The "act global, think local" saying has never been truer in terms of online retailing. Brands have to be aware of the major benefits that localization can bring. Not in terms of just increasing profits alone, it is also in terms of building a strong loyal customer base that would not have been accessible 20 years ago.A recent study by Ingenico epayments in conjunction with Internet Retailing, which surveyed European online retailers, indicated a lack of local consideration from many retailers when going international. The study found that "over two-thirds (69%) of respondents believe localization is very important or vital to success." If a third of online retailers do not classify localization as important, this is a very big opportunity for those who do.Prioritizing localization can give online retailers competitive advantage and create online consumer experiences that are "sticky" and increase overall engagement. Online retailers have to address the complexities and risks involved in adding new countries to their global reach. Localization must not be an after-thought. It has to be part of an overall strategic discussion when discussing global growth.As the trend for more advanced digitalized shopping and commerce experiences continues, emerging retail techniques drive retailers to stay competitive. Innovations like the Internet of Things (IoT) will spark a new age of digital shopping, as "digital" shopping becomes "automated" shopping.For more supporting evidence and reasons why online retailers must prioritize localization to win global customers, read this post at the Welocalize blog.Global Language Solutions is a Welocalize company. Find out more.