GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Direct To Consumer Industry Statistics

The Direct To Consumer industry is experiencing rapid growth, with online sales expected to reach $135 billion by 2025.

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Highlights: Direct To Consumer Industry Statistics

  • The global Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) e-commerce market size was valued at USD 47.43 billion in 2019.
  • The direct-to-consumer (DTC) model is expected to garner a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 19.2% from 2020 to 2027.
  • Almost half of shoppers (48.51%) in the USA bought craft alcoholic beverages from DTC channels in 2020.
  • Digital DTC sales grew by a staggering 24.3% in 2020 in the U.S.
  • The average DTC brand gets 52% of sales online.
  • About 40% of U.S. internet users said they expect DTC brands to account for at least 40% of their purchases within the next 5 years.
  • More than half of DTC brands have stated that they plan to increase their budgets for online and mobile ads in 2021.
  • 69% of Americans have purchased from a DTC brand as of 2021.
  • By 2023, it's expected that we will see 850 DTC brands in operation, up from just 400 in 2018.
  • DTC brands have increased their spending on traditional TV advertising by 60% year over year.
  • DTC wineries in the U.S. shipped $3.2 billion worth of wine in 2020.
  • In 2020, about 75% of DTC brands increased their marketing spend, despite the pandemic.
  • DTC eCommerce retailers saw an average growth of 24.3% in their business during 2020.
  • Nearly two thirds (65%) of DTC brands say their customer acquisition cost (CAC) has spiked over the last year.
  • Apparel was the leading product segment for the DTC eCommerce market in 2019.
  • The female population is a key target audience for DTC brands, accounting for a significant customer base.
  • 46% of Americans prefer buying from DTC companies because they believe DTC products are better quality.
  • Almost 60% of DTC brands are planning to invest more in data analysis to improve customer experience in 2021.

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The Latest Direct To Consumer Industry Statistics Explained

The global Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) e-commerce market size was valued at USD 47.43 billion in 2019.

The statistic provided indicates that the global Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) e-commerce market was valued at USD 47.43 billion in 2019. This value represents the total revenue generated by direct-to-consumer e-commerce sales across the world during that year. Direct-to-consumer e-commerce refers to the process by which businesses sell their products directly to consumers through online channels, bypassing traditional retail intermediaries. The size of the market, in this case, highlights the significant scale and growth of this e-commerce model, signaling a shift in consumer behavior towards online shopping and increasing adoption of direct-to-consumer business models by companies seeking to reach customers more efficiently and effectively.

The direct-to-consumer (DTC) model is expected to garner a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 19.2% from 2020 to 2027.

The statistic indicates that the direct-to-consumer (DTC) model, where products are sold directly to consumers without intermediaries, is projected to experience a strong growth trajectory over the period from 2020 to 2027. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 19.2% signifies the average annual growth rate of the DTC model’s market size during this period. This high CAGR suggests a rapid expansion of the DTC market, driven by factors such as changing consumer preferences, advancements in technology, and increased adoption of e-commerce platforms. Overall, this statistic points to a significant opportunity for businesses operating under the DTC model to capitalize on this growth trend in the coming years.

Almost half of shoppers (48.51%) in the USA bought craft alcoholic beverages from DTC channels in 2020.

The statistic indicates that a significant portion of consumers in the United States, specifically 48.51%, made purchases of craft alcoholic beverages directly through direct-to-consumer (DTC) channels in the year 2020. This finding reveals a growing trend of consumers seeking out craft alcoholic beverages through alternative distribution channels outside of traditional retail outlets. The high percentage suggests a strong demand for craft beverages and a willingness among consumers to explore and purchase these products through online platforms or directly from the producers. This shift in consumer behavior could have broader implications for the alcoholic beverage industry and how businesses engage with and sell to customers in the future.

Digital DTC sales grew by a staggering 24.3% in 2020 in the U.S.

The statistic that digital direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales in the U.S. increased by 24.3% in 2020 indicates a substantial growth in online sales channels for consumer products. This growth rate signals a strong shift towards online shopping as more consumers turned to digital platforms to make purchases during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 24.3% increase highlights the significant impact of e-commerce on the retail industry, with companies leveraging technology and digital marketing strategies to reach consumers directly. This rapid growth in digital DTC sales demonstrates the increasing importance of online shopping as a key driver of revenue and customer engagement for businesses in the U.S.

The average DTC brand gets 52% of sales online.

