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Surviving a high volume of orders during the E-commerce holiday rush

Christmas is one of the biggest holidays in the Philippines. It starts as soon as the ‘Ber’ months kick in, resulting in a third of the year being dedicated to spreading holiday cheer.

During these ‘Ber’ months, merchants have a high chance of experiencing the E-commerce holiday rush. That’s because this is the time when Filipinos start ticking things off their to-buy lists. Many business owners welcome this because it’s an opportunity to cater to more customers. However, it may be daunting to manage when orders start stacking up. So, what is the best way to go about it?

Here are a few tips to help merchants survive a high volume of orders over the E-commerce holiday rush. 

Check your website and digital assets

Aside from a surge in orders, merchants who run their own website and those on social media and digital marketplaces must be wary of online traffic. Checking their website and digital assets is important to avoid any glitches, inaccurate information, and other mishaps that may impact the customer’s experience.

Stock up on products and supplies

Sales tend to peak most during the ‘Ber’ months for many businesses. As such, merchants need to double check and replenish stocks of their products and packaging supplies in anticipation of incoming orders. The last thing merchants want is losing an order because of stocks running out during the E-commerce holiday rush. 

Keep orders organized

It’s important for merchants to have a system to better manage orders. Organizing products, monitoring orders and scheduling shipments – having all these in a tracker makes logistics easier. This gives merchants visibility over the tiniest of details. Should merchants make a habit out of this, it may also be useful and more effective for them even after the ‘Ber’ months have passed.

Go a little ‘extra’

Speed is important in dealing with a large volume of orders. However, merchants need to remember that being mindful and careful of product handling and packaging will also benefit their E-commerce service. Organization helps them find time to do this. Being ‘extra’ in ensuring the quality of products and security of packaging will certainly go a long way when satisfying customers.

Collaborate with multiple couriers

Collaborating with various couriers will help merchants improve their E-commerce service. Filipinos have developed a habit of wanting to receive their online orders as soon as they proceed to checkout. This is heightened during the E-commerce holiday rush. Working with multiple couriers allows merchants to not only ship out orders faster, but even lessen shipping fees.

Ask for help

Merchants sometimes forget that in business, asking for help is an option. By having extra hands onboard, merchants can delegate tasks better and complete more orders without compromising on quality. It’s also a nice way of working smarter while the E-commerce holiday rush is ongoing.

Partner with an E-commerce enabler

Being self-sufficient is key to navigating the E-commerce holiday rush. However, the true hack to surviving this cheerful yet chaotic season is partnering with an E-commerce enabler that can ultimately address various merchant needs.

Payo, the leading E-commerce enabler in the Philippines, offers not just one E-commerce service but a wide range of solutions that can help merchants conquer the ‘Ber’ months. The company provides digital services that help merchants keep orders organized, choose couriers, track shipments, reach more locations, and even communicate with customers.

Among Payo’s solutions are Live Customer Support, Warehousing, and Last Mile Management. They offer Marketplace Optimization for those who want to go into online marketplaces. They also have Cash-on-Delivery Integration for those looking to expand their payment options.

Need help surviving the E-commerce holiday rush? Sign up with Payo today or send us a message at [email protected]. Let’s make the holiday season less chaotic and more productive!

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How to be a reliable E-commerce business in the Philippines

In recent years, there has been a noticeable boom in E-commerce services. This rise can be attributed to how easy it has become for Filipino merchants to set up their own online businesses. Potential sellers no longer need a lot of capital to get their store up and running. All they need is an internet connection and quality products, and they’re ready to start selling. 

This situation has also led to the overall market for E-commerce businesses in the Philippines becoming more competitive. With the seemingly limitless options available to customers, it can be difficult for online stores – especially newer ones – to stand out. However, the most successful businesses in this market are usually the ones that customers see as reliable.

To help budding merchants achieve this, we’ve made a step-by-step guide on the traits and best practices that they should know in order to succeed in the Philippine market. Let’s take a look!

Market your business well

Setting up your store is only half the battle as getting customers to visit it is a different story. A well thought out marketing effort can help push more people to consider shopping from your E-commerce business in the Philippines.

When promoting your store and its products, it’s more effective to highlight what sets your business apart from others. Focusing on a unique selling point makes it easier for possible customers to remember you.

