Retailers all over the planet are gearing up for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the legendary biggest shopping days of the year. We’ve identified the top four trends in online shopping and how retailers are getting ready.

1. Focus on Value

 

The economic climate continues to be challenging, but shoppers still want to feel that they are giving meaningfully and living well. People want find a good deal, but not at the cost of quality.

eTailers who show shoppers that they provide a great value – with product quality, service, reliability and competitive pricing – will be well positioned to take advantage of this widespread sentiment.

2. Get Social

 

Online retailers are expanding their connections with their customers. According to the Shop.org eHoliday survey, almost three-quarters (74 percent) of online retailers will use their Facebook page to reach out to shoppers, up from 57 percent last year. More than half will also use Twitter.

If you’re already using these channels, now is a great time to test special offers and frequent engagement with your friends and followers. Haven’t yet dipped your toes in the social waters? Set up some listening platforms, watch what competitors are doing, and see if it might make sense for you to start a program in the next year.

3. Look to the Dailies

 

In 2011, the daily deal industry exploded. More shoppers than ever before are planning on using these sites to get great deals on holiday gifts.

These daily deal sites aren’t just for restaurants and hotels. Many online retailers have jumped in the game, offering shoppers $20 for $40 deals that encourage them to visit their online stores and (ideally) spend even more.

4. Online & Mobile Shopping Increases

 

We say it every year, but it continues to be true! Online shoppers get to beat the crowds and spend more time with their family. It’s no wonder that in the Experian 2011 holiday shopping survey, 90 percent of shoppers said they plan to shop online. Just 48 percent will shop in brick-and-mortar stores — down from 65 percent in 2010 — and 13 percent will shop online from a mobile device, compared with 9 percent last year.

These shoppers can easily compare prices and deals, so ecommerce stores with well-optimized sites, easy to find products, pricing and shipping information are well-positioned going into this holiday season.

It’s not to late to make last minute tweaks or communications to make sure your store gets in on the holiday action.