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Harnessing the Power of Shopify Liquid for Your eCommerce Store
In today’s digital marketplace, having a unique eCommerce system is crucial for businesses to differentiate themselves. Shopify, like several eCommerce platforms, provides companies with a flexible “sandbox” for creating a unique online presence, beyond the basic templates. This customization is made possible by Shopify Liquid, a templating language for developers. This discussion explores Shopify Liquid’s...
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01/08/2024
What is Mini App Why should businesses invest in Mini App
WHAT IS MINI APP? WHY YOU SHOULD CREATE YOUR FIRST ONE?
Mini Apps or Mini Programs are small applications developed within Super Apps, allowing users to access them without the need for frequent downloads or updates like Native Apps (applications for Android and iOS) or Hybrid Apps (cross-platform applications) Currently, there are various types of these apps, but the most popular ones include: On social media...
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21/12/2023
8 Steps to Start a Sustainable eCommerce Business-What is eCommerce business
8 STEPS TO START A SUSTAINABLE ECOMMERCE BUSINESS
For businesses that are just entering the market, the term “eCommerce” is often recognized through eCommerce marketplaces. Most managers are often unsure of where to start, including which systems to use, which eCommerce platform to choose for development, and what steps to take next. Therefore, in this article, SECOMM will share comprehensive information from basics...
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20/12/2023
What is AWS Top Benefits & Services of Amazon Web Services
WHAT IS AWS? TOP BENEFITS & SERVICES OF AMAZON WEB SERVICES
In the cloud infrastructure service market, there are many large enterprises, but the first name that comes to mind for large enterprises is AWS. What is AWS? AWS (Amazon Web Services) is a cloud solution developed by the “giant” Amazon, trusted by millions of businesses, including fast-growing startups, colossal corporations and top-tier government agencies. At...
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25/09/2023
Step-By-Step Guide To Develop eCommerce Loyalty Programs
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO DEVELOP ECOMMERCE LOYALTY PROGRAMS
Loyal customers contribute significantly to the profitability and development of eCommerce businesses. Therefore, as a business, you need to focus on strengthening relationships with customers and encouraging repeat purchases. Among the methods available, building and convincing customers to participate in Loyalty Programs is an effective strategy. Below is the ultimate guide to successfully build and...
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06/07/2023
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Top 5 eCommerce Platforms for International Selling

International eCommerce platforms are shaping the shopping trends of modern consumers worldwide, where geographical boundaries are no longer barriers to business activities. With the continuous development of technology and the internet, businesses have the opportunity to reach millions of customers around the globe more easily than ever. However, to succeed in the international market, choosing the right eCommerce platform is crucial.

In this article, let’s explore the top 5 platforms that effectively meet the needs of many businesses for implementing international eCommerce.

1. ShopifyTop 5 eCommerce Platforms for International Selling

Shopify is a well-known SaaS eCommerce platform for businesses worldwide. It offers an all-in-one solution called Shopify Markets, allowing businesses to start selling in over 150+ different markets and manage efficiently on a single dashboard. Shopify Markets comes in two versions:

  • Markets:

Integrated into all Shopify plans, providing core features including:

  • Translate and Adapt website content
  • Theme Editor
  • Custom domain or subdirectory settings
  • Product pricing customization by market
  • Localized checkout forms
  • Product catalogs by market
  • Managing multiple markets on a single dashboard

Fees are incurred per international transaction, including:

  • 3.9% per transaction for processing local payments
  • 0.85% per transaction for using tax and import duty calculation tools
  • 1.5% per transaction for currency conversion fees.
  • Markets Pro:

Includes all core features plus additional advanced features such as:

  • Exclusive shipping rates
  • Compliance with local taxes
  • Fraud prevention
  • Tax setup and labeling
  • Automatic tax remittance
  • Managing restrictions on international sales

The cost of Markets Pro is 6.5% per transaction, including local payment processing fees, so businesses do not need to pay this fee separately. Additionally, businesses will pay 2.5% per transaction for currency conversion fees.

Advantages:

  • Intuitive, user-friendly interface
  • Allows setup, optimization, and management of multiple international markets on a single dashboard
  • Supports multi-language, multi-currency configurations and setting specific prices for each market
  • Comprehensive solution without the need for third-party system support
  • Automates tax calculation and collection, optimizing expenditure planning
  • Offers local payment options without restrictions
  • Optimizes international SEO

Disadvantages:

  • Implementation costs may increase over time
  • Requires the Shopify Markets Pro version to access advanced features
  • Shopify’s website does not support language variants (e.g., Simplified/Traditional Chinese, Brazilian/European Portuguese)
  • High currency conversion fees: 1.5% per transaction for the standard version and 2.5% per transaction for the Pro version
  • Requires knowledge of international trade and a well-defined business strategy
  • Advanced or Plus plan upgrades are needed for complex customizations
  • Depend on the platform.

2. MagentoMagento

Implementing international eCommerce involves many challenges related to language, currency, and taxes, requiring websites to be optimally customized to provide the most engaging customer experience. This is why Magento is on this list.

Some standout features of Magento that support international commerce include:

  • Multi-store, multi-language, multi-currency, and multi-region management
  • URL localization, Meta Description, and targeted keywords
  • Currency selection and automatic conversion
  • Region-based tax calculation
  • Customizable formats
  • Efficient multi-location inventory management

Advantages

  • Open-source code allows for easy customization and expansion of international stores.
  • Efficient centralized management of stores.
  • Optimization for international SEO.
  • Partnerships with hundreds of leading global payment gateways, enabling easy integration via API.
  • Partnerships with top shipping companies worldwide, allowing seamless integration via API.
  • Collaborations with reputable currency exchange services, ensuring competitive rates and providing customers with the best shopping experience.
  • Large Magento community, including developers and businesses, facilitating quick and effective support and collaboration.
  • In-depth technical support.

Disadvantages:

  • High initial implementation costs.
  • Complex implementation process with a typically long deployment time.
  • Requires knowledge of international trade and a well-defined business strategy.
  • Requires good technical skills for complex customizations.

3. BigCommerce

BigCommerce

Similar to Shopify, BigCommerce is also a SaaS eCommerce platform that provides international eCommerce solutions. The platform offers features and tools to help businesses expand their operations in the international market simply and effectively.

Some standout features of BigCommerce supporting international eCommerce include:

  • Easy and quick setup of multiple stores, multi-currency, and multi-language options
  • Localization and personalization of the shopping and checkout experience for each international store
  • Management of all international stores on a single dashboard
  • Support for B2C and B2B deployment with customizable shopping experiences for each customer segment
  • A wide range of integrations for order processing and shipping

Advantages:

  • Intuitive, user-friendly interface
  • Quick setup and efficient centralized store management
  • Easy integration of international payment and shipping methods
  • Optimized processes for calculating and collecting taxes
  • Mobile-optimized design to reach a broader customer base
  • Support for implementing localized marketing strategies
  • Multilingual customer support services
  • Optimization for international SEO

Disadvantages:

  • Initial implementation fees are not disclosed, making it difficult to estimate costs
  • Requires knowledge of international trade and a well-defined business strategy
  • Dependence on the platform
  • Limited customization options compared to Open Source platforms
  • Restrictions on interface customization

4. OpenCartOpenCart

Similar to Magento, OpenCart is a popular open-source eCommerce platform used for international eCommerce implementation. This platform offers many useful features and tools, allowing businesses to better serve global customers.

Some standout features of OpenCart supporting international eCommerce include:

  • Management of multiple stores on a single dashboard
  • Customizable localization settings for international stores
  • Support for over 40 different languages
  • More than 36 integrated payment gateways and seamless integration with many other payment gateways available on the OpenCart marketplace
  • A wide range of popular global payment options integrated by default

Advantages:

  • High customization and scalability
  • Support for multiple languages and currencies
  • Partnerships with many leading global payment gateways, allowing easy integration via API
  • Partnerships with top global shipping companies, allowing seamless integration via API
  • Optimization for international SEO
  • Rich library of themes and extensions
  • Large user community

Disadvantages:

  • High initial implementation costs
  • Complex implementation process with typically long deployment times
  • Requires knowledge of international trade and a well-defined business strategy
  • Requires good technical skills for complex customizations

5. PrestaShopPrestaShop

Another widely used open-source eCommerce platform for international e-commerce implementation is PrestaShop. With excellent customization and scalability, as well as outstanding tools and features, PrestaShop is the perfect choice for businesses looking to expand globally.

Some standout features of PrestaShop supporting international eCommerce include:

  • Unlimited product and inventory management
  • Order and customer management
  • A wide range of global payment and shipping options
  • Management of multiple stores on a single dashboard
  • Advanced reporting and analytics

Advantages:

  • High customization and scalability
  • Partnerships with many global payment gateways, allowing integration via API
  • Partnerships with major global shipping companies, allowing seamless integration via API
  • Optimization for international SEO
  • Optimized tax calculation and collection

Disadvantages:

  • High initial implementation costs
  • Complex implementation process with typically long deployment times
  • Requires knowledge of international trade and a well-defined business strategy
  • Requires good technical skills for complex customizations
  • Occasional performance issues

The Bottom Line

The above provides an overview of the top 5 platforms for implementing international eCommerce, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Depending on the scale, budget, and technical requirements, businesses can choose the most suitable platform for themselves.

Regardless of the choice, investing in a robust and flexible eCommerce platform will help businesses effectively reach international markets, increase sales, and expand their scale.

Need advice on implementing international eCommerce? Contact SECOMM today!

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What is Shopify Markets Definition, Pros and Cons
What is Shopify Markets? Pros & Cons for International Selling

In the digital age, eCommerce is the key to helping businesses quickly and effectively reach global customers. Shopify, a renowned SaaS platform supporting online business, has launched the Shopify Markets solution to assist businesses in expanding into global markets. So, what is Shopify Markets? What benefits and challenges does this solution bring to your business when implementing international eCommerce? Let’s explore in the article below.

1. What is Shopify Markets?

What is Shopify Markets

Shopify Markets is a new solution from the Shopify platform, designed to help you easily and efficiently expand your business into global markets. This tool allows you to manage multiple stores from a single dashboard, customizing each market with specific settings for language, currency, taxes, and payment methods. Moreover, Shopify Markets integrates with international shipping and logistics services, enabling you to optimize your operations and meet the demands of global customers.

Previously, multi-store setups have been done by using Shopify Plus, allowing merchants to establish and operate separate Shopify stores for each target market. This approach gave merchants full control over individual stores, such as running market-specific marketing campaigns, promotions, and inventory management.

However, this approach had several drawbacks. First, operating multiple standalone stores meant discrepancies in inventory levels, requiring data synchronization between stores. This process was time-consuming and prone to errors. Many merchants addressed this issue by integrating systems like PIM or ERP. Second, the workload increased due to the need to update content for each store individually. Third, many merchants complained about having to pay for the same app or integration across multiple stores, leading to inefficiencies in financial management.

Thus, the advent of Shopify Markets serves as a remedy for these three issues. Now, you can apply multi-language, multi-currency, international pricing, domain or subdirectory, and Geolocation features for the stores, all managed efficiently from a single dashboard.

2. Top features of Shopify Markets

Top features of Shopify Markets

2.1 Multi-language

When deploying international eCommerce, the importance of multi-language support cannot be overstated. According to CSA Research, 76% of online shoppers prefer to purchase products with information displayed in their native language. Meanwhile, 40% will never buy from eCommerce websites in a different language.

By using Shopify Markets and the built-ịn Translate & Adapt app, your website can be automatically translated into the languages of your target markets. Beyond mere translation, Shopify’s Translate & Adapt app can customize store content to better connect with local customers. This ensures that your eCommerce website maintains cultural, regional, and seasonal relevance—even when markets share the same language—the app can adjust for variations in vocabulary, spelling, and messaging.

2.2 Multi-currency

Global customers want to see product prices in their own currency when shopping on eCommerce websites. A PayPal report supports this, showing that 76% of survey participants prefer to pay in their local currency. Shopify Markets can automatically convert product prices into over 130 different currencies to cater to your target customers. From product pages to shopping carts, and from checkout to refunds, Shopify Markets can create a seamless multi-currency shopping experience for customers, which will boost conversion rates and sales.

2.3 Localized domain & subdirectories

Shopify Markets can help create localized domains linked to specific languages and countries. For example, “myshop.com” could be the main site operating in the US, “myshop.ca” for the Canadian market, and “myshop.co.uk” for the UK. This not only increases credibility and optimizes SEO but also enhances brand recognition in each market.

Shopify Markets allows the setup of subdirectories for each language or region under the same main domain, such as “myshop.com/en” for English, “myshop.com/fr” for French, and “myshop.com/de” for German. Using subdirectories helps easily manage local versions of the store, improve user experience, and optimize costs related to maintaining multiple domains.

2.4 Localized payment methods

Payment methods significantly influence purchasing decisions. According to a Worldpay report, 27% of users will abandon the checkout process if they cannot find their preferred payment method.

With Shopify Markets, you can offer your customers a variety of local payment options, alongside familiar choices like credit/debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Some examples of local payment method integrations include:

  • China: AliPay, WeChat
  • Singapore: PayNow
  • Australia: Klarna, Afterpay
  • Vietnam: ZaloPay, VNPay

2.5 Estimate & collect duties and tax

When selling in international markets, pricing can be affected by duties and import tax. In many cases, unexpected costs for customers can lead to a negative shopping experience.

