Category: Business

Share

Here’s why your business should have an NCR warehouse

Marketing

|

A massive 38% of the Philippines’ E-commerce transactions take place in Metro Manila. This huge share has resulted in the country’s National Capital Region (NCR) having a very competitive online market. When a majority of customers are all in one area, most businesses are incentivized to cater specifically to them.   

For E-commerce businesses based outside of the area, it may seem difficult to break into this market. Working with a logistics company in the Philippines – especially one that offers warehousing services –  can help you get a leg up in this space. Having an NCR warehouse has a huge impact on how your business can compete in the Philippine E-commerce landscape.

But before we get into that, let’s look into the reasons behind the increase in NCR warehouses.

Why is there an increase in Metro Manila warehousing?

In the Philippines, warehousing services have continued to grow despite the COVID-19 crisis. It has become an indispensable industry, providing the necessary support to other industries as new economic and social protocols emerged due to the pandemic. Because of this, its growth will likely be sustained post-pandemic.

During this period, Metro Manila has seen a growing demand for online shopping, deliveries, and consequently, warehouses. But what drove the exponential growth of warehousing in Metro Manila over the past few years? 

More room is needed to manage the demand in E-commerce

The E-commerce sector has been one of the major demand drivers for warehousing markets across the globe. In the Philippines, Filipino consumers have relied heavily on the convenience of online shopping due to the pandemic and lockdowns. As E-commerce in the region continues to flourish, there is a higher demand to fill the increased number of sales, particularly in the metropolis and its neighboring provinces. As such, warehousing services in the Philippines, particularly in Metro Manila, needed to address this.

It is a strategic location due to accessibility and proximity to customers

The metropolis has become a gateway for warehousing services to flourish. Being at the center of commerce, Metro Manila has accessible key delivery routes via airports, ports, and major transportation hubs. It is also an ideal hub for warehousing services in the Philippines as major business districts are in the vicinity. And when it comes to proximity to customers, Metro Manila is home to close to 12 million Filipinos, making it a perfect spot for warehousing.

There’s a need for speed

The big guns in E-commerce have set the standards in terms of delivery speed. Customers are now accustomed to ordering online and receiving their purchases as soon as the next day. This has put immense pressure on smaller E-commerce companies to shorten their delivery times. As such, warehousing providers have established multiple locations in Metro Manila so that they can fulfill orders as soon as possible.

Retail spaces turned into fulfillment hubs

According to real estate experts, retail industry players have already bared plans to convert their spaces into warehouses. In 2020, the average vacancy of malls across Metro Manila rose to 12.5% due to the closure of many brick-and-mortar stores. Many vacant spaces have now been converted to warehouses, mainly to accommodate the retail industry’s shift to online platforms. This contributed significantly to the rise of warehousing services in Metro Manila.

The competition to attract more customers has become tougher

As E-commerce grows at break-neck levels, the competition to attract and create loyal customers has become extreme. Warehousing is crucial to ensure that merchants remain on top of their E-commerce game.

Choosing a warehouse in a strategic location like Metro Manila allows merchants to decrease resources used between each point. The more warehousing services are available in the area, the closer they become to their customers. This also means that fast shipping and easy returns — two factors that customers have high standards for — are possible. And this results in increased sales and growth in the long run.

There are more reasons why Metro Manila has become a hub for warehousing services in the Philippines. But more than these reasons, one thing is sure: warehousing providers in Metro Manila have enabled thousands of local and international merchants to scale their E-commerce business effectively. 

Now that you know about the reasons behind the warehousing boom, it’s time to look into why you should invest in an NCR warehouse.

Why does your business need an NCR warehouse?

More efficient operations

If you’re a merchant based outside of NCR, delivering to the area on a per order basis can be difficult. However, you don’t have to relocate your entire operation to cater to that market. 

With an NCR warehouse, you can efficiently keep up with your customers’ demands. When they order from you, it’s just a matter of shipping the stocks you already have stored in your warehouse.

Easier inventory

Working with a logistics company with an NCR warehouse removes the hassle of having to look after your products. They can monitor your items to help you keep track of your inventory while you’re away. There are also teams there assigned to ensure the safety of your items from packing to pick up. This gives merchants one less thing to worry about! 

Lower shipping fees

Having an NCR warehouse helps lessen the shipping distance between you and your customers. The shorter travel helps merchants spend less on delivery fees, in comparison to if their products were shipped directly from outside Metro Manila. This results in reduced overall delivery costs, which allows you to save money over time.

Faster delivery

If you keep a customer waiting too long for their order, they have a tendency to cancel it. There’s even a chance of them switching to another merchant that can deliver the same item but faster.

