Key Trend 8:E-commerce powers the growing direct-to-consumer trend

摘要

E-commerce from the start: An effective distribution strategy for a new brand or a small brand must consider, from day one, online retailers' web operations and e-tailers as well as a direct-to-consumer e-commerce option.More accessible than ever: E-commerce enables companies of any size - and particularly small ones - to create a direct-to-consumer business without the high labour costs traditionally associated with direct selling. Delivering packages - even globally - has never been cheaper and thanks to technology two people can create an e-commerce business that would have required 10 people. More power to small brands: Online shopping is becoming a way for smaller brands, new brands and experimental brands to reach consumers, avoiding the big retailers and associated costs, as well as offering several advantages. It adds to the steady trend for smaller brands to eat away the market from under the noses of established players. Urban change: E-commerce lends itself well to dense urban centres, and the revolution in consumer buying behavior in China may happen in major cities in other countries - potentially spelling the end of traditional giant supermarkets in big cities. Mix it up: A direct-to-consumer strategy can be combined with selling via e-tailers and supermarkets as well as bricks-and-mortar retail.