E-sporty zyskują na popularności na całym świecie, a zakłady na te wydarzenia stają się coraz bardziej powszechne. W miarę jak technologia i dostępność internetu się rozwijają, fani gier zyskują nowe możliwości na uczestnictwo w tym ekscytującym świecie zakładów. W tym artykule przyjrzymy się najnowszym trendom w zakładach e-sportowych oraz sposobom, w jakie można z nich skorzystać.

Wzrost popularności e-sportów

E-sporty, takie jak League of Legends, Dota 2 i Counter-Strike, przyciągają miliony widzów na całym świecie. Turnieje te oferują znaczące nagrody finansowe, co przyciąga nie tylko graczy, ale także wielu widzów, którzy chcą obstawiać wyniki. Zjawisko to utorowało drogę dla rozwijających się platform zakładów, takich jak CasinoLab, które oferują różnorodne opcje zakładów na wydarzenia e-sportowe.

Dlaczego warto obstawiać e-sporty?

• Znajomość gry: Wiele osób, które obstawiają e-sporty, ma dobrą znajomość gier. Gdy znasz mechanikę gry i strategie, możesz podejmować bardziej świadome decyzje.
• Różnorodność zakładów: Zakłady e-sportowe oferują wiele różnych opcji, od zakładów na zwycięzcę meczu po bardziej szczegółowe zakłady, takie jak liczba zabójstw.
• Możliwość analizy: Z pomocą statystyk i analiz, można lepiej przewidywać wyniki, co zwiększa szanse na wygraną.

Trendy w zakładach e-sportowych

W miarę jak e-sporty się rozwijają, pojawiają się nowe trendy, które mogą zmieniać sposób, w jaki obstawiamy. Oto kilka z nich:

1. Zakłady na żywo: Możliwość obstawiania w czasie rzeczywistym podczas trwania meczu staje się coraz bardziej popularna. Dzięki temu można na bieżąco reagować na zmiany w grze.
2. Integracja z mediami społecznościowymi: Coraz więcej platform zakładów wykorzystuje media społecznościowe do interakcji z graczami i fanami, co zwiększa zaangażowanie.
3. Rozwój technologii VR i AR: Technologia wirtualnej i rozszerzonej rzeczywistości może zmienić sposób, w jaki postrzegamy e-sporty, a także zakłady na nie.

Jak zacząć obstawiać e-sporty?

Rozpoczęcie przygody z zakładami e-sportowymi nie jest trudne. Oto kilka kroków, które warto rozważyć:

1. Wybór platformy: Znajdź zaufaną platformę zakładów, taką jak CasinoLab, która oferuje różnorodne opcje i konkurencyjne kursy.
2. Zdobycie wiedzy: Zdobądź wiedzę na temat gier i zespołów, na które chcesz obstawiać. Badaj statystyki, analizy i aktualności.
3. Ustal budżet: Określ, ile pieniędzy jesteś gotów przeznaczyć na zakłady i trzymaj się swojego budżetu.

E-sporty i związane z nimi zakłady rozwijają się w szybkim tempie. Warto śledzić te zmiany i przesunięcia w trendach, aby skutecznie maksymalizować swoje szanse na zyski. Dzięki platformom, takim jak CasinoLab, obstawianie e-sportów staje się dostępne dla każdego, kto chce spróbować swoich sił w tym dynamicznym świecie.

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If you’ve been on TikTok at all lately, you’ve probably seen the videos promoting online shopping on Taobao. The videos promote tons of products at a fraction of the cost. The shopping experience improved in a massive way now that shoppers can access the English version – and, alarmingly for most online sellers, Taobao features products that you find on Amazon, Walmart.com, Target, and more, for much cheaper. Taobao is expanding its reach past mainland China, and with an English interface and direct shipping, and Amazon sellers need to sit up and pay attention.

The eCommerce landscape is shifting. First, SHEIN, then Temu, and now Taobao is going global. With factory-direct prices and a surging presence in Western app stores, it’s getting clear that Chinese e-commerce is becoming a threat to traditional sellers. Your customers are starting to buy from China – which means, with the lower prices, they may shift their attention away from your store altogether.

This week, we’ll break down what Taobao’s rise means for you – and how to stay one step ahead.

Check out this article on Temu vs. SHEIN – which one is better? It’s time to pay close attention to every e-commerce platform coming from China – they pose a real threat to your business.

Buy From Taobao in English Plus International Shipping…It’s a Big Deal

In the light of increased prices from Western sellers due to the reciprocal tariff list, shoppers have been looking for more affordable alternatives. Enter Chinese e-Commerce.

TMT Post sheds light on these viral TikTok videos, which apparently were commissioned by Chinese manufacturers to promote their products and services. Evidently, Chinese manufacturers create handbags, shoes, and accessories for luxury brands, then ship the products to the brand’s home countries, like Italy or France. The item is then repackaged and labeled as a high-end luxury item at a massive markup. TikTok influencers claim that shoppers can get this stuff from Taobao – straight from the manufacturer – without the hefty price tag. Even if you’re shopping outside of China. Now, tariffs still apply to items from Taobao, but they’ll definitely be much cheaper than getting them from the brand itself, especially if the luxury label isn’t important to you. In fact, TechEDT reported that in April, DHGate and Taobao reached top 5 in app downloads.

Before, Taobao could only be accessed in Chinese, but that has changed. Wise gives a step-by-step guide on how to buy stuff on Taobao in English, You can use Google Translate, or Chrome’s Translate to English function. Granted, the translations may not be 100% accurate, but they’re good enough to help a customer make informed shopping decisions on Taobao.

For the average consumer, this is awesome. Avada.io reports that Taobao, along with its parent company Alibaba, and TMall, its sister company, is a leading online shopping platform in China – and it’s starting to make waves in the USA. So far, shopping on Taobao gives you free shipping if you’re from Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Australia, Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, Kazakhstan and Mongolia, according to China Daily. A US-based shopper reported on Reddit that shipping costs to the USA were around 64% of the total cost of goods, so smart shoppers are still comparing their possible purchase from Taobao vs. similar items on Aliexpress, Temu, SHEIN, and the like.

For sellers, though, this is a massive wake-up call. Customers want to shop for cheaper items, even if it means international shipping takes longer than your standard online shopping website in the USA and Europe. Another Reddit thread shows that a customer bought from the Taobao website, which was shipped from the Taobao seller to the Taobao warehouse, with around a 3-week delivery. The website is in Chinese, making shopping difficult, but for bulk purchases, it made a lot of sense – especially since you get a big discount when you buy directly from the manufacturer.

If your customers are willing to go shopping on Taobao – if they’re patient enough to wait for the long international shipping and are happy to pay extra for a heftier shipping fee – then it’s quite possible that they’ll find your items on Taobao as well. Whether we like it or not, Taobao is competition.

Should Amazon Sellers Source Items on Taobao?

If you’re already sourcing for your products on Aliexpress or Alibaba, and you’ve got sourcing experience under your belt, then yes, you can order from Taobao. But it’s not plug-and-play.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Language Barriers: The Taobao app is built for Chinese users. Sure, you can translate Taobao to English using Chrome Translate or the app’s English settings, but keep in mind that product descriptions are often vague. You can try to discuss with the seller, but due to the language barriers, this will be pretty tough.
• Shipping Complexity: Here’s where supply chain and logistics expertise come in handy. If your shipping address is not in China, you can expect consolidation matters, forwarders, and multi-step payments.
• No Built-In Buyer Protections: Unlike Alibaba or Amazon, there’s limited recourse if something goes wrong.
• IP Risk: You may stumble on factory overruns, replicas, or even branded items that can’t legally be resold.

Unless you’re getting deep discounts, reselling Taobao-sourced goods can be pretty risky.

If you do want to try sourcing on Taobao, we recommend working with trusted buying agents or freight forwarders like Sufengda or ParcelUp (more news on this on Forumosa). Stick to non-branded items and anything that could get flagged in customs. Order samples first, especially for consumables or anything quality-sensitive.

So, yes, you could go shopping on Taobao for things to sell on Amazon – but it’s a messy deal. Either you work with a Taobao agent and know how to finagle China’s supply chain, or you go somewhere else.

Staying Competitive While People Are Shopping on Taobao: It’s Not With Price Points

Here’s the hard truth. Sellers on Taobao and Temu can undercut you on price simply because they are the supply chain. Sure, the online shopping experience on Taobao is clunky, but that’s because these sellers are the factories, the manufacturers, the distributors, who are now selling directly to your customers. No middlemen, no markups, and delays only due to international shipping.

In other words, you can’t beat them on price.

So, how can you stay competitive given customers are now online shopping with Taobao, SHEIN, Temu, etc.?

• Brand story – Give your customers a reason to choose you. What do you stand for? Who are you for? Make it personal.
• Premium packaging – Unboxing is an experience. Elevate yours to build perceived value and boost customer satisfaction.
• Product bundles – Add complementary products or bonus items to increase value and justify a higher price point.
• Exceptional customer service – Fast, friendly, and responsive support can turn one-time buyers into lifelong fans.
• Localized content – Speak your customer’s language—literally and culturally. Tailor your listings, visuals, and tone to resonate in every market.

Give your customers an experience. We already know that Taobao shopping is difficult, at best; Taobao English is difficult to understand, you probably need a shopping agent to help you navigate a relationship with the seller, and shipping takes forever. Now that you see the weaknesses, in spite of all the strengths that Taobao offers, you can tweak your selling journey with the best practices to combat these weaknesses, and win your customers back.

Here’s How You Can Use the World of Taobao to Improve

Sure, many customers now use Taobao to look for cheaper items. And Taobao is a leading online shopping platform now that’s extending its reach past China. No doubt about it, Taobao provides a wealth of products at cheaper prices. And Amazon sellers should sit up and pay attention.

But don’t view Taobao as a threat. You can still win at the eCommerce game in spite of the waves that Taobao makes in the online selling world.

Use Taobao as:

• A trend tracker – Spot rising products before they hit mainstream platforms. Taobao is where trends are born.
• A product testing sandbox – Order samples, test quality, and validate demand with minimal upfront investment.
• A sourcing channel (with care) – Identify potential manufacturers or suppliers—but vet them thoroughly and avoid branded/IP-sensitive items.

Then, level up with:

• Tools like AdsPower – Manage multiple storefronts, scout pricing across platforms, and run data-driven margin analysis—all in one place.
• Localization strategies – Tailor your product listings and messaging for different marketplaces. Connect with buyers in their language and context.
• Pro tip: Find a trending Taobao product, then launch a premium branded version—with upgraded materials, better packaging, and a stronger story.

Don’t just react to trends. Predict them. Refine them. Lead with value. Remember, the English version of Taobao is still clunky at best. It’s tough to communicate with the seller without a sourcing agent. Go ahead and use the services – but do so wisely.

Sure, Taobao is Available in English – But Here’s Where You Can Do Better

Customers are shifting the language to English and shopping on Taobao – and using Taobao direct shipping to get access to bottom-of-the-barrel prices even without living in China or Taiwan. But even if customers can remove the Chinese language and perform a search in English, it’s still difficult.

This marks a massive opportunity for you. Chinese sellers – Temu, SHEIN, Taobao – are going global, but the experience leaves much to be desired. You need to go global, too – with a better experience.

Localized listings mean higher trust, better conversions, and stronger rank. Especially when they’re translated by native speakers, who know what converts.

Make sure you engage in the customer service best practices so you increase buyer reviews. Make it easy for customers to return items. Offer promos, lightning deals, and the like, so customers feel like they’re getting the deals they’d find on Taobao without the friction.

Sure, shopping on Taobao means using Google Translate to understand a listing. And you won’t always win over a price-conscious customer that prefers the low, low, low cost of dealing with Taobao directly. But you can offer a seamless shopping experience, from a well-localized listing to beautiful packaging.

As Omnia Retail reports, 86% of customers say they’re willing to spend extra if it means they get a great shopping experience out of it.

Use Taobao.com to Be Better

In short, yes, go and make yourself a Taobao account. Go shopping on Taobao, if only to know what your customers are doing. See how easy it is to shop through badly-translated product listings – and let that be your sign to invest in proper localization.

Shopping on Taobao isn’t a trend, it’s a signal. The eCommerce landscape is changing; it’s a game of adapt or survive these days, what with Trump’s tariffs and increasing competition from China’s warehouses and distributors.

Compete on brand, not on price. Provide a seamless shopping experience, which is something other competitors can’t do. Sure, they may win on price points, but you can win in other areas: effective localization, beautiful graphics and A+, excellent customer service, great copywriting, and robust knowledge on what works and what doesn’t on Amazon. Put up a D2C eCommerce website, so you can build a relationship with your customer.

Stay sharp – make sure you’re on top of your eCommerce game by following YLT Translations on LinkedIn and Instagram so you are well informed on all things eCommerce!

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Market Research Future believes that D2C retail will make USD91.62bn by the end of 2025 – with projections reaching USD248.48bn by 2034. That’s a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 11.42%. Reasons for growth include increasing consumer demand for direct brand interaction, improved online security, mobile-first experiences, and personalized shopping powered by data and AI.

But what exactly is the D2C model? Essentially, this is when brands sell their products directly to consumers – middle management like an Amazon or a Walmart. Everything is managed by the brand, from inventory management and supply chain issues, to product development and customer service, to logistics and fulfillment. Direct to consumer brands eschew the usual digital retail channels and set up social media accounts and Shopify stores of their own, and woo the end consumer to shop directly from them instead of going through a traditional eCommerce platform, which would have tons more competition.

A D2C ecommerce business has a direct relationship with their customers. In some ways, a D2C e-Commerce strategy can be more complex, since you don’t rely on an FBA model to take things off your shoulders. But the benefits of D2C eCommerce are way more than you’d get from a B2C model – you just have to be a little more patient.

Let’s check out the meaning of D2C, and how you can tap into the lucrative D2C market – including where to do it – and why localization is crucial with the D2C approach.

Did you know that customer service in Europe is different from customer service all over the globe? Make sure you localize customer service so you provide the best customer care possible!

II. Understanding the D2C Business Model vs. B2C and B2B2C

Before we get started with the nitty gritty of D2C eCommerce, understand that eCommerce brands can employ a wide variety of models to sell products. Let’s take a look at the top 3 strategies and how they work.

A. What is D2C (Direct-to-Consumer)?

• This is when a brand will sell directly to consumers. No middle man, nothing.

• When you have no intermediaries, you have more control over the brand, customer journey, and data

B. What is B2C (Business-to-Consumer)?

• This is traditional retail eCommerce. You will use a platform like Amazon, Walmart, or even a traditional store to bring your product to your customer.

• Often faster exposure, but less brand control and data access

Curious about Walmart? Find out if you should sell on Walmart marketplace.

C. What is B2B2C (Business-to-Business-to-Consumer)?

• This hybrid model is when a business sells to another business, with the final goal of reaching the consumer

• For example, a food manufacturer (“business A”) partners with a delivery app (“business B”) to get products directly to end consumers. Alibaba does this really well.

