Marketplaces: The Future of Online Sales
Marketplaces have become a crucial part of the online sales landscape, with major players like Amazon, AliExpress, and Etsy leading the way. However, the number of marketplaces has grown significantly in recent years, and it’s essential to understand how they work and what the future holds for them.
The Evolution of Marketplaces
Ramon Alvarez, a seasoned professional in the digital world, has witnessed the evolution of marketplaces firsthand. With six years of experience at Bulevip, where he launched the marketplace project, and currently holding the position of Project Manager at Andrew Group, Ramon has gained valuable insights into the world of marketplaces.
Training in Marketplaces
Entering the world of marketplaces can be challenging, especially for those without prior experience in ecommerce or marketplaces. Ramon emphasizes the importance of comprehensive knowledge of all parts of the business, including logistics, customer service, finance, purchasing, and marketing. While there are courses and master’s degrees available, obtaining a qualification does not guarantee an immediate position as a Marketplace Manager. Previous experience in ecommerce is crucial to making the leap to a marketplace.
The Future of Marketplaces
The market is currently saturated with general marketplaces, and Ramon foresees an increase in vertical marketplaces focused on specific types of products. He also notes that marketplaces offer sellers a different type of customer than those who come directly to their website. Understanding this difference is crucial for success in marketplaces.
Challenges in Marketplaces
Marketplace Managers face unique challenges, including losing control over crucial aspects of the business, such as prices and stock. After-sales also presents many challenges, and it’s essential to achieve satisfaction for both the seller and the customer. Poor customer service management can have severe consequences, making it crucial to have effective after-sales strategies in place.
Generative Artificial Intelligence in Marketplaces
Generative Artificial Intelligence can significantly facilitate work in marketplaces, particularly in catalog creation and data analysis. AI can simplify the process of creating product descriptions and images, benefiting SEO and saving time. It can also help analyze data efficiently and make decisions, making it an invaluable tool for both sellers and marketplaces.
B2B Marketplaces
Ramon currently works in a company with a B2B model and notes that the main difference between B2B and B2C is that B2B customers buy out of necessity, while B2C customers buy on impulse. Strategies for B2B and B2C are completely different, with B2B requiring the best price and service possible. Ramon believes that we will see a significant increase in B2B marketplaces as companies undergo a digital transformation, similar to what B2C experienced in the past.