Provide customers with a worry-free shopping experience

Whether you’re an E-commerce service using an already established marketplace or your own site, your customer’s shopping experience should always be easy and convenient. Any problems that visitors encounter while shopping could ultimately deter them from making purchases.

This user-friendly experience should also be applicable for mobile users. As most Filipinos shop using their phones, optimizing your store for mobile can help you attract more customers. 

Informative product pages

A main difference between E-commerce services and traditional shopping is that online stores don’t allow customers to physically inspect items before purchasing. It’s now up to merchants to make sure their product page is as accurate and informative as possible. 

Each product page should describe what it is and what the item is for. The descriptions need to be up-to-date and should paint a detailed picture of the product’s features. It’s also important to have good quality images and videos of the product for more visual shoppers.

Fast and safe delivery

Timely deliveries can go a long way in terms of maintaining customer satisfaction. E-commerce businesses in the Philippines can lose out on repeat customers due to delayed deliveries. Shoppers will even cancel their orders outright if they experience major issues like failed deliveries or a complex delivery process.

Merchants should always be wary of minimizing these issues so their store can leave a positive impression on consumers.

Be consistent 

When a business is aiming to be a reliable E-commerce service, occasionally providing good service isn’t going to cut it. Merchants have to make sure that the quality of their online store is consistently great.

This is because you’re essentially building a relationship with your customers over time. Having the discipline to be dependable will mean a lot to them. Keeping this up will not only help your store gain good customer reviews, but will contribute to your business’ long term success. 

These are just some of the things that you should keep in mind when starting your own E-commerce business in the Philippines. It may seem daunting for beginners, but there are companies out there that can help merchants easily implement these processes. 

If you’re looking for an E-commerce enabler that can handle all of these things for you, then look no further than Payo!

As the Philippine’s leading E-commerce enabler, Payo has a variety of services that can help merchants succeed. From Marketplace Optimization, Last Mile Management, Fulfillment, and even Warehousing – Payo can expertly assist online stores with any of their needs. 

Learn more about Payo’s E-commerce solutions by sending a message to [email protected] or signing up with us today!

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Best shopping apps in the Philippines

The rise of smartphones and the app economy has changed the game for E-commerce. Now more than ever, online shoppers have gotten used to ordering everything in online marketplaces on their smartphones. As it has become the easiest, most convenient way of shopping, the popularity of online shopping apps in the Philippines has grown immensely in the past two years.

If you are an online marketplace seller, knowing the best shopping apps in the Philippines is helpful for expanding your business. So, we’ve rounded up a number of shopping apps that you can consider to make your business even more accessible to your customers.

Lazada

A major shopping app in the Philippines and the whole Southeast Asian region, Lazada is an E-commerce pioneer that introduced an all-in-one online marketplace to the country. It’s a huge virtual mall that offers a variety of products from thousands of legit merchants. From the latest tech to fashion items, Lazada’s got your back. It has over 100 million downloads on Google Play and the App Store due to how customers love Lazada’s affordable prices, frequent shopping promos, and grand payday and year-end sales.

Payment methods:

  • Cash on Delivery
  • Lazada E-Wallet
  • Credit and Debit Card
  • GCash

Shipping methods: Door-to-door delivery

Delivery time:

  • 7 days for Metro Manila addresses
  • 12 days for provincial addresses, except for some remote areas

Shopee

With over 50 million downloads on Google Play and the App Store, Shopee is indeed one of the best shopping apps in the Philippines and the Southeast Asian region. It has a broad selection of items ranging from electronics, books, furniture, fashionable items, makeup, pet accessories, and hardware products at reasonable prices. Additionally, it also offers various payment modes that are convenient for Filipino shoppers.

Payment methods:

  • Cash on Delivery
  • ShopeePay
  • SPayLater (Installment and Buy Now, Pay Later)
  • Credit and Debit Card
  • Online Banking
  • Over the Counter
  • Remittance Centers
  • Bank Transfer

Shipping method: Door-to-door delivery

Delivery time:

  • 2 to 5 days for Metro Manila addresses
  • 3 to 8 days for provincial addresses
  • 7 to 16 days for products ordered from overseas sellers

Zalora

When it comes to fashion, Zalora is the best shopping app there is. It is home to the biggest local and international clothing and accessory brands. Zalora often comes up with exclusive in-app promos nearly every day to the delight of every fashion junkie. It is easy to navigate and is one of the most trusted online marketplaces for fashion and beauty in the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Payment methods:

  • Cash on Delivery
  • PayPal
  • Credit and Debit Card
  • E-gift card
  • Wallet Credit
  • GCash
  • Google Pay
  • GrabPay

Shipping methods: Door-to-door delivery and Pick-up at Click + Connect sites (Alabang Town Center and Glorietta)

Delivery time: It varies but Zalora delivers from Mondays to Fridays, 9 AM to 6 PM, excluding holidays.