With an NCR warehouse, you can get your products to customers within days even if you’re based outside of Metro Manila. This is in contrast to when your products come from a farther place and customers have to wait for up to a week or two for their orders. 

There are even some logistics companies in NCR that offer same-day and next-day delivery, which ultimately helps increase customer satisfaction. 

Attract more customers

Once you combine all the benefits of an NCR warehouse into one seamless experience, you have a better chance of getting more customers.

For online shoppers, the advantage of getting their order faster has a big bearing on their purchase. This is especially true when the quality of your products is on par with the rest of the competition. The more times you win over these potential customers, the easier it becomes for your business to achieve success. 

These are just some of the logistical advantages of having an NCR warehouse. Ultimately, being strategic about your warehouses will help you enter the area’s highly profitable E-commerce market.

If you’re looking for a logistics company in the Philippines with innovative warehousing services, then look no further than Payo!

As the country’s leading E-commerce enabler, Payo has a wide array of services that can handle your business’ needs. These solutions range from Fulfillment, Last Mile Management, and of course, Warehousing.

Aside from the usual warehousing service, Payo also offers a Multiple Warehousing Solution. This means that your items are stored in warehouses located within different major cities across the Philippines. This helps keep your business flexible, so you can adjust your storage based on wherever your customers may be. 

Sign up with us or send us a message at [email protected] to get in touch with a reliable warehousing partner for your business!

Share

A look into the warehousing business boom in the Philippines

Marketing

|

E-commerce has been experiencing a sudden boom as Filipino consumers continue to flock to digital marketplaces. Many businesses are now searching for warehousing services or warehousing businesses in the Philippines, causing an increased demand for warehousing.

A 2020 study done by Colliers Philippines revealed that the pandemic disrupted the country’s consumer-driven economy. Retailers are innovating their processes to remain relevant and competitive with the changing landscape. This resulted in increased partnerships with logistics firms and warehousing businesses across the Philippines to reach consumers wherever they may be. 

In nine months alone last 2020, the warehouse sector recorded a gross value of PHP 118.4 billion. This accounts for 31% of the gross value added to the transport and logistics sector, an all-time high for the warehousing business in the Philippines.

The report also indicated that the average rental costs in Metro Manila ranged from Php 220 to Php 570 (per square meter). This is higher than provincial rentals which only cost Php 160 to Php 240 in Northern and Central Luzon. 

This demand for warehousing will likely continue post-pandemic and will be sustained by the continued shift of retailers to E-commerce. However, the main driver will still be the growing demand for online shopping.

Overview of the warehousing sector in the Philippines

Logistics is among the many industries that remains resilient over the course of the pandemic. As E-commerce continues to grow, so does the demand for logistics and warehousing services in the Philippines.

According to a 2020 year-end report from Colliers International, warehousing services in the Philippines recorded a gross value added of PHP 118.4 Billion as of September 2020. This was due to the rise in E-commerce transactions as Filipinos stayed at home due to lockdowns. This also saw businesses expanding their offerings, which led to the increased demand for warehouses.

Warehousing, along with the rest of the logistics sector, is expected to maintain its growth for the succeeding years thanks to this shift in consumer behavior. However, Colliers also identified several challenges that warehousing is experiencing in the Philippines. These include limited spaces in Metro Manila, limited flexibility of existing warehouses, aging warehouses in provinces, and the worsening traffic congestion.

Growth opportunities for warehousing

There is hope for the warehousing sector in the Philippines to reach its full potential through different growth opportunities. One of which is modernization through technology. Automating warehouse processes will enhance overall operations because you can do tasks digitally, and sometimes, even remotely. Another is having warehouses outside the metro. This will help save on costs, especially as warehouses within business districts tend to be more expensive.

Colliers also identified using a ‘hub and spoke’ model to effectively manage warehousing in the Philippines. This means merchants can opt to have warehouses in the metro where their main operations are, and also in nearby provinces where the lease is cheaper. It’s easier on the budget plus merchants still get a lot of space.

Perspective from industry and government

It’s also possible to view the warehousing sector in the Philippines in a different lens. In real estate, JLL Philippines shared that as of September 2021, the country’s demand for logistics in the urban areas will continue to grow. Third-party logistics service providers and E-commerce stakeholders are forecast to lead the rising demand for space.

Similarly, the Philippines’ Department of Finance also continues to see growth opportunities in upgrading warehouses, but with a focus on enhancing food storage. This opens up the discussion on improving warehouses to better serve other industries they cater to, like E-commerce.

In a recently concluded online forum entitled “The PH logistics industry scales big and high: An industry outlook for 2022 and beyond”, decongestion was highlighted to help logistics grow further. The countryside offers affordable investments but metro cities remain most attractive to investors because of access to consumers. Thus, decongesting Metro Manila will significantly contribute to the sector’s overall long-term growth.

