The pandemic changed the business landscape worldwide, and GCC countries are not different. We all saw a huge rise in E-commerce platforms for B2C and B2B business models. Thankfully, having an innovative approach helped revitalize numerous sectors, paving the way for many E-commerce firms. So what’s dominating the market right now, and what’s awaiting the bright future ahead? Is it the advancement in technologies or the focus on customer satisfaction? This article brings you the top 6 E-commerce trends in the GCC countries.
- Implementation of advanced digital solutions
Retailers in GCC are setting themselves apart in a very competitive market. They know that a strong IT foundation is necessary for the efficient supply chain management. To scale their businesses, E-commerce companies in the GCC and around the world are looking for tech-based solutions that provide effective and efficient order, inventory, shipping, and delivery management systems.
- New payment gateways
Although most Arabs still rely on a cash-on-delivery mentality, E-commerce platforms are constantly implementing new payment methods. These include credit cards, online wallets, Internet Banking, etc. Businesses understand that these models should be trustworthy and reliable so that consumers will be more likely to utilize them for online transactions.
- Modern warehouses
Unparalleled changes are steadily taking place in the Middle East’s warehousing and logistics sector. Businesses engaged in warehousing are transitioning from labor-intensive facilities to more contemporary and flexible ones, such as robots, automated facilities, etc. More money is anticipated to be invested in micro-fulfillment solutions to address the rising market demands. Now the emphasis lies on enhancing logistics infrastructure, modernizing and automating warehouses, and better managing their supply chain.
- Focus on local production
E-commerce business in the GCC strives to diversify their supply chain for security and stability in both short- and long-term devised plans. They have been concentrating on producing domestically whenever possible rather than heavily relying on international suppliers, particularly Chinese ones. However, the existing capacities and skills somehow constrain national and regional productivity. Nevertheless, they also realize the importance of maintaining good contact with established and developing suppliers and customers in the key Asian, European, and American markets.
- The rise in online groceries
It should be no surprise that the e-grocery industry has had some of the fastest growth in the pandemic. Early in the pandemic, growth was mainly seen in Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Today, one can easily find a service that enables people to shop online and have groceries delivered in 10 minutes!
- 5-Star customer experience
Whether it is the ease of navigating the website or raising an issue about the product, every customer seeks a smooth experience. For instance, many businesses are utilizing cloud technology to improve and streamline the customer experience from online buying to in-store delivery. Retailers may now provide smooth, personalized, safe, and effective consumer journeys thanks to new cloud-powered systems.
Bottom Line
The E-commerce evolution in the GCC doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. From digital capabilities to provide seamless customer experience, the E-commerce industry is never out of potential. All thanks to the acceptance of innovation and business-friendly policies among these countries.