E-commerce Boosts Spanish Economy, Employs Thousands
According to a recent report, online retail sales in Spain contributed around 8.5 billion euros to the economy in 2022, employing around 283,000 people directly and indirectly.
E-commerce Sales Growth
Online retail sales in Spain reached 20.659 million euros in 2022, representing a cumulative year-on-year growth of 26% since 2014. Despite the growth, digital channel sales only accounted for 7% of total retail sales in 2022.
E-commerce Opportunities for Small Businesses
The growth of e-commerce has been an opportunity for small businesses in Spain, offering them an additional sales channel. The report found that 5% of small business sales in 2022 were made online, a figure only two percentage points below the total average for companies in Spain.
International Sales
Many small businesses have adopted a multi-channel strategy, selling through marketplaces or their own online stores. The report reveals that 65% of small and medium-sized Spanish businesses that sell online have seen their physical store sales remain stable and even increase. Additionally, 28% of e-commerce sales in Spanish establishments correspond to international sales.
Amazon’s Impact
Amazon has played a significant role in the growth of e-commerce in Spain, with 15,000 Spanish SMEs selling through its platform. In 2022, these businesses broke a record with 950 million euros in exports, 10% more than the previous year.
Support for Rural Environment
E-commerce has also helped rural residents enjoy the same shopping options as urban residents, bridging the gap between the countryside and the city. The expansion of e-commerce has contributed to the economic and social development of rural areas, offering local businesses the opportunity to sell their products beyond their municipality or to deliver orders from their neighbors.
Amazon’s Initiatives
Amazon has contributed to the economic and social development of rural Spain through initiatives such as Amazon Hub Delivery, which offers local business owners the opportunity to deliver Amazon orders, ensuring faster and more sustainable delivery, and generating new sources of income for them. The program has already reached 1,000 delivery partners in the country.
