Online shopping has almost become the norm nowadays. People are no longer interested in traditional retail shops because most are now focusing on online shopping to avoid the hassle of going out says Peter DeCaprio.
However, this trend does not mean that offline retailing or brick-and-mortar stores are already obsolete. They may have fewer customers but they still have loyal buyers who believe in their products more than any other brand. If you’re one of those who do not trust online shopping, then you might be happy to read this article as it offers tips on how to survive in this ruthless retail industry which is always changing with every day passing by.
When Ecommerce first started…
As mentioned, eCommerce was first introduced during the late 1990s when the internet was gradually being used by more and more people. Similarly, many companies started to invest in the idea of sharing their products with customers through e-commerce. But at first, it wasn’t successful because customers were not yet ready for online shopping.
…to Rapid Online Shopping Era
As time passed by, people became much more comfortable using the World Wide Web so many e-commerce stores began to emerge. The numbers have just kept on growing since then because now there are almost no limitations when it comes to transferring money or purchasing products online. We can even buy clothing online! This is where retail becomes challenging as brick and mortar stores refuse to fade into oblivion while online stores are rapidly gaining popularity among consumers who like convenience and comfort.
The challenges of having an online store
There are lots of advantages in running an eCommerce store but not without the challenges. For example, many customers choose to purchase their products through online stores because it’s way more convenient than visiting brick-and-mortar shops. This is where retail shops should also invest in creating websites so they can keep up with this ever-changing market explains Peter DeCaprio. Otherwise, they might lose loyal customers who would rather buy their desired products from other companies or even worse–online stores! To avoid this, shop owners should ensure to create the best deals. So that customers will not be tempted to go for lower prices somewhere else.
Possible solutions
One thing you can do to make your business highly competitive is by creating a mobile app for your customers. Having a mobile app is an added value for brick-and-mortar stores. Since they can easily release offers that will attract more buyers to their physical store locations. As a result, you can win back some of the customers. Who left when e-commerce became popular in the retail industry.
Here are some FAQs recently asked about ecommerce
What are some websites that offer ecommerce?
There are several online shopping sites that you can check out. Some of the popular ones are Amazon, eBay, etc.
How much does it cost to start an ecommerce store?
A lot! But if you don’t have enough budget for this, then you can also hire someone else. To make a website for you or create your own site through WordPress. Peter DeCaprio says there are lots of tutorials online which will guide you in making your own website. You can even make money from it by selling products or serving ads.
Is Ecommerce safe?
It is as safe as any other transaction made on the internet these days! The only difference is that transactions made through online stores are more secure than other types of online transactions.
How can offline stores compete with online stores?
Offline shops shouldn’t be intimidated by the rapid growth of eCommerce or else they will be left far behind. Thus, having an online presence is important if they don’t want to lose customers to their competitors. One way you can do this is through mobile apps which allow you to create special offers for your loyal customers. You can also choose to become active on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter so that you can easily market products at affordable rates.
What are some interesting facts about retail?
Well, one good example is that people spend $12 billion dollars every year on buying stuff online while brick and mortar businesses only earn $3 billion.
Although there are lots of advantages to running an eCommerce store, brick-and-mortar businesses should not be intimidated because it is possible for them to keep up with the changing times through mobile apps and social media sites. Also, companies that sell products online gain higher rankings over other similar e-commerce stores which means more potential buyers.
Conclusion:
We all know how difficult it is to keep up with the pace of online shopping. But we also shouldn’t neglect traditional brick-and-mortar shops. Because there are still many people who prefer to purchase their desired products in person. Rather than online says Peter DeCaprio. So if you thinking of starting a business, you might want to consider either buying or opening a physical store near your location.