There’s no doubt that e-commerce is big news. In fact, according to recent results by Statista, the UK’s eCommerce users could grow to almost 60 million by the end of the year. This suggests that online businesses should be thinking about the best ways to approach the challenges of demand and usability that 2023 will likely bring.
A large factor in this is being able to develop a successful eCommerce strategy that keeps your business ahead of the game and enables growth and adaption. To do this, your company will need to focus on key areas that will be integral to online business performance in the year ahead. And with a number of challenges being faced by many, such as inflation, high interest rates, shortages and steep energy costs, it’s even more important than ever to refine your strategy.
If you’re unsure about the best way to approach this, it might be a good idea to consult a professional agency who can help develop a strategy to keep up with consumer demands and the changing digital landscape.
We’ll explore the areas that are likely to warrant some attention in the upcoming months.
Cross-border commerce
This involves targeting customers in overseas markets, whether this be through international distribution logistics or establishing local solutions. You’ll need to consider delivery, language translation, local regulations or restrictions and payments.
Whilst this can be challenging, it can be an effective way for many businesses to facilitate growth by opening up to new markets.
Content marketing
High-value content should be a vital component of your eCommerce strategy. This includes producing quality product videos, images, online forums, optimised supporting content such as blog posts and landing pages.
Importance should be placed on the visuals with specific focus on details and product specification. And don’t skip the socials. Social media provides a crucial way for consumers to engage with brands and can be intrinsic in a customer’s decision to proceed with a sale.
Plan for a world without cookies
With Google planning on phasing out third-party cookies, you should have a strategy in place for collecting data and tracking your visitors. The reason for their removal is down to customer privacy demands, but it could leave businesses in the dark when it comes to consumer data.
It’s worth considering ways in which you can measure conversions that don’t rely on cookies, such as alternative web features or traditional strategies such as PPC .
Make sure your security is high end
Cybersecurity is high priority for online consumers and businesses should be able to meet the demands of customers when it comes to protecting them and their data. Ensure you have the right security permissions in place and that users are able to trust your site when making a purchase.
Offer the payment methods shoppers want to use
The way purchases are made are evolving and customers want greater payment options such as the ability to spread costs and pay via multiple platforms. Offering choices will enhance the customer shopping experience and allow consumers to have more control over their purchases.
However you decide to approach your strategy, as a business owner, it’s important to remain adaptable and embrace ever-changing and advancing technology to be able to service the demands of the 2023 digital consumer.