In the US, statistics reports indicate e-commerce generated a sales increase of 9% from 6% between 2013 and 2017. Then the Corona Virus pandemic came in 2019, and almost all businesses went from physical to online shops to adhere to stringent measures for the virus. As the trend continues, more enterprises will have to adapt to the new changes to avoid getting phased out by their competitors. Now more than ever, buyers are embracing online order placements as their way of life. If you want to set up or grow your e-commerce business, take a look at these examples for your inspiration.
1. The Dollar Shave Club- Diverse grooming products for an everyday person
The club is your go-to place where you and your friends meet for drinks. As expected, you will discuss your frustrations regarding current affairs and trending news. Part of your discussion involves the rising cost of grooming products. So you decide to create a company that sells cheaper shaving products. That pretty much describes what the founders, Mark Levine and Michael Dubin of Dollar Shave Club, did.
The two founders sought funds from savings and another company known as Science Inc. In 2011, Dollar Shave launched its operations after going live through its website. Today, the company has expanded its product line with various products.
2. Warby Parker- Cheaper eyewear solution
Vision problems call for urgent and cheaper corrective solutions, which is one of the primary reasons why Warby Parker was born in 2008. It all started when the founder, Neil Blumenthal, requested his friends to develop cheaper eyewear for people with vision problems. So in 2010, the company created an official website where buyers could order eyewear products like lenses and frames.
Like any other infant company, Warby Parker struggled to get an online presence. But once a few buyers got wind of its existence through a free try-on service, zero shipping charges, and reliable returns policy, it generated massive sales within its first month.
3. Edible Arrangements- The power of email marketing
Email marketing is an excellent driving force that most e-commerce investors have embarked on. These companies rely on email service to engage clients, reward their loyalty and generate income to sell their fruit arrangements.
For instance, Edible Arrangements has taken advantage of the platform to market their same-day service. With around 1,200 physical stores in 11 places, Edible Arrangements can deliver their products in a record of 24 hours. So, for example, if a buyer places an order before a specific time, the company’s delivery service will ensure buyers receive their products before the 24 hours lapses.
4. Bonobos- Improved customer experience
The challenging part about selling online is competing against giants like Walmart, Amazon and the likes. The giant retailers stock various products at unbeatable prices. For this reason, buyers will prefer them to you. However, that does not mean you cannot make it in the e-commerce environment. If you follow the history behind Bonobos’ success, you will realize the power of excellent customer experience. Bonobos does not just focus on stocking quality-assuring men’s pants alone. Instead, it also creates an excellent shopping experience for its followers, improving their loyalty.
5. Shopify
Shopify might not have maximized a word-of-mouth marketing campaign or any other automation tool. Still, when it comes to the list featuring successful e-commerce solutions, it tops the list. The name itself is an indication of an excellent shopping experience. Buyers visit the platform frequently to shop and compare the prices of products with other online retailers. So it is no wonder it featured as the 3rd most visited website. Additionally, the absence of e-commerce solutions motivates Shopify to customize its own.
Whether you are into shipping labels service or beauty products, borrowing automation ideas from successful online retailers can be a great source of inspiration for your business. However, it is also worth remembering that not all strategies can work to your advantage. The easiest way to build your online presence is by providing what your competitors do not have. Finally, when you land your first sale, try to find out if your buyer had an excellent shopping experience. Offering star-rating and customer review sections on your website can help other clients know if you are a good seller.