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I'd love to see Microsoft go bust instead of all these banks. That would be a great day for celebration, but hey, that's another thread for another day.
I don't know if the historical data is still around but online sales generally have always been strong - at least, since the big famous dot-com bust of 2000. Once the hype and silliness of the 1990s had died down and the internet settled into its rightful market place, online sales have been very strong with no sign of slowing down. Decreasing prices of computers has helped, as well as the web finding its way into other mediums such as Web TV, mobile gadgets, games consoles, and so on. It is now just so stupidly easy to buy online, and often a lot cheaper, and with the development of Web 2.0 and its associated technology upgrades, the experience itself is getting ever easier and more pleasant.
In the face of all this the traditional Medieval high street doesn't stand a chance. I don't believe for one second that the strong online sales are a result of the recession forcing people to opt for online stores but rather is an example of a deeper trend which will still be there even once the economy is recovered. Mark my words. The web represents not only a change in consumer habits but a genuine evolutionary leap, and the world is ready for it and wants it.
This evening, while waiting for Claire to return from London, I went online and bought a couple of albums. Paid about half the price of any shop, downloaded them in about 5 minutes, and am listening to them right now as I type this. What possible chance does the high street have against that sort of affordable freedom?