Things to consider when looking for Warehousing Services in the Philippines

If you’re looking for a partner to help you out with warehousing services in the Philippines, here are a couple of things you need to look out for:

Business Flexibility

Look for a warehousing partner that can be flexible when it comes to your needs. It’s a must for them to have warehouses in different locations, especially in key areas where you want to concentrate your business. This ultimately reduces the risk of having your products stuck in one place, giving you enough leverage to manage unforeseen circumstances.

Quick Delivery

It’s not enough that they are present across the country. What you need is a partner that can provide quick deliveries wherever your customers may be. It’s a definite plus for your business if you can offer customers same-day or next-day delivery. You should also consider cutting down delivery time for provincial areas.

Cheaper Shipping Fees

You haven’t even started, but savings are already at arm’s reach. Having warehouses in various locations also means shorter shipping distances from a warehouse to your customer. Because travel time and distance are shorter, it is only natural that shipping or delivery fees are significantly lessened.

With these things in mind, you now know how to choose the best warehousing business in the Philippines. But aside from these, go for a partner you know you can trust, and one that can help you scale your business.

Importance of a reliable warehousing partner

Considering the local situation, this now raises the value of having a warehousing partner that can best capture these opportunities. Luckily, Payo makes for an ideal partner because it offers efficient warehousing services in the Philippines, as well as a wide range of E-commerce services.

Payo has warehousing presence in strategic locations, namely Metro Manila, Cagayan De Oro, Pampanga, and Cebu. You’re not only able to gain a tech-enabled partner, but you also get access to key markets where you can be visible to consumers. Aside from warehousing, Payo also offers Cash on Delivery Integration, Fulfillment, Last Mile Management, and even Live Customer Support!

So if you need help when it comes to warehousing and stock management, you can sign up with Payo today or send us a message at [email protected] We’ll be right there with you!

Share

6 things to know before starting an E-commerce business

Marketing

|

Getting into E-commerce in the Philippines can be an exciting venture, especially if you’re a new E-commerce business. It’s an industry that presents a lot of opportunities for growth, and one that continues to evolve today. 

If you’ve decided to start your own online store, there are some important decisions you need to make even before its launch. There’s also a considerable amount of research and planning that you have to do. Feeling overwhelmed already? Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place! 

Here are some tips to follow if you’re just about to start your E-commerce business. 

Create a business plan

Your business plan will serve as your guide throughout your E-commerce journey. It details your business model, your short-term and long-term business goals, and your timeline for each milestone. 

Having a business plan helps you stay organized as you grow your E-commerce business, and helps you keep track of your progress. It will also make it easier for you to determine if there are certain strategies you have to change along the way.

Identify and study your target market

You won’t be able to effectively sell products to your target market if you don’t know them. Do some thorough research on them — their psychographics and demographics — and visit the platforms they’re on.

For example, you can check out boards, discussions, or social media groups that are relevant to your audience. Doing this will help you understand the challenges they face, what needs your products have to answer, and what content resonates with them. 

Utilize the power of digital platforms 

Today’s day and age makes it possible to easily reach customers across the country, or even across the globe. How? Simple – digital platforms. Take advantage of digital platforms like social media or your website to reach a wider audience. 

With the power of digital virality, one great social media post can also increase your followers exponentially, and create more brand awareness for you. Having said this, make sure to invest in creating an effective digital strategy no matter what you’re selling.

Excellent customer service sets you apart

When you start your E-commerce business, it’s a given that you should have a customer support representative or team. That, however, isn’t enough; you have to make sure that you provide quick and holistic service. This means having multiple channels where customers can reach you. It also means addressing their concerns and queries in a prompt and professional manner. Additionally, using chatbots that provide answers to frequently asked questions can save you time and effort.

Sometimes, effective customer service can be the difference between a canceled order and a saved one. 

Make time for networking 

There’s a saying that it takes a village to raise a child. Something similar can be said for businesses, because it takes a community for every business to realize its full potential. That’s why you should make time to get to know your colleagues in the industry. 

Go to networking events, attend seminars and talks, and look for opportunities to share your expertise. Doing these will put you in the same place with like-minded people, some who can inspire you or even help you with your business. 

Networking will also help you stay on top of industry trends and best practices, helping you innovate for your business.

Launch your business with a bang

Once you’re ready to launch your business, make sure you do it with a bang! This means having a multichannel approach. Set up your social media accounts, make sure your website is optimized, and have an email or cell phone number ready to accept orders and inquiries. 

You can also consider advertising your store’s opening, and if possible, even tapping influential people as brand ambassadors. 

No matter what approach you go for, make sure that you generate as much buzz and brand awareness as you can. 

