Broadband Holidays

The holidays are upon us, and in today's economy, consumers are looking to save money and time by venturing online - and businesses are responding with bargains. In our new Broadband Now video, USTelecom discusses the growth of online shopping and its impact on businesses and even the environment.

For example, The U.S. Census Bureau reports that revenues from online purchases have increased five-fold since 2000, reaching $136 billion in 2007. Given the convenience consumers find in purchasing over the Internet, e-marketer predicts that online sales will leap another 76% in the next five years. Furthermore, with three out of four U.S. consumers identifying themselves as "green," the environmental benefits of online shopping have broad appeal. In fact, e-commerce generates 36% less air pollutants than conventional shopping, and uses approximately 16% less energy.

Holiday traditions are also finding a home online, as well.  Christmas letters to Santa no longer need to go through traditional, snail mail channels.  Instead, kids can email Santa directly at www.operationlettertosanta.com and receive an instant response from the North Pole.
 
For more on broadband holidays, view our latest Broadband now video, and visit our video wall to see more e-commerce facts.