Why is online commerce so far behind in Europe?

[Argo]

I have some family over there and I often shop for them from amazon.co.uk, or other online retailers. One thing I noticed is that the prices are on average 20% higher, not to mention the shipping is more expensive as well. What gives?

 

[Ronstang]

You answered your own question. Prices are higher and people have less disposable income. It is lovely to live in a socialist country, no?

 

[Mardeth]

No mexicans....

 

[GTaudiophile]

Their culture is still dominated by those who remember what life was like during WWII and after. Meaning, people save a lot, believe in hard cash, and don't quite trust plastic. Without the latter, shopping online is a little difficult.

 

[chcarnage]

Also, European prices include VAT by law.

 

[flexy]

Originally posted by: Argo
I have some family over there and I often shop for them from amazon.co.uk, or other online retailers. One thing I noticed is that the prices are on average 20% higher, not to mention the shipping is more expensive as well. What gives?

the prices are higher because we have insane taxes.

Here in germany we have 19% (!!!!) Value Tax....and remembering my time in the us, if you ordered outta state you didnt have to pay ANY tax.

So...add 20% to everything here ebcause the insane taxes.

 

[AgentJean]

Yeah, the VAT is a real killer, but also people don't use credit cards in Europe like we do in the US. People still walking around carrying massive loads of cash(massive = > 20 bucks).

It's been a long time since I had any hard curreny in my wallet.