These are just some of the things to consider when opening your E-commerce business. It can be a lot of pressure, especially if you have to do everything alone. Thankfully, Payo can be your reliable partner in online selling!

Payo is a leading E-commerce enabler in the Philippines that provides holistic solutions. When you partner with Payo, you don’t have to worry about the different aspects of owning an online store. We’ll be there to take care of Warehousing, Fulfillment, Cash on Delivery, and even Marketplace Optimization!

If you want to learn more about how Payo can help you, sign up today or send us a message at [email protected]. We’re looking forward to working with you soon!

Share

How to choose a logistics company in the Philippines

Marketing

|

For most merchants, a reliable logistics company in the Philippines is essential for running a successful E-commerce business. Your logistics partner will be responsible for storing your products and delivering them to your customers, so you must take the time to find the right one.

Finding a trustworthy logistics company in the Philippines is not easy, but it is possible. Here’s a list of questions you should consider answering before choosing a logistics partner for your company.

Do they have credibility?

There are a lot of logistics companies in the Philippines, and when you’re looking for one, the first thing you have to check is their credibility.

You can do this by doing some research on the different logistics companies. Know their track record and their reputation in the market. Check out their websites, social media accounts, and what their clients say about their services. Feedback matters, and you’ll know if they are credible based on the service they provide their clients, as well as the reputation they’re able to build through time.

Do they have the right technology to do the work?

Another thing you need to consider in finding a logistics company in the Philippines is its technological capabilities. As the E-commerce industry evolves, so does logistics. With that said, the logistics company must integrate the latest IT systems for transport management, such as a courier algorithm that analyzes the best courier to manage your needs. 

Are they offering transparent and competitive pricing?

Wasting money on bad logistics is a big no-no. To avoid falling into the trap of inconsistent and ambiguous pricing, check their rate card to know if their services are best suited for you. Also, a detailed report of delivery costs can help you choose your delivery schemes consciously and save you from wasting money.

Do they have policies on returns and refunds?

While damaged and lost parcels can be inevitable, it still pays to have your back covered by knowing your logistics company’s policies on refunds and returns. Checking if they have a safe delivery guarantee and transit damage policy can help you select the best logistics partner.

Will you get timely logistics updates?

Communication is crucial in customer management. The E-commerce industry has come to a point where almost all customers expect to know where their packages are at all times. Complaints about not getting real-time updates can create a dent in your reputation as an E-commerce business.

Do they have 24/7 customer support?

Cases of lost parcels, mishandled packages, damaged goods, and unresponsive logistics partners have become prevalent, causing frustration for both merchants and customers. For customers especially, it can be discouraging when logistics companies cannot assist them promptly. 

Consider a logistics provider that offers fast and consistent customer care service. You can actively observe this by checking how responsive they are in communications, and how they handle problems. It would be a plus if they offer 24/7 customer support, or customer support through different channels. 

Are they present in key locations?

If you make deliveries nationwide, you need to choose a logistics partner that can cover all parts of the country. It is important to note if they have multiple warehouses or if they are present in key locations in the Philippines, as this will benefit your business. 

For one, you’ll be able to reduce the usual delivery wait times because your products are closer to your customers. This also means that delivery costs won’t be as expensive in the long run.

Getting a reliable logistics company in the Philippines can be very challenging, but these questions will help you choose the right partner and strategically scale your business. If you want to improve your logistics now, look no further because Payo’s got your back!

As an E-commerce enabler, Payo is a reliable logistics company in the Philippines. We offer quick and hassle-free logistics services with our range of innovative and tech-driven solutions such as Information Logistics, Live Customer Support, Courier Algorithm, Multiple Warehousing, and so much more. Payo is the perfect logistics partner that will give you access to dependable and cost-effective logistics in the Philippines.

Optimize your logistics process now by signing up today or sending us a message at [email protected]. We will be happy to help with your logistics!

Share

Last-minute holiday tips for online merchants

Althea Kalalo

|

Just a few more days and Christmas will finally be here! While this means a period of merriment and gift-giving, it also means you have just a few more days until the busiest E-commerce season is over. Don’t lose the opportunity to take advantage of it!

If you’re an E-commerce service in the Philippines, you probably already have marketing campaigns in place. Still, it can be helpful to see how else you can boost your sales in the coming days. With that, here are our top holiday tips to make the most of the Christmas rush!

Create last-minute promos

While there are some shoppers who do tick off their Christmas lists in advance, some don’t have the time to buy gifts until the very last minute. That’s why one of our holiday tips is to create last-minute promos for these customers.

