Survey: Many sites do not offer product reviews, ratings

Santa Clara, Calif. -- Nearly half (48%) of retailers do not offer product ratings or reviews on their website, according to a survey by CrossView, a provider of cross-channel commerce solutions.



“We are surprised at the high number of retail websites that still do not offer product ratings and reviews, which are critical components to an effective digital shopping experience,” said Jason Goldberg, VP, strategy & customer experience, CrossView. “Ratings and reviews are the best way to offer shoppers ‘social proof’ -- which has largely replaced ‘brand’ as the leading influence on purchase decisions. When combined with other compelling benefits of a peer review program, which include improved SEO, social engagement, reduced returns, and product feedback, it’s clear that merchants who are not offering product ratings and reviews are leaving a lot of opportunity on the table.”



Retailers who currently offer product ratings and reviews include: American Eagle, Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Foot Locker, Game Stop, Gander Mountain, PetSmart, Sears, Target, Tractor Supply, The Children’s Place, The Limited, and Urban Outfitters.



Switzerland-based luxury watch brand TAG Heuer International SA opened its first North American flagship on June 2. The new store is located within Las Vegas' Crystals at CityCenter shopping center. The 800-sq.-ft. boutique offers timepieces, as well as TAG Heuer fashion items, ranging from vintage stainless steel cufflinks to the brand's technologically advanced eyewear and fine leathergoods. The store's standout design features include an open floorplan, complete with customized wall niches made of dark zebrawood, hand-brushed aluminum, glass and cream leather. Currently, the company operates more than 100 freestanding boutiques worldwide.