BeautyMNL

The Philippines’ homegrown beauty and cosmetics app, BeautyMNL, started before the dawn of online marketplaces such as Lazada and Zalora. BeautyMNL was founded by a Filipina who wanted to create a niche beauty platform featuring brands and products suitable for Filipinos. The app also offers exclusive promos as well as over 45,000 self-care staples from local and global beauty brands that every beauty junkie can explore.

Payment methods

  • Cash on Delivery
  • Bank Deposit
  • Credit Card
  • PayPal
  • GrabPay
  • GCash
  • BeautyMNL credits
  • Glow Points

Shipping methods: Door-to-door delivery and/or Pick-up at BeautyMNL Partner Hubs

Delivery time:

  • 1 to 3 days for Metro Manila via Express Delivery
  • 3 to 5 days for Metro Manila via Standard Delivery
  • 7 to 10 days for deliveries nationwide

Carousell

If you are into buying and selling, Carousell is the right shopping app for you. It’s a great place to offer and buy pre-owned items like car parts and accessories, tools and appliances, clothes and shoes, and books and crafting supplies. The app is available for customers in Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and the Philippines. With currently over 10 million downloads on Google Play and the App Store, the marketplace for shoppers and merchants continues to grow in numbers.

Payment Methods:

  • Bank Deposit
  • Cash on Delivery
  • Credit and Debit Cards
  • Remittance centers
  • GCash
  • PayPal

Shipping Method: 

  • Door-to-door delivery
  • Meet up
  • Pick up

Delivery time: Varies depending on the courier

These are just some of the best online shopping apps in the Philippines that merchants can utilize to expand their market. However, if you are still finding your way in E-commerce and online marketplaces, partnering with a reliable E-commerce enabler like Payo is your key to success.

Payo has a full suite of innovative and tech-driven tools to help merchants scale faster and ship smarter. These include services that are crucial for online businesses such as Marketplace Optimization, Fulfillment, Warehousing, and Cash-on-Delivery Integration.

Sign up with us at Payo or send us a message at [email protected] so we can jump-start your E-commerce success in every online marketplace today!

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5 advantages of an online marketplace as a selling platform

These days, more and more merchants are seeing the benefit of having an online marketplace for a selling platform. That’s because everyone seems to be on Shopee or Lazada, and patronage for these platforms seem to be growing still. In fact, the two shopping sites have a combined total of about 100 million visitors per month. 

To merchants who want to find more customers and get their brand out there, this can be quite appealing. Wondering what other advantages merchants like you can experience on an online marketplace? Here are a few more:

New platform to reach customers

Whether you’re a new merchant or one who’s looking to expand to different channels, an online marketplace can be a good choice. That’s because its popularity has proven to be a great boost in reaching out to a wide audience. And because customers are so accustomed to being on online marketplaces, they may see it as a plus if your items are available there.

Furthermore, these platforms usually have major sales every month. You can capitalize on this to create attractive deals and enticing promos that customers can’t resist!

Mobile-first approach 

Studies have shown that the Philippines is ranked first in terms of the number of people who use mobile phones to shop online. Additionally, roughly 70% of E-commerce transactions in the country are done via mobile phone. 

This highlights that using an online marketplace as a selling platform is an advantage, especially if it has a mobile application. By being on a platform that most customers are comfortable with, you increase your chances of making more sales. 

Lower operational costs

Another thing that’s nice about an online marketplace is that you can have significantly lower operational costs. Think about it this way – if you were to build your own selling platform from scratch, then maintain it, it would cost more. By being an online marketplace seller, you have a lot of those aspects taken care of for you!

In-app advertising options

Another great thing about using an online marketplace as a selling platform is that you can advertise within their app. For example, you can pay a fee to have your item be recommended when a customer searches a relevant keyword. You can also pay to have your shop name be featured on the search bar of the app. 

These are just some of the ways that you can stand out in the app, especially with countless other shops on it.

