When you think about e-commerce, the first companies that pop into your head are probably popular retailers like Amazon, Sephora, Chewy, or Target. For years, these companies have paved the way for online shopping; they have developed easy to use websites that let you order products straight to your door with just a few clicks of your mouse.
E-commerce is nothing new to Americans, but the way it’s being used is rapidly changing, especially in light of complications from COVID-19. Previously, e-commerce was a tool only for large companies willing to spend great sums of money building out online platforms. It took a lot of capital to convert a business model to be online shopping friendly.
This all changed beginning in 2004 when a little company called Shopify began doing business in Toronto. The goal of Shopify was to make e-commerce more accessible to businesses of all sizes. In 2010, Shopify went mobile, and in 2015 the company started trading publicly at $28 a share. Today, Shopify is one of the most popular e-commerce platforms in the world. It has pioneered the way for other e-commerce companies to thrive and provide solutions to thousands of businesses.
The beauty and brilliance of platforms like Shopify, 3dcart, WooCommerce, and others is that they are available to businesses of all sizes. Mom and pop shops can use e-commerce platforms just as affordably as more major operations. No matter your business model, if you have products to sell, e-commerce platforms can help you.
In light of closures and complications caused by COVID-19, many businesses have found themselves trying out e-commerce for the first time. With brick and mortar storefronts currently closed in many states nationwide, e-commerce has become a lifeline. Businesses are amazed by how easy it is to set up e-commerce accounts and start selling products previously offered only in stores.
E-commerce platforms are constantly innovating to better serve their clients. For example, this month Shopify launched its own email marketing software that allows businesses to easily integrate their products and services into email campaigns.
At The AD Leaf ®, we work with many clients who utilize e-commerce platforms to do business. Our team is consistently impressed with many aspects of these cutting edge tools. Here is a list of some of our favorite things about e-commerce:
- E-commerce platforms help businesses break geographic barriers. Whereas brick and mortar storefronts are confined to one location, e-commerce allows companies to reach people across the country and around the world!
- E-commerce drives more customers through SEO. E-commerce platforms help companies develop search engine visibility so new customers can find products.
- E-commerce allows businesses to be open 24/7. Customers can connect with businesses at any time of the day or night!
- E-commerce helps provide markets for niche products. Does your business exclusively sell World War II memorabilia? With e-commerce, that’s no problem! Online platforms help businesses cater to specific customer bases.
- E-commerce offers huge amounts of valuable data. Platforms allow businesses to track what products sell best and customer buying trends, among many other analytics.
In business, adaptability is one of the factors that determine whether you survive or close. This is a harsh reality, but thankfully today there are myriad tools for companies to use to help stay afloat and prosper, even in uncertain times. E-commerce (and effective marketing) can make a huge impact on small, medium, and large businesses!
It’s easy to see why e-commerce is revolutionizing the way we conduct business around the world. If your business is looking to switch to e-commerce, we can help! Our team can answer any questions you may have and help you make the transition.
Connect with us! 321-255-0900 | info@theadleaf.com
