Online Stores

The simple definition of an online store is any website that accepts direct payments for goods and services. While the definition seems fairly cut and dry, online stores are not. There are literally millions of websites in cyberspace today and the vast majority of them will provide some sort of product, service, and even advice for a cost or fee. Also referred to as “Internet Shop,” “Webshop,” or “Online Shop,” many online stores are simply extensions of a larger “physical” store, while others exist solely online.

History of Online Stores

In 1994, four years after Tim Berners-Lee wrote the “World Wide Web” browser and Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), the first online bank opened, a famous pizza restaurant chain began offering orders online and magazine subscriptions and even flower delivery services were offered online. Within a year, the world's largest bookseller launched, computer makers began selling their products online, and shortly after, the largest “used stuff” online seller in the world launched. Today, anything that can be found in a physical store can be purchased through online stores.

Types of Online Stores

Because there are so many online stores, the types of online stores are vast and varied. Consumers can shop for any of the following online:

• Groceries


• Sundries


• Alcohol


• Furniture


• Computer equipment


• Cars


• Pets


• Houses


• Boats


• Airline tickets


• Jewelry

In reference to services, online stores may offer everything from online personal trainers, nutritionists, interior design help, pet trainers, DIY, and even sessions with a psychic! Art, pharmaceuticals, and even exotic animals may also be purchased from online stores.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Stores

Online stores are perfect for individuals who may prefer to shop from the comfort of their own home, those who may be pressed for time, and for people who like to shop and compare prices for multiple retailers, manufacturers, etc. in short amounts of time. While convenience is a huge benefit to online shopping, some may see shipping costs and delivery times as a disadvantage. Others may feel a bit reluctant to purchase an item without seeing the actual item first, as is the case with clothing, shoes, cars, appliances, pets, jewelry, etc. Luckily, just about every online store has a liberal return policy in place. In many cases, it's much easier to return an item to an online store than it is to a physical store.

Online Stores and Payments

In recent years, online stores have increased security tremendously. While no security system is flawless, the majority of reputable of online stores are very safe to use. In many cases, consumers will choose not to have their credit card or checking account information stored, as this is always an option. Most online stores will also accept payments by mail or by money order.

By Michelle Burton