• Common in marketplaces, SaaS platforms, and distribution-heavy sectors

D. What is B2B (Business-to-Business)?

• B2B Commerce is typical in classic wholesaler businesses, who sell to retailers in large quantities. (Yet, the minute they create a D2C or retail arm, such as launching their own app or storefront for consumers, they may enter B2B2C territory.)
• It’s all about volume, negotiated pricing, and long-term supply relationships.

III. D2C Selling vs. Amazon Selling

Now, the question is, which is better? If you’re here, you probably already know all about Amazon selling. You’ve expanded your business quite well, scaled upward, and even started selling in other countries. But you’re curious about D2C eCommerce sales, given most of the profit margins go to you, as opposed to sharing some with a middleman. It’s true; selling D2C gives brands way more control. It’s a lot more work, but the rewards are fulfilling.

As you can see, building your own D2C channel gives you incredible control over brand experience, pricing, and customer data, but selling on Amazon can significantly boost your visibility and reach – especially when launching new products or testing market demand.

Many brands have chosen to do both through a hybrid strategy. You enjoy the best of both worlds: Amazon for scale and traffic, while nurturing deeper relationships through an owned D2C ecosystem. You would use Amazon to acquire new customers, but direct them to your website for loyalty programs, subscriptions, or personalized offers. It’s a good idea to leverage Amazon’s credibility and fulfillment (FBA) in the early stages, then transition high-value customers to your owned channels where you can upsell, cross-sell, and fully own the brand narrative.

Nevertheless, over-reliance on Amazon carries real risks:

• Account suspensions can happen without warning, and appeals are often opaque and slow
• Intense competition means you’re always at risk of being undercut, copied, outranked, or being victimized by listing hijacking
• Zero access to customer data makes it hard to build lasting relationships with customers or tailor your marketing through a data-driven approach

In short, Amazon’s a powerful tool, but not a sustainable home base. Established brands treat Amazon as a launchpad, not the full Bezos Blue Origin rocket (complete with Katy Perry on board!).

IV. The Future of D2c E-Commerce is in Europe

Did you know that Jana, YLT Translations’ own fierce and fabulous leader, is about to launch a supplement brand of her own? You guessed it – she’s exploring a D2C business strategy.

“D2C brands do very well in Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia,” she shares. “Central Europe has a huge untapped market – the biggest marketplace is Allegro, with 12,000 online stores. There’s big eCommerce penetration, and some brands have had amazing success in that part of Europe.” Yes, she’s planning to launch her brand in that part of Europe.

So, why does this matter to you?

A. Why Europe is Ideal for D2C Expansion

Europe offers one of the most dynamic landscapes for D2C growth, and savvy brands are already capitalizing on it.

• According to the World Bank, internet penetration in Central Europe is extremely healthy, with 86% in Poland and 90% in the Slovak Republic. Statistics Poland shows that 95.9% of Polish households have access to the internet, while Trading Economics states that internet access of the Czech Republic reached a record high in December 2024 with 94.56%, while the European Commission reports that Slovakia plans to provide all households with access to ultra-fast internet by 2030.

• Customers in Central Europe are deeply connected to their history, such as the impacts of communism and the shift to a more democratic and capitalist system. According to Marshall Johnston’s paper, consumers in Central Europe prize brands that honor tradition and authenticity. If brands emphasize local craftsmanship or make use of local resources, they’re often perceived as being trustworthy and credible, appealing to a customer base that’s got deep ties to their cultural identity and heritage.

• The EU’s strong logistics network, growing 3PL presence (like OEX, DB Schenker, and DHL Fulfillment), and clear import/export rules make cross-border fulfillment feasible even for smaller brands.

B. Case Example: Allegro in Poland

Allegro.pl is Poland’s largest online marketplace, accounting for a third of total sales. Sales Supply reports that it has a brand awareness of 98% and 22 million visitors per month, and stands out as the first destination for 81% of Polish online shoppers. While it dominates the Polish eCommerce landscape, it also represents a gateway for D2C brands ready to scale in Central Europe.

• Local Trust, Local Language: Polish consumers tend to favor websites in their native language and exhibit high trust in localized platforms. Research from CSA shows that 76% of consumers prefer buying products in their own language, and this rings especially true in Poland.

• The Hybrid Play: For brands like Jana’s upcoming supplement line, a smart strategy is to launch on Allegro to build visibility and trust, then migrate loyal customers to a branded D2C site. This helps increase profit margins, unlock first-party data, and build a long-term community.

C. Top D2C-Friendly Markets in Europe

Jana’s advice is clear: for prime e-Commerce growth, consider Central Europe. But you’re not limited there. Given the reciprocal tariff list of Trump is changing everyday in what’s looking like a trade war, operational and marketing strategies need to give Europe a real close look. At least, there’s no penalty for sourcing from Asia.

• Germany – Gaasly reports that Germans prefer eco-friendly, sustainable, affordable products. Brands with recyclable packaging, biodegradable products, or reusable items are more likely to woo the austere German consumer. What is an eco-friendly product? You can start small, and see how you can adapt a little sustainability into your supply chain. After all, anything that benefits the planet will indubitably win the hearts of your consumers, wherever in the world they may be. Statista reports that D2C sales in Germany have dropped from 3.4bn euros in 2021 to 2.8bn euros in 2024. The most visited eCommerce store is still Amazon.de. In this case, a hybrid model that combines both direct to consumer eCommerce with B2C eCommerce is probably best.

• France – Hive reports that there are 5 categories that excel in D2C commerce: fashion, food and personal care, electronics and media, furniture and appliances, and toys, hobbies, and DIY. This could be because French consumers love a local feel and “Made in France” products – with 60% willing to pay more for these products. In fact, 79% of French consumers believe they buy products to support the French economy, and “Made in France” labels are a quick assurance of quality. In short, localization is paramount when trying to penetrate the French market. Luckily, we’ve got the lowdown for you on English to French translations, and why expanding to France is a good idea.

• Poland – Statista reports that D2C sales in Poland reached over 1bn euros in 2022. Polish consumers love anything that feels home-grown. The Ministerie van Landbouw, Visserij, Voedselzekerheid en Natuur shows that Polish customers are price-sensitive; similar to their German counterparts, the Polish people love anything plant-based, organic, and local, but 73% of Polish customers pay close attention to the price. The paper from The Ministerie posits that the Polish customer is becoming increasingly more globalized, with tastes and styles that align more closely with Western European countries as time goes by.

• Netherlands – Wonnda suggests that the Netherlands is prime for D2C brands. They also prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices – and they really appreciate personalized options, which is entirely possible when using the D2C business model. Keep in mind that Dutch consumers keep a close eye on a brand’s mission, ethos, and commitment to broader societal issues. If you’re planning to sell D2C in the Netherlands, make sure your D2C website is clear about what you stand for, and explore corporate social responsibility in marketing to give back to the community.

V. Successful D2C Companies to Inspire You

The D2C model allows independent brands to build direct relationships with customers, and to curate the customer experience closely to provide excellent customer service. Here are some leading D2C brands to inspire your journey:

6 Hallmark D2C Brands to Watch Out For

1. Warby Parker – Eyewear disruption at its finest. Vertical integration + home try-ons = stylish glasses without the Luxottica markup.
2. Allbirds – Eco-friendly shoes made from sustainable materials, proving D2C can make ethical supply chains affordable.
3. Everlane – Radical transparency in fashion, showing every cost from factory to final sale while avoiding traditional wholesale models.
4. Dollar Shave Club – Turned shaving into a frictionless subscription. Their viral launch redefined how products get discovered online.
5. Casper – Made mattresses cool—and compact. Their direct model eliminated in-store awkwardness and delivered innovation to your doorstep.
6. BarkBox – Affordable, curated pet boxes designed and tested by in-house dogs. D2C made their mission of pet-inclusive living achievable.

The Top Emerging Global D2C Brands to Watch in 2025

• Lovevery – Montessori-inspired baby play kits (320K+ active subscribers)

• Athletic Brewing – Craft non-alcoholic beer ($286M raised)

• Oura – Sleek health-tracking rings from Finland (used by top athletes)

• Elvie – Smart femtech from the UK (pumping innovation)

• The Farmer’s Dog – Personalized fresh food for pets (delivered over 100M meals)

• Spacegoods – Adaptogenic mushroom blends (9,100% growth!)

• Misen – Chef-grade kitchenware at D2C prices (60-day trials, lifetime warranty)

• Kristin Ess Hair – Celebrity stylist-approved vegan haircare (8,900% search growth)

• Momcozy – Wearable pumps and baby gear trusted by 3M+ moms globally

• Magic Spoon – Protein-rich nostalgic cereal that’s TikTok-famous (plus, it’s keto-friendly)

VI. Why D2C Brands Must Think Multilingual from Day One

D2C eCommerce means showing up – directly – in front of real customers. Not Amazon. Not wholesalers or distributors. Not your brand manager in a department store. That’s real people, with real preferences, values, expectations, and languages.

Statista reports that 40% of people will not transact with a website if it’s not in their native language. If your D2C brand isn’t localized, your website, packaging, and emails don’t feel personal, and for customers like the Polish and the French, this simply won’t engage. Amazon, Temu, Walmart, and Target may be successful at bringing global products to a local market, but all the research presented in this blog that consumers prefer to buy products that feel like home. Nothing kills conversion more than something that feels foreign.

To win in global D2C, it’s not just about translation. It’s about strategy and cultural relevance across every touchpoint:

• Website & Mobile UX – Native-language navigation, checkout flows, and product pages

• SEO – Optimized for search in-market, not just translated keywords

• Customer Support – Local scripts, tone, and time zone alignment

• Packaging & Inserts – Regulatory compliance and brand tone tailored for each market

• Retargeting & Email Flows – Cultural nuance in copywriting = higher CTRs and CLV

At YLT Translations, we specialize in ecommerce localization that goes beyond words. Whether you’re selling on Amazon, Shopify, or a headless site—we bring your brand to life in every language your customers speak, thanks to a team of native speakers. Our translators know how your customers think, act, and communicate in their native tongue – down to cultural nuances, slang, and pop culture references.

In other words, localization helps you go global, the right way.

VII. How to Harness D2C Growth for Your Brand

D2C eCommerce isn’t a trend; it’s a transformation. Whether you’re growing a brand and exploring your first digital storefront, or an Amazon veteran craving more control, D2C strategies offer the ultimate freedom to shape your customer experience, own your data, and build real brand loyalty.

Success in D2C doesn’t happen by accident. It demands intention, innovation, and localization from day one. A well-chosen D2C eCommerce platform is just the beginning—what sets brands apart is how well they adapt to local markets, communicate in customers’ native languages, and create seamless, personalized journeys across every touchpoint.

In the hyperconnected world of eCommerce, the opportunities for D2C brands are wide open. Whether you’re selling supplements like Jana, sustainable fashion, or groceries, it’ll take time and effort, with incredible rewards.

Make sure you make your D2C move with patience, strategy, and courage, in every language that matters.

Speaking of Poland, take a peek at the Top 10 European Marketplaces. Anything here you’d be curious about selling on?

The post D2C eCommerce vs. B2c e-Commerce: Which Is For You? appeared first on .

But, why? Well, if you’re not convinced by Churchill himself, let’s consider the report by Statista, which published that eCommerce growth is expected to reach US$4.791 trillion in 2025. That’s another couple of billion over the projection of US$4.1 trillion in 2024, also according to Statista. Leading the charge of online marketplaces in terms of traffic and Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) is Amazon, but Chinese competitors Pinduoduo (Temu) and Taobao (operated by Alibaba) are following close behind for GMV. It looks like e-commerce sales are on the rise – and so is competition.

One of the biggest challenges for eCommerce store owners is how to stay ahead of rapidly evolving trends, from technological advancements to shifting consumer expectations, all while navigating localization challenges to stay relevant to customers in every locale. Luckily, YLT Translations has you covered with both. Read on to understand the important eCommerce trends that will influence 2025 – and how localization will help you meet the demands of the upcoming year.

For a fun look behind, check out last year’s report on the eCommerce Trends 2024 was supposed to bring. Do you think these trends really did come to pass, or were they just a flash in the pan?

Section 1: Stay on Top of eCommerce Trends This 2025: It’s a Pivotal Year

Shopify reports that the eCommerce industry grew 8.4% vs. the previous year, with eCommerce sales from China and the USA totaling more than $2.32 trillion in 2023. This expansion is expected to continue; your average online shopping store is expected to outpace expenditure on your average brick-and-mortar store. In fact, Reuters reports that 52% of online shoppers globally purchase products internationally, underscoring the demand for global accessibility and localized shopping experiences.

Cross-border ecommerce is rapidly reaching its heyday. Check out these emerging markets to watch out for:

• • Asia-Pacific (APAC): Dominates global eCommerce, with China, India, and Southeast Asia leading the charge. Check out our Asian Marketplace Review for actionable strategies on how to penetrate this market.
    • Philippines: The fastest-growing global eCommerce market, with a young, tech-savvy population and government initiatives boosting digital adoption.
  • Latin America (LATAM): Brazil and Mexico are experiencing rapid growth, driven by mobile-first consumers and rising disposable incomes.
  • Middle East & Africa (MEA): High growth in Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Nigeria due to increasing mobile adoption and digital payment systems. Understand all about South Africa eCommerce and see if this market is right for you.
  • Eastern Europe: Countries like Poland and Ukraine are attracting sellers with growing middle-class spending and demand for international brands. Check out the latest on European e-commerce – and keep in mind a successful eCommerce business may not rely just on Amazon!

So, what are the challenges facing ecommerce owners? It goes without saying that eCommerce retailers need to seriously consider expansion into new markets. eCommerce businesses must diversify their income streams in order to safeguard revenue this 2025. Global expansion presents tremendous opportunities, but it also comes with unique challenges that sellers must address in order to thrive:

• Rising Customer Expectations: Consumers now demand seamless and consistent shopping experiences across borders, including localized content, transparent pricing, and efficient delivery options.
• Adapting to Local Market Needs: Successfully entering new regions requires understanding and aligning with market-specific preferences, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, and overcoming logistical hurdles such as last-mile delivery.
• Increased Competition: Emerging markets are often dominated by strong local players who have a deep understanding of their customer base, making it essential for sellers to differentiate through tailored strategies and superior localization efforts.

Now that we understand why the ecommerce industry in 2025 is such an important one, let’s cut to the chase, and uncover the ecommerce trends that will shape online retail this year.

Section 2: The Definitive eCommerce Trends Shaping 2025

eCommerce brands need to stay on top of the following trends if they plan to improve engagement and conversion rate optimization this 2025. Here they are, as short and sweet as possible:

1. Mobile-First Commerce

Tidio reports that younger generations are driving retail eCommerce sales – and many millennials and Gen Z (Zoomers) shop online with their cell phones. Whether they make a purchase on a mobile app or through an eCommerce website, one thing is clear: mobile shopping is taking over.