The Shopify Markets solution can help address this issue. This tool can calculate taxes based on the shipping address and the legal regulations of each country, including value-added tax (VAT), sales tax, and other import duties. When customers proceed to checkout, the system clearly displays these taxes, helping them understand the total shopping cost and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Shopify Markets also collects and remits these taxes to the appropriate tax authorities, saving your time and effort in handling tax procedures. This feature also integrates with shipping services to ensure all tax-related costs are accurately reflected, allowing you to plan expenses more effectively. Therefore, you can comply with legal regulations, enhance the customer shopping experience, and optimize your operations.

3. Shopify Markets and the plans

Shopify Markets is included in all Shopify plans, but the features available to merchants vary by plan. Here are the core features that all Shopify merchants can use when embracing Shopify Markets:

  • Support for selling in 136 currencies and 20 languages
  • Customize domains and subdirectories to optimize search engine performance for each market
  • Integrate with a variety of local payment options

For the higher-tier plans, Advanced and Plus, merchants can access exclusive features. This is particularly beneficial for larger enterprises looking to establish and maintain a strong, competitive presence in international markets:

  • Automatic tax calculation
  • Calculate and collect import tax at checkout
  • Manage fulfillments in each market

4. Shopify Markets Pro

Shopify Markets Pro

Shopify Markets Pro is the upgraded version of Shopify Markets, designed to offer more advanced features. This solution aims to support large-scale merchants in efficiently and flexibly managing complex international operations. The “Pro” version helps sell in over 150 different markets, providing powerful tools to optimize operations, manage taxes and costs, and enhance the international customer experience.

Some special features exclusive to the Pro version include:

  • Exclusive discounts on international shipping, order tracking, and expedited delivery worldwide within 1-5 days.
  • AllowShopify to handle compliance with legal and tax procedures.
  • Recommend top payment methods for each market.
  • Suggest to remove products that are prohibited for import in each market.
  • Protect fraud for international orders.
  • Ensure stable exchange rates to avoid financial risks associated with currency fluctuations or refund variations.

5. Benefits of using Shopify Markets

  • Quickly set up and optimize international stores
  • Manage all target stores from a single dashboard
  • Simplify currency localization by displaying product prices in the target market’s currency
  • Localize language and web content to optimize SEO
  • Offer local payment options without restrictions
  • Localize the website interface to create a familiar and engaging shopping experience
  • Localization boosts conversion rates, sales, and customer satisfaction
  • Automate tax estimation and collection to optimize budget plans

6. Limits of using Shopify Markets

  • You need to use the Shopify Markets Pro version to access more advanced features.
  • The Shopify website does not support translations of language variants. For example, Simplified/Traditional Chinese and Brazilian/European Portuguese.
  • Currency conversion fees are quite high: 1.5% per transaction for the standard version and 2.5% per transaction for the Pro version.

Final Words

Shopify Markets is truly a robust solution for going globally and manage target stores efficiently and flexibly. However, alongside its strengths, this solution also has several notable limitations.

Depending on the scale, number of target stores, and the need to create a customized shopping experience, you can weigh the standard version against the Pro version. Nevertheless, you must carefully consider cost factors and management capabilities to ensure these solutions align with your strategies.

Need more advice? Contact SECOMM today!

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Top 8 Popular Wine eCommerce Websites In Singapore
Top 8 Most-Visited Wine eCommerce Websites in Singapore

The wine eCommerce industry in Singapore is thriving, offering a wide variety of choices for consumers who appreciate fine wines and spirits from around the world. With the convenience and diversity of eCommerce websites, purchasing wine online has become easier than ever.

The following article introduces 8 leading wine eCommerce websites in Singapore, known as popular shopping destinations for modern consumers.

1. Paneco

Paneco is one of the most beloved wine eCommerce sites in Singapore, renowned for its product quality, delivery service, and customer care. Established with the aim of providing a convenient and reliable online shopping experience, Paneco offers a rich catalog ranging from wines and spirits to specialty beers and sake.

Focusing on customer experience, Paneco chose the Spree Open Source platform to build its eCommerce website, allowing for customization and scalability. Features such as inventory display, product variations, combo purchases, and bulk buying have been optimized for customization. Paneco also implemented a loyalty program, enabling customers to register as members, earn points from purchases, and enjoy exclusive prices.

  • Website: https://www.paneco.com.sg/
  • Platform: Spree Open Source
  • Traffic: 183,355/month
  • Ranking: #6,049 (Singapore) & #508,951 (Global)

2. Cellarbration

Cellarbration is an ideal destination in Singapore for wine and alcohol enthusiasts. This brand boasts an extensive collection of wines and alcoholic beverages from a wide variety of leading global brands.

Shopping on Cellarbration’s eCommerce website is highly optimized through the power of the Magento platform. Every aspect, from search functions and product browsing to checkout, is deeply customized to ensure an engaging shopping experience for customers.

Cellarbration is distinguished not only by its wide range of products but also by its professional and dedicated customer service. The brand is committed to customer satisfaction by offering personalized support and a variety of payment and delivery options.

3. The Liquor Shop

The Liquor Shop is one of the prominent brands in the wine ommerce sector in Singapore, known for its richness and variety of high-quality imported liquors. With a mission to bring customers the finest liquor products from around the world, The Liquor Shop offers a range of options, from wines, whiskies, rums, and tequilas to unique beers and sojus.

This retailer’s liquor website is built on the infrastructure of Shopify Plus, allowing for easy customization of many features such as age verification, quick purchase, product search suggestions, and upselling prompts. Additionally, Shopify Plus’ flexible system enables integration with a range of popular payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Visa/MasterCard.

4. Wine Connection

In Singapore, the Wine Connection brand is a favorite destination for wine enthusiasts looking to explore premium wines from the most famous wine regions worldwide. Wine Connection also offers customers a rich and diverse collection of wines.

Wine Connection’s Magento website is optimized for an enhanced experience, allowing customers to search for wines by origin, grape variety, and explore special collections, as well as choose preferred payment and delivery methods.

Not only does Wine Connection provide a modern and engaging online shopping space, but it also serves as a source of wine knowledge. Customers can find articles and detailed guides on selecting and enjoying wines to better understand the art and science behind the exquisite flavors.

5. Millesima

Founded in 1983, Millesima is a reputable brand in the global retail wine industry, particularly renowned for its specialization in premium wines. Originating from France, Millesima has expanded its operations to many countries, including Singapore, to provide consumers with the opportunity to experience high-quality wines from renowned vineyards worldwide.

Millesima’s strength lies in its meticulous selection of wine products, ensuring high quality and clear origins. The product portfolio of Millesima includes wines from Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, and many other famous wine-producing regions. Customers can find classic wines, limited editions, and even internationally award-winning bottles.

Millesima’s eCommerce wine website is elegantly designed and user-friendly, making it easy for buyers to search for detailed information about products and place orders online. Additionally, Millesima offers professional advisory services to help customers select wines that suit their preferences and needs.

  • Website: https://www.millesima.sg/
  • Framework: Next.js
  • Programming language: Node.js
  • Traffic: 72,445/month
  • Ranking: #28,409 (Singapore) & #2,950,063 (Global)

6. Wine Fridge Singapore

Wine Fridge Singapore is a prominent brand in providing wine cabinets and related products for wine storage in Singapore. Known for professionalism and high quality, Wine Fridge Singapore specializes in offering wine cabinets from renowned brands, ensuring the ideal conditions for wine storage.

The strength of Wine Fridge Singapore lies not only in providing quality products but also in professional customer advisory and support services. They understand the needs of wine enthusiasts and collectors, providing suitable storage solutions to maintain the flavor and quality of wine over time.

The website of Wine Fridge Singapore provides detailed information about various wine cabinets, from small-capacity cabinets for personal needs to large cabinets for extensive wine collections. Some customized features include product comparisons, selecting products by size and color, quick payments with Shop Pay or Google Pay, etc.

  • Website: winefridge.sg
  • Platform: Shopify
  • Traffic: 69,460/month
  • Ranking: #14,757 (Singapore) & #1,874,271 (Global)

7. Wines Wholesales

The Wine Wholesales brand is known as a destination for purchasing high-quality wines, wine cabinets, and related accessories at attractive wholesale prices. This brand has built its reputation through product diversity and quality services, aiming to provide customers with smooth and convenient online wine shopping experiences.

The eCommerce website of Wine Wholesales is user-friendly, making it easy to search for and select products. Customers can easily find detailed information about each wine, including origin, flavor profile, and reviews from previous buyers. Additionally, Wine Wholesales regularly offers promotions and discounts, allowing consumers to purchase quality products at affordable prices.

  • Website: wineswholesales.com.sg
  • Platform: Shopify
  • Traffic: 58,550/month
  • Ranking: #16,845 (Singapore) & #1,961,760 (Global)

8. Wines Online Singapore

This is a prominent name in the retail wine sector in Singapore, specializing in providing premium wines from around the world. Wines Online’s strength lies in its product diversity, ranging from wines and spirits to soju and sake, especially low-alcohol or non-alcoholic beverages.

Wines Online’s eCommerce website is built on Shopify, featuring an intuitive interface that allows customers to easily search for and select products. Wines Online Singapore is also known for its fast and reliable delivery service. They ensure that products are delivered to customers safely and on time. Additionally, Wines Online’s advisory team is always available to assist customers with any inquiries or requests, ensuring that every customer has the best shopping experience.

Wrap Up!

Here are the 8 most prominent eCommerce wine websites in Singapore. Each brand brings its own unique advantages, from product diversity and service quality to convenient shopping experiences.

Looking for advice on building an eCommerce wine website? Contact SECOMM now!

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03/06/2024
Top 10 Best Furniture eCommerce Websites in Singapore
Top 10 Most-Visited Furniture eCommerce Websites in Singapore

Shopping for furniture through eCommerce platforms has become a defining trend in modern living, particularly in developed nations like Singapore. Online furniture shopping offers not just convenience but also gives consumers to a diverse range of styles and price points.

The following article introduces the top 10 furniture eCommerce websites in Singapore, where you can find inspiration to develop your own similar website.

1. FortyTwoFortyTwo

FortyTwo is a furniture and home goods brand, established in 2007 in Singapore. FortyTwo offers a wide range of products from bedroom furniture, living room sets, kitchenware to home accessories and interior decor. Renowned for providing quality products at competitive prices, along with fast delivery and attentive customer service, the brand frequently updates and expands its product portfolio to meet diverse customer needs.

FortyTwo’s website is built on the Magento Open Source platform (Adobe Commerce free version). With this eCommerce website, users can easily search and filter products, explore a variety of product categories from furniture to home goods. Additionally, the website offers the capability to integrate enticing promotional tools and customer support, accompanied by fast and secure delivery services.

  • Website: https://www.fortytwo.sg/
  • Platform: Magento Open Source
  • Traffic: 625,855/month
  • Ranking: #493 (Singapore) & #107,563 (Global)

2. BEDANDBASICSBEDANDBASICS

BEDANDBASICS is a leading eCommerce website in Singapore, specializing in providing quality furniture at affordable prices. The BEDANDBASICS website is built on the Magento platform, one of the most popular eCommerce platforms today. This not only enables the website to have high scalability and customization but also ensures stable operational performance and security for online transactions.

Using Magento, this brand can optimize product management, orders, and inventory, while also providing a more engaging shopping experience. The inventory management system automatically updates product quantities in real-time, ensuring that customers are always aware of the stock status of the products. Additionally, the website supports various payment methods, including the buy now, pay later option with Atome.

  • Website: https://www.bedandbasics.sg/
  • Platforms: Magento Open Source
  • Traffic: 328,869/month
  • Ranking: #3,046 (Singapore) & #542,773 (Global)

3. HipVanHipVan

HipVan is an online retail eCommerce website for furniture and home decor based in Singapore. Established in 2013, the brand aims to provide customers with high-quality furniture products at affordable prices, along with convenient shopping experiences and attentive customer service.

HipVan’s furniture eCommerce website is built using the Ruby on Rails and React frameworks, with Ruby as the primary programming language. Prominent features of HipVan include building a community for sharing interior design ideas, image-based product search, and allowing customers to upload images of desired products. Particularly, the augmented reality (AR) feature enables customers to view products in their real-life space before purchasing. Moreover, HipVan offers free interior design planning services, helping customers conveniently ideate and plan their living spaces.

  • Website: https://www.hipvan.com/
  • Framework: Ruby on Rails, React
  • Traffic: 215,919/month
  • Ranking: #1,034 (Singapore) & #225,419 (Global)

4. JiJi.SGJiJiSG

JiJi.SG is one of the favored online shopping destinations for furniture items in Singapore. Here, customers can easily find a diverse range of high-quality products from chairs, beds, sofas to household items such as shelves, cabinets, and towels.

Built on the PrestaShop platform, JiJi.SG’s eCommerce website boasts high flexibility, making it easy to customize and expand to accommodate increasing traffic. The website allows searching and filtering products by size, color, and design, helping customers easily find items that meet their needs. JiJi.SG provides customer support services via live chat, offering a convenient and quick online shopping experience. Additionally, JiJi.SG offers a variety of payment methods, including the PayNow eWallet – one of the popular payment methods in Singapore, providing convenience and peace of mind for customers during transactions.

  • Website: https://jiji.sg/
  • Platform: PrestaShop
  • Traffic: 186,269/month
  • Ranking: #4,927 (Singapore) & #595,711 (Global)

5. Urban MoodUrban-Mood

Urban Mood is renowned throughout Singapore and several countries in the Asian region for its finely crafted, high-quality, and contemporary furniture products. Urban Mood’s range extends from living rooms to dining rooms, from bedrooms to kitchens. All are meticulously curated to bring freshness and uniqueness to customers’ living spaces.

