With the increasing usage of the internet and the growth of ecommerce, the number of online sales channels available for businesses to reach their target audience has been steadily expanding in today's digital era. However, it may not be easy to choose the most efficient one when there are numerous options available out there. To ease your selection process, this article will share the three most effective online sales channels that businesses can utilise to increase sales. Read on to learn more.
An online shop refers to a website that allows businesses to sell their products directly to consumers. Unlike other online sales channels, online shops allow businesses to have full control over their brand and product offerings. When setting up an online shop, it is important to consider the types of features they are offering, including payment processing, inventory management, shipping, and order tracking. Businesses can easily set up online shops without needing extensive technical knowledge as these platforms are customisable and can create a unique shopping experience for customers. In addition, you will be able to collect valuable customer data, such as email addresses, that will come in handy for marketing efforts.
Social media such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and others have become an integral part of our daily lives, highlighting their significance as a sales channel for businesses to leverage. Social commerce platforms are ideal for businesses looking to approach a wider audience, enabling them to engage with their customers on a more personal level. On top of helping businesses to promote their products and services through paid advertising, social media also creates and shares content that resonates with their target audience. Additionally, user-generated content that showcases a brand's products or services is a vital element in enhancing engagement and fostering brand loyalty on social media.
Complemented by a large customer base, marketplaces offer a ready-made platform that enables businesses to sell their products alongside other sellers. Of all the marketplaces, Shopee and Lazada are the two most popular ones in the Singapore/ SEA region. Marketplaces also come with features like payment processing, website design, or shipping, saving businesses the hassle of sourcing these services independently. Nonetheless, businesses that opt for this type of online sales channel must ensure their products always stand out from those offered by other sellers, as competition can be intense in this space. That is why it is recommended that businesses adopt a smart commerce methodology to streamline their operations. This involves generating the right data and leveraging algorithms to provide a complete picture of how the business is performing. To achieve predetermined business goals, focus on competitive pricing, compelling product descriptions or excellent customer service.
Learn more: Should You Sell on Your Own Online Store vs. Marketplaces (2022)
In a nutshell, each of the online sales channels above comes with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is vital for businesses to consider their specific needs and goals to select the most suitable channel. The ultimate goal is to execute the most effective strategy to ensure greater sales and a wider customer base.
SHOPLINE offers a unified commerce platform for businesses to establish and grow their online and offline presence. We provide multiple languages, currencies and payment gateways to facilitate a smooth selling process for your business. Book a free consultation today from our ecommerce specialists.
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