Great for customer feedback

One thing that customers love doing on online marketplaces is leaving reviews. Getting positive reviews from customers – whether it’s because of quick delivery, proper packing, or good quality products – establishes your store as reliable and trustworthy. 

As long as you keep your customers satisfied, the reviews section can attract new customers on its own, or even garner referrals from past customers!

These are just some of the advantages of having an online marketplace as a selling platform. Ultimately, you’ll be the one who’ll know whether or not it’s a channel you want to pursue. But if you’re set on being on online marketplaces, then the next best decision you can make is to partner with Payo.

Payo provides holistic E-commerce solutions for both international and local merchants. Our Marketplace Optimization solution follows a two-pronged approach to ensure your success across different marketplaces. We take care of everything from store set up to delivery and remittance. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and trust that we’ll help your business scale.

Want to start making sales on online marketplaces? Sign up with Payo today or send us a message at [email protected]. Let’s take your business to the next level!

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Ten trending products to sell in E-commerce this 2022

Online marketplaces offer a plethora of products and services. And being in the know of trending products in E-commerce is a vital aspect of being a merchant. For one, it can give you an edge over your competitors. It’s also an excellent way to attract new customers to your store.

However, the emerging and ever-changing trends can be quite overwhelming. So to help you out, we’ve listed the trending products in E-commerce that you should consider selling.

Cosmetics and Beauty Products

In the past two years, beauty and makeup content has been on the rise. And thanks to influencers, beauty products are among the top selling products here in the country. Foundation shades perfect for morena skin as well as new lippies and eye shadow palettes, brow gels, and stamp eyeliners are among the top products under this category. 

Personal Care Products

When it comes to trending products in E-commerce, skincare and personal care products are always a top of mind choice. It is a robust category that offers high chances of repeat purchases. Online marketplace platforms like Shopee and Lazada can attest to the high demand for skincare products each day. 

If you want to keep enticing customers to your store, this is the way to go. After all, Filipinos are always on the lookout for affordable and effective sheet masks, toners, or moisturizers to pamper themselves with.

Pet Supplies

Another product category on our list is pet supplies and accessories. A lot of Filipino pet owners are willing to splurge to keep their pets happy and healthy. In fact, the pet care market is expected to increase by 6% annually. Products such as treats, brushes, clothes, leashes, and collars are trending in online marketplaces these days.

Clothing and Fashion Items

Filipinos are big on style, which is why men’s and women’s clothing and fashion items are very marketable products. Crop tops, blazers, jogger pants, and even high-waist pants are some of the items that have gained popularity in recent years. The growth of social media fashion trends has also contributed to the demand for these items, so it’s definitely a good option for an online store.

Sportswear

Gone are the days when sportswear was only worn by athletes. Now, it seems like almost everyone is into athleisure — accessible sportswear that balances comfort and style. Items like sports bras, Dri-FIT shirts, gym clothes, leggings, and even socks are among the trending products in E-commerce. If you are still unsure about what to sell, you can focus on these products first. You can then venture later into workout equipment such as dumbbells, kettlebells, and weighted jump ropes.

Kitchenware and Homeware

During the pandemic, Filipinos have gotten into doing DIY home projects to upgrade their spaces. Home buddies used some of their extra time to decorate and organize their living space to accommodate changes to their lifestyles. And thanks to online marketplace merchants that sell kitchen and homeware products like glass jars, cookware sets, and pantry organization bins, Filipinos can now easily achieve aesthetic living spaces. 

Appliances

Household appliances are still one of the trending products in E-commerce in the Philippines. Search trends on home appliances have been steady over the past two years and if you’re looking for a sign to sell these products, this could be it! Air fryers, home espresso machines, air purifiers, and food processors are just some of the trendiest home appliances that make Filipinos’ lives more convenient and enjoyable.

Video Games and Gaming Accessories

Who doesn’t love games? Filipinos are huge gamers so products that tickle their geeky side like video games and gaming accessories such as consoles and chairs are a big, big, big yes for them!

Mobile Phone Accessories

Mobile phones are the most widely used gadget in the Philippines. And as a result, phone straps, power banks, wireless chargers, and phone cases have become trending in the E-commerce world. This category is quite profitable in online marketplaces, that’s why a lot of merchants venture into this category.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Materials

If there is one thing that the pandemic taught consumers, it’s that cleaning and disinfecting products are a good investment. Gallons of alcohol and disinfectants have been sold in the last two years. UV lamps and air purifiers have become household items. And if you want to make your business a force for good, products such as these are nice to sell. This is a great market to tap as more and more Filipinos are putting a premium on their well-being. 