You can hold a flash sale on specific days of the month (e.g. 10 days before Christmas, or on Christmas day itself), or you can even have creative gift bundles up for the whole month of December! Don’t feel discouraged about creating promos because you feel you’re late to the game.

Plan some email campaigns

Email campaigns are a great way to talk directly to customers, especially those who have already bought products from your store. Make email campaigns exciting by offering exclusive discount codes, or early access to website sales. This way, customers will be excited for your holiday campaigns, and will be more likely to patronize your store. 

Make sure to also feature engaging images of your products, and focus more on being visual-heavy when it comes to these types of campaigns — something similar to a virtual gift catalog. 

Put importance on personalization 

Most purchases around the holidays are for gift-giving, and one seemingly small thing that customers look for is personalization. Offering simple gift-wrapping or holiday note cards can help them save time and resources. It’s also one less thing to worry about for them, as your products will be ready to give once it gets to their homes. 

This is one of the holiday tips you can do for free or for a minimal fee. Either way your customers will appreciate that you’re helping them with holiday preparations. 

Amp up digital campaigns 

With today’s digital age, it’s easier than ever to reach out to hundreds or even thousands of people. That’s why it’s the perfect time to amp up your digital marketing campaigns, especially on social media. 

Invest in marketplace banner ads, social media ads, and even sponsored articles. Do as much as you can to get your product bundles and discounts out there, and it’s sure to catch the attention of potential customers during the Christmas rush.

Take advantage of post-holiday shopping

The holiday spirit goes beyond December 25, so don’t be afraid to extend your holiday offerings! Some customers might still need additional gifts, or may want to treat themselves in preparation for the new year. 

Having said this, it’s important to cater to these customers by planning out campaigns even until January. After all, the Philippines is known to have one of the longest Christmas seasons!

Offer same-day delivery

If there’s anything that last-minute Christmas shoppers need, it’s same-day delivery. We consider this one of the most important holiday tips for the Christmas rush. That’s because offering same-day delivery caters to a specific type of customer — the one that’s in a race against time to deliver their gifts. By being a store that can address this need, you have better chances of attracting more customers. 

These are just some of the tips that merchants can follow to increase their holiday sales in the next month or two. But if you want to be a reliable and credible E-commerce service in the Philippines, you have to optimize all the aspects of your business – not just ones involving your marketing and sales strategies. To do that, you need a partner in E-commerce who can take care of the legwork, and Payo is the perfect choice for this!

Payo takes care of all the logistical aspects of your business, from Warehousing and Fulfillment to Last Mile Management. Additionally, Payo helps you with Marketplace Optimization, Live Customer Support, and even Advanced Remittance. 

Taking these off your plate helps you focus on the bigger picture, ultimately helping you scale your business while having better processes.

If you want an E-commerce partner to help you with the holidays, as well as the rest of the year, then sign up today or send us a message at [email protected]. We look forward to helping you win in E-commerce!

Share

8 best practices for excellent E-commerce customer service

Marketing

|

A Hubspot study revealed that 93% of customers are more inclined to repeat purchases with companies who offer excellent E-commerce customer service. This only tells us one thing, customer service is essential, no matter how big or small your E-commerce business is. 

While there’s no cookie-cutter approach to customer service, there are ways you can delight your customers and build lifelong relationships that will help your company thrive. Ready to take your E-commerce service in the Philippines to the next level? Start by implementing these customer service best practices.

Being proactive is key

Stand out from the competition by having a proactive approach to customer service. For example, ensure that your customer is informed of their package’s whereabouts. And if there is a delay, make sure that you reach out to them as soon as possible. Your customer will appreciate your effort and remember your store the next time they go online shopping. 

Consistency is the name of the game

Customers who choose to shop online expect fast reactions and prompt answers. It’s not enough to have a multi-channel approach; you have to make sure that you balance speed and convenience even in customer service. To do so, you have to serve your customers with a consistent level of quality in a short period of time across different channels. 

Show that you really care for your customers

Offering your customers genuine empathy is what can set your business apart. When you add empathy to your strategy, even a simple interaction between you and your customer can be meaningful and memorable. Remember that being approachable helps create great customer experiences that can drive loyalty, positive feedback, and eventually, repeat sales.

Add a personal touch

Giving every customer a personalized shopping experience can be challenging. Thankfully, there are small ways in which you can do this! Personalization can be in the form of after-sale follow-ups or small thoughtful gestures like adding free stickers in your packaging. You can also send personalized cards and notes to your customer. By doing any of these, you can deliver excellent customer service in your own simple way.

Always ask for feedback and act on them

In the Philippines, E-commerce services taking customer reviews and feedback seriously is a must. If you notice that a customer has had a negative experience with your store, don’t let them feel like they are shouting into a void. Reach out to them, offer a solution, and let them know you value their feedback. Your harshest critics today can be your biggest supporters tomorrow, so don’t forget to engage with feedback or reviews.