The statistic “The average DTC (direct-to-consumer) brand gets 52% of sales online” indicates that, on average, direct-to-consumer brands receive more than half of their sales through online channels. This suggests that online platforms play a significant role in the sales strategies and overall revenue generation of DTC brands. The high percentage of online sales may be the result of factors such as changing consumer behavior towards digital shopping, effective digital marketing strategies, and the convenience and accessibility of online purchasing options. Understanding and effectively leveraging online sales channels is therefore crucial for DTC brands to remain competitive and successful in the modern marketplace.

About 40% of U.S. internet users said they expect DTC brands to account for at least 40% of their purchases within the next 5 years.

This statistic indicates that 40% of internet users in the United States expect direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands to make up a significant portion of their future purchases over the next five years. This suggests a growing preference and trust in DTC brands among consumers, potentially driven by factors such as convenience, personalized experiences, and competitive pricing offered by these brands. The expectation that DTC brands will account for at least 40% of their purchases signals a shift in consumer behavior towards online shopping and a willingness to explore alternative retail channels beyond traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Overall, this statistic reflects the evolving landscape of consumer preferences and the increasing importance of DTC brands in the retail industry.

More than half of DTC brands have stated that they plan to increase their budgets for online and mobile ads in 2021.

The statistic “More than half of DTC brands have stated that they plan to increase their budgets for online and mobile ads in 2021” indicates a significant trend towards digital advertising among direct-to-consumer brands. This suggests that a majority of DTC brands are recognizing the importance and effectiveness of online and mobile advertising in reaching their target audience and driving sales. The planned budget increases for online and mobile ads in 2021 signal a strategic shift towards digital marketing channels, likely driven by the increasing reliance on e-commerce and digital platforms due to the global pandemic and changing consumer behaviors. This statistic reflects the growing recognition among DTC brands of the value of investing in online and mobile ad campaigns to stay competitive and engage with consumers in an increasingly digital world.

69% of Americans have purchased from a DTC brand as of 2021.

The statistic ‘69% of Americans have purchased from a DTC brand as of 2021’ indicates that a significant proportion of the population in the United States has engaged in direct-to-consumer (DTC) shopping by purchasing products directly from brands rather than through traditional retail channels. This trend suggests a growing preference for the convenience, personalized experience, and often lower prices offered by DTC brands. The statistic highlights the increasing popularity and impact of DTC businesses in the marketplace, showcasing the changing landscape of consumer shopping behavior and the importance for traditional retailers to adapt to this evolving trend in order to remain competitive.

By 2023, it’s expected that we will see 850 DTC brands in operation, up from just 400 in 2018.

This statistic indicates a significant expected increase in the number of Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) brands in operation by 2023 compared to 2018. The projection suggests that the DTC market is rapidly expanding, with an anticipated 112.5% growth in the number of brands within a 5-year period. This trend reflects the evolving landscape of consumer preferences and behavior, as more companies are shifting towards bypassing traditional retail channels to directly connect with customers. The rise of e-commerce, digital marketing, and social media has provided opportunities for more businesses to enter the DTC space, catering to a growing demand for personalized and convenient shopping experiences.

DTC brands have increased their spending on traditional TV advertising by 60% year over year.

This statistic suggests that direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands have significantly expanded their investment in traditional TV advertising from one year to the next, with a substantial 60% increase in spending. The rise in TV advertising expenditure indicates a strategic shift towards utilizing this traditional marketing channel as a means to reach a broader audience and drive brand awareness and sales. DTC brands, which typically operate online and directly sell to consumers, appear to recognize the value and effectiveness of TV advertising in enhancing their visibility and customer acquisition efforts. This upward trend in TV ad spending underscores the evolving strategies of DTC brands seeking to capitalize on the advantages of traditional media platforms alongside their digital marketing initiatives.

DTC wineries in the U.S. shipped $3.2 billion worth of wine in 2020.

The statistic “DTC wineries in the U.S. shipped $3.2 billion worth of wine in 2020” refers to the total value of wine sales directly to consumers by wineries using the direct-to-consumer (DTC) distribution channel in the United States during the year 2020. This value represents the revenue generated by wineries selling their products directly to customers through avenues such as online sales, wine clubs, and tasting room purchases, bypassing traditional distribution channels like retail stores and restaurants. The $3.2 billion figure provides insights into the significant economic impact of DTC sales on the U.S. wine industry and highlights the growing trend of consumers seeking direct relationships with wineries and access to unique and limited-production wines.

In 2020, about 75% of DTC brands increased their marketing spend, despite the pandemic.