E-commerce is an industry where you learn best by really immersing yourself in it. And part of learning is knowing and keeping up with product trends that will help you grow and scale your business. 

But having the knowledge on trending E-commerce products is not enough to do well. It is also equally important to partner with E-commerce enablers to keep your business running smoothly and deliver exceptional service to your customers. 

Payo, one of the Philippines’ leading E-commerce enablers, offers some of the region’s most innovative and tech-driven solutions. Our Warehousing Solution, reliable Fulfillment, and trusted Marketplace Optimization services can help make the online marketplace a little less daunting for you.

Ready to start your online marketplace journey? Sign up now or send us a message at [email protected] so we can jump-start your business.

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Getting ahead of the holiday E-commerce rush in the Philippines

Now that the “Ber” months are officially here, E-commerce in the Philippines is about to get more fun and exciting. If you’re not yet aware, the Philippines is known to have one of the longest Christmas seasons – starting as early as September. From the Christmas decor and jingles to the holiday sales, the celebration is felt by everyone everywhere, including the digital space.

As consumers continue to embrace online retail in the Philippines, the holiday E-commerce rush is likely to have started already. Don’t miss out on the chance to ride this four- to five-month long journey to maximize sales and opportunities for your business.

Here are a few strategies and tactics that will help boost your holiday E-commerce gaming in the Philippines.

Make it festive

Nothing says Christmas more than holiday decorations and themes, and the same goes for your online store. Whether you’re on social media, online marketplaces, or your own website, make your visuals more festive by adding holiday elements. Spruce up your logo, banner, and even your product photos. This will make customers feel the holiday vibe and be more drawn to shop from your store.

Phase your best deals

The main go-to of shops whenever there are holidays are promos, deals, and discounts. To strengthen your holiday E-commerce strategy in the Philippines, create a plan on how you can stretch your shop’s buzz. Mix and match products for bundles and create a list of discounts you’d want to offer. Then, divide them into phases. This prevents you from running out of offers, and helps you be in the game longer than your competitors. 

What makes E-commerce fun in the Philippines is that Filipinos are always on the lookout for the best deals. Merchants, for example, can cater to them better by offering weekly promos or month-long discounts. They can also capture all potential customers with special bundles from September to January.

Gamify your offers

Similar to how cafes and coffee shops do their holiday promotions, you can adopt this strategy to help increase customer loyalty. Returning customers always appreciate special perks because they feel valued. For example, a discount on their second purchase, a freebie on their fifth, and a prized item on their tenth.

You can also host holiday raffles where each item they bought entitles them to an entry. It’s all about finding ways to make the holiday E-commerce experience in the Philippines more fun and engaging.

Be generous with gifts

Many merchants also look at holidays as a chance to share gifts to customers. For each order, best to add something cute and small (go bigger if you want) that’s useful to them. You can always opt to give these items regardless of the holiday, but the Christmas season simply makes the act more thoughtful.

Flexibility is king

The Philippines may have the longest Christmas celebration, but there will always be late and last-minute shoppers. You can score big points from these customers by showing them your flexibility as a merchant.

Shortening delivery time, providing Cash-on-Delivery as a payment method, and offering other services like personalized note cards and gift wrapping – these are just some of the little things that make a big difference. When customers know you can meet their tight demands and go the extra mile, they’re more likely to become repeat customers.

Invest in marketing

One of the fastest ways to spread the word about your holiday deals is through marketing. While word of mouth and referrals are proven to be effective, you need to cast a larger net to reach more people.

Allot a specific budget to boost holiday posts on social media. You can also opt to participate in different free and paid marketing opportunities in online marketplaces. These will allow you to reach more people who can potentially buy from your shop.

Respond quick and meaningfully

Probably the trickiest part of the holiday season is answering inquiries. Fast communication is key, but the holiday E-commerce rush in the Philippines heightens the need for it. Since some customers can demand prompt responses, you also need to find a way to keep up with their pace.

If you’re working with a team, it’s best to divide and conquer. Have someone dedicated to answering customers while you manage orders. If you’re a one-person team, it’s time to re-evaluate your day-to-day process to make answering inquiries more efficient.