Meet your customers on the channels they prefer

Online shoppers expect that they can connect with their favorite brands via different channels. The best way to go about this? Meet them on the channels they prefer. Whether it be over social media, email, real-time messaging, offline support channels, or phone calls, communicating with them at their convenience is important. This is also why having a multi-channel presence can prove to be an advantage for your business.

Measure, optimize, repeat

One way to know if your E-commerce customer service is working is to set KPIs and track metrics. You can also analyze your performance through generated reports. There are various tools to help you with this. You can start with tracking the number of tickets, chat response rate, and period of resolution of requests. This way, you’ll know exactly where you are in your customer service approach and improve your quality of work.

Automate your processes with customer service tools

E-commerce enablers know that automation is the key to efficient processes. Luckily, even customer service in E-commerce can now be automated. There are various software or even help desks you can utilize to help your team connect with customers and organize their information. And with automation, you can resolve issues in as few steps as possible compared to manual processing.

These are just some of the best practices on how you can improve your customer service. Following these best practices can help set your E-commerce business apart from other online stores, so make sure you keep them in mind.

If you are finding it hard to handle customer service on your own, there are E-commerce enablers like Payo that can help you provide excellent customer service.

As the leading E-commerce enabler in the Philippines, Payo has a range of services that can empower you to create exceptional customer experiences. Level up your E-commerce game with services like Information Logistics and Live Customer Support, as well as other solutions like Fulfillment and Warehousing. 

Sign up with us today or send us a message at [email protected] and discover how you can scale while providing great E-commerce customer service in the Philippines!

Share

5 characteristics of an efficient E-commerce service in the Philippines

Marketing

|

One of the keys to having a successful E-commerce business in the Philippines is efficiency. From streamlined processes to a seamless overall experience, merchants have the opportunity to do more for their business when things are done right and efficiently.

With more merchants looking to set up shop and expand locally, providers of E-commerce services in the Philippines are also increasing to serve the growing demand. Merchants need to have the right partner who can bring their products and services to the online world and help them manage different aspects of their business.

What do merchants need to look for exactly? Here are five characteristics that merchants should look for in their partner to provide efficient E-commerce service in the Philippines.

Organized and systematic

Nothing says efficiency more than having a seamless system and being organized. Merchants benefit from an organized and systematic partner because there’s less room for mistakes and manual errors. Product stocks, incoming orders, shipments and backlogs – they definitely keep everything in check, which enables merchants to stay on top of their game.

Digitally-inclined and tech-savvy

In today’s time, the best way to achieve efficiency is by embracing the digital space and its different opportunities. Tech-savvy partners help merchants optimize their E-commerce service in the Philippines by lowering operational costs through digitizing processes. Things like marketing, customer service, reporting, and many more are easier to do online, boosting a merchant’s overall productivity.

Strategic thinker

Merchants who want to explore E-commerce in the Philippines more effectively must partner with strategic thinkers that offer local insights and strategies to understand the market. With these, merchants are able to build their online presence faster, reach target audiences, and tap more areas efficiently. 

Agile and adaptive

From customer complaints to natural disasters, doing E-commerce in the Philippines also has its own set of challenges. Merchants need to have access to partners that are agile and can easily adapt to navigate tricky situations with the best possible solutions. This will ultimately make the overall experience better for both merchants and customers.

Flexible and collaborative

There’s definitely no one-size-fits-all when it comes to offering any E-commerce service in the Philippines. A flexible and collaborative partner makes work efficient because they tailor-fit their solutions to a merchant’s needs. They are eager to listen and provide different suggestions and recommendations to ensure all requirements are met.

To conquer and thrive in E-commerce in the Philippines, merchants must be wise in choosing their partner. These characteristics are essential to finding the right one, especially as these help bring efficiency to various aspects of the business. Merchants can certainly find them in Payo!

Payo is the leading E-commerce enabler in the Philippines that understands the value of efficiency for businesses. Payo is a reliable partner for merchants because its solutions are comprehensive and can be tailor-fit based on your team and needs. Among these are Live Customer Support, Warehousing, Fulfillment, and Marketplace Optimization, which cover different aspects of a business.

Curious as to how Payo can make your business efficient? Sign up with Payo today or send us a message at [email protected]. It’s time to discover and unleash your brand’s true potential!

Share

Reasons to work with an E-commerce logistics company in the Philippines

Marketing

|

Working with an E-commerce logistics company in the Philippines is essential for any business, regardless of type or scale. This is especially true as many businesses and consumers continue to flock to the digital space for their different needs.

