The totals were compiled by analytics firm Searchmetrics and included data from the websites of three big-box retailers (Wal-Mart, Target and Costco) and nine department stores (Sears, Kohl’s, Macy’s, Nordstrom, J.C. Penney, Saks, Belk and Dillard’s).
The interesting thing about this research is that, combined with other research from Forrester, it indicates that Facebook Inc. (NASDAQ: FB) is having a significant impact on the search market. When Forrester asked U.S. consumers how they found online information or a recently visited website, the largest share said they used search engines. But the gap between search engines and Facebook has closed.
Organic search got 36% of the queries, according to Forrester, compared with 25% who said they used Facebook. Among big spenders (more than $1,000 in online purchases in the past three months), nearly half rely most on search engines. However, the Searchmetrics research showed, some 23% of people who researched holiday gifts used Facebook links, including friends’ recommendations, company pages, advertising and promotions.
ALSO READ: What Is the Allure of Target?
Among the big-box stores, Target Corp. (NYSE: TGT) received 16.5 million Facebook links during the holidays and Costco Wholesale Corp. (NASDAQ: COST) received 5.3 million.
As for the department stores, trailing Sears at number two was Kohl’s Corp. (NYSE: KSS) with 5.2 million, Macy’s Inc. (NYSE: M) finished third with 2.3 million, and Nordstrom Inc. (NYSE: JWN) finished with 1.6 million. No other department store received more than 400,000 Facebook links.
100 Million Americans Are Missing This Crucial Retirement Tool
The thought of burdening your family with a financial disaster is most Americans’ nightmare. However, recent studies show that over 100 million Americans still don’t have proper life insurance in the event they pass away.
Life insurance can bring peace of mind – ensuring your loved ones are safeguarded against unforeseen expenses and debts. With premiums often lower than expected and a variety of plans tailored to different life stages and health conditions, securing a policy is more accessible than ever.
A quick, no-obligation quote can provide valuable insight into what’s available and what might best suit your family’s needs. Life insurance is a simple step you can take today to help secure peace of mind for your loved ones tomorrow.
Click here to learn how to get a quote in just a few minutes.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.