This is why it’s important to have the right partners to help you navigate E-commerce in the Philippines, especially during the holidays. Payo is an E-commerce enabler that offers a wide variety of solutions that can provide you with organization and clarity. This is especially helpful for the coming months as holiday sales and shopping sprees become more hectic.

Among Payo’s services are Live Customer Support, Warehousing, Marketplace Optimization, Fulfillment, and Cash-on-Delivery Integration. Whether you’re new to E-commerce or not, Payo is here to help optimize your online selling experience. Be it by managing products, dealing with customers, and helping you be more flexible.

Ready to surf the holiday E-commerce wave in the Philippines? Sign up with Payo today or send us a message at [email protected]. Let’s make the season merrier and more exciting!

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5 best E-commerce marketplaces in the Philippines

From what was once a niche service, E-commerce and online marketplaces have become a huge part of the everyday lives of most Filipinos. With how simple and hassle-free shopping online can be, it’s no surprise that E-commerce has grown into a nearly 270 billion peso industry. This has resulted in a considerable number of online marketplaces popping up and vying for everyone’s attention.

For merchants, all these options can make it challenging to find the right online marketplace for their business. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you cut through the noise!

We went through a number of popular online marketplaces and took a closer look at them – understanding their pros, cons, and what kind of businesses they’re best suited for. From that process, we’ve listed the 5 best online marketplaces in the Philippines for different kinds of merchants and sellers!

Lazada

Lazada is considered as one of the best and most popular E-commerce marketplaces in the Philippines. The platform has listings for a wide array of products ranging from electronics, appliances, clothing, and a lot more. 

The site has a high level of traffic that can expose your store to a wider audience. However, this popularity can make it difficult for most merchants to capture their customer’s attention. Merchants have to make an effort when it comes to marketing in order to stand out. Plus, Lazada has high commission fees that can eat into your profit.

We would recommend this online marketplace to established merchants who are looking for a wider network to sell to.

Shopee

Shopee is also one the Philippines’ best E-commerce marketplaces but what makes it different is their mobile-first platform. Their mobile app is optimized to offer both buyers and sellers a complete online shopping experience, all from their devices. This has resulted in a large portion of their sales being made on mobile. 

This marketplace takes a smaller cut of the merchant’s profit as compared to Lazada. The company doesn’t have a commission when you make a sale, but there’s a set fee for each listing. Shopee also provides free shipping for certain items under 5kg. This is a big help for merchants who sell smaller goods.

All of these sound good, but there’s also a considerable amount of sellers with fake items on the platform. This means merchants like you may have to work harder to separate yourself from these kinds of shops.

With all of this in mind, Shopee is ideal for merchants selling smaller products with a high turnover. We can also recommend this marketplace to new sellers who need higher profits from their sales.

Zalora

Zalora is an exclusive online marketplace that mainly focuses on fashion, make up, and skin care products. The main benefit of the platform is that it caters to a specific target audience. It has a dedicated market, so if your products don’t fit in with what they’re already selling, better look elsewhere. There’s also a qualification process that assesses brands before they are allowed to start selling their products on this marketplace. 

Our verdict for this platform – it’s ideal for established merchants who are already selling products in Zalora’s market. However, we wouldn’t recommend it for businesses that don’t have a following yet.

Carousell

Carousell is a more direct version of the other online marketplaces on this list. However, what sets this platform apart is how it specializes in selling second-hand items.

The good thing about Carousell is that it doesn’t have any listing fees or other charges. Merchants only need to pay if they put up any additional listings exceeding the free ones automatically given to them. On the downside, the platform’s UX can be confusing and hard to navigate for first-time users.

We would recommend this marketplace for those with little to no E-commerce experience, especially merchants specializing in preloved items. 

Facebook Marketplace

If you have a Facebook account, then you’ve most likely already seen their Marketplace.

Their online marketplace has an interface that gives sellers already familiar with Facebook a good base to start from. Merchants get access to a huge number of potential buyers right off the bat. The platform also allows sellers to easily work on their sales and marketing in one place. 

However, one of the biggest issues of this marketplace is that it lacks any consistent regulation. You’re mostly selling at your own risk with the lack of any buyer and seller protection. 

Facebook’s Marketplace is more suited for those with a background in social selling and those looking to easily promote their listings on social media.

