Task 2 You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. In recent years, many local shops have closed because customers prefer online shopping to meet their shopping needs. Is this a positive or negative development? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

With the advent of the Internet, there has been a significant transformation in many everyday habits and trends.

For instance

, people now prefer booking rides through apps like Ola or Uber

instead

of using public transport.

Similarly

, dining out has been partially replaced by ordering food online. The trend of online shopping is another

such

shift, driven largely by advancements in technology and the rise of startup culture. Over the past decade, many online platforms have emerged, offering convenience and competitive pricing, which have gradually captured a large share of the market.

As a result

, numerous local shops, especially in urban areas, have faced closures.

For example

, small grocery stores in metropolitan cities have seen a decline in footfall

due to

the growing popularity of quick-commerce platforms like Blinkit or BigBasket.

Although

this

has had an adverse effect on traditional businesses, the impact is more pronounced in cities, which account for only about 10% of the

overall

market.

Therefore

, it would be premature

to conclude

that online shopping will completely replace local shops in the near future. From a broader perspective, I believe

this

trend brings about a predominantly positive development. Online shopping saves time, creates jobs in logistics and warehousing, and benefits consumers through competitive discounts.

For example

, platforms like Amazon and Flipkart offer easy access to a variety of products

while

maintaining transparency through public reviews and ratings, thereby encouraging sellers to ensure high-quality goods.

However

, it is crucial for governments and local authorities to step in and regulate

this

transition. Policies should be implemented to ensure that the growth of online shopping does not occur at the expense of small, local businesses. Providing subsidies or incentives for these shops to adapt to the digital marketplace could help create a balance. In conclusion,

while

online shopping has undeniably transformed consumer behaviour, its long-term success depends on fair practices that accommodate both traditional and modern retail players.