A logistics company in the Philippines that has E-commerce capabilities can help merchants efficiently manage different aspects of their operations. In a bustling E-commerce industry, partnering with one elevates overall business management and entails a lot of benefits.

Still unsure about working with an E-commerce logistics company in the Philippines? Read on to find out the reasons why you should.

Unlocks more opportunities

Partnering with an E-commerce logistics company in the Philippines grants merchants more opportunities because Filipinos now have a strong preference for online shopping. While brick and mortar stores remain a top choice for Filipino shoppers, businesses have more leeway in the digital marketplace. Thus, an E-commerce logistics company can build and strengthen a merchant’s digital presence. It allows them to offer various promos and deals to attract more newfound consumers and increase sales.

Makes tracking of orders easier

Merchants work hard to make each customer purchase special, more so if they’re a startup, in order to make a great impression. However, it may be difficult to keep track should there be large volumes of orders and shipments. 

An E-commerce logistics company in the Philippines can remedy this by digitizing certain operational aspects. Monitoring orders and updating customers – these are just some of the tasks they can offer to maintain seamless operations and a smooth consumer experience.

Expands visibility to increase market reach

E-commerce has made the retail world a lot smaller and each logistics company in the Philippines has expanded its footprint to tap more markets. Similarly, partnering with them also helps merchants widen their reach and makes their products more accessible in different areas.

Offers multiple warehouses and reduced shipping costs

To bring brands and their products closer to consumers, a logistics company in the Philippines can offer storage spaces in multiple locations. Given the country’s geography, storing products in multiple locations lets merchants cater to consumers in nearby areas, ultimately expanding their own customer base. This also lowers shipping costs because there are local couriers that can be tapped.

Provides faster fulfillment of orders

As more Filipinos explore online retail, their habit of wanting to get what they ordered fast remains the same. An E-commerce logistics company in the Philippines can provide merchants with faster, more streamlined order fulfillment. This means that the delivery time of orders are cut shorter and some merchants can even offer next-day delivery for shorter distances or nearby locations.

Maximizes overall productivity

Overall, an E-commerce logistics partner allows merchants to maximize productivity because they can focus on more important aspects of their business. A logistics partner can handle different day-to-day tasks whether it’s monitoring orders or packing them. This lets merchant focus on responding to customer feedback and thinking of strategies to attract more customers.

In business, having a partner offers a lot of benefits, especially in supporting your operations. Payo is the perfect E-commerce logistics partner for local and international merchants as it offers the aforementioned benefits and more.

A leading E-commerce enabler in the Philippines, Payo has a wide range of solutions that can be tailor-fit for a business’ online retail needs. Among these are Marketplace Optimization, Live Customer Support, Warehousing, and Last Mile Management.

These are just some of the reasons why merchants should work with an E-commerce logistics company in the Philippines like Payo. Need more?

Sign up with Payo today or send us a message at [email protected]. Let’s unlock more opportunities for your business together!

Share

7 tips to help you prepare for major end-of-year sale events

Marketing

|

The ‘Ber’ months, also known as the Golden Quarter, present a major boost in sales for the Philippine E-commerce sector. It is when major sale events happen and Filipinos are on the lookout for bang-for-their-buck holiday deals. 

As end-of-year sales edge forward, more shoppers are rushing to online marketplaces to make their holiday purchases. This could bring about challenges for E-commerce businesses of all sizes, especially smaller ones. If you want to enjoy a big uptick in sales during this year’s biggest shopping events, you need to think about how to prepare your business. Here are a few suggestions: 

Make inventory decisions early 

If you plan your inventory ahead of time, you’ll know which products you’ll need to stock up on. You can also choose the products you’ll be promoting for end-of-year sales as early as possible. This is particularly important if you rely on suppliers for your products. You have to give them, as well as yourself, time to prepare and get the products early. 

Optimize your online store with an omnichannel approach

Embracing an omnichannel customer experience is important during this quarter. Whether your customers are on mobile or using a desktop/laptop to shop, be sure that you optimize your channels to create a seamless shopping experience for them. This helps you increase contact with your customers no matter what their online shopping preferences are.

Connect with your customers through social media

E-commerce in the Philippines is mostly driven by the country’s huge social media usage rate. As Filipinos spend an average of 11 hours a day online, it pays to connect with customers on social media. 

Create your own social media pages and execute campaigns to help with brand awareness and engagement. From offering discounts, coupons, and giveaways, to posting reviews and feedback about your products and services, your social media pages can be effective marketing tools to attract more potential customers.

Have a reliable warehousing partner

The high volume of demand during end-of-year sales can make it more difficult for merchants to fulfill and get orders to customers quickly. So as early as now, you must have a reliable Warehousing partner with multiple warehouses. This ensures that your products are accessible for quick delivery to your customers across the country.