Also Read: The best online marketplace strategies for new merchants

How to Choose the Right Online Marketplace for your Business

Choosing the best online marketplace for your business can greatly affect your venture’s success. Here are some steps to help you decide:

Understand Your Customers

Your choice of marketplace should be largely influenced by where your customers are. Survey your customers or do market research to find out which marketplaces your target customers frequent.

Consider The Product You’re Selling

Some marketplaces might be more suited to certain kinds of products. For example, if you’re selling used items, you might consider platforms like Carousell or Facebook Marketplace.

Look At The Features Of Each Marketplace

Different marketplaces offer different features, like payment options, shipping methods, advertising opportunities, and more. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the features of each marketplace and decide which ones align with your business needs.

Assess The Competition

Consider the level of competition on each marketplace. A marketplace with fewer competitors selling similar products could offer an advantage, but there might also be less traffic. A marketplace with more competition might have more potential customers, but it could be harder to stand out.

Fees and Costs

Each marketplace has its own fee structure. Some might charge a listing fee, others take a percentage of each sale, and some might do both. Calculate these costs and consider how they will affect your pricing and profitability.

Ease of Use

Consider how easy it is to use the marketplace’s platform, both for you and for your customers. If the marketplace has a complicated interface, it could deter potential customers.

In the Philippines, popular online marketplaces include Lazada, Shopee, Zalora, and Carousell. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice will depend on your specific business needs.

For instance, Lazada and Shopee are general marketplaces that cater to a wide variety of products and have a large customer base. Lazada offers various payment options including cash on delivery, which is popular in the Philippines.

Shopee, on the other hand, has lower commission fees and supports free shipping. Zalora is focused on fashion, and Carousell is a consumer-to-consumer marketplace suitable for preloved items and personal selling.

Remember to thoroughly research each option and choose the one that best suits your business model, products, and target customers.


These are just some of the best E-commerce marketplaces you can sell on. But regardless of whichever online marketplace you feel is best for your business, running an online shop can still be challenging. Don’t worry though, because Payo is here to help your business succeed! 

As one of the Philippines’ leading E-commerce enablers, Payo already has services in place that can assist sellers in getting the most out of any of these platforms

Our Marketplace Optimization includes guiding merchants through their online store set-up to ensure it can be competitive in the Philippine E-commerce market. We also offer logistics solutions like Warehousing and Fulfillment that makes sure your customers will quickly and safely receive their items upon ordering. 

Sign up with Payo today or send us a message at [email protected] so you can start selling effectively on the best E-commerce marketplaces in the Philippines!

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Understanding E-commerce and its meaning

E-commerce is a vital and inevitable part of many businesses today. Ever since the first online transaction was made over 25 years ago, it has created opportunities for businesses to thrive and survive, all by just setting up a shop and selling E-commerce services and products. 

However, E-commerce and its meaning continues to puzzle many, as it is a broad and multi-faceted term. Merchants must understand E-commerce’s meaning to be fully immersed in it. If you are unsure about how it works and how to be part of this ever-growing industry, let us dig deeper into it!

What is E-commerce?

Electronic commerce, or E-commerce, refers to the buying and selling of products and services online. It is powered by the Internet and commercial activities can be done on laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other smart electronic devices. 

However, not all businesses that exist online are considered E-commerce. By definition, E-commerce is a subset of e-business that covers the sales and purchases made via a website. Meanwhile, E-businesses do activities online including sales calls, signing contracts, and so on. This might require a digital workplace in order to run.

For example, you can say an online business is E-commerce when it sells physical products and services to an internet user. It is considered as E-commerce since the whole sales process is done online.

How it works

As the Department of Trade and Industry puts it, E-commerce is faster and a lot cheaper than traditional economic transactions. As it is done via digital platforms, the cost of exchanging information is lower and easier, thanks to 76M internet users in the Philippines.

But to newbies, E-commerce works just like a brick-and-mortar store. Online customers come and browse your online store, add their products to their virtual carts, and check out to complete the transaction. The big difference is that they don’t need to get off their couch to access your E-commerce service. Your customer base isn’t limited to a specific geographic area or region.

How to get started

Starting in E-commerce is as equally tricky as setting up a physical store. Whether you’re selling pet accessories or fashion items, E-commerce involves research, financial resources, several steps, and many more. 

First, you have to know what you want to sell. This is quite challenging as the competition online is tough, and there can be similar products or services as yours. But once you’ve settled into a product idea, you have to know how you can obtain and then sell it.

