Consumers will soon flood online retail websites to buy holiday items and gifts, and online retailers are already attempting to draw in more shoppers by launching new marketing campaigns to advertise their promotions and products.

Many businesses that either manage ecommerce sites along with their brick-and-mortar locations or operate only internet stores have begun stepping up their marketing efforts, according to a survey by Shop.org. Rapaport states that 60 percent of online retailers surveyed stated they will begin their promotions in late October, which is a jump from the 53 percent that did so last year. Thirty-eight percent said they will wait until mid-November or shortly thereafter to begin their initiatives.

"For retailers, there is no better time to shine than the holiday season, and it's evident that online retailers are already planning to go the extra mile for their customers this year," said Shop.org's executive director, Vicki Cantrell.

For ecommerce merchants that have yet to launch their marketing campaigns, MarketLive recommends highlighting the most enticing holiday promotions and aspects, such as free shipping. Additionally, steps should be taken to ensure that websites are optimized for mobile devices, as shoppers are increasingly purchasing items by this method.