(71)[To some extent, the online and offline worlds may merge.] Multi-channel selling could involve a combination of traditional shops, a printed catalogue, a home-shopping channel on TV, a phone-in order service and an e-commerce-enabled website. (72)[But often it is likely to be the website where customers will be encouraged to place their orders.]
(73) [One of the biggest commercial advantages of the internet is a lowering of transaction costs, which usually translates directly into lower prices for the consumer.] So, if the lowest prices can be found on the internet and people like the service they get t why would they buy anywhere else?
One reason may be convenience; another concern about fraud, which poses the biggest threat to online trade. (74) [But as long as the internet continues to deliver price and product information quickly, cheaply and securely, e-commerce will continue to grow.] Increasingly, companies will have to assume that customers will know exactly where to look for the best buy. (75) [This market has the potential to became as perfect as it gets.]