Shorter attention spans and a push to convenience has prompted online auctioneer, eBay, to launch a series of auctions limited to just minutes.

New shopper behaviour research from eBay shows ease of accessibility has changed online shopping habits with 59 per cent of shoppers claiming the ability to shop online in shorter, more convenient time frames has boosted the amount of time they spend shopping – 57 per cent of Australians claim to shop online at least once a week.

In response to this trend eBay has launched 5 Minute Sales in an attempt to help its retail partners capitalise on the ‘snack shopping’ trend.

“What we have aimed to do with 5 Minute Sales is create an experience that suits consumer needs and habits when shopping online,” said Steve Brennen, eBay Australia director of marketing and advertising sales.

“We’ve handpicked products by trusted retailers that can be bought quickly on any device or screen in a thrill seeking, one off sale,” said Brennan.

“People are shopping in short bursts all over the place – in bed, at work, watching TV, even while socialising with friends and family. With attention spans shrinking and online accessibility increasing, the mobile shopping revolution is set to continue and we are, effectively, snacking on shopping.”

Eighteen to 29 year olds are anticipated to take most advantage of the 5 Minute Sales, with 76% reportedly shopping online once a week and almost a third claiming to shop online every day.

Sixty three per cent of respondents in this demographic shopping in bed; 73 per cent  in front of the TV; and 38 per cent at work.

Other online shopping habits of this group include:

• One in three shop online on the bus or train on a smartphone or tablet
• One in five shop online while out socialising with friends/family on a smartphone or tablet
• One in four shop online on a smartphone or tablet while on the toilet
• One in five shop online while walking down the street on a smartphone.

The reasoning behind the increase in shopping online  included seeing all options and comparing prices, finding special or unique items not available elsewhere, for leisure, and because it is faster, easier and more convenient.

“Delving into the shopping habits of Australians has given us the opportunity to develop a sales initiative that reflects the short burst and impulsive behaviour of our customers.

5 Minute Sales will take place on Sundays between 8pm and 9pm on eBay on this month, with one new product to be released every five minutes.