Urban Mood has chosen Shopify to build a customized eCommerce website aimed at selling in foreign markets and reaching a broader base of potential customers. Accordingly, Urban Mood has integrated international shipping features and customized currency display to cater to different market needs. Additionally, the brand has integrated ShopBack, allowing customers to experience cashback shopping directly on Urban Mood’s eCommerce website.

  • Website: https://urbanmood.sg/
  • Platform: Shopify
  • Traffic: 185,599/month
  • Ranking: #2,116 (Singapore) & #382,104 (Global)

6. Comfort FurnitureComfort Furniture

Comfort Furniture is known as one of the leading furniture retail brands in Singapore. With over 20 years of presence in the market, this powerhouse has brought a wide range of quality, aesthetically pleasing products to Singaporean consumers, catering to various styles. Comfort Furniture not only emphasizes product quality but also places special emphasis on customer service. They are committed to providing fast delivery and attentive after-sales support, ensuring that customers’ shopping experiences are always excellent.

Comfort Furniture’s eCommerce website is custom-built to provide an optimal shopping experience. Customers can not only check the inventory of any product but also choose the color and size. Comfort Furniture offers a large color code list and has an experienced team available to advise customers on selecting products and coordinating suitable colors for each space.

7. MegafurnitureMegafurniture

Megafurniture is a leading furniture retail giant in the Singapore market. With a commitment to providing luxurious and convenient living spaces for customers, Megafurniture has become the perfect choice for those seeking creative ideas to design their own unique living spaces.

Megafurniture’s furniture eCommerce website is beautifully designed and optimized on the Shopify Plus platform, with clearly organized categories to help customers easily search, select, and purchase products. Especially, the website also provides detailed information about each product, including images, descriptions, and specifications, helping customers make purchasing decisions more effectively.

Megafurniture allows customers to pay upfront and pay later through flexible payment methods such as Grab and Atome, creating convenient conditions for customers in managing finances and choosing suitable payment methods.

To encourage repeat shopping activities, Megafurniture integrates ShopBack into the Shopify Plus eCommerce system to implement a cashback shopping program. This helps customers receive a portion of cash back after each purchase, increasing the competitiveness and attractiveness of shopping at Megafurniture.

8. OriginalsOriginals

Beloved across Singapore in recent years, Originals offers consumers high-end and unique furniture products. Items at Originals are impeccably designed, blending modernity with minimalist style. From sofas, dining tables, beds to decorative items, each product is designed to bring comfort and style to living spaces.

Originals leverages Shopify Plus to build an eCommerce website that focuses on user experience and interactivity. The interface is intuitively designed and minimalist, easy to navigate, allowing customers to easily search for products, make purchases, and complete transactions.

9. Grey & SandersGrey & Sanders

Grey & Sanders, a renowned furniture brand from Singapore, is known for its exquisite craftsmanship and superior quality products. Specializing in furniture made from natural wood and premium leather, from dining tables, sofas, beds to decorative accessories, all are designed to bring natural beauty and luxury to living spaces.

Grey & Sanders utilizes the Magento platform to build its eCommerce website and leverages the flexibility of this platform to handle large transaction volumes and high traffic. The interface is designed to be bright, friendly, and easy to navigate, helping users easily search for and select products. Moreover, the website integrates a geolocation feature to help customers easily locate Grey & Sanders stores on an intuitive map.

  • Website: https://greyandsanders.com/
  • Platform: Magento Open Source
  • Traffic: 45,526/month
  • Ranking: #11,668 (Singapore) & #1,600,842 (Global)

10. W.AtelierWAtelier

W.Atelier is a leading furniture retailer in Singapore, specializing in providing premium and unique products from some of the world’s most prominent brands such as Cassina, Binova, Fritz Hansen, and Geberit. Customers can find modern, sophisticated, and stylish furniture suitable for various spaces, from small apartments to luxurious villas.

The W.Atelier eCommerce website is built on the Shopcada platform, focusing on designing an easy and convenient online shopping experience, with clear product categories and detailed information. Additionally, W.Atelier is renowned for its professional customer service and thoughtful after-sales policies, ensuring that every shopping experience is smooth and satisfactory. With a commitment to quality and style, W.Atelier has become one of the leading furniture brands in Singapore, the ideal choice for those seeking perfection and sophistication in every detail of their living spaces.

  • Website: https://www.watelier.com/
  • Platform: Shopcada
  • Traffic: 35,884/month
  • Ranking: #18,943 (Singapore) & #2,261,585 (Global)

Final Words

Here are 10 eCommerce furniture websites from major brands in Singapore. These websites have been the go-to online shopping destinations for consumers here for many years whenever they need inspiration to decorate their living spaces. By applying modern technologies and smart business strategies, these giants have provided customers with the most authentic furniture shopping experience in the online environment.

Need advice for building eCommerce furniture website? Contact SECOMM today!

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30/05/2024
Top 5 Best eCommerce Platforms in Singapore
Top 5 Favorite eCommerce Platforms in Singapore

eCommerce in Singapore is continuously evolving with the emergence of new technological solutions. As a result, the options for eCommerce platforms are becoming increasingly abundant and diverse. This presents both opportunities and challenges for every merchant, as selecting the right platform to build an eCommerce website is a crucial first step.

Here are the five most commonly used eCommerce platforms in the Lion City.

1. ShopifyShopify

Shopify is a popular SaaS eCommerce platform with over 4.8 million active websites. In Australia alone, over 8 thousands live stores are operating on the Shopify platform.

Recently, the premium version of Shopify, ‘Plus,’ has garnered attention from businesses across various sectors in Singapore. These merchants may have previously deployed different eCommerce platforms and later switched to Shopify Plus to seek a superior solution. Some merchants initially launched websites with standard Shopify packages and later upgraded to ‘Plus’ to optimize their operations.

Key features:

  • Point-Of-Sale (POS)
  • Email Marketing
  • Blogging
  • SEO
  • Multi-marketplace selling
  • Headless Commerce
  • Automation (for Shopify Plus merchants)
  • Composable Commerce (for Shopify Plus merchants)
  • Omnichannel (for Shopify Plus merchants)

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Provides drag-and-drop builder
  • High scalability and customizability, especially with the ‘Plus’ package
  • Diverse range of unique themes suitable for various industries
  • Extensive app store
  • Supports multiple local payment gateways
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Rich learning resources
  • Large user community

Cons:

  • On-going costs increase over time
  • Limited customizability and scalability in core Shopify plans
  • The eCommerce system relies on Shopify

Pricing:pricing

Shopify Pricing

2. MagentoMagento

Magento is a globally popular open-source platform, and its prevalence extends to Australia as well.  According to BuiltWith, there are currently about 661 e-commerce websites operating on the Magento platform in the Lion Island.

With its high flexibility, merchants can effortlessly tailor features and scale the system according to their unique business requirements.

Presently, Magento provides two versions: Open Source (Free) and Adobe Commerce (Paid).

Key features:

  • Multi-brand solution
  • Inventory management
  • Headless Commerce implementation
  • Loyalty program development
  • Advanced search
  • High-security measures
  • Progressive Web Apps (PWA)
  • Enhanced SEO

Pros:

  • Best for large businesses with complex customization needs and high-budget investments.
  • High customization and scalability capabilities.
  • Rich built-in features and advanced functionalities compared to SaaS platforms.
  • No limit on sales volume.
  • Diverse range of extensions available.
  • Large user community.

Cons:

  • Requires a high level of technical expertise.
  • Deployment time is relatively long.
  • Initial costs are high.

Pricing:

  • The cost to implement Magento Open Source is approximately $20,000 – $50,000 per project in the first year and the time to go live ranges from 3 to 6 months depending on the project’s complexity.
  • The estimated cost to implement Adobe Commerce is around $100,000 – $150,000 per project in the first year, with the time to go live ranging from 6 months to 1 year depending on the project’s complexity.

3. WooCommerceWooCommerce

WooCommerce, a free and open-source WordPress plugin, enables brands to integrate eCommerce functionality into their existing WordPress websites. With just a few clicks, the WooCommerce plugin helps convert a standard WordPress site into a fully-featured eCommerce platform, complete with essential features and easy customization. At the time of writing, there are over 13,000 WooCommerce eCommerce websites operating effectively in Singapore.

Key features:

  • Multi-marketplace selling
  • Selling a diverse range of products
  • Remote operation with a mobile app
  • Customization and expansion
  • Blogging
  • SEO

Pros:

  • Free and open-source
  • Seamless integration with WordPress
  • User-friendly interface
  • Large user community
  • In-depth analytics and reporting
  • Support for various products and payment methods

Cons:

  • Lack of support for technical and security issues
  • Some integrations demand advanced technical skills
  • Relies on the WordPress system
  • Multilingual deployment may sometimes have limitations.
  • Potential costs may accrue over time

Pricing: Free to use. However, some integrations with other plugins may incur charges.

4. Open CartOpen Cart

OpenCart is a globally popular open-source eCommerce platform, powering over 900 thousand active websites worldwide. In Singapore, it has gained popularity with more than 1,600 live OpenCart sites, establishing itself as a favored open-source platform in the country, following Magento.

Founded by Daniel Kerr in 1998, OpenCart operates as open-source software, utilizing the PHP programming language. It currently offers two versions: Free (Free-to-use version) and Cloud Store (Paid version).

Key features:

  • Diverse payment and delivery methods
  • Multilingual capabilities
  • Multi-marketplace selling
  • Seamless management of products, orders, and inventory
  • Headless Commerce deployment
  • Blogging
  • SEO

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Extensive library of themes and apps
  • Flexible customizability and scalability
  • No transaction fees

Cons:

  • Requires strong technical skills
  • Lacks advanced extension features
  • Many hidden costs

Pricing:

Free for the Free version. For the Cloud Store version, the specific costs are as follows:pricing

The ‘Cloud Store’ version pricing plan

5. PrestaShopPrestaShop

Another open-source platform that is equally popular in Singapore is PrestaShop, with over 270 eCommerce websites currently in operation. The strength of PrestaShop lies in its flexibility and high customization capabilities, allowing users to easily adjust functionalities and interfaces to meet their specific needs. Additionally, with a vibrant developer community and thousands of available modules and themes, PrestaShop not only provides a comprehensive eCommerce solution but also continuous support to ensure that websites run smoothly and efficiently.

Key features:

  • Flexible module approach
  • Advanced product management
  • Advanced order and customer management
  • Multi-language and multi-currency support
  • SEO integration
  • Comprehensive reporting and analytics

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface
  • High customization and scalability
  • Free license
  • Large user community
  • Multilingual customer support services

Cons:

  • Costs may arise during deployment
  • Require technical skills for optimization and customization
  • Performance and page load speed issues may occur with increased traffic if not well-optimized
  • Official support from the provider is limited

Pricing: Free to use, but charges apply for complex requirements

Choosing The Right eCommerce Platform

These are the five popular eCommerce platforms in Singapore that many merchants choose to build their eCommerce websites. Depending on specific implementation needs, businesses can consider the most suitable platform.

Need more advice? Contact SECOMM today!

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28/05/2024
Top 5 Best Multi-Vendor Marketplace Platforms In Singapore
5 Best Platforms For Building Your First Multi-Vendor Marketplace in Singapore

Shopping on multi-vendor marketplaces has become an essential part of modern life, particularly in Singapore, one of the busiest commercial hubs in Asia. As such, building and efficiently managing an eCommerce marketplace is crucial for businesses. However, selecting the right platform can be challenging. This article will introduce the five most reliable platforms that many businesses in Singapore use to build their own.

1. Yo!KartYo!Kart

Yo!Kart is a leading self-hosted eCommerce solution that businesses can consider for building a custom multi-vendor marketplace. Designed to be user-friendly, Yo!Kart allows businesses to have full control, customization, and flexible scalability to manage and operate their eCommerce platform more effectively.

Key features:

  • Admin features
  • Seller features
  • Customer features
  • Built-in analytics and reporting
  • Advanced search
  • SEO
  • Mobile apps for both sellers and buyers

Pros:

  • Full control over the system
  • Flexible customizability & scalability
  • User-friendly interface
  • 1-year technical support
  • Good customer services
  • SEO-friendly architecture

Pros:

  • Require high technical skills
  • Resource-intensive, especially for large-scale marketplaces

Price: Starting from $1099/year. However, costs may vary based on specific requirements.

2. CS-Cart Multi-VendorCS-Cart Multi-Vendor

CS-Cart Multi-Vendor is known as a specialized platforms for building multi-vendor marketplaces with robust customization and scalability. With over 26 integrated languages and numerous unique features, this platform is an all-in-one solution suitable for various industries and deployment needsneeds.

Key features:

  • Admin features
  • Seller features
  • Buyer features
  • Advanced order management
  • Commission fee system
  • Seamless integration with multiple payment gateways
  • Real-time estimated shipping costs
  • SEO

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Mobile-friendly design
  • Diverse payment methods
  • High scalability for businesses of all sizes
  • Rich learning resources
  • Good customer services

Cons:

  • Require high technical skills
  • Resource-intensive, especially for large-scale marketplaces

Price: Pricing may vary depending on specific needs

3. YeloYelo

Yelo is flexible multi-vendor marketplace designed to help businesses of all sizes easily create and manage their online store. With Yelo, businesses can quickly build custom eCommerce marketplaces equipped with comprehensive features for administrators, sellers, and buyers.

