Fishers, IN June 9, 2008 -- If you are a merchant trying to influence customers to spend shrinking discretionary shopping dollars, a survey done by an online loyalty site, Sunshine Rewards, indicates that free shipping is the highest priority in potential customers' purchase decisions. Consumers are looking for ways to save money and more efficiently use resources. A survey was presented to Sunshine Rewards members who consistently look to online merchants when making buying decisions. In fact, 84% of those who responded to the survey indicated that they shop online monthly, weekly, and even as frequently as daily.    

In today's economy where money is tight and resources are being more carefully budgeted, a major factor for many shoppers is whether or not gas or shipping is less expensive. With economic stimulus checks arriving and gas prices continuing to soar, Sunshine Rewards seeks to ensure that it is serving its merchants and members by offering deals that everyone benefits from.

While consumers were equally divided on spending or saving any tax stimulus monies they might receive, they were not as divided on what factors would cause them to spend that money online. Of those who responded to the survey, 77% indicated that shipping costs were a major factor in deciding to purchase online or in the store.

The survey also revealed that while 60% of people had curtailed general spending in their households, 80% had either not changed their online shopping habits or had decided to spend more online. The internal shopping revenue numbers at Sunshine Rewards from May 2007 to May 2008 mirrored this statistic on a bigger scale.

These results are based on 135 respondents. Sunshine Rewards believes that the data suggest that online shopping could help provide relief for those looking to save and even earn money. Sunshine Rewards will continue to negotiate the best deals with merchants including those that offer free shipping.

For more information about the results of this survey or the rewards offered through the loyalty program at Sunshine Rewards, contact Tricia Meyer or visit http://www.sunshinerewards.com.

About Sunshine Rewards:
Sunshine Rewards is a loyalty program that allows members to earn gift cards and prizes for shopping online, completing offers, and participating in the membership community. Sunshine Rewards is a family-owned company based in Fishers, Indiana that prides itself on its member-focused reputation.

Contact:
Tricia Meyer, Owner
Sunshine Rewards
http://www.sunshinerewards.com