Statistics for 2016 revealed households in Marulan placed first in the state and fifth in the country for buyers of books, music, software and magazines.

An average of 4.7 parcels were delivered to each household, a stark comparison to the 1.9 parcel average for the country.  Marulan is also the second biggest buyers for homeware and appliances in NSW and fourth in the country. 

Australia Post General Manager of eCommerce and International, Ben Franzi, said people shop online is for price, range and convenience.

“Marulan residents are really embracing online shopping, particularly when it comes to books and homewares,” he said. “Online shopping gives people access to retailers all over Australia and beyond, and the choice to shop at a time that suits their needs.”

The Inside Australian Online Shopping report cited Marulan as having a ‘big online shopping habit’.

Marulan General Store proprietor Doctor Stephen James, admitted he was surprised when he initially heard the statistics.

“As a resident in a remote town myself I rely on online shopping on some  things due to logistical difficulties,” Dr James said.

“The stereotypical perception of a small country town, living in historic times, with limited use and understanding of technology is not the case.

“We can vouch for that ourselves.”

He said the Marulan General Store and Made in Marulan has a receptive online store, a characteristic strategically planned from the start.

“A traditional business would be limited in such a remote location,” he said.

“Local residents have taken e commerce up, primarily as a result of social media. We rely quite heavily on Facebook, and that is where the local community comes in as well.”

He said poor television reception, geography and a lack access to a wider market could all have attributed to resident’s online habits.

“There is a heavy reliance on social media and online commerce for our businesses,” he said.