Get help with fulfillment from the experts

The ‘Ber’ months are known for mega traffic jams, which can cause delays in shipping products. As you will likely get an influx of orders over these end-of-year sales, it might be worth getting a Fulfillment service provider that can handle picking up, packing, and shipping packages for you.

Integrate live chat into your store

End-of-year sale events in Philippine E-commerce are considered the busiest season in online shopping. As more people are rushing to shop online, the last thing you’d want is to lose a sale just because a customer couldn’t get a reply from you quickly. Consider enabling and integrating a 24/7 Live Chat into your store. This can help both existing and potential customers easily reach you should they have any queries or concerns.

Provide prompt and timely updates

Major year-end sale events are hectic not just for you or your customers, but also for customer support. Customers like keeping tabs, particularly on the status of their package delivery. It can be stressful for you if they keep following up and hounding you for information. 

This is why it is important to find ways how you can provide prompt and timely information logistics to avoid customer frustration. This can give your store’s reputation a little boost because you leave a good impression on them and keep them satisfied with your service.

These are just some of the tips you can utilize in managing major sales. If you want to further level up your E-commerce game, having a trustworthy partner like Payo can help you get through the crazy and adrenaline-filled end-of-year sales in the Philippines!

Being one of the Philippines’ leading E-commerce enablers, Payo offers diverse and innovative services to help you take advantage of major end-of-year sale events. Our Marketplace Optimization, Live Customer Support, Multiple Warehousing, and even our Last Mile Management solutions can help you get the most out of this busy time for E-commerce.

Want to conquer end-of-year sale events? Sign up now or send us a message at [email protected] so we can discuss how to do it together!

Share

Customer service horror stories and how to avoid them

Marketing

|

Keeping your customers happy should be your utmost priority if you want to be successful in the local E-commerce space. But as an E-commerce service in the Philippines, Payo knows encountering horror situations involving irate customers is inevitable. This shouldn’t scare you, though! You can’t fully avoid these problems, but knowing how to handle them properly can help you succeed as an online merchant.

We’re here to give you advice on how you can turn these situations around. Let’s take a look at some E-commerce customer service horror stories, as well as what you can do to solve them!

The werewolf

They seem like regular customers at first but be warned, a delayed delivery can make them furious in an instant – similar to a werewolf during a full moon. But, who can really blame them? They’re not necessarily angry at you, they’re just feeling frustrated over the delay.

Keep calm, apologize, and don’t escalate the situation! If you match their frustration, you’re going to make things worse. Make sure to provide them with a solution as soon as you can. You can also inform them that you’re taking immediate action on the matter. Once they know that you’re on top of the situation, they usually go back to a calmer version of themselves.

Frankenstein’s customer

Just when you thought that a customer isn’t pushing through with their purchase, they’ve come back to life and are now constantly messaging you, demanding to have their order shipped right away.

Once they’ve finalized their order, walk them through your ordering process. Customers can be understanding once they see things from your point of view. It’s also good to show them that you’re willing to attend to them for any questions or queries. This is a step in the right direction for having a good relationship with them.

The ghost buyer

At the other end of the spectrum, we have situations with customers who are poised to receive their packages and then poof, it seems like they’ve vanished from the face of this earth. Fortunately, it’s possible to summon these people back into existence – no Ouija board required.

If all attempts at contacting them again have failed, it’s best to double check their delivery details. It’s possible that they haven’t updated their latest address or the rider might have gotten the wrong number. These may seem like simple mistakes, but they still happen.

The logistical jigsaw

You should always go above and beyond for your customers. But, when their delivery directions start to look like an evil villain’s master plan, you need to exercise some patience.

These kinds of customers usually have specific delivery needs that take more time and effort to accomplish. They can range from having to find hidden areas (at least according to navigation apps), multiple requirements to enter places (leaving IDs in villages within villages), or even particular ways of leaving behind their packages.

Make sure to list every detail down and relay it to the courier. It may seem tedious to take note of everything, but customers will appreciate your effort, and even seek your store out again in the future.

These are just some of the horror stories that you may encounter in Philippine E-commerce. Dealing with these problems can be scary for merchants, but don’t forget that great customer service can save the day.

If you need someone that can help you avoid these frights, look no further than Payo!

As the leading E-commerce service provider in the Philippines, Payo is here to make online selling easy and hassle-free for both merchants and their customers. Our Customer Support service gives you a dedicated team that can handle any and all problems your customers may encounter. Our Fulfillment service also ensures safe and fast delivery, even if you have high holiday volumes. 
  
Learn more about our E-commerce solutions by signing up with us today or by sending us a message at [email protected]. Don’t worry, we don’t bite!