1860, "one who visits shops for the purpose of examining and buying goods," agent noun from shop (v.). As a newspaper devoted to advertising, by 1958.
Entries linking to shopper
shop v.
1680s, "to bring something to a shop, to expose for sale," from shop (n.). The meaning "to visit shops for the purpose of examining or purchasing goods" is first attested 1764. Related: Shopped; shopping. Shop around "seek alternatives before choosing" is from 1922.