Spanish retailers are preparing for a 2022 in which e-commerce will gain even more momentum than in previous years. On this path of modernization, those companies that do not update will fall behind, losing competitiveness and market space.
Why is it important to create an online store right now?
Spain has more than 750,000 retail establishments, representing 5.5% of the GDP according to data provided by the Spanish Trade Federation.
While these stores have made significant advances in modernization and digitalization in recent times, there are still many across Spain that view the online world with skepticism.
It is important to emphasize that one does not exclude the other, and that physical and virtual stores not only can but must coexist in harmony to ensure business continuity.
The Importance of eCommerce
When it comes to e-commerce, optimism is the order of the day. According to a study by EXE, e-commerce in Spain is expected to grow between 30% and 50% during 2022.
Part of the anticipation of this success is due to two major factors. The first is the mass adoption of e-commerce over the last two years, driven by successive lockdowns and restrictions. The second is a shift in consumer mentality, with a growing emphasis on sustainability, local, and proximity commerce.
Additionally, a large percentage of Spaniards have recently made online purchases for the first time in their lives. According to a report by Mastercard, 31% of citizens made an online purchase for the first time due to the pandemic.
Customers have become accustomed to making online purchases across a wide range of services and products. The first step, which is always the hardest in any endeavor, has already been taken. What lies ahead is a long and promising journey.
The flexibility, freedom, and transfer of enjoyable experiences from the physical world to the convenience of the virtual world continue to underpin this growth, both for 2022 and the years to come.
5 Benefits of Creating an Online Store for Your Business
- Opportunity to Sell 24/7
Unlike physical commerce, which operates on specific days and hours, businesses can offer their products and services at any time and from any place. Additionally, thanks to significant advancements, users can make transactions through brand websites, apps, and social networks. This way, a 360° range of options is offered for each user’s convenience. - Cost Reduction
Having a virtual store is more economical than a physical one, as businesses can grow by investing fewer resources. Additionally, it is more accessible, as online advertising is considerably cheaper than traditional advertising, which is also less efficient in terms of specificity and targeting. - Increased Customer Acquisition
E-commerce offers two major pillars: the elimination of borders, as purchases can be made from anywhere and through various channels; and customer segmentation, as data usage allows better understanding of users to offer them products and services that suit their specific tastes and needs. - Better Service and Satisfaction
Thanks to digital channels, retailers can offer increasingly relevant and sophisticated online shopping experiences. By offering products, good prices, and services, combined with easy-to-use platforms, companies can create unique bonds with their customers. - Differentiation from the Competition
Customers are increasingly changing their purchasing habits. In this new scenario, digital sales channels cannot be a luxury, but rather a complement to traditional physical sales. Therefore, having an online store increases competitive advantages, as it will position your company as one that is up-to-date with innovation and new technologies. Additionally, it will be especially valued by younger audiences, for whom “if it’s not on the Internet, it doesn’t exist.”
Do you have a project? We are here to help, contact us.
Zentricx, which already has local offices in Spain, specializes in helping organizations on their journey to digital commerce. It offers cutting-edge technological solutions, making them available to retailers regardless of their size or location. If you want to know how these tools will help grow your business, we invite you to contact Julio César Blanco, Innovation Director & Head of Spain Office at Zentricx.
By Julio Cesar Blanco – February 11, 2022