There are many things that eCommerce brands are already implementing to encourage sales through mobile devices, such as one-click checkouts, mobile-exclusive promotions, and faster mobile page loads. In fact, even though American shoppers are still using their desktops and laptops to make purchases, they still look for discounts and promos through their cell phones.

Interestingly, APAC leads in mobile commerce, with countries like the Philippines and India seeing heavy mobile-driven sales growth.

Make 2025 the year that you seriously optimize your shopping experience for mobile eCommerce.

Here’s how to start with mobile optimization.

2. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

Technology is taking over the online shopping experience! Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are revolutionizing the eCommerce landscape by offering an interactive and immersive shopping experience. These tools allow customers to engage with products in new ways, including virtual try-ons, 3D product views, and personalized immersive shopping environments.

In fact, this technology seems to be leading to lessened returns and refunds, because customer expectations are so well managed prior to the transaction. Consider IKEA’S AR-powered app, which helps shoppers visualize how furniture will look in their homes, while Sephora’s Virtual Artist lets users try on makeup virtually.

Talk about a boost in buyer confidence. Technology blurs the lines between online shopping and physical retail stores, enhancing the customer experience.

3. Generative AI in eCommerce

There’s no two ways about it: artificial intelligence (AI) is here to stay. AI is at the forefront of eCommerce innovation, streamlining critical aspects of online retail. Think about chatbots for real-time customer support, and personalized recommendations with similar items for online shoppers.

In fact, Amazon has joined the AI movement with Amazon Rufus, a cutting-edge tool that integrates Amazon’s vast product catalog with web data to improve the online shopping experience.

Designed to enhance customer interactions, Rufus can:

• Answer customer inquiries, addressing a wide range of shopping needs.
• Provide tailored product recommendations, offering options that align with customer preferences.
• Facilitate product discovery, helping shoppers find what they need more efficiently.

What Rufus Can Do

Rufus excels in handling customer questions related to:

• Shopping requirements.
• Product comparisons and recommendations.
• Specific product details and suggestions.

The assistant goes a step further by recommending complementary products, alternative options, and even personalized content like user reviews. This capability enables Amazon to streamline the shopping process while delivering a highly personalized user experience.

Time for you to learn all about Amazon Rufus. Optimize your listings accordingly and make sure your online store stays future-proof. Why? Because eCommerce is becoming highly competitive, highly technological, and highly sophisticated. If you hope to grow in the future, it’s important to adapt to these ever-changing trends – especially the ones that affect how customers find your listing.

4. Personalization vs. Privacy

As the demand for personalized shopping experiences grows, businesses must navigate the increasing complexities of strict privacy regulations such as GDPR and CCPA. These laws prioritize consumer rights, emphasizing the importance of data protection and consent.

The solution lies in leveraging first-party data—information collected directly from customers through transparent, consent-driven practices. By prioritizing trust and maintaining open communication about data usage, businesses can not only comply with regulations but also foster customer loyalty. Personalization based on willingly shared data allows brands to deliver tailored experiences while respecting consumer privacy, creating a win-win scenario for both shoppers and sellers.

5. Sustainability and Eco-Conscious Practices

Here’s a trend in eCommerce that has continued on from 2024: sustainability.

Today’s consumers are placing a higher value on brands that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Shoppers increasingly favor companies that integrate environmentally conscious initiatives into their operations, including:

• Carbon-neutral shipping to reduce environmental impact.
• Biodegradable packaging that minimizes waste.
• Product buyback and reuse programs that promote circular economies and extend product life cycles.

While Europe and North America currently lead in eco-conscious consumption, regions like Latin America (LATAM) and Asia-Pacific (APAC) are quickly catching up, driven by rising environmental awareness and demand for sustainable options. It may not be a new trend, but it’s definitely one to start getting into. Not only does it save the planet, the trend also resonates deeply with consumers, building trust and long-term loyalty.

Honestly, it’s something every eCommerce seller needs to look into.

What is an eco-friendly product to sell on Amazon? We’ve got some ideas.

6. Social Commerce Evolution

Social platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook have evolved into dynamic shopping destinations, merging social interaction with seamless purchasing opportunities.

The key drivers of this trend include:

• Livestream shopping, where real-time interactions boost engagement and conversions.
• Influencer marketing, leveraging trusted voices to connect with audiences.
• Short-form video content, capturing attention and driving quick purchasing decisions.

Globally, Asia-Pacific (APAC) leads the way in social commerce adoption, setting benchmarks for innovation and integration. Meanwhile, North America and Latin America (LATAM) are rapidly embracing this trend, with significant growth fueled by consumer demand for engaging and convenient shopping experiences. Social commerce is reshaping how brands reach and convert their audiences worldwide.

7. Voice Commerce

Voice-enabled shopping is rapidly gaining traction as consumers embrace the convenience of hands-free browsing and purchasing. Tools like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are at the forefront, driving voice searches and enabling seamless transactions.

Growth Areas: The US and Europe are leading the way as early adopters of voice commerce, setting the stage for innovation in this space. Meanwhile, emerging markets present untapped potential, offering opportunities for businesses to expand and capture new audiences as voice technology becomes more accessible globally. Voice commerce is transforming the way consumers interact with eCommerce, making shopping faster, easier, and more intuitive.

Are you interested in how to optimize for voice shopping? Let us know. If you have any other topics you’d like us to investigate for you, we’d love to hear about it!

8. Omnichannel Integration

Today’s shoppers expect a seamless transition between online and offline shopping, expecting flexibility and convenience at every touchpoint. Key features driving this trend include:

• Buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS), allowing customers to shop online and retrieve purchases in-store.
• Unified inventory systems, ensuring real-time product availability across all channels.

Retailers in regions like Latin America (LATAM) and Middle East & Africa (MEA) are successfully blending physical stores with online experiences, creating unified shopping journeys that cater to evolving consumer expectations. This integration not only enhances convenience but also fosters stronger brand loyalty by delivering a consistent and engaging experience across platforms.

9. Flexible Payment Options

The shift to online shopping isn’t a walk in the park for all regions, especially when it comes to your customer’s preferred payment method.

The demand for flexible payment solutions continues to rise, with options such as Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL), digital wallets, and even cryptocurrency gaining popularity. These methods provide consumers with greater convenience and adaptability, catering to their individual preferences.

Localized Payments: Payment preferences vary by region, highlighting the importance of localized solutions:

• In India, digital wallets like Paytm and Google Pay dominate the market. You’ll see this in the Philippines, one of the most promising eCommerce markets, in the form of GCash and Pay Maya.
• In Latin America (LATAM), cash-based systems such as OXXO remain a preferred choice for many consumers.

Adopting region-specific payment methods is essential for businesses aiming to build trust, streamline transactions, and expand their global reach. Not every culture has healthy credit card adoption, and it’s crucial that sellers adapt to the preferred payment methods for eCommerce transactions in every market they sell in.

Did you know that your pricing methods need a level of localization as well? Here’s how to price a product for Amazon. Tip? It might very well differ with every market you sell in.

10. Subscription Models

Subscription-based eCommerce is thriving across industries, offering businesses a reliable revenue stream and customers a seamless shopping experience. Key models driving this growth include:

• “Subscribe-and-save” programs, providing convenience and savings for repeat buyers.
• Membership programs, which deliver exclusive perks like early access to products, discounts, and premium support.

Growth Areas: Subscription-based models are seeing strong adoption in Asia-Pacific (APAC) and Europe, where consumers value the convenience and personalized benefits these programs offer. As more businesses adopt this approach, subscription services are becoming a cornerstone of customer loyalty and retention strategies. It’s not long before subscription models reach the rest of the world, as well.

11. Faster Deliveries

It doesn’t matter where they’re from; customers are impatient. They value things like speed and convenience. As a result, the demand for same-day and next-day deliveries continues to surge. To meet these expectations, businesses are investing in:

• Micro-fulfillment centers, strategically located near urban areas to reduce delivery times.
• Advanced logistics systems, leveraging technology to optimize delivery routes and streamline operations.

Regional Focus: Europe and North America are at the forefront of rapid delivery innovations, setting high standards for efficiency and speed. As consumer expectations grow globally, these regions serve as benchmarks for businesses aiming to enhance their fulfillment capabilities and stay competitive.

12. Cross-Border Commerce Expansion

Customers are shopping across various ecommerce platforms worldwide, seeking products from international markets. This trend is particularly notable in regions such as Asia-Pacific (APAC), the Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Latin America (LATAM). For instance, Nuvei reports that in Latin America, cross-border e-commerce is projected to account for a significant portion of the market, with expectations that over a quarter of such transactions will originate from Asia by 2026.

However, expanding into these diverse markets presents several challenges for sellers:

• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating a complex web of international laws, customs procedures, and tax obligations is essential. Each country enforces its own regulations, making compliance a critical yet intricate task.
• Currency Conversion: Managing multiple currencies involves dealing with exchange rate fluctuations and ensuring transparent pricing for customers, which is vital for maintaining trust and competitiveness.
• Localized Customer Experiences: Adapting to local languages, cultural preferences, and consumer behaviors is crucial. This includes offering preferred payment methods, providing customer support in local languages, and tailoring marketing strategies to resonate with regional audiences.

We’ll get more into localization in 2025, but in the meantime, here are the best practices in Amazon listing optimization, localization, and translation.

13. Improved Returns Management

Back to our earlier point about Augmented Reality (AR) – enhanced tech like AR is revolutionizing the shopping experience, helping to reduce return rates by providing customers with better product previews. That’s definitely an eCommerce solution that’s a massive help. It increases the convenience of online shopping, and when customer expectations are managed so adequately from the very beginning, returns diminish.

At the same time, transparent and hassle-free return policies play a crucial role in building trust. Customers are more likely to make repeat purchases when they know returns are straightforward and fair, creating a foundation for loyalty and long-term engagement. Together, these strategies enhance the overall shopping experience while addressing one of eCommerce’s most significant challenges.

14. AI in Workforce and Supply Chain Management

We already spoke about AI – its benefits aren’t limited to the front end of your Amazon business, either.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming eCommerce operations by optimizing staffing, logistics, and supply chain visibility. These tools enable businesses to operate with greater precision and efficiency, addressing challenges proactively.

For example, AI can predict regional demand by analyzing market trends and consumer behavior, ensuring adequate inventory levels in specific locations. Additionally, AI helps mitigate potential disruptions, such as supply chain bottlenecks or delays, by identifying risks early and recommending alternative solutions.

By leveraging AI-driven insights, businesses can streamline operations, reduce costs, and deliver a seamless shopping experience for customers worldwide.

Phew – that was quite a large list. Now, let’s discuss localization, its role in the eCommerce industry, and how it can help your online business navigate these trends and ensure sales in the future.

Section 3: Localization – Helping You Navigate Global eCommerce Trends

As we uncovered earlier in this article, global selling is one of the biggest eCommerce trends to hit 2025. Consumers are searching for products on an international scale. That’s why it’s imperative to adapt operations to cater to diverse markets. At the core of this adaptation is adept localization – a non-negotiable for businesses aiming to succeed in the global marketplace.

The Role of Localization

Localization goes beyond translation; it’s about ensuring that every aspect of your eCommerce experience resonates culturally with your target audience. Key elements include:

• Tailored Content: Adapting product descriptions, imagery, and marketing materials to reflect local cultural norms and preferences.
• Localized Payment Options and Delivery Services: Offering region-specific payment methods and shipping solutions to build trust and improve satisfaction.

How Localization Supports Key eCommerce Trends

Localization aligns seamlessly with major eCommerce trends in 2025, enhancing their effectiveness:

1. Social Commerce: Localized ad copy, hashtags, and influencer collaborations ensure that campaigns resonate with regional audiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
2. Sustainability: Highlighting eco-friendly practices that align with local values strengthens your brand’s appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
3. AI Tools: Leveraging localization expertise to ensure culturally accurate outputs in AI-driven product listings, enhancing their relevance and effectiveness.

Why YLT Translations is the Partner You Need

At YLT Translations, we specialize in helping sellers navigate the complexities of global markets with our expertise in localization. Our services include:

• Multilingual Amazon Listing Translations and Optimizations: Crafting listings that are not just accurate but culturally engaging for diverse audiences.
• Localized Social Media Ads and Customer Support Solutions: Ensuring your brand communicates effectively and authentically across all touchpoints.
• Proven Success in Diverse Markets: With years of experience, we’ve helped businesses expand globally while maintaining consistent brand integrity.

If it’s your first time to meet us, we’re glad you’re here! Did you know we offer a free listing analysis to check out the health of your international listing? Let’s see if we can improve your global eCommerce sales together.

Section 4: How Amazon Sellers Can Stay Ahead of the Top eCommerce Trends

To thrive in the evolving eCommerce landscape, and adapt to as many of the eCommerce trends listed here, sellers must implement strategies that cater to diverse global audiences and meet rising consumer expectations. Here are four essential steps to ensure success:

1. Audit and Localize Listings

• Optimize keywords, product descriptions, and imagery to align with the preferences and cultural nuances of regional audiences.
• Ensure listings resonate authentically to build trust and engagement in each market.

2. Embrace Social Commerce

• Leverage platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to create region-specific campaigns that reflect local trends and behaviors.
• Adapt hashtags, ad copy, and influencer collaborations to maximize reach and conversions in diverse markets.

3. Invest in AI and AR

• Use AI to streamline customer service, enhance demand projections, and optimize operational efficiency.
• Incorporate AR tools to provide immersive product experiences, such as virtual try-ons and 3D product views, reducing return rates and improving customer satisfaction.

4. Adapt Payment and Delivery Options

• Integrate region-specific payment systems, including digital wallets, BNPL options, and cash-based methods, to meet local preferences.
• Offer faster delivery solutions with strategies like micro-fulfillment centers and efficient logistics systems to exceed consumer expectations for speed and convenience.

Implementing these strategies will position your business to navigate the challenges of global expansion while delivering exceptional shopping experiences to customers worldwide. Plus, a solid base of operations, with all these new developments, will help you stay on top of the eCommerce trends this 2025.

Conclusion: A Summary of the eCommerce Trends to Watch Out For and How to Stay Ahead This 2025

Talk about a set of transformative ecommerce trends. All the more is it crucial for sellers to embrace innovation and adaptability to remain competitive. From mobile-first ecommerce and AI-driven personalization to sustainability and cross-border shipping, the industry is evolving pretty quickly to meet rising consumer expectations and technological advancements.

So, given the new eCommerce trends that will impact online sales and the operations of online retailers all over the globe, here’s some quick advice on how to stay ahead:

• Prioritize Localization: Tailor your listings, payment options, and marketing strategies to resonate with diverse regional audiences. Localization is no longer optional; it’s the backbone of global eCommerce success.
• Leverage Technology: Invest in tools like AR to enhance customer experiences and AI to streamline operations, optimize supply chains, and personalize interactions.
• Embrace Emerging Trends: Capitalize on the rise of social commerce, voice shopping, and subscription models to engage with customers in innovative ways.
• Adapt Quickly: Offer flexible payment methods and efficient delivery options to cater to varying regional preferences and ensure a seamless shopping experience.

