saying they would be willing to buy products and services through their phone, and men more in favour of the idea (22% versus 12%). This figure was higher than respondents in France (9%) but lower than in Germany (25%).

As with online retail, which took time to increase in popularity, this research suggests there is a good basis for the growth of shopping through mobiles, especially as more retailers begin to offer the service.

Of those who were receptive to the idea of shopping from their mobile handsets, more than three quarters of respondents said they would shop with well-known high street and online retailers. ‘Any company offering great prices’ was attractive to only 23% of respondents.

Now, when it comes to buying ringtones, songs, wallpapers and games, we know there is already an established market.

But when it comes to buying REAL products and services (lightbulbs, washing liquid, books, stuff like this), that’s the key question. I actually reckon the statistic is much higher — I reckon a lot of people would use their mobile to buy things. It’s just the actual experience that is so appalling which is preventing growth.

I’ve been shopping on my mobile for a long time. I often use Amazon’s WAP service and, if they launch a buy-by-text offering, I’ll give that a go. I’ve also purchased a few things through Reporo.com’s shopping service — one of the better mobile shopping environments. Do stick it on your phone and buy a book or an album through the service… the industry needs your support!

I’m also about to try out buying a flight on ShopQwik too.