Key features:

  • Admin features
  • Seller features
  • Buyer features
  • Support 50+ languages, 100+ payment gateways and 500+ integrations
  • Provide various UI/UX themes
  • Intuitive dashboard for streamlining business process

Pros:

  • Ease of use
  • Diverse and comprehensive features
  • High customization
  • Multi-channel support services

Cons:

  • Some advanced features and integrations require additional fees
  • Some integrations requires high technical skills

Giá: Costs start at $12/month

4. OmnyfyOmnyfy

Omnyfy is a powerful multi-vendor marketplace designed to meet the needs of both B2B and B2C businesses. With its multi-channel management support and flexible integrations. Omnyfy enables businesses to create a comprehensive eCommerce ecosystem, from product management to customer service.

Key features:

Pros:

  • Intuitive and easy-to-use interface
  • Multi-device compatible design
  • Multi-channel sales management
  • Strong support for both B2C and B2B models
  • Highly customizable
  • Easy integration

Cons:

  • Complex implementation
  • Resource-intensive for large-scale eCommerce marketplaces
  • Lack of published pricing makes cost estimation difficult
  • Requires high technical skills for customization and integration

Price: Pricing may vary depending on specific needs

5. Nautical CommerceNautical Commerce

Nautical Commerce is favored by businesses in Singapore for providing a range of comprehensive solutions to make managing and operating multi-vendor marketplaces easier. With Nautical Commerce, businesses can leverage the latest technologies to improve business efficiency and enhance user experience.

Key features:

  • Admin features
  • Seller features
  • Buyer features
  • Advanced inventory management
  • Seamless integration with 3rd-party systems

Pros:

  • High customization and scalability
  • Multiple integrations
  • High security

Cons:

  • Complex deployment
  • Lengthy deployment time
  • Requires technical skills during deployment
  • Lack of published pricing makes cost estimation difficult

Price: Pricing may vary depending on specific needs but 14-day free trial available

Final Words

Here are 10 popular and reliable multi-vendor marketplace platforms widely deployed in Singapore. From Yo!Kart, CS-Cart Multi-Vendor, Yelo to Omnyfy and Nautical Commerce, each platform has its own pros and cons, suitable for different needs.

Need advice on deploying an eCommerce marketplace? Contact SECOMM today!

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25/05/2024
5 Steps For Choosing The Right B2B eCommerce Platform
5 Steps For Choosing The Right B2B eCommerce Platform

B2B eCommerce represents a vast opportunity, often likened to a sizable cake sliced evenly for every business. Bobby Morrison, Shopify’s Chief Revenue Officer, echoes this sentiment, suggesting that this business model will be a significant opportunity for enterprises of all sizes in 2024 and beyond.

Selecting the appropriate B2B eCommerce platform is pivotal for success, yet with the multitude of options available, it’s not always a straightforward decision. Let’s delve into the key considerations when choosing a B2B eCommerce platform and explore the essential steps to ensure that the chosen platform aligns best with the business’s needs.

Read more: B2B eCommerce: The next big opportunity in 2024 and beyond

1. Key Considerations for Choosing the Best B2B eCommerce PlatformKey Considerations for choosing the best B2B eCommerce platform

When confronted with various B2B eCommerce platforms, making an accurate decision requires careful consideration of the following important factors:

1.1 SaaS vs Open Source

These are the two most common deployment models when it comes to eCommerce in general and B2B eCommerce in particular. B2B eCommerce SaaS platforms are services provided over the internet and run on the service provider’s cloud infrastructure. Some familiar service providers are Shopify and BigCommerce. Data is stored on the service provider’s servers, and they will directly manage it. This ensures high flexibility, low initial costs, and easy scalability, but businesses will face some limitations regarding customization and data control.

On the other hand, Open Source platforms like Magento or OpenCart are publicly available source code, and developers can modify them. This allows for optimized control and freedom to customize as needed. However, managing open-source code also requires high technical knowledge and may pose some security risks.

1.2 Integration with existing system

Choosing a B2B eCommerce platform capable of seamless integration with existing systems will optimize business operations and create a better experience for both the enterprise and its customers. Several aspects need to be considered when evaluating integration capabilities:

  • Data integration: The B2B platform needs to have the ability to integrate data with ERP systems, CRM, payment systems, and other applications effortlessly. This ensures that information about orders, customers, and products is seamlessly shared across systems.
  • Workflow processes: The new platform should integrate well with existing workflow processes in the enterprise, including order placement, order processing, and customer service. This helps ensure that no disruptions occur in the business process.
  • APIs and external integrations: A platform that offers robust APIs will allow the business to integrate third-party tools and services into its system to extend capabilities and flexibility.

1.3 Scalability

The scalability of a B2B eCommerce platform is extremely important to ensure that a business can grow flexibly and efficiently. The platform needs to be able to handle large volumes of traffic, manage data effectively, integrate with expandable services, and be flexible in customization and adjustments. This helps businesses optimize costs and enhance productivity, while also preparing for future growth.

1.4 Customer service and technical support

This is an essential component of any B2B eCommerce platform. It ensures that the business has the necessary resources and support to address technical issues and challenges, as well as to ensure that customers are best supported. Services need to provide quick, quality responses, offer diverse communication channels, detailed support documentation, and continuous training to ensure an optimal experience for all parties involved.

1.5 Security and Compliance

Protecting the vital information of customers and businesses is extremely crucial, especially in the eCommerce industry where sensitive data such as payment information and personal details are exchanged regularly. B2B platforms must adhere to safety standards like GDPR or PCI DSS. Safeguarding server infrastructure and networks is essential to ensure system security against attacks like DDoS, for instance.

2. 5 steps to Choose the Best B2B eCommerce Platform5 steps to choose the best B2B eCommerce platform

Once you have a clear understanding of the important factors to consider when choosing a B2B eCommerce platform, the next step is to identify specific steps to select the platform that best suits the needs and business objectives of the enterprise. Here are some basic steps that may be helpful in this process:

Step 1: Partner with a trusted development agency

Starting by partnering with a reputable and experienced development partner in the eCommerce field can make the deployment process smoother. Developers like SECOMM have professional teams with experience deploying various B2B platforms, enabling them to advise and propose the most suitable solutions for specific business needs. Deep understanding of technical aspects and business processes ensures that the deployment project runs smoothly and achieves desired results.

Step 2: Identify business goals

This is a crucial step where the business and development partner need to clearly define short-term and long-term business goals, determine whether to integrate B2C and B2B sales within the same system, and establish criteria for selecting a platform. Additionally, listing the features to be implemented in the B2B eCommerce system is essential for quickly finding a platform that meets the business requirements.

Step 3: Identify budget

The business needs to make decisions considering both budget and timeline to complete the project.

Regarding budget, implementing a B2B eCommerce project will involve various related costs, so when choosing, the business needs to consider whether the platform’s price will affect the overall budget. In particular, the deployment costs of SaaS and Open Source platforms differ significantly and will also impact the business’s decision.

Next, the business needs to determine the desired go-live time – the moment when the B2B eCommerce website goes live. This will depend on the complexity of the project and the business’s chosen platform model. While typical projects deployed on SaaS take about 3 to 4 months to go live, with Open Source, it takes around 6 months to 1 year.

Step 4: Research and compare

This step requires a thorough research process on the available B2B eCommerce platforms in the market and conducting comparisons based on specific criteria such as price, features, performance, security, scalability, and customization, as well as user feedback. Businesses can collaborate with development partners to carry out this process. By conducting careful research and comparisons, businesses gain a comprehensive picture and deep understanding of each option to make the most appropriate decision.

Step 5: Select the platform and plan to deploy

Based on the results of the research and comparison process, the business proceeds to select the platform that best fits its needs and business objectives. Next, the business and its partner need to develop a detailed plan for the deployment process with that platform, including specific deployment steps for each phase in the short and long term, as well as the resources and estimated time for each phase.

Read more: Top 5 platforms for B2B eCommerce

3. Final Words

Above are the specific 5-step process and factors to consider for businesses to select the B2B eCommerce platform that best aligns with their goals. Throughout the research and platform selection process, the development partner plays a role as a reliable companion, providing necessary suggestions and support in the platform selection and deployment planning process.

Need advice on choosing your right platform? Contact SECOMM today!

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23/05/2024
IT Outsourcing in Vietnam Benefits and Challenges
IT Outsourcing in Vietnam: Benefits and Challenges

IT outsourcing has become a prevalent strategy in today’s business landscape, offering several advantages such as cost savings, access to specialized expertise, and operational agility. For years, Vietnam has stood out as a prime destination for IT outsourcing due to its favorable business ecosystem, competitive labor costs, and government support.

In this blog post, SECOMM explores why Vietnam is an ideal choice for businesses seeking to outsource their IT requirements. We’ll delve into the country’s strengths and potential drawbacks, providing valuable insights for decision-makers.

1. Overview of Vietnam’s IT Outsourcing SectorOverview of Vietnam’s IT Outsourcing Sector

Vietnam’s dedication to advancing science and technology has led to a flourishing ICT market, valued at $7.7 billion in 2021, with ongoing growth fueled by digital adoption in both the public and private sectors.

Macroeconomic Influence: Vietnam has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies globally, buoyed by a stable political environment and government support for the IT industry. Furthermore, rising investments in cutting-edge technology and startup funding fuel the market’s expansion.

Strategic Focus: According to the International Trade Administration, the Vietnamese government recognizes Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as a pivotal industry and a driver of socio-economic progress. Additionally, Vietnam’s commitment to core tech advancements is evident through significant investments in AI and cloud computing by the government and major companies.

Due to the above elements, the IT outsourcing industry in Vietnam is growing rapidly with an impressive annual growth rate of 16.38% from 2024 to 2028, resulting in a substantial market volume of US$1,282.00 million by 2028.

2. Evaluating Opportunities and Challenges

A. Opportunities in Vietnam’s IT Outsourcing LandscapeOpportunities in Vietnam's IT Outsourcing Landscape

The Majority Of Developers Are Young And Tech-Savvy

Around 56% of developers fall within the 20 – 29 years age group, this number is expected to form about one-third of Vietnam’s workforce by 2025.

There are approximately 50,000 to 57,000 students who graduate in university IT programs annually. Due to this, Vietnam was ranked among the top 10 globally for IT graduates and the top 6 for quality software services. TopDev’s 2023 report highlights that Vietnam’s robust community of around 530,000 tech professionals is well-suited to meet the varied demands of international businesses.

Moreover, the Ministry of Education and Training manages IT education in Vietnam. Recent changes have allowed more flexibility in higher education institutions to encourage innovation. For instance, separate entrance exams for each institution have been eliminated, resulting in improved admission rates.

Rising Cutting-Edge Technologies

Cloud computing in Vietnam has grown at a 30% CAGR recently, driven by robust IT infrastructure and data centers. This progress aligns with Vietnam’s digital transformation agenda. Moreover, with the aim of data security, many Vietnamese companies prefer “make in Vietnam” cloud computing services to foreign ones.

Vietnam has also made strides in artificial intelligence readiness, moving from 55th to 39th globally. It ranks 9th in East Asia and 5th in ASEAN, with an AI readiness score of 54.48.

Cost-Effectiveness

In 2023, the average monthly salary for developers with fresher-level salaries at $514 and for director-level salaries at $2,680. Overall, the annual salary of a Vietnamese IT developer is $7,173, which is incredibly low, it only amounts to nearly 25% of Chinese wages ($29.840) and around 35% of Indian wages ($20.464). These cost benefits, coupled with a commitment to high-quality workflows, are making Vietnam an increasingly popular choice for international organizations seeking dependable and affordable IT services.

B. The Challenges Coming From The WorkforceThe Challenges Coming From The Workforce

English Efficiency Level Is Not High Among Developers

The IT sector’s language requirements are becoming stricter, with over 9% of foreign companies seeking IT staff with professional English skills. The demand for English proficiency has shifted from a nice-to-have to a must-have. Although Vietnamese tech professionals have strong technical abilities and can communicate effectively, their English-speaking skills may not be as advanced as those in other ASEAN countries.

In 2022, only 5% of Vietnam’s workforce was fluent in English, which is less than the fluency rates in Indonesia (10%), Malaysia (21%), and Thailand (27%). This has caused a challenge in the recruitment process for IT outsourcing that many skilled developers are getting denied due to their English level.

The Lack Of Additional Skills Among Young Developers

Additionally, the new generation of developers, mainly Gen Z, is experiencing a growing skills gap because of the fast-paced technological changes. Yet, an impressive 72% of them are keen to learn digital skills, which is higher than the global average of 52%. This enthusiasm is a positive sign for the future, showing they understand the challenges and are ready to tackle them.

Upon engaging with SECOMM, you will gain access to a dedicated IT team that meets standards in English proficiency and technical competency. Book your FREE consultation with SECOMM’s experts today.

Explore SECOMM’s project: Assembling a Specialized Vietnamese IT Team for LandNow’s Website Development.

3. To Sum Up!

Vietnam’s IT outsourcing market has seen consistent growth, thanks to significant investments from both the government and foreign companies. If you’re seeking an IT team provider in Vietnam, consider SECOMM. Their exceptional talent can drive innovation and elevate your business objectives. Reach out to SECOMM at (+84) 28 7108 9908 to explore a partnership.

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20/05/2024
Highlights of Vietnam eCommerce in Early 2024
Highlights of the Vietnam eCommerce Market in Early 2024

Despite the impact of inflation and economic recession on the Vietnamese economy, consumers are still willing to spend heavily on essential goods. As a temporary solution, they are turning to online shopping channels as one of the ways to deal with rising prices.

In the first two quarters of 2024, the eCommerce market in Vietnam has seen many significant fluctuations with Livestream and Short-video still maintaining their heat as evidenced by the fact that not only TikTok but also the eCommerce giant Shopee is investing heavily in video content. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights of the first few months of the year with SECOMM.

