For the e-commerce entreprenuer the world of online trading provides a whole host of advantages and opportunities that simply did not exist before the advent of the web.
These include a radically reduced time to market, improved customer relationships, low cost market entry and easier access to a global market.
But e-commerce isn’t just about selling a table lamp to Mrs Smith in Chester. As well as using the web for direct sales, online retailers can also showcase products, raise brand awareness and offer post-sales support to their customers.
From the point of view of the consumer they have access to a 24-hour virtual shopping district with an infinate number of choices all from the comfort of their own homes and offices.
The Magic of the Three Cs: Choice, Cost and Convenience
Goods tend to be purchased online for three fundamental reasons:
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Firstly, because the internet presents a shopping experience of global proportions, there is unlimited choice.
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Secondly, the determined internet window shopper will pick up the keenest of deals as the competition for customers and lower costs filter down to price reductions
- Thirdly, how much more comfortable can you get than armchair shopping, anytime, day or night? If you can provide choice, reduced prices and convenience shopping electronically, there is a substantial slice of the market to be won.