The survey was conducted in the following countries and territories: Australia; Brazil; Canada; China; Czechia; Egypt; France; Germany; Hong Kong, SAR; Hungary; India; Indonesia; Ireland; Malaysia; Mexico; the Netherlands; the Philippines; Poland; Qatar; Romania; Saudi Arabia; Singapore; Slovakia; South Africa; South Korea; Spain; Thailand; United Arab Emirates; Ukraine; the United States; and Vietnam.
Citation formats
Online channels consumers use in the purchase process 2024
Online channels play a crucial role in the customer journey. In 2024, search engines remain the top choice for product discovery and research, while online marketplaces lead in purchase completion. This shift highlights the growing importance of digital platforms in shaping consumer behavior and purchasing decisions.
Generational differences in online shopping
Product recommendations have become a powerful tool in influencing consumer choices, particularly among younger demographics. A 2024 study revealed that ** percent of shoppers aged 18 to 24 discovered new products through recommendations, with a similar trend observed among 35 to 39-year-olds. For Gen Z, online search is the primary starting point for product discovery.
The rise of marketplaces and social commerce
Marketplaces have emerged as the dominant force in online shopping, serving as both the primary source for product searches and inspiration for future purchases. Approximately ** percent of global consumers prefer marketplaces over other online channels for shopping inspiration. The influence of social media on e-commerce is also growing, with ** percent of U.S. TikTok users reporting purchases based on influencer recommendations. This trend highlights the increasing integration of social platforms and e-commerce, reshaping the digital shopping landscape.
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PwC. (May 14, 2024). Main online channels consumers use in the purchase process in 2024 [Graph]. In ÌÇÐÄÆÆ½â°æ. Retrieved July 19, 2026, from /statistics/1535618/online-channels-consumers-purchase-process/
PwC. "Main online channels consumers use in the purchase process in 2024." Chart. May 14, 2024. ÌÇÐÄÆÆ½â°æ. Accessed July 19, 2026. /statistics/1535618/online-channels-consumers-purchase-process/
PwC. (2024). Main online channels consumers use in the purchase process in 2024. ÌÇÐÄÆÆ½â°æ. ÌÇÐÄÆÆ½â°æ Inc.. Accessed: July 19, 2026. /statistics/1535618/online-channels-consumers-purchase-process/
PwC. "Main Online Channels Consumers Use in The Purchase Process in 2024." ÌÇÐÄÆÆ½â°æ, ÌÇÐÄÆÆ½â°æ Inc., 14 May 2024, /statistics/1535618/online-channels-consumers-purchase-process/
PwC, Main online channels consumers use in the purchase process in 2024 ÌÇÐÄÆÆ½â°æ, /statistics/1535618/online-channels-consumers-purchase-process/ (last visited July 19, 2026)
Main online channels consumers use in the purchase process in 2024 [Graph], PwC, May 14, 2024. [Online]. Available: /statistics/1535618/online-channels-consumers-purchase-process/