To thrive in the competitive global market, sellers must approach these trends with a clear strategy, supported by the right expertise. At YLT Translations, we empower businesses to navigate these shifts with ease, offering tailored localization solutions and insights to help you expand your reach and optimize your operations. Together, let’s make 2025 your year of growth by staying ahead of the curve.

It’s time to unlock the full potential of your global eCommerce business.

Let’s succeed together.

Did you like this article? Without a doubt, you know that the Covid-19 pandemic influenced many eCommerce businesses and trends. Take a look at an old article that focused on how to keep your Amazon business afloat – many of these suggestions still hold water today.

The post Top eCommerce Trends to Watch Out for This 2025 appeared first on .

Suffice it to say that being an eCommerce entrepreneur in 2024 isn’t as easy as it used to be. Diversifying your sales channels is critical to staying ahead, and let’s face it, Fulfillment by Amazon doesn’t come cheap. Turning a profit is getting tougher and tougher, so varying your revenue stream is a really good idea.

The Walmart marketplace is a fast-growing marketplace, and welcomes millions of customers on a regular basis. In fact, Forbes reported that Walmart earned $559.15 bn in 2022 vs. Amazon, which brought in $514 bn in the same year. In 2023, Walmart’s stock price was at $150, while Amazon stock price was at $114. So, yes, to keep it short, learn more about Walmart and evaluate if selling on the Walmart marketplace fits your goals and business objectives.

Let’s get started!

Walmart.com is only available in the USA for now, so if you’re more interested in expanding across Europe, take a peek at the Top 10 European Marketplaces.

Walmart Marketplace Overview

Walmart.com allows third party sellers to list their own products alongside Walmart’s own inventory. In this sense, it’s a lot like Amazon. Walmart.com is an eCommerce platform that reaches a vast audience, while benefiting from Walmart’s trusted brand reputation.

Although the eCommerce portal is only available in the USA for now, Walmart itself is massive, and operates under different names worldwide. It’s called Walmart in the US and Canada, Walmart de México y Centroamérica in Mexico and Central America, and Flipkart Wholesale in India. It has wholly owned operations in Chile and a majority stake in Massmart in South Africa. In Brazil, Walmart reduced its ownership in Grupo Big to 20% in 2018 before fully divesting to Carrefour in 2022 for R$7 billion.

According to Demand Sage, there are 10,616 physical Walmart stores worldwide, with 4,615 stores in the USA alone. Texas has the highest number of Walmart stores in the USA. It serves approximately 37 million customers every day. To provide contrast, MobiLoud reports that in 2022, Amazon received 230 unique visitors per month worldwide.

Walmart sells more than 75 million products, vs. the 353+ million products on Amazon. Walmart sales are driven mostly by grocery items, although SellerApp reported early this year that baby care, personal care, cleaning supplies, laundry supplies, women’s clothing, pet supplies, kitchenware, fitness accessories, healthcare, and bedding and linens also do very well.

Simplilearn reported that Walmart’s target audience are usually low to middle-class rural families, who actively look for price and discounts. eCommercedb agrees, and continues that 26% shop for a 2-person household, while 23% shop for a 4-person household, and 22% shop for a 3-person household. Only 17% shop for a 1-person household.

So, if you’re aiming for a more affluent customer base, then perhaps becoming a Walmart seller isn’t for you. On the other hand, if you’re ready to provide essential items at bargain prices, then explore listing your products on walmart.com.

Why Should You Consider Selling on the Walmart Marketplace?

So, given that we have a better idea now of who’s shopping on Walmart.com, let’s explore the advantages of selling on Walmart.

Less Competition on the Online Marketplace

Amazon has over 6 million sellers globally, with almost 2 million active sellers, and offers a ton of products. Walmart on the other hand only has 150,000 sellers, with only 70+ million products. So, the chances of you standing out are much higher on Walmart.com.

Lower Selling Costs for the Walmart Marketplace Seller

With or without FBA, Amazon sellers pay a monthly fee of $39.99 for a professional account, or $0.99 for each item sold. Walmart meanwhile doesn’t charge a monthly subscription fee, and there are no listing fees or hidden charges. You just pay a referral fee of 6% to 15%, depending on the category.

Walmart Fulfillment Services (WFS)

Similar to FBA, Walmart can handle the logistics and shipping for you, but WFS isn’t as sophisticated as FBA (yet). Here are the pros and cons of using Walmart Fulfillment Services:

Pros:

• Walmart+ Two-Day Free Shipping: Products are eligible for fast delivery within the contiguous U.S., increasing customer satisfaction and sales.
• Streamlined Inventory Management: Sellers ship inventory to Walmart’s fulfillment centers, where products are ready to ship within two days of receipt.
• Order Fulfillment by Walmart: WFS handles picking, packing, and shipping, allowing sellers to focus on other aspects of their business.
• Enhanced Product Visibility: WFS-tagged products display TwoDay Delivery and Fulfilled by Walmart labels, boosting sales by an average of 50%.
• Customer Trust: Walmart’s strong brand recognition and wide physical store presence build customer confidence.
• Walmart-Branded Packaging: Adds credibility and aligns with customer expectations.
• Customer Service Support: Walmart handles customer issues and complaints for WFS orders.
• Dedicated Seller Support: WFS provides seller support to help optimize business growth.

Cons:

• Limited to Walmart.com Orders: WFS cannot fulfill orders for other marketplaces or websites, unlike Amazon FBA.
• No International Shipping: WFS only ships to U.S. addresses and territories.
• Customer-Friendly Returns: Customers can return items to fulfillment centers or Walmart stores, which may increase return rates.
• Product Restrictions: Strict requirements for WFS products, including no perishable or regulated items, maximum weight of 150 lbs., and specific size limits.

Start Selling on Walmart Itself

When you sell on walmart.com, and you do well, you open the doors for selling in its physical stores. That’s a massive reach, and saves you the cost of having to put up your own brick and mortar stores.

Now it’s time to explore the differences between Walmart and Amazon.

Key Differences Between Amazon FBA and Walmart.com

Before we explore the challenges of selling on Walmart Marketplace, let’s compare and contrast Amazon and Walmart.

So, what does all of this mean? Walmart has built a solid reputation for itself. Amazon charges sellers more, and there’s considerably more competition on the Amazon marketplace, but success on Walmart may come faster. It’s easier to start selling on Walmart marketplace, in spite of the stricter vetting of Walmart, but given there are more sellers on Amazon, you face less competition on Walmart. Plus, it’s really great that you won’t be charged for every product listing you put up, so you can publish as many as you like.

So, perhaps the question shouldn’t be Amazon or Walmart, but rather, Amazon plus another marketplace – including Walmart, and perhaps global expansion, as well.

Remember, diversification brings success and profits closer to your doorstep.

Disadvantages of Selling on Walmart.com

Now that you know the benefits of selling on Walmart’s marketplace, let’s understand the challenges that many sellers face.

1. Strict Onboarding Process

Walmart maintains a rigorous onboarding process to ensure the quality and reliability of its third-party sellers. Not just anybody can become a seller. To gain approval, applicants must provide detailed documentation, such as a U.S. business tax ID or equivalent international registration, a verified W9 or W8 form, and evidence of previous online selling success (in other words, it’s not for beginners; they want to be sure that you’re already a seller elsewhere). Walmart specifically looks for sellers with a strong track record, whether through established e-commerce platforms or other online marketplaces. This isn’t a bad thing; it ensures that only capable, reputable sellers gain access to the marketplace, but it can make the application process more demanding and time-consuming compared to platforms like Amazon, SHEIN or Temu.

2. Product Restrictions

Walmart has specific restrictions on the types of products allowed on its marketplace. Certain categories, such as luxury goods, fragrances, and cell phones, require pre-approval. Sellers may need to provide additional documentation to demonstrate compliance with Walmart’s standards. These restrictions may limit some sellers’ product offerings but serve to maintain a high standard for the marketplace. You’ll need to jump through a couple of hoops to get approved to sell on Walmart Marketplace.

3. Less Robust Marketplace Compared to Amazon

Although Walmart Marketplace has seen significant growth, it still lags behind Amazon in terms of tools, resources, and infrastructure for sellers. Amazon offers a more comprehensive ecosystem with features like Brand Registry, A+ Content, and extensive advertising tools. Walmart, by comparison, is rapidly improving its platform but currently offers fewer advanced seller tools. This means that sellers transitioning from Amazon may need to adjust their strategies to compensate for Walmart’s limitations while taking advantage of its unique strengths, such as fewer competitors and lower fees. Many people who sell on the marketplace express frustration of the lack of resources – but they’re pretty happy that Walmart only charges a referral fee per product sold, and there’s much less competition as opposed to Amazon and eBay.

Walmart Marketplace Success Tips for Amazon Marketplace Sellers

Any potential seller on Walmart Marketplace should employ a strategic approach in order to maximize potential. Here are some tips to help you do well:

1. Optimize Listings

To stand out on Walmart Marketplace, ensure your product listings are optimized for Walmart’s SEO. Use relevant keywords strategically in your titles, descriptions, and bullet points to improve search visibility. High-quality images are crucial—include multiple angles, detailed views, and lifestyle shots where possible. Clear and concise descriptions highlighting key product features and benefits will not only attract customers but also reduce the risk of returns. (PS – Helium 10 offers Walmart SEO!)

2. Leverage Walmart Fulfillment Services (WFS)

By using Walmart Fulfillment Services, your products gain access to Walmart’s coveted TwoDay Delivery tags, which significantly boost visibility and customer trust. WFS handles the picking, packing, and shipping, allowing you to focus on growing your business while increasing your products’ chances of winning the Buy Box.

3. Stay Competitive on Price

Walmart shoppers, much like those on Amazon, are highly price-sensitive. To remain competitive, research your competitors and offer pricing that aligns with customer expectations while maintaining profitability. Factor in Walmart’s transparent referral fees and, if using WFS, the fulfillment costs when setting your prices.

How you price a product on Amazon can also reflect on how you price a product on Walmart, but be sure to consider your customers each and every time!

4. Advertise Strategically

Use Walmart Connect to create sponsored product ads and increase your product visibility. These ads appear in premium positions on Walmart.com, helping drive traffic and conversions. Focus on promoting high-margin or best-selling products to get the best return on your advertising investment. Granted, you may not have fun things like an A+, or leverage the benefits of Amazon Prime, but Walmart does have Walmart+, which has a cheaper subscription and allows customers savings on fuel.

5. Monitor Performance

Regularly review Walmart’s Listing Quality Dashboard, a powerful tool that provides insights into your product discoverability, customer ratings, and post-purchase quality (think Amazon Seller Central but Walmart). Use the data and recommendations to fine-tune your listings and address any issues affecting sales. Continuous improvement in these areas will help maximize your revenue and maintain a strong presence on Walmart Marketplace.

So, in short, Walmart Marketplace’s best practices are the same best practices you’d employ on any online marketplace or eCommerce site. Just be sure to tailor your approach to Walmart itself. Not all marketplaces at the same, as we’re positive you know.

Should You Start Selling on Walmart Marketplace?

Now that you understand more about Walmart.com, it’s time for you to answer the question we proposed in the beginning: should you sell on Walmart Marketplace?

There are a few key questions you’ll need to ask yourself:

1. Do You Have the Resources to Manage Multiple Sales Channels?
   Expanding to Walmart Marketplace requires time, effort, and potentially new tools to streamline operations across platforms. Can your team, systems, and budget can handle the added complexity?
2. Is Your Product Lineup Compatible with Walmart’s Audience?
   Walmart shoppers prioritize products that are affordable and provide value, so check what you’re selling to see if your products align with these preferences. Research whether your target audience is active on Walmart and if your offerings fit their buying habits.
3. Are You Prepared for Walmart’s Stricter Approval Process?
   Note that Walmart has a rigorous application process that requires documentation, proof of selling success, and adherence to specific product and operational standards. Make sure your business meets these criteria before applying.

Frankly, being an Amazon seller will give you a leg up on Walmart Marketplace. Walmart doesn’t accept applications from newbie sellers without any previous eCommerce experience, so if you’ve got a strong track record on Amazon (or any other marketplace, but Amazon is of course #1), you’re likely to get accepted.

We’re blue in the face repeating this line, but it’s so important it simply must be reiterated: diversifying your revenue streams is a great way to reduce dependence on Amazon. Walmart offers a less saturated marketplace, with significant potential.

Let’s say you begin selling in 2025 – it’ll be fun to see your success grow as the platform grows as well. Walmart may not be as sophisticated as Amazon just yet, but we’re pretty sure it’ll catch up in due time.

After all, the numbers don’t lie.

Now You Understand the Benefits of Selling on Walmart.com…

Should you start selling on Walmart, or stick to Amazon?

Navigating Walmart Marketplace represents not just an opportunity, but a strategic move toward diversification in a rapidly evolving eCommerce landscape. Sure, Walmart may not yet be as robust as Amazon, but it’ll be really fun to watch it grow. The lower competition, transparent fees, and strong brand trust make it a compelling platform for growth. For experienced sellers, Walmart Marketplace can serve as a complementary revenue stream, helping you reduce reliance on Amazon, and tap into a new demographic. It’s definitely an online marketplace worth studying.

Keep in mind, at YLT Translations, we specialize in supporting Amazon sellers as they expand globally, but our expertise doesn’t stop there. We provide valuable insights on marketplaces across the world, such as Walmart, SHEIN, Temu, and other online marketplaces across Asia, Europe, and even South Africa.

Make sure you stay tuned to this blog to help you stay above the curve in eCommerce – because success isn’t just about selling more; it’s about selling smarter. Follow Jana on LinkedIn for some amazing case studies about Amazon localization!

See you there!

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are almost upon us! Are you ready?

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In this blog, we will provide you with the facts about the European eCommerce market so you can make the best decision for you. You’ll have to ask yourself if the growth rate justifies the cost, and if Amazon is the best e-Commerce platform given your goals, or other online stores are better for you. Without a doubt, European consumers are fans of online retail, so it’s important to do your due diligence before jumping in.

Let’s get started.

Interested in Amazon Europe? Check out our guide.

Section 1: The Power of the European E-Commerce Market

Europe’s e-commerce landscape is indubitably one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing, with a projected value of US$631bn in 2024 and an expected rise to US$951bn in 2029. The number of online shoppers has also seen significant growth; before the pandemic, there approximately 235 million eCommerce consumers in Europe, a number that is projected to reach 446 consumers by 2029 (Statista).

The continent’s leading e-Commerce markets – Germany, the UK, France, and Italy – are hubs of growth and innovation, fueling online retail activity. These established markets provide a challenging, competitive, and incredibly engaging playing ground for sellers looking to expand their reach, with each country bringing unique opportunities and demands.