1. eCommerce Market Overview

Vietnam is becoming a fertile market for eCommerce development as the demand for online shopping continues to grow. It is forecast that by 2025, eCommerce (B2B, B2C) will reach approximately $24 billion with a CAGR of 22%.

According to statistics from NIQ, there are about 60 million people nationwide using online shopping systems with an average of 3.5 million daily visits to eCommerce sites.

Among eCommerce platforms, TikTok Shop is expected to continue to grow strongly in the coming time. In the first quarter of 2024, this platform’s revenue increased by more than 239% compared to the same period last year, while Lazada showed signs of a slight decrease. Shopee is still holding the upper hand and always outperforms TikTok Shop and Lazada.

A notable point in the consumer behavior of Vietnamese shoppers is that they tend to focus on social factors (social-oriented), which means that they are interested in how products are being evaluated and promoted on communities and social networks, and from there, make purchasing decisions.

2. Online Shopping is Increasingly Popular

Currently, up to 90% of users intend to maintain or even increase their online shopping frequency on eCommerce platforms in the next year.Online Shopping is Increasingly Popular

Research indicates that while price reductions and special deals are influential, they only explain 90% of consumer shopping patterns. The convenience factors offered by eCommerce, which simplifies shopping to a few quick actions on mobile devices, actually play a slightly larger role, influencing 92% of consumer choices.

This serves as a reminder for companies to prioritize their eCommerce website’s quality to enhance user experience. For instance, Vinamilk has recently revamped its brand identity and collaborated with SECOMM to refine its online system through eCommerce development services.

The Story of Vinamilk: Vinamilk & The Unprecedented Shift Using Shopify Plus

In a certain survey, only 55% of shoppers chose the shopping experience as a key determinant in their online purchasing decisions. With after-sales services such as easy returns or 24/7 customer care, sellers can easily leverage available resources to enhance the customer’s shopping experience.Factors that drive online shopping behavior

According to research from NIQ, on average, a shopper uses 3.1 different platforms within three months instead of being loyal to just one specific platform. Therefore, sellers should strengthen their presence across multiple platforms.On average a shopper uses 3,1 different platforms

3. TikTok is Still a Suitable Platform for Content Marketing

Currently, the trend of ‘Shoppertainment’ remains prevalent, with over 79% of TikTok users making purchases influenced by seller content rather than sales promotions. TikTok is Still a Suitable Platform for Content Marketing

On TikTok, content creation is crucial for merchants to maintain customer engagement and push buying decisions. Ms. Trang Pham, Channel Partner Director at TikTok Vietnam, emphasizes the importance of diversity in advertising and content strategies. She warns that a lack of variety can lead to viewer fatigue.

Consequently, sellers need to understand their customer groups well to create the most suitable content for each group, limit inappropriate content, and utilize cost.

4. Livestream Explodes as a New Touchpoint

Traditional shopping methods like browsing social media or eCommerce websites are becoming less attractive. Livestreaming, however, stands out as a dynamic way to shop online.

In Q1 2024, 95% of online shoppers made purchases through livestreaming, dedicating an average of 13 hours per week watching livestreams. Statistics reveal that 85% of users prefer livestreaming because it allows direct interaction with sellers, while 81% appreciate the ability to view products in greater detail. Notably, livestreaming can drive 64% of users to purchase unintentionally.Livestream Explodes as a New Touchpoint

5. Leveraging the Power of Influencers to Drive Sales

The rise of livestreaming has expanded the influence of content creators and social media influencers. Sellers can leverage these resources to build real connections with consumers. According to NIQ, approximately 50% of consumers are influenced by KOCs/KOLs when making purchasing decisions, with the personal care industry being the most impacted, as 60% of buyers in this category have changed their consumption habits.Leveraging the Power of Influencers to Drive Sales

Influencers and KOCs/KOLs are valued for their trust and realness. Their shared content and insights are key in guiding customers’ buying choices. With more influencers emerging, it’s the quality of their content and real-world knowledge that helps shoppers confidently choose trusted brands online.

6. Conclusion

Online shopping platforms are advancing rapidly, focusing on innovation that puts customers first. For large businesses, along with building brand awareness, improving online stores should always be kept in mind. SECOMM is ready to help companies upgrade their eCommerce platform. Contact SECOMM for a free, detailed consultation.

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18/05/2024
Top 10 Best Must-Have Magento Extensions in 2024 (Free & Paid)
Top 10 Best Must-Have Magento Extensions in 2024 (Free & Paid)

Using Magento extensions isn’t just a trend; it’s a critical factor for the success of an eCommerce website. With the ever-growing market, delivering an optimized online shopping experience has become a must for attracting and retaining customers.

In this context, integrating best-suited Magento extensions into the website system will enhance performance, streamline management, and enrich customer engagement. Let’s explore the top 10 Magento extensions worth integrating to ensure your eCommerce website stands strong amidst fierce competition.

1. What are Magento extensions?

Before delving into the list of top Magento extensions, let’s gain a deeper understanding of this concept. Magento extensions are simply additional software integrated into the Magento platform to extend the functionality and capabilities of Magento websites. These extensions can provide new features, enhance user experience, optimize management, and upgrade core functions such as marketing, payments, shipping, and more.

These extensions are developed by the Magento community, including software development companies and eCommerce service providers. Most of them are available in both free and paid versions. While the free versions typically offer basic features, the paid versions often include advanced features and deeper support services.

2. Benefits of using Magento extensions

Choosing the right Magento extensions is a crucial part of building and managing a successful eCommerce website on the Magento platform. Let’s explore four benefits that using Magento extensions brings:

2.1 Extend functionality

Extensions help expand the functionality of Magento websites by adding new features and capabilities that the core system doesn’t provide. For example, businesses can integrate advanced search features to make it easier for customers to find products, add filters for customers to sort products based on various criteria, or integrate social features to encourage sharing and interaction on social media. As a result, Magento websites can offer a more engaging shopping experience, retaining and attracting more customers.

2.2 Optimize management

One of the significant challenges of managing eCommerce websites in general and Magento websites in particular is efficiently managing inventory, orders, and customer information. Magento extensions provide smart inventory management tools, user-friendly order management interfaces, and integration with customer relationship management (CRM) systems. Thus, businesses can save time and effort in managing daily business operations and focus on more critical development goals.

2.3 Enhance customer engagement

eCommerce websites are not just places for online shopping but also forums where customers can interact with each other and with the brand. Magento extensions offer interaction features such as product review and rating systems, loyalty points programs for loyal customers, and CRM software, helping businesses create a rich and engaging online shopping space.

2.4 Boost conversion rates

Lastly, using Magento extensions helps improve business performance by enhancing conversion rates, increasing sales revenue, and optimizing marketing strategies. Thanks to the flexibility and diversity of these extensions, businesses can customize and adjust their business strategies to meet market needs and achieve sustainable growth.

3. Top 10 leading Magento extensions

At the time of writing, the Magento platform offers over 4000 eCommerce extensions across a range of functions including marketing, payment processing, shipping, reporting, and analytics. Here are the top 10 most powerful extensions to consider adding to your Magento website:

3.1 KlaviyoKlaviyo

Klaviyo is a powerful tool for email and SMS marketing. With Klaviyo, businesses can create custom and automated email campaigns based on customer behavior, track performance, and interactions to optimize conversion rates and establish closer customer relationships.

Key features:

  • Seamless integration with 300+ third-party systems. Top integrations with Klaviyo include Facebook, Trustpilot, Zendesk, Ordergroove, Stamped, and many more.
  • Provides an easy-to-use email and SMS builder with customizable templates, allowing personalized form customization for each customer segment.
  • Real-time data synchronization with Magento websites, including order data, cancellations, refunds, and order fulfillment for all customer segments

Pricing:

  • Free version available
  • Paid version: starts from $20/month depending on the number of email contacts.

3.2 HubSpot Contact SyncHubSpot Contact Sync

This extension integrates Magento with HubSpot CRM, allowing businesses to automatically synchronize customer information between the two platforms. This facilitates more efficient tracking and management of customer information and enables optimized marketing campaigns.

Key features:

  • Synchronize new customer data registered on the Magento website to HubSpot
  • Synchronize newsletter subscriber data from the Magento website to HubSpot
  • Synchronize previously existing data to the HubSpot system
  • Be compatible with Magento Open Source and Magento Commerce

Pricing: Free to use

3.3 LiveChatLiveChat

LiveChat is a powerful online customer care solution for Magento. LiveChat helps businesses enhance interaction and provide quick and professional support. This helps businesses improve the shopping experience for customers and increase conversion rates.

Key features:

  • Ability to send personalized messages to website visitors on Magento
  • Enable cart tracking while chatting with customers.
  • Improve the efficiency of customer service by conducting multiple chat sessions simultaneously
  • Seamless integration with third-party systems: Zendesk, Messenger, HubSpot CRM, WhatsApp, Mailchimp, Salesforce, etc.

Pricing:

  • Free version: allows for a 14-day free trial
  • Paid version: starts from $20/month

3.4 eDeskeDesk

eDesk is a preferred centralized customer service and support management platform by many Magento businesses. This tool helps efficiently manage and respond to customer inquiries in an automated manner. This improves the efficiency of customer service teams and enhances customer satisfaction.

Key features:

  • Providing a unified inbox and allowing centralized management of all support channels
  • Segmenting customers based on products, order history, and lifetime value
  • Integrating automated response features
  • Responding to customers faster with pre-made templates
  • Personalizing customer service with a 360° view feature

Pricing:

  • Free version available
  • Paid version: starts from $69/month

3.5 Payment servicesPayment services

This is an Adobe Commerce extension that simplifies the payment process for businesses and allows customers to pay for orders the way they prefer. This extension ensures security for payment data and transactions, allowing admins to manage orders and payments in one central location while still providing a seamless payment experience.

Key features:

  • Deployment of multiple payment methods including debit cards, credit cards, PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, and Buy Now Pay Later
  • Provides an integrated payment experience, where all transaction and payment data can be easily accessed in the Adobe Commerce admin interface
  • Offers comprehensive reports on orders and payments on the Magento website, including detailed information on processed orders, payment balances, and transaction-level reports for financial reconciliation

Pricing: Free to use

3.6 Stripe paymentsStripe-payments

Stripe Payments is a prominent extension of the Magento platform, allowing for easy and secure online payment integration via Stripe, one of the leading payment gateways in the market. Stripe enables businesses to accept various forms of payment, providing convenience and flexibility for both customers and businesses.

Key features:

  • Increase conversion rates by automatically adding payment information and shipping addresses.
  • Automatically convert to the appropriate language, currency, and payment methods for each customer segment. As of the time of writing, Stripe supports over 25 languages, more than 135 currencies, and over 20 payment methods.
  • Allow selling subscription packages on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis, while supporting promotions and free trials to encourage subscription purchases.
  • Handle refund processes, returns directly within the Magento Admin interface.

Pricing:

  • No free version available
  • Pricing structured for every business scale: 2.9% + 30¢ per successful transaction with local debit/credit cards.

3.7 Smart One-Step Checkout Subscription

Smart One Step Checkout Subscription

This extension provides a quick and convenient payment experience for customers, helping to reduce the time and steps required to complete an order. This contributes to increasing order completion rates and reducing cart abandonment rates.

Key features:

  • Allows for one-page checkout deployment
  • Enables configuration of the checkout page based on the specific needs of each business
  • Provides in-depth reports on the performance of the checkout page

Price:

  • No free version available
  • Free version: $13.99/month

3.8 ShipStationShipStation

ShipStation is an integrated shipping platform that helps businesses easily manage and ship orders from various sources. By automatically integrating with leading carriers, businesses can save time and effort in processing and shipping orders.

Key features:

  • Automated synchronization and centralized management of order data from various sales channels: Magento website, offline stores, Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and Alibaba.com
  • Streamlines the order fulfillment process, automating the selection of shipping service providers
  • Supports integration with a variety of carriers
  • Allows printing of hundreds of shipping labels with just a few clicks
  • Provides marketing tools such as branded order tracking pages, custom confirmation emails, branded stickers, and custom packing slips to enhance the customer experience.

Pricing:

  • No free version available
  • Paid version: starts from $9.99/month

3.9 Google Tag Manager & AnalyticsGoogle-Tag-Manager-_-Analytics

One of the noteworthy Magento extensions to consider integrating is Google Tag Manager & Analytics. This is a Google management and analytics tool that seamlessly integrates with the Magento website system, allowing businesses to track and analyze customer behavior on the website more effectively. With this extension, businesses can easily manage tags and track the performance of marketing campaigns.

Key features:

  • Simplifying the tag management process
  • Supporting remarketing strategies
  • Seamless integration with Google Analytics. Providing detailed reports on purchase behavior, payment behavior, sales performance, etc.
  • Seamless integration with Facebook Pixel, allowing businesses to track conversion rates to enhance sales funnel and marketing strategies.

Pricing:

  • No free version available
  • Paid version: $149 one-time payment

3.10 Reward PointsReward Points

This extension allows businesses to create attractive reward point programs on the Magento website. This contributes to encouraging customer loyalty and increasing conversion rates. By providing rewards for every shopping action, customers are incentivized to return and shop more frequently.

Key features:

  • Allowing the setup of rules and conditions for the point system
  • Providing advanced options to efficiently manage loyalty programs
  • Personalizing programs for specific customer segments
  • Using CSV files to transfer reward point data between stores

Pricing:

  • No free version available
  • Paid version: $199 one-time payment

Final Words

Above are the 10 best Magento extensions, ranging from free options to paid solutions. Using extensions provides many opportunities to improve business performance and create the best shopping experience for customers.

