A survey by EmailDataSource.com found that out of 355 retail websites, a large number of them have failed tremendously in managing and delivering their email campaigns.
The greatest failure has been in responding to email signups themselves. An amazing 33% of those surveyed don't send email follow-up messages; even within a 30 day period.
With all research showing that immediate responses and sequential follow-up are crucial to building brand trust with consumers, it's somewhat hard to believe that these huge numbers prevail in the retail online space. It must mean that they haven't hired or gotten together with anyone experienced in the business. This is one of the things you should learn from day one.
Another confirmation of the lack of consultation with experts is that many of the messages that are delivered don't comply with the Can-SPAM rules. Many don't include opt-out link that is required if you're sending business emails.
I think the simple problem here, as far as not sending back responses goes, is that they don't have a sequential autoresponder system in 
place. What a simple and easy thing to take care of a problem that shouldn't exist.
One other huge mistake some are making is that 8% of the retail sites don't even have a signup box in the first place. Some amazing mistakes that are extremely simple to take care of as well as inexpensive.
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