New trends show a significant number of Canadians' spending increasing amounts of time online

Retailers are increasingly turning to the web - on ecommerce sites or social networks - to reach out to consumers and build brand loyalty.

A new study shows that the web-based environment may be just the place to connect with Canadian consumers.

According to a report from eMarketer, 69 percent of the Canadian population is online - edging out those in the U.S. online by 4 percent.

eMarketer says that two-thirds of the web crowd surveyed check their email multiple time each day - a reminder that tactful welcome email messages and other marketing communication via email could result in more business.

The survey also shows that social networking is where a number of online users spend a significant amount of their time. About 30 percent of respondents said they check social network profiles throughout the day and many of those users have multiple accounts.

With so many consumers online, it comes as little surprise that experts advise businesses on a budget to consider allocating marketing dollars to enhance their business website features.

ClickZ.com advises businesses to ensure consistent branding messages and up-to-date content and functionalities for a successful ecommerce site.

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