Need advice on choosing the best-suited extensions for your Magento store? Contact SECOMM today!

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What is Augmented Reality (AR) How It Benefits eCommerce Brands
What is Augmented Reality (AR)? The Role of AR in eCommerce

Augmented Reality (AR) – a term that has become familiar in today’s technology world. From entertainment applications to various industries, AR is integral to our daily lives. Moreover, it offers engaging and distinctive interactive experiences for eCommerce consumers. But what exactly is AR? How does it differ from VR, and what is its important role for eCommerce businesses? Let’s explore through the following article.

1. What is Augmented Reality (AR)?

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology brimming with potential, offering unique interactive experiences by merging real-world elements with computer-generated virtual elements. Simply put, AR allows users to “augment” the real world by adding information or virtual objects to it. This can occur via the screen of a mobile device, AR glasses or wearable devices.

One of the distinctive features of AR is its ability to create engaging interactive experiences for users without disconnecting them from the real world. Instead of separating users from their surroundings, AR serves as a bridge, seamlessly blending the virtual world and the real world together in a natural manner.

Continuously evolving, AR has progressed beyond being solely used in entertainment, opening up new possibilities in fields such as education, healthcare, advertising, and particularly eCommerce.

2. Augmented Reality (AR) vs Virtual Reality (VR): What is the difference?

Although they can be easily confused, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are actually two distinct technologies with their use cases. While AR emphasizes “augmenting” the real world by adding virtual elements to it, VR brings users to an entirely new world, completely separate from the real world. When wearing VR headsets, users are fully immersed in a virtual environment, no longer seeing or interacting with the real world around them.

Simply put, AR combines the real and virtual worlds, whereas VR completely transitions users into a virtual realm. This difference is also reflected in how AR and VR are used in different contexts. While VR is often used in entertainment fields such as video games and films, AR can be integrated into practical applications like repair guides, online shopping, and much more.

3. Four types of Augmented Reality in eCommerce

In the eCommerce world, various types of AR are used to create engaging interactive experiences for customers. Here are the four most common types:

3.1 Marker-Based AR

This type of AR uses markers or recognizable images to trigger and display virtual objects. Markers can be images, symbols, or QR codes. When the camera or AR device detects the marker, virtual objects appear on the screen, aligned with the position and orientation of the marker.

3.2 Markerless AR

Unlike Marker-based AR, this type doesn’t require markers to determine the position and display virtual objects. Instead, it employs technologies such as image recognition, and GPS localization to determine the user’s position and direction, and then displays corresponding virtual objects on the screen.

3.3 Projection-Based AR

This type of AR utilizes image projection devices to directly display virtual objects onto real surfaces. Instead of using a phone screen or AR glasses, AR objects are projected onto walls, screens, or other surfaces, creating the sensation that they exist in real space.

3.4 Overlay AR

This type of AR creates an experience by “overlaying” virtual objects onto the real world, similar to overlaying virtual information onto real-world images from a camera. AR objects can be interactive images, text, or 3D objects displayed on the screen of mobile devices.

4. Four benefits of adopting AR in eCommerce

Augmented Reality (AR) is not only an entertainment technology but also a powerful tool that enhances the online shopping experience and brings clear benefits to eCommerce businesses. Here are four main advantages of implementing AR in eCommerce:

4.1 Enhance the shopping experience

AR technology provides customers with a highly interactive and engaging shopping experience by allowing them to “try on” products in a real-world environment before making a purchase. With AR, customers can view products from various angles, change colors and sizes, and even test out product features or functionalities visually, enabling them to make quicker and more accurate purchasing decisions.

4.2 Boost customer interaction

AR in eCommerce captivates customer attention by introducing novel and unique shopping experiences, encouraging them to interact more with the brand. Being able to interact with virtual products on mobile screens or AR glasses makes the shopping process more enjoyable, and the ability to share this experience on social media creates a positive ripple effect for the brand.

4.3 Reduce return rates

One major issue that eCommerce businesses face is the rate of product returns. AR technology can help minimize this rate by providing customers with an accurate and detailed view of products before purchase, thereby reducing the likelihood of products being returned due to incorrect size, color, or quality.

4.4 Improve marketing efficiency

AR technology can be an effective marketing and advertising tool, enabling businesses to create powerful interactive content. Incorporating AR into marketing strategies not only helps increase brand awareness and attract new potential customers but also reinforces the loyalty of existing customers.

5. Three ways to embrace Augmented Reality (AR) in eCommerce

The use cases of AR in eCommerce are diverse and extensive. However, three primary methods stand out as the most common and favored by brands aiming to bolster customer interaction and increase sales.

5.1 Virtual Try On

One of the most popular applications of AR in eCommerce is creating a “virtual try-on” experience for customers. Instead of visiting stores to try on clothes, customers can use AR on their mobile devices to see how products look on-screen. Products that can utilize Virtual Try On include clothing, cosmetics, watches, eyeglasses, etc. Therefore, many brands worldwide have adopted this approach, such as Sephora, Bon Look, and Kylie Cosmetics.Virtual-Try-On

                                                                                                                                                   Sephora Virtual Makeup

5.2 Interactive Product Visualization

Some brands use AR technology to help customers visualize products more visually and vividly. For example, IKEA allows customers to “place” furniture products in real space through the IKEA Place app and rotate, zoom in, and zoom out to view every detail. Instead of just allowing customers to look at static images, IKEA has provided a more engaging experience to encourage the decision-making process.Interactive-Product-Visualization

                                                                                                                                                                 IKEA Place app

5.3 AR-Powered Marketing Campaigns

Some brands also leverage AR technology to create unique and impressive marketing campaigns. Coca-Cola launched an AR marketing campaign called #TakeATaste Now. This campaign allows customers to use mobile devices to scan QR codes on DOOH screens to change 3D images at will and receive a free bottle of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar. This has attracted curiosity and attention from the masses and successfully brought Coca-Cola Zero Sugar products closer to consumers.Coca-Cola

                                                                                                                                    Enjoy a free Coca-Cola Zero Sugar bottle with AR

Final Words

In summary, AR technology is not just a new trend but is also recognized as a powerful tool for optimizing eCommerce activities. With its superior flexibility, AR helps businesses build unique shopping experiences and create more engaging marketing campaigns to boost sales. You can find out more about B2B eCommerce trends here.

Ready to implement Augmented Reality (AR) in eCommerce? Contact SECOMM today!

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IT Outsourcing Destination China India Or Vietnam
IT Outsourcing Destination: China, India Or Vietnam?

The IT Outsourcing market worldwide is projected to grow annually by 10.99%, reaching a market value of US$777.70 billion by 2028.

While India and China have long been the go-to nations for IT dedicated teams, new players like Vietnam are gaining ground. Companies have various choices based on language, cost, culture, and government support.

In this blog, SECOMM will explore the advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing IT functions to India, China, or Vietnam. This analysis will help companies make informed decisions about which country aligns best with their resources and strategic objectives.

1. Key Considerations for Choosing an IT Outsourcing PartnerKey Considerations for Choosing an IT Outsourcing Partner

Before going further into the main points of the three countries, there are some key points that companies should be aware of when choosing an IT outsourcing partner.

1.1 Balancing Cost And Value

Selecting a partner who can provide both quality and competitive pricing is vital for the company’s campaign success. When assessing cost benefits, look beyond immediate savings. Consider the long-term expenses of communication, travel, staff turnover, and management tasks. These factors can impact your financial outcomes over time. For example, a company outsourcing to a country with low English proficiency may lead to communication challenges. To address this, the company might need to employ a local translator to ensure smooth operations.

1.2 Evaluating The Experience And Expertise Of The Outsourcing Units

A Deloitte study reveals that 59% of companies outsource software development for specialized skills and expertise. It’s important to choose partners known for providing skilled IT professionals and delivering projects akin to yours. Experience in similar projects or industries is a plus, as partners with relevant domain knowledge can offer valuable insights and tailored solutions. For example, in Vietnam, SECOMM is one of many companies proud of its ability to handle big projects globally easily due to its past experiences of working with many big names in the eCommerce industry.

1.3 Communication & Cultural Alignment

Cultural alignment and good communication are important but often ignored in outsourcing partnerships. Your partner should have values, work ethics, and communication methods similar to your company’s. Communication should be transparent and frequent throughout the project. Choosing a partner with staff who speak a language that both parties understand is important to avoid language barriers that could slow down progress.

1.4 Quality Assurance & Security Measures

Quality control is vital for software that’s free of bugs. Your outsourcing partner should follow the best practices in data security and software development. Quality assurance tests should be part of the development process to catch and fix issues early. Security is equally important for outsourced DevOps services. Check their security measures, data protection policies, and compliance with industry standards. They must protect sensitive data according to industry regulations and have clear methods for protecting intellectual property and confidential information.

2. Deep Dive into Each Country 

2.1 China

Outsourcing to China is a strategic choice for many Western companies, largely due to the cost-effective services and access to a highly skilled workforce. China’s e-commerce market is the largest globally, and the country offers a stable economic environment, low corporate taxes, and numerous top-tier seaports. Moreover, China boasts one of the world’s largest and most proficient tech talent pools, adding to its appeal as an outsourcing hub.

A. Why Should You Choose China?China

Inexpensive Workforce

Outsourcing IT to China offers clear financial benefits. Chinese developers provide services at competitive rates, which can lead to significant cost savings for businesses. This affordability doesn’t come at the expense of talent, as China has a large pool of skilled developers. The salaries for these developers are generally lower than in the US where Chinese professionals often charge around $50 to $100 an hour, with an average of around $29,840 a year.

Skilled Workforce

Moreover, China is a leading tech hub with one of the largest and most skilled IT dedicated teams in the world. By 2024, the global number of developers is expected to reach 28.7 million, with China contributing significantly to this growth. The country’s developer population is growing at a rate of 6% to 8%. China also prioritizes high-quality education, with 24 of its universities ranked among the top 200 worldwide. The Chinese government is actively launching educational initiatives to enhance technical skills, preparing its citizens for the evolving digital world.

Supportive Government Policies

The government invests in projects and infrastructure to aid these companies and streamline outsourcing. In 2020, China announced a massive $1.4 trillion investment to enhance public digital infrastructure. This investment is a boon for companies considering China for digital outsourcing, as it simplifies the integration of local talent.

B. Issues When Outsourcing To China

Additionally, there are still some issues that companies need to be aware of when contacting the IT dedicated team in China. Firstly, language barriers are significant when outsourcing to China, as not all IT professionals are proficient in English, potentially causing miscommunications and project delays. Cultural variances can also affect how communication is perceived and managed.

Additionally, on the topic of intellectual property, China’s laws may vary from those in other nations, posing a risk to the security of your ideas. Moreover, stringent data privacy and security regulations by the Chinese government can pose operational challenges for foreign IT service providers.

2.2 India

India has consistently been a dominant force in the global IT outsourcing sector, attributed to its extensive talent pool of IT experts and a favorable business ecosystem. The industry is projected to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.58% between 2024 and 2028, culminating in a projected market value of USD 20.09 billion by 2028.

Clients within India’s IT outsourcing market demand cost-effective, high-caliber services. They seek partnerships with firms that offer comprehensive services, including software development, maintenance, and support, and value providers with industry-specific experience who can deliver solutions tailored to their precise needs. Additionally, India is ideal for businesses seeking experienced developers with strong communication skills for complex projects.

A. Why Should You Choose India?India

Cost-Effective

Local outsourcing providers efficiently manage the entire process, including procurement, installation, and testing, ensuring a cost-effective and seamless experience. For example, establishing a website or developing a mobile application can be expensive, but outsourcing to India can reduce these costs by nearly 50%.

Furthermore, India’s lower living costs result in more affordable labor compared to countries like the United States. To illustrate, the average yearly salary for an IT employee based on Glassdoor in India is around $20,464, starkly contrasting the U.S. average of $109,829.

Large Labour Pool

The country’s diverse population contributes to a workforce that includes programmers, scientists, financial experts, MBAs, journalists, and virtual assistants with exceptional skills.

India’s government-funded higher education system is the third-largest globally, after the US and China. According to Statistica, India has over 6.5 million graduates each year, significantly more than the Philippines, which is a major competitor in the BPO and outsourcing sector.

B. Issues When Outsourcing To India

Communication

While Indians are proficient in English, the accent may sometimes lead to misunderstandings in verbal communication. It’s advisable to conduct most communication in writing, through emails and chats, to reduce miscommunication risks and maintain a written record for reference if needed.

Privacy And Security Legislation

In software development and IT, the risk of intellectual property (IP) being copied is significant. Without proper safeguards, there’s no guarantee of protection, as projects might be resold.

To protect your interests, it’s wise to sign an NDA with your outsourcing partner. Be careful with IP issues and consider getting legal advice for big projects with substantial financial stakes.

2.3 Vietnam 

Vietnam has gained prominence in the IT outsourcing industry over the last ten years. It’s now a significant force globally, with a focus on software development, digital content, and BPO. The growth of Vietnam’s IT outsourcing sector is attributed to its youthful, talented workforce, competitive labor costs, and supportive government policies. Plus, its strategic position in Southeast Asia adds to its appeal as an outsourcing hub for regional and international businesses.

A. Why Should You Choose Vietnam?Vietnam

Cost-Effectiveness

Outsourcing to Vietnam offers a key benefit: access to skilled tech talent at affordable rates. Vietnam, located in one of the world’s most cost-effective regions, has leveraged this to become the 6th top destination for software development. In 2022, Vietnam was rated 99.6/100 for low manufacturing costs by US NEWS and is among the lowest in Asia.

