TAIPEI (TVBS News) — After the world experienced widespread lockdowns during the pandemic, e-commerce platforms have become a crucial lifeline for many people. As online shopping platforms continue to grow in Taiwan, convenience stores and discussion websites have also hopped on the bandwagon, reaping profits.
As a seller on an e-commerce platform, Ms. Chen explained the convenience of online shopping nowadays. "I sell gifts from Hokkaido on the platform," she said. "Online shopping is convenient nowadays, especially with the option to pick up items at convenience stores."
According to the Institute for Information Industry (III), 43.4% of consumers spent between NT＄10,000 and NT＄60,000 on e-commerce platforms in 2022. This represents a 4.1% increase compared to 2021.
Moreover, there was also a 4.9% increase among those who spent more than NT＄60,000 a year, reaching 18% in 2022.
With the increasing number of people shifting their shopping habits online, discussion platforms have seized the opportunity to enter the market, making it more convenient for consumers to compare and share their shopping experiences and items.
However, with so many platforms, vendors must also differentiate themselves from others to maintain business. To this, local e-commerce vendor spokesperson Jessica remarked, "I believe the key is to discover your brand and identify what sets you apart."
Approximately 73.4% of consumers shop exclusively on online e-commerce websites, while 36.2% prefer purchasing from websites with physical stores. Meanwhile, 24.8% of consumers choose products from delivery platforms.
As consumer preferences lean toward e-commerce platforms, established brands must adapt their business models and take their products online.