The statistic indicates that in 2020, approximately 75% of direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands decided to increase their marketing expenditures despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This suggests that the majority of DTC brands acknowledged the importance of maintaining or even boosting their marketing efforts during a period of economic uncertainty and shifting consumer behavior. The decision to increase marketing spend may reflect a strategic response to capitalize on opportunities for growth, maintain brand visibility, or adapt to changing market dynamics. Overall, this statistic highlights the resilience and proactive approach taken by many DTC brands in navigating the challenges presented by the pandemic to sustain or expand their market presence.

DTC eCommerce retailers saw an average growth of 24.3% in their business during 2020.

The statistic indicates that Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) eCommerce retailers experienced considerable growth in their business over the course of 2020, with an average growth rate of 24.3%. This growth suggests that DTC eCommerce retailers were successful in adapting to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and capitalizing on the shifting consumer preferences towards online shopping during the global health crisis. The strong growth figure underscores the resilience and agility of the DTC eCommerce sector in navigating a rapidly changing business landscape and leveraging the opportunities presented by the digital marketplace.

Nearly two thirds (65%) of DTC brands say their customer acquisition cost (CAC) has spiked over the last year.

The statistic indicates that a significant majority of direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands, specifically around 65%, have observed a notable increase in their customer acquisition cost (CAC) within the past year. This suggests that a higher proportion of DTC companies are facing challenges in acquiring new customers efficiently and cost-effectively. The rising CAC could be attributed to various factors such as increased competition, shifting consumer behavior, changes in marketing strategies, or market saturation. This trend highlights the importance for DTC brands to reassess their acquisition tactics, optimize their marketing efforts, and potentially explore new approaches to maintain profitability and sustainability in a competitive market landscape.

Apparel was the leading product segment for the DTC eCommerce market in 2019.

The statistic indicates that in 2019, apparel was the most popular product category within the direct-to-consumer (DTC) eCommerce market. This means that of all the products sold through direct-to-consumer online channels, apparel had the highest sales volume or generated the most revenue. This demonstrates a strong consumer preference for purchasing clothing and accessories online directly from brands or retailers. The leading position of apparel in the DTC eCommerce market suggests that fashion and clothing items were in high demand among online shoppers during that particular year. This information can be valuable for businesses in the apparel industry looking to optimize their online sales strategies and capitalize on the popularity of DTC eCommerce.

The female population is a key target audience for DTC brands, accounting for a significant customer base.

This statistic indicates that Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) brands prioritize the female population as a primary target demographic due to their substantial representation within their customer base. The statement highlights the importance of women in the consumer market, suggesting that they are a critical audience for these brands to reach and engage with. By recognizing the significant presence of women as consumers, DTC brands can tailor their marketing strategies and product offerings to cater to the preferences and needs of this specific demographic group. Overall, this statistic emphasizes the key role that the female population plays in driving the success and growth of DTC brands by serving as a vital customer segment that demands attention and focus in their marketing efforts.

46% of Americans prefer buying from DTC companies because they believe DTC products are better quality.

The statistic ‘46% of Americans prefer buying from direct-to-consumer (DTC) companies because they believe DTC products are better quality’ indicates that a significant portion of the population values the perceived higher quality of products offered by DTC brands. This finding suggests that consumers are increasingly drawn to DTC companies over traditional retail channels due to their confidence in the quality of products offered. The statistic underscores the importance of product quality as a key factor influencing consumer purchasing decisions and highlights the potential competitive advantage that DTC brands can leverage to attract and retain customers in the marketplace.

Almost 60% of DTC brands are planning to invest more in data analysis to improve customer experience in 2021.

This statistic indicates that a majority, specifically close to 60%, of Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) brands are intending to increase their investment in data analysis in the year 2021 with the aim of enhancing customer experience. By allocating more resources towards data analysis, these brands are demonstrating a strategic shift towards utilizing data-driven insights to better understand their customers, personalize offerings, and optimize the overall customer journey. This emphasis on data analysis suggests that DTC brands recognize the importance of leveraging data to stay competitive, drive growth, and ultimately deliver more tailored and satisfying experiences to their customers in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Conclusion

Through analyzing the Direct to Consumer industry statistics, it is evident that this sector is experiencing rapid growth and disruption. As more brands and businesses adopt this model to directly reach consumers, it is essential to understand the trends and dynamics shaping the industry. By staying informed and leveraging data-driven insights, companies can better navigate the evolving landscape of direct to consumer sales and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

References

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How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

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