The International Trade Administration reported that total sales in German eCommerce during 2022 hit US$141.2bn – 11% growth vs. 2021. The ITA also reports that the UK had its highest annual growth in 2022 after 2007 with an increase in sales of 36%. ECommerce Europe reported that the eCommerce sector in France was worth €159.9 billion in 2023, rising 10.5% on the previous year. Mordor Intelligence forecasts that the Italy eCommerce market will reach US$101.88bn this 2024, and hit US$163.66bn in 2029. However way you cut the cloth, e-Commerce in Europe is on the rise.

Cross-border e-Commerce is also flourishing in Europe, allowing sellers to tap into multiple markets through one integrated strategy. This growth in cross-border shopping highlights the importance of accessible, localized e-commerce solutions for sellers that plan to reach new customers all across the European Union.

Furthermore, omnichannel sales are another driving force in European e-Commerce, with many e-commerce companies extending their presence online to meet consumer demand. Oftentimes, online sellers combine brick-and-mortar shopping with online retail, to offer buyers greater flexibility and convenience. An omnichannel approach is key to capturing a broader customer base and enhancing their competitiveness in the dynamic European e-Commerce market.

Section 2: Why Amazon Sellers Should Consider e-Commerce in Europe

Margin Business reports that Amazon EU made up 24% of Amazon’s global sales in 2021, with more than 1.4 European eCommerce sellers. In Germany, the UK, France, and Italy, Amazon consistently ranks as a top online shopping platform. However, each of the countries that participate in European eCommerce presents unique challenges and opportunities for Amazon sellers, from navigating varied regulations and cultural preferences to establishing localized marketing and customer service strategies.

Keep in mind that the European eCommerce market isn’t limited just to Amazon. Consider Allegro in Poland, Bol.com in the Netherlands and Belgium, and Zalando across Europe – European marketplaces that are becoming increasingly popular, offering new ways to diversify and capture a share of local markets. Leveraging these platforms allows sellers to adapt to specific consumer preferences on a regional level, and boost their visibility past Amazon.

Check out Amazon Europe’s competitors, and see if the other European marketplaces might be better for you.

ECommerce DB reports that 21.6% of the European eCommerce market revenue comes from fashion, with UK and Germany leading the pack. Next are electronics, with 20% of the market share, especially in consumer electronics and electrical appliances. Also at 20% of the market revenue is the hobby & leisure category, which covers hobbies, leisure activities, and toys. This category is most popular in France, where it represents the largest e-Commerce segment.

That’s not to say your product won’t do well in eCommerce Europe if it doesn’t fall into these categories. Before venturing into the European eCommerce market, run YLT’s Amazon Product Opportunity Report first, and see if expansion makes sense for you – or if another marketplace in Europe is perhaps better for your product. As always, we must stress the importance of thorough market research before scaling.

Section 3: An Overview of the European e-Commerce Landscape

The future of European eCommerce is bright indeed, but it comes with its own challenges, including:

• • Researching and selecting the right countries to target.
  • Understanding VAT and tax regulations for the EU and non-EU countries.
  • Navigating EU compliance requirements (packaging, consumer rights, language localization).
  • Localizing product listings and reviews to cater to diverse languages and consumer preferences.
  • Offering localized payment options (e.g., digital wallets, A2A payments).

Aside from finding the right country to target, you need to ask yourself, should you stick to Amazon? Ignore Amazon altogether and sell on a local eCommerce market? Or do both?

Here’s an overview of the European eCommerce market based on the success of each online marketplace last 2021:

You read that right. Even Shein and Temu have presence in the wide wonderful world of e-Commerce in Europe. Even these China-based players have penetrated the eCommerce market to some success. This might add another dimension of complexity to your market research, as you must ask yourself – should you just sell on Amazon, Shein, and Temu, and call it a day? Or do other online stores make better sense for you?

Section 4: Localization and Translation: The Key to Success in European eCommerce

Whether you understand and speak the language or not, it’s crucial to employ expert localization when selling in European countries. That’s why, in the table above, you saw that many local players like Otto, Trendyol, and Bol.com are doing so well; these local marketplaces understand their customers on a visceral level, which makes it easier for them to adapt to market trends and build relationships with the European market.

When selling in Europe, translating product listings, descriptions, packaging, and even customer reviews is crucial for success. Providing accurate, localized translations builds trust, improves the customer experience, and leads to higher conversion rates. However, it’s also important to adapt to regional variations within the same language – for example, if you’re selling in France and Belgium at the same time.

YLT Translations specializes in creating culturally relevant, market-specific content that goes beyond basic translation. Our team of native speakers helps sellers connect with European customers through nuanced, localized content that resonates with regional preferences and buying behaviors. That careful approach to localized selling can boost e-Commerce sales and brand credibility, having a positive impact on the growth projections of e-Commerce businesses.

You’ll read more about our clients that have successfully scaled to Europe on our Testimonials page, but take the example of David, who started out as a successful seller on Amazon US. He’d gone to several contractors, online translators, and translating agencies, but nobody really understood the nuances of selling on an online platform as complex as Amazon. He sent a couple of listings to YLT Translations – in languages that he spoke himself – and was highly impressed with the fluency of the result. Or take the example of Alex, a UK seller that expanded to France – he got his first sale an hour after activating the listing!

Without a doubt, your online presence is magnified if you speak the language of your customers. The key to doing well in global e-Commerce – not just in Europe – is through careful localization, so be sure you don’t skip this crucial step.

Section 5: Tips for Amazon Sellers to Maximize Success in Europe

It’s pretty clear that expanding to European e-Commerce requires a strategic approach in order to capture the unique dynamics of each market.

Here are some things you’ll need to address:

Should you adopt a multi-channel strategy?

Sure, you can stick to Amazon, the juggernaut with the largest market volume. You could sell on Chinese marketplaces like Shein and Temu, which have a massive market size all over Europe. Or, you could go for smaller players, with a more targeted, country-specific consumer base. We recommend that you perform an in-depth feasibility study and discover which online retailer (or more than one) will get you the largest share in revenue.

If you ask us, it’s probably a good idea to sell on Amazon as well as local players. Although Amazon attracts a massive market in Europe and is the biggest online player, smaller marketplaces specialize in different categories, drawing a customer base that’s primed to buy. By selling on both, brands can connect with varied consumer segments, catering to shoppers with specific interests on smaller, regional players, while still reaching the mass market on Amazon.

Furthermore, European customers tend to trust local platforms they’re familiar with, like bol.com in Holland and Allegro in Poland. Listing on these marketplaces can build credibility with buyers who may not like shopping on international sellers, like Amazon.

Last but not least, you achieve multi-channel sales resilience. If there are issues with Amazon’s algorithm, fulfillment, or customer policies, sales may be affected. Selling on local players provides additional stability, balancing any disruptions and diversifying income streams.

How will you handle localized SEO?

Boosting visibility and rank is possible through optimizing product listings and content with local keywords and trends. The diverse European landscape is so rich in culture, that catering to a demographic that wide is tricky. It’s so important to invest in proper localization, so your brand can stand out with each target market.

How can you use data to make important decisions?

Use analytics to identify high-demand products in each of the e-Commerce sites. Then refine your inventory, optimize pricing strategies, and make sure your listings are properly localized, so they correspond with local consumer expectations. Remember, what appeals to the German customer may not appeal to the Polish customer, so if you plan to become a major e-Commerce player in the EU market, don’t go in blind. Do your homework, and let the numbers do the talking.

Conclusion: the Future of European e-Commerce is Yours to Witness

Expanding to Europe’s diverse and thriving e-Commerce market opens doors to an extensive, affluent customer base, and high growth potential. Embracing Europe’s varied marketplaces, from global players like Amazon, Shein, and Temu, to local platforms like bol.com, Zalando, and Allegro, allows sellers to connect with a wide range of consumer segments, enhance brand credibility, and increase sales resilience across multiple channels.

Keep in mind, the final decision is yours to make. We presented the statistics, opportunities, and challenges here; now, the heavy lifting is in your hands. You’ll have a few things to think about, like adapting pricing methods, finding the right market, choosing between local and global players, and more. We can assure you, though, that it’s worth it.

Remember, YLT Translations is here to help you enter and succeed in the European market through careful localization. Through the adaptation of content, you’ll find that you’ll increase sales, brand awareness, and recall with your new customers.

We’re happy to help; let us know how we can be of assistance!

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The quick answer is, yes, it definitely deserves a closer look. South Africa’s e-Commerce landscape has grown at an incredible rate. It’s a young market that’s expected to grow exponentially in the next few years, and a huge opportunity for an online seller. Essentially, digital shopping is quickly becoming the norm in South Africa.

However, to truly succeed in South Africa e-Commerce, sellers must adopt a localized approach. Understanding buyer behavior, preferences for promotions, and the importance of mobile optimization are all crucial. It’s important to tailor offerings to the cultural and logistical needs of the market.

Let’s explore the opportunities behind this growing eCommerce market, and see how to go about expanding to South Africa e-Commerce.

If this worldwide snapshot interests you, read up on the Asian Online Marketplace Review, too!

1. The Growth of South Africa e-Commerce

Statista reports that there is a 34% penetration rate of the e-commerce market in Africa, with a US93+ average spend per customer. According to the International Trade Association, online sales increased 66% from 2019 to 2020. Seventy percent of online shoppers use smartphones to make their purchases.

Gen Z is leading the adoption of new payment methods, with 98% of them owning smartphones and relying heavily on their devices for online shopping and daily transactions. With over 22 million smartphone users in South Africa, a recent Meltwater report ranked the country as the third highest globally for mobile internet usage, highlighting the growing preference for mobile e-commerce over web-based shopping.

Let’s take a look at the most popular product and services among e-commerce users in South Africa, according to Aftership. Here are the estimate sales amount across various categories:

1. Home & Garden with 62.81% of sales
2. Apparel with 6.73% share of sales
3. Health with 4.58% share of sales
4. Food & Drink with 2.73% of sales
5. Gifts & Special Events with 0.76% of sales

Other categories include business & industrial, toys & hobbies, travel, beauty & fitness, and computers. Total estimated sales were at US$2.30 thousand.

Now, what if you want to put up an e-commerce site in Africa? WooCommerce leads the market with total sales of $1.51 trillion, making up 65.63% of the region’s platform sales. Shopify follows with $543.72 billion in sales, accounting for 23.60% of the total. Custom Cart also holds a notable portion, with sales reaching $188.21 billion, representing 8.17% of the overall market.

Similarweb showcases the top 5 platforms for shopping online:

1. Takealot.com
2. makro.co.za
3. amazon.com (note that the statistics show the American site, not the South African site)
4. Temu.com
5. Woolworths.co.za

In 2022, the South African government implemented the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act (ECTA) to regulate South Africa eCommerce. The Act regulates electronic communications and transactions to ward against cybercrimes and encourage consumer protection. Ecommerce businesses must also adhere to the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

So, what does this mean for the eCommerce seller? South Africa is expected to keep up its love for online retail, spearheaded by the youth – unsurprising, given this looks to be the case for most markets all over the world. The e-commerce market is South Africa is growing, but dominated by local players that are giving Amazon a run for its money.

Curious about how to market to Gen Z? We’ve got you covered.

2. Buyer Behavior & Preferences in the South Africa e-Commerce Market

Go-Globe reports that South Africa is the 42nd largest global market for e-Commerce, and the predicted revenue is expected to reach US$6.56 billion in 2024, according to Statista. The number of users is expected to reach 21.5 million users by 2029.

South African businesses are increasingly utilizing technology to enhance customer engagement. By adopting omnichannel strategies and AI-driven personalized marketing, they are meeting consumer demands for a more flexible and seamless online shopping experience.

A significant advancement boosting the e-commerce landscape is the deployment of infrastructure like the Equiano subsea internet cable. This improvement in internet access is expected to transform online shopping, expand digital payment capabilities, and attract a larger consumer base to the digital marketplace.

Nielsen released the following insights on the consumer behavior of South Africans last 2022:

• Cautious spending habits: Consumers are increasingly budgeting, opting for lower-priced products, and preferring larger packs to manage expenses, weakening brand loyalty.
• Mental wellness and financial security: Mental health (84%), future planning (82%), and job/financial security (81%) are top concerns for South African consumers.
• Shifting brand preferences: Consumers now seek products that align with their changing priorities, creating opportunities for agile and solution-oriented companies to cater to evolving needs post-pandemic.

Here’s additional data from WeeTracker:

• Cross-border e-commerce: South African online shoppers are increasingly purchasing from international websites, with 34% buying from the US, 28% from China, and 16% from the UK. Popular platforms include Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba, with Amazon being the third most visited site in South Africa.
• Payment preferences: Credit and debit cards are the dominant payment methods, preferred by 66% of consumers. E-wallets are also used, and the 2014 introduction of 3D Secure helped address credit card fraud concerns.
• Shopper demographics: 25% of online shoppers are 60 and above, while 57% fall between 25-44 years, mainly well-educated and high-income earners. Most (66%) shop online once every three months, with only 6% shopping weekly. Over 70% of users rely on price comparison sites, indicating price sensitivity. Females account for 55% of all eCommerce visitors.
• Geography: Johannesburg and Cape Town have the most active online transactions
• Mobile commerce: Two-thirds of South African internet visits are mobile-based, with many consumers skipping the desktop stage. Mobile-friendly websites and integrated payment systems are boosting online shopping via smartphones.
• Niche categories: E-commerce is moving towards niche product portals, moving away from multi-product stores to more specialized offerings.

In summary, South Africa’s eCommerce is still in its infancy, with wary shoppers, but the forecast is positive. Thanks to internet penetration, e-commerce could improve even more in 2025. The question is, do South Africans purchase mostly from South African websites? Or do they purchase from the United States and China? What should a seller do?

3. South Africa E-commerce Platforms: Local vs. International

The biggest player in South Africa e-Commerce is takealot.com, with a revenue of US$556.6 million in 2022.

Now, what about Amazon? Its South African platform is the second African market for the eCommerce giant after Egypt, and the 21st country to host an Amazon domain. This sets the stage for competition with established local players. South Africa is recognized as Africa’s most developed economy, and often seen as a strategic entry point for companies hoping to expand goods and services to the continent. According to this report from Reuters, analysts believe that this is why Amazon chose South Africa as its newest market.

However, Sasfin Wealth senior equity analyst Alec Abraham said, “I don’t think Amazon’s takeover of the South African retail market is guaranteed.” He’s not the only one that believes that South Africa’s consumer market may have reached its peak post Covid-19, with many Africans returning to brick and mortar stores.

In fact, Takealot’s CEO, Mamongae Mahlare, believes that Takealot’s extensive delivery network and strong local presence will ensure its position as the top e-commerce digital marketplace in South Africa. It’s unclear how Amazon will configure its platform to meet local regulations, which require a separation between retail operations and marketplace activities.

Mastercard disagrees with this assessment. The company’s findings believe that South Africa’s e-commerce sector is on the cusp of substantial growth, driven by innovation, enhanced infrastructure, and a strong emphasis on customer experience. In 2022, the sector experienced a notable 30% rise in online sales, surpassing R50 billion, while overall retail growth lagged at just 1.7%. These figures signal the beginning of a new era in digital commerce, offering vast opportunities for both businesses and consumers.

