Online retailers are facing a “returns tsunami” as more customers buy just to try

Retailers could soon be faced with a “returns tsunami” thanks to the emergence of new try-before-you-buy schemes for online consumers. With returns already costing UK retailers £60 billion a year, a new report released today highlights the hidden dangers of online and multichannel retailers introducing try-now-pay-later options for customers. The schemes allow consumers to order as many items as they like, have them delivered, try them on at home and then return the ones they don’t want without paying a penny. In addition, the money only leaves their account when the returns have been processed. The report, A Returns Tsunami for Retail by omnichannel retail management firm Brightpearl, reveals the trend could threaten to overwhelm retailers with a surge of intentional returns that may undermine profits.