While it is no secret that the eCommerce arm of the retail industry has seen unprecedented growth in recent years, not all retailers have made the transition to online commerce. For those who have seen the value of establishing a sales channel on the world wide web, fewer still have integrated their offline POS and ERP systems with their online sales performance to create a seamless, personalized experience for their customers.
5 Business Benefits of eCommerce & Integration
It is not difficult to understand why consumers have responded so positively to the advent of online shopping. It’s a time-saver, conveniently provides a wide range of product options and variances and saves the consumer on transport and taxes, to name a few major advantages. According to a report by Statista in 2017, retail ecommerce sales worldwide are projected to hit US $4.5 trillion by 2020.
Retailers also enjoy a host of benefits. The brands who have effectively integrated their offline sales activities with their ecommerce sales funnels have observed at least 5 ways that ecommerce integration has improved their entire organisation’s overall success.
1. Integrated eCommerce Channels Boost Brand Awareness & Attract New Users
Statistics show that 80% of internet users have made online purchases. To retain customers and stand out from competitors, integrate eCommerce for user engagement. Use social media and online communities to boost your online presence, establish credibility, and connect with your audience. Listing your store on interest sites and search engines expands your customer reach.
2. Integrating eCommerce Systems Reduces Operational Expenses
Compared to their brick-and-mortar counterparts, eCommerce stores are far less costly to set up and manage and their operations can be largely automated, leaving you free to perform other functions or activities within your business.
3. Integration Facilitates Detailed Audience Insights
While face-to-face sales offer a personal touch, they provide limited customer insights. eCommerce, in contrast, gathers detailed data on each sale, helping build a database of preferences. This data shapes your marketing strategy for targeted results.
4. eCommerce Integration Enables You to Own Your User Base
On top of that, once your clients have joined your database, you can continue to nurture the relationships formed and provide the personalised experience your users so badly crave. You are also able to keep a constant line of communication open in the form of social groups and email lists.
5. Online Retail Integration Drives Offline Sales
Your online is always functioning, no matter what your actual operating hours may be, which means your customers can receive valuable info, browse product and service options and compare pricing or service level options without any additional effort or man-hours from you.
Find Out How Software Dev’s eCommerce Integration Services Will Add Value to Your Organisation Now!
eCommerce and sales integration are no longer optional but crucial for sustained retail growth. With integrated tools, reach a wider audience and adapt to evolving customer needs. Contact Software Dev for expert guidance to achieve your goals.
