History of Online Shopping

Over the last ten years the history of online shopping has been shaped. While online shopping is commonplace now, it hasn't been around forever. The World Wide Web became popular around 1989 and 1990 and has since seen an e-commerce explosion.

Online Banking
The second important step in the history of online shopping, beyond the invention of the Internet itself, was online banking. It was created and developing in 1994, making online transactions possible.

The Unlikely Frontrunner
Though surprising, Pizza Hut was the first online retailer. They were the first pizza chain to offer online ordering or home delivery during a 1994 test phase in Santa Cruz, California. All locations got the option in 2007.

Amazon's Entrance
In 1995, Amazon launched as an online bookstore. Once the company realized other goods were also at high demand, they expanded to offer a bigger selection of merchandise.

The First eBay Auction
The online auction site, eBay, also began in 1995 and quickly grew in popularity. To this day, Amazon and eBay are the biggest online retailers.

The Explosion
Today, most brick-and-mortar stores have an online counterpart. With faster connections and better technology, the online shopping sector has been able to grow and gain popularity. Many people favor shopping online over going to the store for convenience and price comparison opportunities.