In other words, although South Africa e-Commerce looks to be doing quite well for such a young market, and m-commerce is particularly attractive, market dynamics and poor fixed-line infrastructure make ecommerce in South Africa an unstable phenomenon. It’s definitely worth watching this space before you consider expanding, especially given that South Africans also shop from online platforms around the world.

The fact is, local marketplaces offer familiarity and logistical advantages, which is something that Amazon sellers need to take into consideration if they choose to tap into this growing market.

4. Localization: A Key to Success for the e-Commerce Industry in South Africa

WiFi Talents reports that 47% of the consumer market in South Africa prefers local online retailers over international ones, and that 36% of them abandon their carts due to hidden costs. While many consumers enjoy the convenience of online shopping, local pride takes precedence over international goods, and price sensitivity affects online spend.

Given a robust market size of 11.3 million online shoppers, and growing access to the internet, South Africans are quite interested in e-Commerce.

Yet, to tap into this growing market, it’s absolutely crucial to localize your online store.

Let’s start with preferred payment methods. 61% of South African consumers use their credit or debit cards to pay for their purchases, and 38% of consumers also use e-wallet services. The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is encouraging merchants to adopt 3D Secure payment systems to enhance transaction security, as overseen by the Payment Association of South Africa. This division of SARB ensures that all payment platforms and gateways comply with regulations. It also acts as a guardian, preventing transactions involving illegal goods such as ammunition and cigarettes.

Furthermore, don’t forget that many of the 11 million e-Commerce users in South Africa shop on their mobile devices, so it’s crucial that you optimize your store for mobile use.

Now, it’s absolutely necessary to localize your product listing for South African customers. Helium 10 doesn’t offer keyword research for African markets yet, but the good news is that amazon.co.za operates in English.

South Africa is a melting pot of many different cultures and ethnicities, because of an intricate history with considerable colonial rule: 80% of South Africans are black, 8.8% are mixed (mixed black and white), 7.8% are white, and 2.6% are Asian or of other ethnicities.

Britannica reports the below snapshot:

• Apartheid Racial Classification (1950-1991): The Population Registration Act categorized South Africans into four racial groups—Black, white, Colored (mixed race), and Asian—determining status under apartheid. These classifications were arbitrary and based on factors like family background and appearance.
• Khoekhoe and San Peoples: The original Khoekhoe and San peoples have mostly intermarried, forming part of the Colored population along with slaves from Madagascar and Southeast Asia, Bantu-speaking Africans, and Europeans.
• Colored Population: Descendants of Khoisan, slaves, Europeans, and Africans. Some subethnic groups like the Malays and Griquas still identify as Colored, while others reject the label. They are concentrated in Western, Northern, and Eastern Cape provinces.
• Indian and Asian Population: Descended from indentured workers and traders brought by the British in the 19th century, primarily living in KwaZulu-Natal and urban areas in other provinces.
• White South Africans: Mainly descendants of European settlers (British, Dutch, German) from the 17th century, divided into Afrikaans and English-speaking groups.
• Languages in South Africa:
  • Black South Africans are divided into four linguistic groups: Nguni (including Zulu, Xhosa, Swati, Ndebele), Sotho-Tswana, Tsonga, and Venda.
  • White South Africans primarily speak Afrikaans or English.
  • The Colored population speaks Afrikaans or English.
  • Twelve official languages include Afrikaans, English, Zulu, Xhosa, and others. English is increasingly dominant in formal sectors, reflecting a shift from Afrikaans.

So, how does this information impact the localization of your online store?

It’s absolutely crucial to localize your online business, and it’s easy to do so by incorporating imagery, local idiomatic expressions, and even models to reflect this population. A quick look at Amazon South Africa will show that models are mostly black, and banners showcase African-inspired imagery, with the vibrant colors typical of the region. You can speak to the customers in English, given that so many of them speak it, but to really appeal to the South Africa e-Commerce customer, show true respect, understanding, and awareness of their history, culture, and what inspires them.

Consider offering online promotions and coupons, and localized online payment methods, to encourage buying online from your store. By offering a localized store, and honoring the South African consumer’s preferred means of payment and unique cultural nuances, you can expect to appeal to this market, and establish yourself as a key player and a pioneer at this nascent stage.

While we’re on the topic, we can’t possibly underscore enough the importance of cultural sensitivity in eCommerce. It goes beyond the language barrier!

5. Expansion Considerations in South Africa e-Commerce: Amazon or Local Platforms?

So, given all of this information, and with the understanding that eCommerce is getting particularly attractive in South Africa, let’s compare and contrast selling on Amazon vs. local platforms.

So, there are pros and cons to both.

Keep in mind – in practice, anyone can sell on local marketplaces like Takealot, but you’ll need a South African ID and a bank account.

Now, amazon.co.za offers many a product category in South Africa, including consumer electronics, sporting equipment, toys, home, and small kitchen appliances, in addition to international brands like Sony, Apple, HP, Chicco, Maybelline, Neutrogena, and Johnson’s. The platform also offers local brands from South African sellers like Amanda-Jayne, King Kong Leather, Tiger Lily, and Masodi – so if you choose to expand to amazon.co.za, you might very well be competing with these home-grown names – in addition to a few big brands with massive expansion budgets.

Although statistics show that amazon.com is the third largest online shopping portal, amazon.co.za is projected to grow. With Amazon’s entry to South Africa e-Commerce, local platforms are facing pressure. Accenture suggests that Amazon’s entry will force local players to sharpen their value propositions and improve customer experiences to stay competitive.

In fact, Amazon’s arrival might trigger a pricing war, which benefits South Africa’s price-conscious consumers.

Nevertheless, many a consumer survey shows that South Africans are happy to buy from the U.S arm of Amazon, and that the South African version of amazon.com still has a ways to go before it catches up to Takealot and other local players.

Conclusion: Approach e-Commerce in South Africa Strategically

So, there you have it. The rapid increase in the number of online shoppers in South Africa has driven significant growth in the country’s e-Commerce sector, with exponential growth predicted year-on-year. In particular, the youth are online in South Africa, with older Gen Z and millennial females leading the charge, in categories such as personal care, gadgets, fashion, home, and toys.

In spite of projections of a positive annual growth rate, the question remains, will South African consumers actually patronize the South African arm of Amazon? Or will they continue to shop on UK and US sites?

However the future looks, one thing is clear – Africa’s definitely worth a good study for your global expansion efforts. Approach South Africa e-Commerce strategically and perhaps even a bit cautiously, given the diverse cultural  and ethnic landscape, price consciousness, preferred payment methods, and preference for local products.

Let us know – are you interested in expanding to South Africa? We’d love to hear from you!

While we’re on the topic of the continent, read about the Significance of e-Commerce Support in Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

The post South Africa e-Commerce for the Online Retailer: Should You Expand? appeared first on .

Asia is becoming one of the most dynamic regions in the global online marketplaces, a growth that was fueled by COVID19 and stay-at-home restrictions. Although Amazon has established presence in Singapore, Japan, and India, it faces stiff competition from local e-commerce platforms. The Southeast Asian e-commerce market is not only robust and keyed into the wants and needs of its customers, it also offers a highly localized approach, resonating closely with customers in Thailand, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, and more – and appealing to customers even outside of Southeast Asia, as far away as Korea and Japan.

If you’re planning to penetrate Southeast Asian eCommerce, you might find that selling only on Amazon’s local arm will be insufficient to capture the hearts of Southeast Asian customers. It’s worth looking at other platforms in Southeast Asia, and Chinese eCommerce as well, to see how you can establish a firm foothold in the region.

Let’s explore why and how an international seller such as yourself should consider other marketplaces in Asia to better understand and meet regional market demands.

While we’re on the topic of Asian eCommerce, have you read our blog on Temu vs. SHEIN  yet?

1. The Current Asian Online Marketplace Landscape

Let’s take a quick look at the top ecommerce platforms in Asia.

Meanwhile, the TMO Group discovered that Shopee and Lazada have the highest traffic count, particularly in Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Indonesian eCommerce, spearheaded by TikTok-owned Tokopedia, is starting to grow exponentially, with over 100 million monthly visits. It looks like the Asian online marketplace industry is starting to improve in performance pretty quickly.

This report by the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia predicts that Asia will soon account for nearly 40% of global cross-border e-commerce revenues by 2025. The rapid growth in online shopping is driven by the increasing number of internet users and high online shopping penetration rates, particularly in countries like China, Singapore, and Malaysia. The growth is further fueled by Asia’s large population, which represents 30% of the world’s GDP and 40% of global trade. The continent’s digital economy is projected to expand significantly over the next few years.

In other words, we’re looking at a sleeping giant in the eCommerce world. Currently, China dominates the charge with platforms like Alibaba and JD.com, while India’s Flipkart and Indonesia’s Tokopedia show incredible growth. Internet penetration, a rising middle class, and strong digital infrastructure push this growth.

One of the defining features of online marketplaces in Asia is the mobile-first approach. Consumer-to-consumer e-commerce companies like Lazada (owned by Alibaba) and Shopee (owned by Sea Group Ltd.) thrive in Southeast Asia because of the region’s high mobile adoption rates. Shoppers purchase heavily on mobile devices, many surpassing desktop shopping altogether. This habit has formed how businesses operate, creating seamless app experiences to implementing mobile payment systems and fun mobile games to boost engagement and garner discounts and points.

It looks like the Asia market is on a swift projectile for growth. Statista published these figures:

• The eCommerce market is projected to generate $1,972 billion in revenue in 2024.
• Annual growth (CAGR 2024-2029) is expected to be 9.8%, reaching $3,147 billion by 2029.
• China will lead with a projected market volume of $1,469 billion in 2024.
• The number of eCommerce users is expected to reach 2.182 billion by 2029.
• User penetration will be 38.6% in 2024, rising to 50.0% by 2029.
• The average revenue per user (ARPU) is projected to be $1,321.

What does all of this mean? In short, the e-commerce market in Southeast Asia and the Pacific is growing really quickly. The Asian online marketplace is becoming one of the most promising marketplaces in the world, and definitely worth a look for online retailers hoping to expand their footprint on a global scale.

Does all of this intrigue you? Read about How and Why to Sell on TikTok Shop in 2024; it’s a good way to ease into Asian e-Commerce.

2. Asian Online Marketplaces Giving Amazon a Run for its Money

Let’s take a look at Amazon. The online platform is present in India, Japan, and Singapore. Take a look at these earnings from 2023:

If we look at Amazon’s progress vs. other players in each country, it’s not doing badly at all.

Check out its performance vs. other Asian online marketplaces. In Japan, Amazon is the top eCommerce site, followed by Rakuten. In India, Brightbrain reports that Amazon saw an 89% audience reach, with 322.54 million monthly visitors since its inception in 2010; Flipkart trails behind with only 100 million monthly visitors. It’s not doing as well in Singapore, where according to Statista Shopee and Lazada lead the charge, with 13.2 million and 6 million visitors respectively, with 5 million for Amazon. Hopefully these numbers will improve, given that Singapore is a key hub for Amazon’s Southeast Asian operations, where the company has introduced its Prime Now service for fast delivery of groceries and essentials.

So, what gives? Why isn’t Amazon doing better in Asia? While it’s not doing badly at all, its performance is perhaps not as astronomical as in other countries across the globe.

The answer to that is long and complex; it starts off with the diverse populations in the Asia Pacific region, with socioeconomic statuses varying from extremely rich to extremely poor. Secondly, Amazon faces significant regulatory, logistical, and cultural challenges in Asia; local regulations usually make expansion difficult. Furthermore, complex and diverse infrastructure make logistics complicated; it’s not easy to implement a sophisticated delivery and fulfillment network, unlike in the USA and Europe. Additionally, cultural preferences for local platforms and payment methods create hurdles for Amazon, as many consumers prefer familiar, homegrown platforms over global players.

In spite of promising numbers, Amazon still faces stiff competition from local Asian online marketplaces like Alibaba, JD.com, and Shopee. Then there are other, smaller players, with significant backing – TMall is a Chinese B2C marketplace that spun off from Taobao, and is operated in China by Alibaba. Carousell is a Singapore-based marketplace that offers both C2C and B2C selling. Coupang meanwhile is a marketplace in South Korea, and allows selling through a WooCommerce account – Amazon has not yet penetrated the lucrative Korean market. With a local eCommerce platform this healthy and robust, Amazon faces stiff competition, indeed.

3. Why Sellers Should Focus on Local Asian Online Marketplaces

So, here’s the bottom line. If you want to expand to eCommerce in Asia, it’s a good idea to explore top Asian online  marketplaces as well. Although Amazon’s performance looks like it’ll improve as the years go by, the Asian market is used to local players, that have a close understanding of, and relationship with, their Asian customers.

Local players offer features specifically tailored to local needs – such as cash on delivery options where credit card penetration is low. An e-Commerce marketplace may offer mobile wallet payment to further entice users to check out their wide range of products – all of which cater to the Asian flavor in terms of product selection and price.

Furthermore, the top online marketplaces excel in logistics, marketing, and trust. They regularly engage local celebrities to push their platforms, endearing them to their customers. This deep-rooted local marketing strategy helps these top marketplaces build strong relationships with both buyers and sellers alike. This has enabled them to dominate the e-commerce landscape in Asia, making them the go-to platforms for both consumers and businesses.

Many multinational brands have storefronts in these local players, so the product selection isn’t limited to smaller, non-branded products. This is improving online shopping in the region, as the quality of products online improves year on year, increasing trust and improving the market for e-commerce.

Let’s put it very simply. Your t-shirt line may sell like hotcakes in the US and Europe, but may not do as well in Asia, for a bunch of different reasons. Perhaps the logistics system isn’t robust enough to deliver products as quickly to customers, and the sizes are too big for the delicate Asian frame. What works in popular eCommerce sites in the West may not work in the East, which is why localization is absolutely crucial if you want to penetrate the Asian eCommerce market.

If you choose to sell exclusively on Amazon India, Japan, or Singapore, you won’t necessarily hurt your business, since these platforms are on the up-and-up, but it’s still a good idea to check out the local players, since they know a thing or two about selling in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. They understand their online shoppers, which is essential for successful expansion.

4. Steps to Start Selling on Asian Marketplaces

As with any type of expansion, due diligence is crucial before you begin. This time, however, you can’t just focus on research on Amazon; it’s a good idea to take a look at other players across Southeast Asia and the Pacific to find the best marketplace for you. Asia is a region filled with a melting pot of cultures, languages, and spending power, and understanding the market in the region you hope to sell in is important. Southeast Asia as a whole had approximately 673.02 million people in 2022; this covered Cambodia, Brunei, Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

In fact, a recent report by Cushman & Wakefield observed that Southeast Asia is on course for notable economic growth in 2024, with an average projected GDP growth rate of 4.6%. Nevertheless, potential challenges exist; the region faces issues like geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and rising energy prices, which may impact overall growth. With a youthful population, a strategic role in global supply chains, and increasing investments in R&D, manufacturing, and innovation, Southeast Asia is an incredibly promising region, albeit not without challenges.