This results in significantly reduced IT outsourcing costs compared to other countries. For instance, the average annual income for a developer in Vietnam is approximately $7, 173, which is the lowest among the three. This represents a cost reduction of up to 94% compared to the US, 65% compared to India, and 76% compared to China.

Qualified IT Human Resources

Vietnam’s pool of highly educated and tech-savvy young professionals, many of whom have studied or worked abroad, makes it an attractive destination for outsourcing. Additionally, Vietnam offers technical training in various programming languages through its universities and technical schools, producing around 400,000 IT engineering graduates and 50,000 IT students annually.

Overall, Vietnam is well-equipped to meet the skilled workforce demands of employers seeking outsourcing opportunities, with a lower turnover rate compared to other countries in the field. Companies in Vietnam experience an IT-related turnover rate of less than 5%, making it an appealing choice for businesses.

Capable Of Working With The Giants

Major multinational companies and tech giants, including Intel and Microsoft, have established a strong presence in Vietnam by outsourcing software development and IT support services. Additionally, other firms like IBM, Cisco, and Bayer are also expanding their IT roles in Vietnam.

Comparison of IT Outsourcing in China, India and Vietnam
                                                                                Comparison of IT Outsourcing in China, India and Vietnam

The involvement of these esteemed organizations serves as a testament to Vietnam’s adeptness in managing substantial outsourced or offshore software development initiatives, despite its status as a relatively small emerging nation in contrast to larger, more developed counterparts such as India and China.

3. Choosing the Right Partner!

Overall, China’s large, albeit aging, labor force and developed infrastructure are offset by rising costs and regulatory concerns. While India shines with its vast, young talent pool, cost-effectiveness, and robust infrastructure, making it a strong contender for scalability and quality. Finally, Vietnam emerges as a compelling choice with its youthful, tech-savvy workforce, competitive costs, and rapidly improving infrastructure.

Read more: IT Outsourcing in Vietnam: Benefits and Challenges

SECOMM stands out with over a decade of experience for organizations seeking a reliable IT-dedicated team in Vietnam. Engaging with SECOMM means your IT projects are in the hands of exceptional talent, driving innovation and advancing your business objectives. To explore a partnership with SECOMM, reach out or dial the hotline at (+84) 28 7108 9908 for a collaboration that can elevate your IT capabilities.

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08/05/2024
Top 10 Best Magento eCommerce Websites In Singapore
Top 10 Best Magento eCommerce Websites In Singapore

Building Magento eCommerce websites has become an undeniable trend in Singapore, where the blend of technology and creativity has brought unique and appealing shopping experiences to customers. According to Builtwith, there are currently over 600 live eCommerce websites on the Magento platform, and this list is predicted to continue expanding. This indicates that businesses in the Lion City have chosen Magento to create high-quality eCommerce websites, attracting customers and boosting sales.

In this article, let’s explore the top 10 Magento websites in Singapore that have leveraged the power of Magento to enhance the customer experience.

1. Dyson SingaporeDyson

Dyson Singapore is not just an ordinary eCommerce website but also a destination for technology and premium design enthusiasts. With a range of products from vacuum cleaners to smart fans and hair dryers, Dyson continually innovates and enhances the quality of consumers’ lives.

Dyson’s Magento website is designed to provide an optimal shopping experience. From its bright and user-friendly interface to smart product search and categorization features, every detail is carefully crafted to ensure customers have the best online shopping experience. Additionally, Dyson is renowned for its excellent customer care service. From detailed product guidance to flexible return policies, they are committed to ensuring absolute satisfaction for every customer.

Website: https://www.dyson.com.sg/

Industry: Consumer Electronics

Traffic: 690,356/month

Ranking: #1,599 (Singapore) & #292,561 (Global)

2. FortyTwoFortyTwo

FortyTwo is one of the reputable destinations for household and interior decoration shopping in Singapore. With a diverse collection ranging from living room furniture, bedroom sets to household essentials, FortyTwo offers customers a convenient and varied online shopping experience.

FortyTwo’s eCommerce website is built on the Magento platform, focusing on creating a user-friendly interface. Not only does it display products clearly, but it also provides flexible product search and filtering features, making it easy for customers to find items that reflect their style and personal needs.

Website: https://www.fortytwo.sg/

Industry: Furniture

Traffic: 625,855/month

Ranking: #493 (Singapore) & #107,563 (Global)

3. COURTSCOURTS

COURTS is known as the leading retailer in Singapore, specializing in a range of diverse products from furniture, electronics to household services. With over 14 stores across the island and a convenient e-commerce website, COURTS is the ideal destination for all shopping needs of Singaporean families.

COURTS’ Magento eCommerce website is designed and built to ensure an easy and comfortable online shopping experience. Through the Magento website, COURTS customers can easily search and select from a variety of high-quality products with flexible search and sorting features.

The brand stands out not only with its diverse products but also with its professional customer service. From shopping advice to delivery and installation services, they are committed to providing maximum satisfaction for every customer.

Website: https://www.courts.com.sg/

Industry: Consumer Electronics

Traffic: 510,240/month

Ranking: #502 (Singapore) & #105,498 (Global)

4. HornyHorny

Horny is a unique eCommerce website based in Singapore, focusing on providing modern adult accessories. With a mission to help customers feel confident and satisfied in their romantic lives, Horny has created an enjoyable and convenient shopping experience through the Magento platform. Horny’s Magento eCommerce website is built with a focus on creating a reliable and user-friendly online shopping space. From attractive interface layouts to clear and detailed product displays, every detail is meticulously crafted to create the best shopping experience. Additionally, Horny stands out with the diversity of fashion and accessory products. Customers can easily find items that suit their individual needs.

Website: https://horny.sg/

Industry: Adult

Traffic: 482,417/month

Ranking: #1,133 (Singapore) & #193,753 (Global)

5. Saturday ClubSaturday Club

Saturday Club is not just a fashion brand but also an icon of confidence and freedom in women’s workwear fashion in Singapore. With a creative spirit and a mission to celebrate natural beauty, Saturday Club continuously brings fresh, stylish, and unique fashion collections.

Saturday Club uses Magento to develop its eCommerce website to provide customers with a smooth shopping experience with an easy-to-use interface. Customers can easily choose from a variety of products and the latest collections, with detailed information and clear images. Additionally, the brand stands out with attentive customer care service and fast and flexible delivery policies.

Website: https://sg.saturdayclub.com/

Industry: Fashion

Traffic: 406,335/month

Ranking: #2,115 (Singapore) & #240,670 (Global)

6. PupsikPupsik

Pupsik is the go-to online shopping destination for parents in Singapore, where they can find everything they need for the care and nurturing of their children. With a humane mission and special attention to the needs of families, Pupsik is committed to providing a peaceful and convenient shopping experience.

Pupsik has built its Magento website to easily customize features and shopping experiences. From smart search features to product filtering and optimized checkout pages, every detail is focused on ensuring shopping becomes easy and quick.

In particular, Pupsik is famous for the diversity and quality of products for children and mothers. From clothing, toys to everyday essentials and healthcare products, they ensure that all family needs are comprehensively met.

Website: https://pupsik.sg/

Industry: Childcare

Traffic: 264,148/month

Ranking: #3,684 (Singapore) & #677,191 (Global)

7. CellarbrationCellarbration

Cellarbration is the ideal destination in Singapore for wine and alcoholic beverage enthusiasts. This brand boasts an extensive collection of wines and alcoholic beverages from top brands worldwide.

Shopping on the eCommerce website is also efficiently optimized by Cellarbration through the power of the Magento platform. From search operations to product browsing and payment, everything is deeply customized to ensure customers have a more engaging shopping experience.

Not only prominent for the richness of products but also for professional and dedicated customer service. Cellarbration is committed to customer satisfaction by providing personalized support and diversifying payment options as well as delivery.

Website: https://cellarbration.com.sg/

Industry: Wine

Traffic: 125,878/month

Ranking#6,676 (Singapore) & #1,075,981 (Global)

8. Wine CollectionWine Collection

In Singapore, the Wine Collection brand is a favorite destination for wine enthusiasts who want to explore premium wines from the most famous wine regions in the world. Wine Collection also offers customers a rich and diverse collection of wines.

The Wine Collection’s Magento website is customized to optimize the experience, allowing customers to search for wines by origin, grape variety, explore special collections, and choose preferred payment and delivery methods.

Not only does it provide a modern and engaging online shopping space, but Wine Collection also serves as a source of wine knowledge. Customers can find articles and detailed guides on how to choose and enjoy wine to better understand the art and science behind the delicate flavors.

Website: https://wineconnection.com.sg/

Industry: Wine

Traffic: 82,788/month

Ranking: #12,447 (Singapore) & #1,701,444 (Global)

9. Far East FloraFar East flora

Far East Flora is a brand specializing in providing plant products, fresh flowers, and decorations made from greenery. The Far East Flora Magento eCommerce website is built with a priority on customer experience through a user-friendly interface and deeply developed and customized features. Customers can search for plants by filtering by type, size, and make quick payments with just one page. Additionally, Far East Flora’s fast and reliable delivery service is highly rated by customers. The brand is committed to delivering quality products to customers’ hands safely and promptly, helping them decorate living spaces beautifully and meaningfully.

Website: https://fareastfloragarden.com/

Industry: Gardening

Traffic: 40,864/month

Ranking: #20,995 (Singapore) & #2,327,136

(Global)

10. First Few Years

First New Years

First Few Years is not just a store but also a loyal companion for parents in the journey of caring for their children from the early years. With a dedicated spirit and profound understanding of children’s needs, First Few Years provides a meaningful and trustworthy shopping experience.

The Magento website of this brand is not only a place for shopping but also an important source of information and support for parents. From advising on safe toy selection and development to sharing experiences in childcare, all information is conveyed sincerely and meticulously.

Website: https://firstfewyears.com.sg/

Industry: Childcare

Traffic: 10,245/month

Ranking: #86,167 (Singapore) & #7,519,723 (Global)

The Bottom Line 

Above are 10 leading Magento eCommerce websites in Singapore, each providing customers with a unique and memorable shopping experience. From product diversity to professional customer service, each website has prioritized the mission of serving and satisfying customers.

Need more advice to build your first Magento website? Contact SECOMM today!

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06/05/2024
Top 8 Multi-vendor Marketplaces in Singapore
The 8 Best Multi-vendor Marketplaces in Singapore

The Singapore multi-vendor marketplace market is booming, with stiff competition from Western giants like Amazon and eBay, as well as trusted local brands such as Shopee and Lazada. Statista reports that in 2023, the industry’s revenue reached $4.45 billion and is projected to hit $5 billion in 2024 and $8.2 billion by 2029. In this context, identifying and understanding the leading online marketplaces in Lion City is crucial for maximizing potential and opportunities in this rapidly evolving market.

1. Shopee SingaporeShopee

Shopee Singapore is one of the leading multi-vendor marketplaces not only in Singapore but also throughout the Southeast Asia region. The range of products available for purchase and sale on the Shopee platform is quite diverse, spanning from consumer goods to fashion, electronics, toys, and much more. Shopee Singapore is renowned not only for its convenience and flexibility in the online shopping process but also for its attractive promotional programs and fast delivery services. With its open and user-friendly business model, the eCommerce marketplace has become a popular destination for people looking for quality products at reasonable prices.

  • Website: https://shopee.sg/
  • Traffic: 45.69M/month
  • Country rank: #11 (Singapore)
  • Global rank: #3,332
  • Industry rank: #1 (eCommerce & Shopping > Marketplace in Singapore)

2. CarousellCarousell

Carousell, a well-known online marketplace based in Singapore, offers a stylish and personalized online shopping experience. It specializes in enhancing the buying and selling process both on its website and mobile app. What makes Carousell stand out is its wide range of unique items available. Beyond just new products, Carousell also serves as an eCommerce marketplace for secondhand items, spanning from clothing and electronics to household goods. This creates an engaging shopping environment for those in search of one-of-a-kind items or looking to recycle goods.

  • Website: https://www.carousell.sg/
  • Traffic: 29.02M/month
  • Country rank: #25 (Singapore)
  • Global rank: #5,100
  • Industry rank: #76 (eCommerce & Shopping > Marketplace in Singapore)

3. Amazon SingaporeAmazon

When expanding into the Singapore market, retail giant Amazon brought a top-notch and diverse online shopping experience to local customers. With an extensive array of products spanning from consumer electronics to books, fashion, household items, electronics, and cosmetics, Amazon serves as the preferred destination for customers seeking quality and variety.

A key strength of this multi-vendor marketplace lies in its reliable shipping infrastructure and customer service. With a widespread distribution network and efficient delivery services, Amazon ensures convenient and prompt product deliveries for buyers. Additionally, Amazon’s customer support service is highly regarded, as the company strives to address inquiries and issues from both sellers and buyers promptly and effectively.

  • Website: https://www.amazon.sg/
  • Traffic: 19.82M/month
  • Country rank: #38 (Singapore)
  • Global rank: #8,281
  • Industry rank: #2 (eCommerce & Shopping > Marketplace in Singapore)

4. Lazada SingaporeLazada

Lazada is one of the major players in the eCommerce world, winning over the trust of Singaporean consumers with its diverse range of services and products. Since being acquired by Alibaba, Lazada has experienced significant growth and strengthened its position in the Southeast Asian market. Today, Lazada serves not only as a platform for major brands but also as a gateway for small and medium-sized enterprises to enter the market effectively. Moreover, the online marketplace is renowned for its enticing promotional offers and swift delivery services. The incorporation of labels like “LazMall” and “LazGlobal” further simplifies the process for customers to discover and purchase quality products from brands worldwide.

