shopping, accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic and changing consumer expectations, has reshaped the retail landscape, making e-commerce a key driving force behind the future success of retailers and brands.
However, despite the unprecedented growth rates in e-commerce in South Africa, attendees agreed that building and scaling a profitable, future-proof e-commerce business in South Africa is not without challenges and requires careful planning, a keen understanding of the unique local market dynamics and a commitment to adapt to changing trends and technologies.
Additionally, diversification of sales channels is crucial. E-commerce businesses should explore multi-channel retailing, encompassing their own websites, marketplaces and social media platforms, to expand reach and reduce dependence on a single source of traffic. E-commerce marketplaces, in particular, have seen significant growth and innovation, offering businesses new opportunities for growth and customer engagement.