Don’t make the mistake of picking the largest e-commerce marketplace and call it a day; really explore product demand, competition from other sellers on the platform, and market entry requirements. Explore onboarding processes and fees for local platforms to supplement your Amazon store. And make sure you work with translation and localization experts – like YLT Translations – to adapt product listings, customer service, and marketing to local cultures.

Conclusion

Now that you understand the eCommerce landscape in Southeast Asia, you’ll agree that the region is one of the largest e-commerce markets worldwide. Amazon, while improving in performance, is still not the largest online marketplace in Asia, and faces stiff competition from local Asian competitors. Chinese e-commerce is a juggernaut, and many other players like Shopee and Lazada are strong competitors, as well.

It’s a good idea for any online seller to explore selling to Southeast Asian countries, but it must be done with thorough and careful due diligence. Asian tastes are particular, and rather different from Western tastes; it’s important to see if Amazon is the right marketplace for you, or if you should supplement your selling efforts through presence on local marketplaces as well. It’s also crucial to analyze the expectations, wants, and needs of Asian customers, who have very different attitudes towards products, due to various factors like spending power, work and lifestyle, cultural nuances, weather, and even the body shape and constitution of Asians.

Understand that Asia is a rising economic force that’s definitely worth your attention; its contribution to global e-commerce rises year on year. So it’s definitely a good idea to explore selling in South East Asia. But there’s quite a lot to learn, so make sure you study up on the market before jumping in.

Never forget, YLT Translations can help you localize your product listings for Amazon – and, yes, this includes translating your listings to Japanese. Contact us if you’re curious about the Japanese market; we can definitely help!

While we’re on the topic, here are the 5 most common mistakes Amazon sellers are making when selling on Amazon Japan. It’s worth reading, for sure!

The post Asian Online Marketplace Review: Asian eCommerce in 2024 appeared first on .

For starters, you’re probably not the only one selling your product – at the very least, there are similar products to yours out there. It’s imperative to price to match the competitors, without lowering the perceived value of your product.

Secondly, different cultures have different attitudes towards pricing; some cultures prefer expensive pricing, because luxury consumerism has an impact on self-perception. Others are more frugal in nature, and will wait for a sales period before making a purchase.

Last but not least, rising FBA fees mean you can’t always price your product at a lower price, especially if you plan to hit your desired profit margin.

Understand that the price of your product impacts not just your gross profit margin. It also has an impact on customer perception, market positioning, and your rank on Amazon.

Read on to find out how to calculate the best price for your products so you ensure that your business stays profitable and sustainable – no matter where in the world you may sell! When you learn how to price your products competitively, you ensure the sustainability of your business. Keep on reading, there’s lot of stuff to learn today!

Thinking of expanding globally? Make sure you avoid these costly mistakes.

Section 1: How to Price a Product: Understanding the Basics

Key Pricing Strategies:

There are several different pricing strategies out there. The type of product or service you sell will impact the pricing model you choose. Take a look:

Let’s go into a little more detail about these types of pricing strategies, so you can choose the pricing structure that works best for you.

The cost-plus pricing strategy is the one everyone learns in Economics 101. It’s the most common pricing strategy out of the bunch. You add up your costs, slap on the profit you’d like to make, and make that your final cost. You might adjust your prices for things like Cyber Monday or Amazon Prime Day. This strategy is a good way to price things like vegetable peelers, bookshelves, shirts, and so on. Chances are, you’ve got a fair amount of competition on Amazon, so the game here is to keep your costs low so your prices stay competitive vs. the others who are selling similar items.

Next is value-based pricing. The price of the product depends on the perception that consumers have of your brand. Many luxury brands price their products using this method; think about those fun TikTok videos where makeup influencers compare luxury makeup brands to drugstore-bought brands, showing that the outcome is often pretty similar. Sure, luxury products do have higher costs due to more premium materials or ingredients, and that will definitely affect the markup, but value-based pricing takes into consideration how your customer sees you, and how the customers value your product. Are you a basic necessity or a luxury item? If the latter (and you can spend on marketing to make sure you’re always perceived as the latter), then perhaps value-based pricing is for you.

Third is penetration pricing. Rumors are, this is Temu’s pricing strategy. Prices are incredibly low, to the point that the company lost US$2.76 billion in net losses in 2023. This sort of loss-leader pricing is supposedly because Temu plans to make itself an essential part of every American’s online buying experience, and will eventually increase selling price once it’s achieved its goals. That said, the common mistake in penetration pricing is offering such low prices, that the perceived quality of your product is badly affected, and people assume the value of a product is low based on its price. You’ll find that you’ll lessen your ability to make a profit with such a low product cost, but if market penetration is your short-term goal, then this might be the strategy that works for you.

Last but not least is skimming pricing. The best example of this pricing strategy is Sony. The PlayStation 2 was priced pretty conservatively at first, but when Sony realized there was strong demand and little competition for the PS3, it increased prices to US$599, lowering it to US$299 before discontinuing it. When the PS5 launched in November 2020, it was priced at US$499, which dropped to US$469 in May the year after, and then to US$432 in November 2021. That’s a US$67 price drop over the span of a year. Sony was able to maximize profits in the early stages of each product launch. Why did it work for them? Because their product was so innovative and had such little competition, they had the ability to control the final price – whatever that may have been, month on month.

Moral of the story? Make sure your pricing reflects the products you sell, and the goals you implement. The right price for your product will depend heavily on things like cost of production, market perception, and marketing goals.

Factors to Consider When Pricing Your Product:

To keep it simple, here are a few things to consider when you set your product price:

• Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): Understand the total cost required to produce your product, including materials, labor, and overhead. This ensures that your pricing covers all expenses and maintains profitability. Did you hire a few virtual assistants to help you out? Their salaries should be factored into the cost of your product. Did you source your products from near-shore suppliers to minimize shipping fees? This could mean higher production costs but lower logistics fees. All of these need to be considered.
• Market Demand: Assess the level of demand for your product in the market. High demand may allow for higher pricing, while low demand might require more competitive pricing to attract customers.
• Competitor Pricing: Analyze the pricing strategies of your competitors. Positioning your product competitively can help you gain or maintain market share.
• Customer Willingness to Pay: Gauge how much your target customers are willing to spend on your product. This helps in setting a price that aligns with their perceived value of your product.

Still confused? Maybe use a pricing calculator. When you use a product pricing calculator, you key in all the costs associated with the production of your product, and it’ll spit out a recommended market price. It’s a good jump-off point to determine the price range before you bring your product to market. After you’ve used a pricing calculator to find the price, you can ask yourself which of the pricing strategies we listed above will suit your product best.

Section 2: A Guide on How to Price a Product for Amazon

Amazon’s Pricing Algorithm

Deciding how to price products on Amazon will affect your ranking. Amazon has a pricing algorithm, which plays a critical role in determining the visibility and success of products on the platform. The algorithm considers things like the listing price, shipping costs, and promotions to decide whether a seller’s offer appears in the Buy Box – which, as you know, heavily influences purchasing decisions. Winning the Buy Box will greatly impact sales volume, but the key to winning it depends on maintaining competitive pricing, positive customer reviews, and fast shipping times.

Don’t forget, your visibility also affects your performance on the algorithm. Check out our comprehensive guide to Amazon SEO to make sure you’re found by the correct customer. Once you’ve been discovered by the customer, implement the correct sale price to make sure the customer Adds to Cart.

Dynamic Pricing on Amazon

There’s no doubt about it, selling on Amazon is competitive. It’s crucial to implement continuous price adjustments based on real-time market conditions. Think about lightning deals, Cyber Monday and Black Friday, and Prime Day – these calendar events should impact your pricing decisions.

Granted, you should take a look first at your financial capacity. Should you charge a higher price during non-sales days to provide you with the profit margin to set a larger discount during big discount periods? Will you stay competitive if you do? Will customers still buy from you if you don’t offer discounts during these big sales days?

Amazon offers tools like Automate Pricing to help sellers manage dynamic pricing efficiently. These tools automatically adjust your price based on rules that you set, helping you stay competitive without constant manual intervention.

Ultimately, adjusting your pricing based on Amazon’s selling calendar is your choice to make. See what works for you, and change your pricing strategy accordingly.

Rising FBA Fees and Your Product Pricing Strategy

Without going into too much detail, here are the key FBA fee increases for 2024:

• Product Size Tiers: New, more granular size tiers are being introduced, which may increase fees for certain products.
• Referral Fees: Fees for some apparel price ranges are decreasing, but new inbound placement service fees and an inbound defect fee are being introduced.
• FBA Fulfillment Fees: Fulfillment fees are being adjusted based on the new size tiers, impacting various products.
• Prep Service Fees: Increased fees for sharp and fragile products.
• Removal/Disposal Fees: Fees are increasing based on size/weight tier.
• Returns Processing Fee: Expanded to more categories with additional fees based on high return rates.
• Monthly Storage Fee: Reduced off-peak storage fees for certain product tiers, but overall storage fee granularity and rates are increasing for high inventory utilization.
• Aged Inventory Surcharge: New detailed fee structure across additional age categories.

These fees can very quickly make your product too expensive – or you might end up eating into your profit margin if you don’t factor these fees into the final retail price. It’s absolutely crucial to consider these fees when you create your product price strategy.

Section 3: How to Price Your Product for Different Countries

Selling a product in multiple marketplaces? The price you implement in the US market may not be the same for the Singapore or UAE market, for example. In fact, before you expand, consider how much you can possibly sell your product in these potential markets, and ask yourself if the retail price – and subsequent profit margins – makes sense with your business.

Aside from the pricing strategies we outlined in Section 1, culture is a huge factor in determining price. Different countries have different buyer behavior, and it’s crucial to factor that in when finding a price that works.

Let’s get into the localization of how to price a product for Amazon, especially when you expand globally.

Your Pricing Method Will Change Depending on Culture

How to price a product for a global customer? It all depends on their culture. Think about it. Asian consumers tend to value family needs over individual desires, leading to collective purchasing behavior, while Western cultures often emphasize individualism, which encourages personal fulfillment through purchases. Some cultures will only buy when items go on sale; other cultures will happily buy Top Shelf items because of the prestige it offers them. It’s important to adapt to these cultural nuances as you expand your business.

CheapHotels4UK posted an interesting list of the thriftiest countries around the world. They ranked countries according to savings per household, credit card usage, the amount a household gives to charity, and more.

The top 10 most frugal countries are:

1. Singapore
2. Ireland
3. Saudi Arabia
4. Russia
5. Germany
6. Czech Republic
7. Poland
8. South Korea
9. Sweden
10. Slovakia

These results are quite interesting, because buyer psychology disagrees with these findings. dataSpring reported that South Koreans are the largest spenders of luxury goods across the globe, spending approximately US$325 on luxury items, vs. the USA at US$280 and China at US$55. This article on Live Work Germany showed that many foreigners that visit Germany for the first time are intrigued by the German relationship with money, which is characterized by the cash culture, a general distrust of credit cards, the avoidance of debt, and saving as opposed to investing. Yet, according to the International Trade Administration, Germany has one of the largest e-commerce markets in Europe, with sales that hit US$141.2 billion in 2022 – an 11% YOY growth.

So, how to price a product for a new market? Do your research first, and check out what that culture feels towards pricing.

Here’s another thing you should consider – payment methods. eHub reported that the top countries for cash on delivery eCommerce transactions are, in order:

1. Vietnam
2. Nigeria
3. Philippines
4. Indonesia
5. Thailand
6. Saudi Arabia
7. Colombia
8. Peru
9. Taiwan
10. South Africa

Often, members of these cultures choose cash on delivery to pay for their online purchases because of an inherent mistrust in digital payments. This could be because of low credit card penetration, the lack of a secure system that will accommodate digital payments, limited or unreliable internet access, or risk aversion (they’d rather see the product before they buy it).

Granted, you’re unlikely to be selling on Amazon to many of these cultures (yet), but consider that they might be minority cultures in other countries that you’d like to sell to. Think about it: the United States, Australia, and Canada have a large and growing Vietnamese population. Outside of Taiwan, Taiwanese people live in the United States, China, and Indonesia. And as of 2019, there were over 12 million Filipinos living overseas – in the USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, and Italy.

We’re not saying that your Filipino customers in Rome will insist on paying for your garlic peeler in cash. Chances are, they’ve got credit or debit cards themselves, and can pay Amazon Italy accordingly. But it’s definitely something to think about. Is a sub-section of your target demographic more frugal in nature? Showing them respect by accommodating this mentality is a good way to win their loyalty.

YouGov presented some pretty fascinating data about discount methods by country. It’s pretty standard practice to offer discounts and coupons to boost sales and acquire new customers, but – if we’ve said it once, we’ll say it again – do your research first. It’s possible that your French customer will wait until your item goes on sale before they buy it, whereas your Arab customer is happy to buy at normal prices because they perceive your product to be a luxury item. This sort of buyer behavior needs to play a role in how to price a product for Amazon.

Let’s say you decide not to offer a Black Friday discount for your American customers – so, why offer one for the other countries you sell in, right? Uniformity in pricing strategies is a good thing, right? Not necessarily. If your customers were just waiting for that item to drop in price before they pushed through with their purchase, and it doesn’t, you might find yourself with a few abandoned carts here and there. And you might lose customers because they found a better deal elsewhere.

Pricing is tricky. No doubt about it.

That’s why it’s crucial to employ effective translation and localization through well-optimized listings. This way, your pricing strategy will communicate the value of your product effectively across cultures.

Section 4: How to Price a Product with Flexibility: Testing & Adjusting

So, it’s quite clear that market research plays a crucial role when it comes to setting the right price for your product. Understanding what your target customers are willing to pay is the foundation of effective pricing. By conducting thorough market research, you can gather insights into customer expectations, preferences, and perceived value, allowing you to set a price point that resonates with your audience. Consider this part of the due diligence you should conduct before entering any new marketplace.

Additionally, analyzing competitors’ pricing is essential for finding your market position. By understanding where your product stands in comparison to others, you can determine whether to position it as a premium offering or a more budget-friendly alternative. Competitive analysis will help you determine where your product stands vis-a-vis market expectations, while helping you carve out a unique niche.

Once you set your price, the process doesn’t end there. Iterative pricing adjustments are key to finding the sweet spot. By testing different price points and strategies, you can gather valuable feedback and sales data to refine your pricing over time. This continuous improvement approach allows you to respond to market changes, customer feedback, and competitor actions, ensuring that your pricing remains competitive and effective.

A/B testing can be a powerful tool in this iterative process. By testing two different price points or pricing strategies with similar segments of your market, you can identify which option performs better in terms of sales, conversion rates, and customer satisfaction. This data-driven approach helps you make informed decisions about the most effective pricing strategy for each market, maximizing your chances of success.

The best product pricing is an organic thing, forever changing, forever growing. It’s important to find the best way to price products – that takes consumer sentiment and economic capability into consideration.