  • Website: https://www.lazada.sg/#?
  • Traffic: 12.03M/month
  • Country rank: #51 (Singapore)
  • Global rank: #12,056
  • Industry rank: #4 (eCommerce & Shopping > Marketplace in Singapore)

5. Qoo10Qoo10

Qoo10, also known as Gmarket, stands as one of Singapore’s most popular and reliable eCommerce marketplaces. With its diverse range of online storefronts, Qoo10 offers users a stylish and varied online shopping experience.

A standout feature of Qoo10 is its emphasis on products from small and medium-sized retailers. Rather than focusing solely on major brands, Qoo10 provides a platform for small and medium enterprises to easily and effectively access the market. This creates a welcoming and diverse shopping environment where buyers can discover unique and high-quality products from smaller manufacturers and brands.

Moreover, the online marketplace is well-known for its appealing promotional programs and fast delivery services. The user rating and feedback system further bolsters trust and transparency in the online shopping process on this platform.

  • Website: https://www.qoo10.sg/
  • Traffic: 4.066M/month
  • Country rank: #158 (Singapore)
  • Global rank: #37,148
  • Industry rank: #8 (eCommerce & Shopping > Marketplace in Singapore)

6. eBay SingaporeeBay

eBay is a well-established and trusted name in the global eCommerce landscape. It has won over Singaporean consumers with appealing and efficient online shopping experiences. eBay Singapore is renowned for its ability to connect buyers and sellers worldwide, creating a vast global online marketplace. With millions of items available for sale on the platform, ranging from brand-new to gently used products, customers can easily discover items that suit their needs and budgets.

Furthermore, the multi-vendor marketplace offers customers flexibility in payment and delivery options. Customers can opt for popular payment methods like PayPal or credit cards and also take advantage of international shipping services to have their purchases delivered directly to their doorstep.

  • Website: https://www.ebay.com.sg/
  • Traffic: 2.632M/month
  • Country rank: #622 (Singapore)
  • Global rank: #70,776
  • Industry rank: #1,188 (eCommerce & Shopping > Marketplace in Singapore)

7. ZaloraZalora

Zalora is a popular multi-vendor marketplace in Singapore, offering fashion and style products from both local and international brands. With its diverse array of items spanning from apparel, footwear, and accessories to jewelry and cosmetics, Zalora has become the go-to destination for fashion enthusiasts seeking to express their unique style. What sets Zalora apart is its dedicated focus on the fashion and style market, delivering users a flawless online shopping experience in this realm. Beyond just a platform for purchasing products from renowned brands, the eCommerce marketplace serves as a hub for individuals to explore and cultivate their style.

  • Website: https://www.zalora.sg/
  • Traffic: 2M/month
  • Country rank: #271 (Singapore)
  • Global rank: #59,178
  • Industry rank: #1,448 (eCommerce & Shopping > Marketplace in Singapore)

8. EZbuyEZbuy

The online marketplace EZbuy is renowned for its convenient and cost-effective international shopping services. With EZbuy, customers can easily access and purchase hundreds of thousands of products from China, Korea, the US, and many other countries at reasonable prices with convenient shipping services.

Operating as an intermediary shopping model, the EZbuy eCommerce marketplace helps users circumvent complications related to import taxes, international shipping fees, and complex customs procedures. Instead of handling these procedures themselves, users can effortlessly shop for products from overseas through EZbuy and conveniently await delivery at home.

  • Website: https://ezbuy.sg/
  • Traffic: 885K/month
  • Country rank: #758 (Singapore)
  • Global rank: #173,853
  • Industry rank: #2,968 (eCommerce & Shopping > Marketplace in Singapore)

The Bottom Line

In summary, the Singapore eCommerce market is thriving with a variety of top-tier multi-vendor marketplaces. Each platform offers unique features and the best services to meet the shopping needs of customers. The success of these giants serves as motivation for many businesses to join and lays the groundwork for further development of the eCommerce market in Singapore in the future.

Need more advice for multi-vendor marketplace development? Contact SECOMM today!

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Top 10 largest eCommerce websites in Singapore 2024
Top 10 Largest eCommerce Websites in Singapore 2024

Online shopping has become an indispensable trend in Singapore. Therefore, consumers in this city have set higher demands for their online shopping experience, driving businesses to strive for optimizing their eCommerce websites to provide a unique and best shopping experience for customers.

Below are 10 brands heavily investing in the online shopping experience in Singapore, as collected by SECOMM from BuiltWith, AfterShip, and Similarweb.

1. Charles & KeithCK

Charles & Keith, a leading fashion brand in Singapore, was founded in 1996 by two brothers Charles and Keith Wong. Focusing on footwear, handbags, and fashion accessories, Charles & Keith quickly gained attention in the market for its modern, youthful fashion style at affordable prices.

Charles & Keith has chosen Salesforce Commerce Cloud to build its website. Thus, Charles & Keith’s website features a range of functions to create the most convenient and comfortable online shopping experience for users. These include advanced search with filtering and sorting, detailed product views with high-quality images and customer ratings, secure shopping cart and payment, along with order tracking and purchase history. Additionally, customers can enjoy loyalty rewards, seek customer support, read fashion blogs, and connect on social media to stay updated on the latest trends. With this diversity and convenience, Charles & Keith’s eCommerce website in Singapore has provided an excellent online shopping experience for users.

  • Website: https://www.charleskeith.com/
  • Industry: Fashion
  • Platform: Salesforce Commerce Cloud
  • Traffic: 2.412M/month
  • Ranking: #18,543 (Singapore) & #24,487 (Global)

2. FortyTwoForty Two

FortyTwo is a furniture and home accessories brand established in Singapore in 2007. FortyTwo offers a range of products from bedroom furniture, living room, kitchen to household items and interior decoration. The brand is known for providing quality products at competitive prices with fast delivery and attentive customer service. FortyTwo regularly updates and expands its product portfolio to meet diverse customer needs.

FortyTwo’s website is built on the Magento Open Source platform (Adobe Commerce free version). With this website, users can easily search and filter products, explore a variety of product categories from furniture to household items. Additionally, the website offers the ability to integrate attractive promotional campaigns and customer support, along with fast and secure delivery services.

  • Website: https://www.fortytwo.sg/
  • Industry: Furniture
  • Platform: Magento Open Source
  • Traffic: 625,855/month
  • Ranking: #493 (Singapore) & #107,563 (Global)

3. COURTSCOURTS

COURTS is a leading electronics retailer in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. With over 40 years of experience, COURTS offers customers a wide range of product choices, convenient services, and competitive prices.

COURTS uses Magento Open Source to build its eCommerce website. This website provides diverse and convenient online shopping experiences for users with functions such as product categories, specific product search, store information, and order tracking on the website. COURTS also provides support services and information about promotional programs and product news.

  • Website: https://www.courts.com.sg/
  • Industry: Electronics
  • Platform: Magento Open Source
  • Traffic: 510,240/month
  • Ranking: #502 (Singapore) & #105,498 (Global)

4. Guardian SingaporeGuardian

Guardian is a retail chain specializing in health care, cosmetics, and other consumer products. Guardian has a presence in many countries and regions around the world, including Singapore, with a range of products from famous and reliable brands.

Guardian’s website is built on the SAP Commerce Cloud platform, offering many useful features for users. Customers can easily search and purchase products, manage their shopping carts, and make convenient payments. At the same time, the website offers promotions and online support services to help customers have a comfortable and safe online shopping experience. Moreover, customers can also rate and provide feedback on products, providing useful information for other users.

  • Website: https://www.guardian.com.sg/
  • Industry: Cosmetics
  • Platform: SAP Commerce Cloud
  • Traffic: 429,041/month
  • Ranking: #462 (Singapore) & #110,350 (Global)

5. Sephora SingaporeSephora

Similar to Guardian, Sephora is a global retail chain of cosmetics and beauty products, known for offering a range of cosmetics, skincare, and beauty products from leading brands worldwide. Currently, Sephora has a presence in the Singapore market with physical stores in major shopping centers and an eCommerce system, including a website and app for customers. Sephora is favored for its product diversity, customer care services, and innovation in the online cosmetics shopping experience.

Sephora’s eCommerce system in Singapore is built on the Vue.js and Nuxt.js programming languages. With this system, Sephora customers can quickly search and explore products through smart search and various filters. The online shopping experience is optimized with detailed product information, sharp images, and customer reviews.

Sephora’s app is also highly rated, making shopping easier for customers with features like “Virtual Artist” and receiving notifications about promotions. In general, Sephora offers a range of features and services to meet customers’ cosmetics shopping needs, creating a professional and convenient online shopping experience.

  • Website: https://www.sephora.sg/
  • Industry: Cosmetics
  • Programming Languages: Vue.js, Nuxt.js
  • Traffic: 396,282/month
  • Ranking: #714 (Singapore) & #136,020 (Global)

6. Pet Lovers CentrePet Lovers Centre

Pet Lovers Centre is a leading pet products and services retailer in Asia. Established in 1973 in Singapore, Pet Lovers Centre now has over 160 stores in 5 countries: Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Pet Lovers Centre is committed to providing quality products and services from reputable brands at competitive prices.

The Pet Lovers Centre website is built using PHP programming language and has outstanding features to provide users with a convenient online shopping experience. Users can search for products based on various criteria and use filters to select suitable products. The multi-layered product categories are classified by pet type, ensuring diversity and richness. The VIP Member program brings benefits to customer loyalty strategies. Integrating customer reviews on Google Maps helps users evaluate the quality of products and services provided by Pet Lovers Centre. Additionally, the website builds a quick shopping function to save time, customer management feature, and reorder support to efficiently manage customer information and orders.

7. HipVanHipVan

HipVan is an online retail website specializing in furniture and home decor, headquartered in Singapore. The brand was founded in 2013 with the aim of providing customers with high-quality furniture products at affordable prices, along with a convenient shopping experience and excellent customer service.

HipVan’s website is built using the Ruby on Rails and React framework, with Ruby being the primary programming language. Its notable features include building a community for sharing interior design ideas, image-based product search, and allowing customers to upload images of desired products. Particularly, the augmented reality (AR) feature enables customers to view products in their real-life space before making a purchase. Additionally, HipVan offers free interior planning services to help customers conveniently plan and design their living space.

  • Website: https://www.hipvan.com/
  • Industry: Furniture
  • Frameworks: Ruby on Rails, React
  • Traffic: 215,919/month
  • Ranking: #1,034 (Singapore) & #225,419 (Global)

8. The Hour GlassThe Hour Glass

The Hour Glass is a premium watch retailer in Singapore founded in 1974. Currently, The Hour Glass has over 50 stores worldwide and is an authorized distributor for many leading watch brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Omega, Cartier, and more.

The Hour Glass’s online store is built on the WooCommerce platform and CMS WordPress, providing a convenient platform for customers to explore and purchase watches from renowned brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and other luxury brands. In addition to product offerings, the website also provides detailed information about the services offered by The Hour Glass, including repairs, maintenance, and polishing of watches, to help customers maintain and preserve their products effectively. Furthermore, the website continuously updates the latest news in the watch industry along with special events organized by The Hour Glass, creating a comprehensive and immersive experience for users.

  • Website: https://www.thehourglass.com/
  • Industry: Watches
  • Platform: WooCommerce
  • Traffic: 206,204/month
  • Ranking: #3,305 (Singapore) & #201,956 (Global)

9. MegafurnitureMegafurniture

Megafurniture is a furniture retail company in Singapore, specializing in providing a range of furniture products for living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and various other spaces in homes. Megafurniture is known for offering affordable and high-quality products, attracting the interest of many consumers. Additionally, the furniture brand is also renowned for its early investment in the online store, allowing customers to conveniently shop for furniture online.

Megafurniture’s website is built on the leading Shopify Plus platform, with basic and advanced features optimized for the furniture industry. The purchasing process is designed to be simple and straightforward, providing a convenient online shopping experience for customers. Secure online payment support through various methods increases flexibility for consumers. Megafurniture also offers multiple delivery and installation options to meet customer needs. Moreover, features like quick product view and product comparison assist users in making smart and efficient purchasing decisions. This, combined with fast checkout features, significantly enhances the online shopping experience.

  • Website: https://megafurniture.sg/
  • Industry: Furniture
  • Platform: Shopify Plus
  • Traffic: 145,329/month
  • Ranking: #3,630 (Singapore) & #382,030 (Global)

10. Skin IncSkin Inc

Skin Inc is a skincare brand specializing in manufacturing and distributing high-quality skincare products. The company focuses on providing skincare solutions, including brightening, moisturizing, anti-aging, and treating various skin concerns.

Skin Inc transitioned from the Magento platform to Shopify Plus in 2019, aiming to enhance the customer experience by deploying multiple website versions for different markets and customer segments. Using the LaunchPad feature, Skin Inc employees can create sales events without developer assistance. Additionally, Shopify Plus seamlessly integrates with marketing tools and loyalty programs, enabling personalized communication and data-driven marketing strategies.

Conclusion

The above is a list of the top 10 eCommerce websites in Singapore. By implementing leading platforms such as Magento Open Source, Shopify Plus, and various others, these brands provide optimized online shopping experiences, attracting the interest of customers both domestically and internationally.

During its development process, SECOMM has collaborated with numerous clients from Singapore to create notable eCommerce websites, with the most prominent being the project to develop an online liquor supply system at Changi Airport.

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