Business Environment Profiles - United States
Published: 15 May 2025
E-commerce sales
1008 $ billion
5.5 %
This driver measures the value of retail sales conducted online in the United States. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau and is presented in 2017 dollars.
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Over the past five years, e-commerce in the US has experienced a dramatic transformation, shaped by shifting consumer preferences and external events. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic was a pivotal moment, pushing many consumers and businesses to embrace online shopping at an unprecedented rate. As people sought safer and more convenient ways to shop, e-commerce quickly became a necessity rather than a luxury, fundamentally altering the retail landscape.
Following the initial surge, e-commerce continued to grow, albeit at a steadier pace. Consumers became more comfortable with digital transactions, and businesses responded by enhancing their online offerings. Innovations such as faster delivery, improved website experiences and flexible payment options became standard. This period also saw the rise of new shopping habits, including increased use of mobile devices and greater reliance on digital marketplaces for everyday purchases.
In recent years, e-commerce has solidified its role as a core component of retail. The industry's evolution has been driven by advances in technology, the integration of social media with shopping experiences, and a growing trust in online platforms. E-commerce is no longer viewed as a separate channel but as an essential part of how people shop, reflecting a permanent shift in both consumer expectations and business strategies.
The outlook for e-commerce remains positive, with continued growth driven by advances in logistic...
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