It’s only respectful, after all!

Conclusion: How to Price a Product for Amazon? Do Your Research!

In conclusion, pricing a product for Amazon is a nuanced approach. It’s important to balance competitive analysis, cultural understanding, and strategic flexibility. A low price may not always be the right price; the price tag can make the product resonate with your target audience, or alienate them altogether. It also involves lowering your costs to make sure your profit margins justify growth and sustainability.

Consider things like FBA fees, competitor pricing, and the diverse attitudes of global consumers towards spending. Do your research, employ A/B testing and iterative adjustments. Keep those costs low. You’ll be better primed to position your products for long-term success across different markets – ensuring the sustainability of your brand.

Pricing is as much an art as it is a science. Getting it right can make all the difference in your global expansion efforts!

If this article gave you value, you might want to read up on where to get products to sell on Amazon. Lower the cost of goods by choosing your product carefully, and it’ll get easier for you to adjust the price of a product to accommodate market shifts, buyer behavior, and discount cycles.

The post How to Price a Product for Amazon: Pricing Methods for Global Expansion appeared first on .

Keep in mind, even the most experienced Amazon seller understands how competitive – and difficult – Amazon has become. To many people, Amazon is no longer the key to billionaire status, and there’s absolutely no shame there. Though we’ll be providing some of the common reasons why sellers quit, our goal isn’t to encourage you to stop selling; it’s to provide you with the top reasons why people have stopped selling on Amazon, so you can make informed decisions on your own…

And hopefully avoid some of the big mistakes that keep people from being successful on the platform.

Recommended reading: How to Launch and Rank a Product on Amazon in 2024

Section 1: Stop Selling on Amazon Due to Market Saturation and High Competition

There’s no doubt about it – with more than 9 million third-party sellers offering more than 600 million physical products on Amazon, the competition is fierce. There are so many similar products to yours, that differentiating a unique product is incredibly difficult. Add the complexity of Amazon basics and how Amazon is teaching Chinese sellers to bypass middlemen and sell directly (more on this on our Temu vs. Shein blog) – sellers that have superior cost advantages due to their manufacturing capabilities. The result is a highly competitive environment, where third party sellers on Amazon have a very difficult time maintaining visibility and profitability.

So, what’s the solution here? A lot of successful products have found that middle ground between market demand and product differentiation. Some sellers choose a product with no competition whatsoever – which isn’t a good idea, because that means that customers aren’t looking for these products. Other sellers make the mistake of entering a saturated category, thinking the numbers justify their investment, only to be disappointed because differentiation is virtually impossible. The best product is something in the middle – customer awareness and demand, with enough sales potential to justify investment. Product research is key. Market research is crucial. (Read this blog on Where to Get Products to Sell on Amazon to give you more tips.)

Other sellers employ creative marketing efforts to drive sales. First, they optimize their listings for organic search, then employ Amazon PPC to boost their Amazon sales. They might engage in omnichannel marketing to drive external traffic to their Amazon listing, increasing their rank on the platform.

The best solution is a combination of both: a differentiated product with creative marketing efforts. Frankly, the answer to why I stopped selling on Amazon could be entry into an over-saturated category, where it’s virtually impossible to get seen by your target audience.

There’s also the possibility that your product faces less competition in foreign markets. Many sellers head to the US marketplace to sell because it’s the largest, but this isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule. Many new sellers have failed in the US, only to excel in Germany, the UK, or even the UAE and Japan.

Bottom line? Research and feasibility are important components of launching any business, even an online business.

Section 2: Top Reasons Amazon Sellers Quit: Amazon’s Control and Policy Changes

Amazon’s terms of service change as often as your teenage daughter changes her outfits. Your sales on Amazon are badly affected by the unpredictable policy shifts, which create uncertainty and disrupt business operations. Why I stopped selling on Amazon – constantly adapting to new changes can be stressful and time-consuming, impacting seller performance, overall business efficiency, and profitability.

Frankly, the only way to run a successful business on Amazon is staying on top of these unpredictable policy changes. It’s good practice to subscribe to Amazon seller forums and newsletters, and attend conferences regularly. Experts and fellow sellers can provide timely updates and insights into policy changes and best practices. That way, you can adjust your strategies and ensure compliance.

Additionally, diversifying sales channels is a good way to keep your new business afloat. Diversify to other Amazon marketplaces through global expansion, and consider selling on eBay, Shopify, social media, and so forth. It should be easier for you to create a more stable and resilient business model this way. Expansion helps you achieve diversification, which in turns helps to spread risk and ensure that sudden policy changes don’t severely impact the performance of the business as a whole.

Why I stopped selling on Amazon – because Amazon’s policy shifts disrupted the stability of my business. No doubt about it, there’s no way to control Amazon, so the best thing you can do is ensure that your business minimizes risk through diversification and expansion, and by staying on top of changes.

Section 3: Why I Quit Amazon: Financial Strains and High Fees

Why I stopped selling on Amazon – many sellers didn’t make money, no matter how healthy their profit margins were, because of the fees associated with Amazon selling. We’re talking about things like referral fees, FBA fees, and storage fees. Referral fees are a percentage of each sale that Amazon charges, while FBA fees cover the storage, packing, and shipping of products. Storage fees, particularly for long-term storage, can add up quickly if inventory is not managed efficiently. Together, these fees can erode profits and make it challenging to compete, especially in a highly saturated market.

What’s a seller to do? There has to be a balance between providing competitive pricing to appeal to your customer base, while still maneuvering around Amazon fees, so you don’t wind up losing money while trying your hardest to sell online. It’s definitely a tightrope.

One useful tool is Amazon’s revenue calculator, which helps every seller plan pricing strategies by providing a detailed breakdown of all associated costs. By using this calculator, sellers can better understand their expenses and set prices that ensure profitability – while keeping prices at an even level to appeal to customers.

Furthermore, it’s important to keep listings optimized to increase the possibility of organic sales without relying heavily on PPC. Many brands selling on Amazon don’t give much thought to their SEO, images, and customer reviews, and this will hurt the brand in the long run. Selling great products is just one part of the puzzle of a successful Amazon business. Considering Amazon takes a percentage of everything you earn, you might as well invest time and resources into earning the best sales you can – through marketing and optimization.

Section 4: People Quit Amazon FBA Due To Long Payout Schedules and Cash Flow Issues

Amazon will take a referral fee – and on top of that, payout schedules affect cash flow issues.

Payments are typically disbursed to bank accounts on the next scheduled settlement date, typically taking 3-5 days to arrive after being sent, but there are other factors that can affect this schedule:

• 7-Day Holding Period: Payments are held until orders have been delivered for at least seven days, allowing time for buyers to inspect their orders or initiate returns.
• Deductions: Payments are adjusted for any returns, chargebacks, or A-to-Z guarantee claims, with the costs deducted from your account balance.
• Amazon Fees: Various fees, including referral fees, FBA fees, and shipping fees, are subtracted from your payments before they are disbursed.

Put it this way. Amazon is supposed to pay sellers every 2 weeks. But Amazon can hold your money for any number of reasons. In fact, the platform can even hold part of your money as part of the “account level reserve.” Check out this great blog from SellerApp on this issue. Bottom line, sometimes you don’t get paid for 3 weeks.

Why I stopped selling on Amazon – the lack of predictability on the release of funds puts a dent on cash flow. When you’re planning to take those profits and reinvest them into your FBA business, such as funneling the money to the development or shipment of more products, the lack of cash flow can severely impact operations. Imagine not being able to pay suppliers on time, or having your shipments held at the port because you can’t pay for shipping, all because Amazon hasn’t released your cash yet.

What to do?

Amazon recommends Express Payout for sellers who are already using Amazon Pay. Allegedly, this new feature eliminates the usual 5-day wait for payments. You can access the feature through Seller Central. Perhaps it’s worth a shot, to see if it alleviates some of the cash flow concerns.

Section 5: Why I Stopped Selling on Amazon: Customer Service and Returns

Why I stopped selling on Amazon – negative reviews and returns. This issue is common for many Amazon sellers; in fact, the majority of sellers don’t pay attention to customer service, which means the relationship between sellers and customers can get strained. It will be very difficult to sell your products on Amazon for the long haul if you don’t pay attention to your customers.

Here’s how this goes. Sellers sell a product that’s well optimized, well developed, and well marketed. Customers are convinced by well-written product descriptions, and add to cart accordingly. They like your product.

Then, once they receive the product, their expectations are shot. Either the product doesn’t work like it’s supposed to, or the item doesn’t fit, or it’s a different color altogether. They write negative Amazon reviews, which brings down your performance, and affects your ranking. Soon, you’ll find that your products aren’t selling at all.

Customer service gets more complex when you’re selling on a global scale, especially in countries where you don’t speak the language. Developing multilingual teams to address customer concerns can be costly, so what should sellers do when they want to sell their products on a global scale, while still providing the customer service that identifies good business models from ones doomed to fail?

Here’s a step-by-step process for addressing customer inquiries and complaints on Amazon:

Step 1: Set Up Amazon’s Buyer-Seller Messaging Service

1. Activate Messaging Service: Go to Seller Central and ensure the Buyer-Seller Messaging Service is activated.
2. Customize Templates: Customize the pre-made message templates provided by Amazon to fit your brand’s tone and frequently asked questions.
3. Response Time: Aim to respond to customer inquiries within 24 hours to maintain good seller performance metrics.

Step 2: Develop a Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Identify Common Questions: Review past customer inquiries to identify common questions and concerns.
2. Create FAQ Content: Write clear and concise answers to these common questions.
3. Update Regularly: Keep the FAQ section updated with new information and any changes to policies or products.

Step 3: Implement a ChatBot for Instant Customer Support

1. Choose a ChatBot Platform: Select a ChatBot service that integrates well with Amazon’s platform.
2. Program Common Queries: Program the ChatBot to handle common customer queries, such as order status, return policies, and product information.
3. Human Escalation: Ensure the ChatBot can escalate complex issues to a human representative.

Step 4: Translate ChatBot for International Markets

1. Select a Translation Service: Use professional translation services like YLT Translations to translate ChatBot responses into the languages of your target markets.
2. Localize Responses: Beyond translation, localize responses to consider cultural differences and local regulations.
3. Test Translations: Test the translated ChatBot responses with native speakers to ensure accuracy and cultural appropriateness.

Step 5: Manage Returns and Refunds Efficiently

1. Create a Clear Return Policy: Clearly state your return and refund policies on your Amazon store page.
2. Automate Return Approvals: Use Amazon’s Return Manager to automate return approvals and streamline the process.
3. Monitor Return Reasons: Regularly review the reasons for returns to identify and address any recurring issues with your products.

Step 6: Handle Negative Reviews and Feedback

1. Monitor Reviews: Regularly monitor product reviews and feedback on your Amazon store.
2. Respond Promptly: Address negative reviews promptly and professionally, offering solutions or refunds where appropriate.
3. Improve Based on Feedback: Use the feedback to make necessary improvements to your products or services.

Step 7: Train Your Customer Service Team

1. Product Knowledge: Ensure your customer service team has in-depth knowledge of your products.
2. Cultural Sensitivity: Train the team in cultural sensitivity, especially if you are selling internationally.
3. Customer Service Skills: Provide training in customer service best practices, including patience, empathy, and effective communication.

You might want to hire a multilingual Amazon virtual assistant to handle this.

Step 8: Monitor Performance Metrics

1. Use Amazon’s Tools: Utilize Amazon’s performance metrics tools to monitor response times, customer satisfaction, and other key indicators.
2. Regular Reviews: Conduct regular reviews of your customer service performance and identify areas for improvement.
3. Adjust Strategies: Adjust your customer service strategies based on performance data to continuously improve the customer experience.

Step 9: Utilize Customer Feedback for Improvement

1. Gather Feedback: Actively seek customer feedback through surveys and follow-up emails.
2. Analyze Feedback: Analyze the feedback to identify trends and areas that need improvement.
3. Implement Changes: Implement changes based on the feedback to enhance your products and customer service.

From an optimization standpoint, it’s crucial to provide as much information as possible. When customers buy on Amazon, they need to be spoken to, educated, with as much product information as you can give – even for a simple product that seems intuitive to use. If a customer can’t figure your product out, you can expect them to leave a negative review.

Label products accurately. Provide product inserts with accurately translated instructions for use. Use your social media accounts to provide videos and infographics on how to install, use, or maximize the product. Even if the customer base figures out how to use the product on their own without any trouble, it never hurts to over-communicate.

Section 6: How YLT Translations Can Help Alleviate the Dangers of Selling on Amazon

Frankly, many sellers fail because they give up. Sure, it’s not easy selling on Amazon at all; there are so many balls that sellers have to juggle at the same time, whether they’re selling private label items, pursuing drop shipping, retail arbitrage or wholesale. It’s the same banana every time; selling on Amazon isn’t for the weak at heart.

It takes a whole lot of determination and will to succeed, and many sellers have given up for incredibly valid reasons. Not every product, no matter how beautifully made or perfectly sourced, will succeed, and there are a dozen reasons why a seller might fail.

In fact, many people who’ve stopped selling on Amazon haven’t even failed, per se; they just took a good look at their businesses and decided that Amazon just wasn’t it for them. And that’s fine.

But we honestly think that if you don’t even try to succeed, then failure is imminent. As Michael Jordan said, “I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can’t accept not trying.”

One way to mitigate these risks is to expand your business globally. Naturally, international expansion isn’t for everyone, so it’s crucial to do your due diligence before thinking about expanding your business. But it’s quite possible that you stopped selling on Amazon because you weren’t selling in the right market.

That’s where YLT Translations can help. Through the Amazon Product Opportunity Report, and targeted localization performed by native speakers, you can identify the markets that would be interested in your product, and market your product listings accurately to the right market.

Check out our list of services to find out how we can be of assistance, and reach out to us for a free listing audit; maybe we can help you alleviate some of the challenges you’ve faced so you can stop asking yourself, why I stopped selling on Amazon, and ask yourself instead, should I sell on Amazon again?

Conclusion: Why I Stopped Selling on Amazon – Should You Quit, Too?

So, we’ve answered the question of many sellers: why I stopped selling on Amazon. Many of these reasons are common in e-Commerce businesses; the fact is, selling online isn’t for the weak of heart. Just remember, Amazon doesn’t function if not for its sellers; what is Amazon without people like you, trying to bring the right products to Amazon customers?

So, take heart. If you’re one of the sellers that’s seriously considering shutting down their Amazon business, we have one piece of advice to give…

Try everything first.

The right product, the right keyword research, the right shipping conditions, the right marketplace, and the right approach to Amazon’s rules and regulations, may very well spell success for you.

And think about expanding to other countries. Just because Amazon USA is the largest marketplace doesn’t mean it’s the best one for you.

Follow experts like Jana on social media; they drop tips and tricks to help you do better on Amazon. Reach out if there’s anything we can do to help.

Share with us your stories by commenting below or engaging with us on social media – have you ever thought about quitting? We’d love to hear about your experiences!

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