There are a lot of options on how you can set up your E-commerce store: you can start your own website, join an online marketplace like Shopee or Lazada, or utilize social media as a marketplace. Of course, the best choice would be the one that makes the most sense for your business. 

It’s time to get the ball rolling in E-commerce

With the basics of E-commerce and its meaning laid out for you, there’s only one thing to do – take action.

Wherever you are right now in your E-commerce journey, there’s always something you need to do next. And you need a reliable partner to help you make sound decisions for your online business. For this reason, Payo’s got your back!

As an E-commerce enabler in the Philippines, Payo can help you with all things E-commerce. Our tech-based solutions such as Marketplace Optimization, Fulfillment, and Last Mile Management can help you focus on more important aspects of your business.

With us onboard, E-commerce is easier. Sign up today or send us a message at [email protected].

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6 reminders for every dropshipper in the Philippines

Dropshipping is an E-commerce service that is gaining popularity among Filipinos who want to venture into online retail. Budding merchants consider this as a swift way to break into the market. One reason for this is that dropshipping does not require them to physically have or own the products that they’re selling.

Essentially, a dropshipper in the Philippines partners with different suppliers who take care of the stocks, packaging, and shipment when orders come in. It is a simple business model that is easy to manage and understand.

While first hand experience is the best way to learn, there’s still advice that’s helpful to know before you start. Here are six reminders that every budding dropshipper in the Philippines should know to better navigate this type of business. 

Minimal to no capital needed

One of the main reasons behind the rise of dropshippers in the Philippines is because of how this business model doesn’t require them to invest in products physically. Setting up an online shop on social media and digital marketplaces also requires minimal to no budget at all. Thus, this E-commerce service helps sellers use their funds on other things like marketing and promotions.

Study the market and have a niche

Online retail has significantly grown over the past few years. Almost all products that one can think of are already being sold. A dropshipper in the Philippines can use this as an advantage and study the local market. This allows them to find a niche or specific audience to serve. They should then identify products that would appeal to their market most, and maximize opportunities.

Find suppliers and set agreements

Dropshipping as an E-commerce service is all about what happens behind the scenes. In the Philippines, a dropshipper needs to find suppliers who would be amenable to this kind of arrangement. Merchants can either buy stocks or coordinate orders directly to suppliers that take care of the packaging and fulfillment.

Setting terms and agreements is also important. This protects both the seller and the customer while keeping suppliers accountable, especially when challenges arise during the purchase journey.

Constant communication is key

Merchants interested in being a dropshipper in the Philippines need to know that communication is vital in running a dropshipping business. As they have the opportunity to offer any product they want, sellers must communicate constantly with suppliers. They have to make sure that their stocks are available, in top condition, and orders are managed properly.

Be ready for potential crises

A flaw of dropshipping is that a dropshipper in the Philippines doesn’t have direct control or visibility over their products. Merchants can’t oversee their product’s handling, packaging, and delivery. Damaged goods, mishandling of packages, and delayed deliveries are just some of the potential issues that a merchant may encounter.

This is why supplier agreements are important. Likewise, sellers also need to be prepared for service recovery such as free replacements, refunds, and discounts. These things are valuable when it comes to saving their relationship with the customer.

Focus on other aspects of the business

While suppliers handle most of the work for this E-commerce service, dropshipping allows merchants to manage other aspects of the business. They can communicate with customers, offer bundles, promos and discounts, or market on different platforms. These are just some of the activities that a dropshipper in the Philippines can do to drive more traffic to their online store. 

Dropshipping is a fairly easy business to put up as long as merchants do their research. It’s important for dropshippers to find ways to maximize market opportunities. One way of doing that is by partnering with an E-commerce enabler that can assist them, like Payo!

Payo, the country’s leading E-commerce enabler, offers solutions that can help merchants, including dropshippers, break into the Philippine market. These include Marketplace Optimization, Fulfillment and Last Mile Management, Live Customer Support, and Cash-on-Delivery Integration. These services are key to running a dropshipping business.

Want to become a dropshipper in the Philippines? Sign up with Payo today or send us a message at [email protected]. Start your dropshipping journey now!

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6 perks that Filipinos enjoy when online shopping

Have you noticed how Filipinos like online shopping more now? Patronage for online shopping has steadily grown in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. From a wide variety of products to a seamless purchase journey, it’s amazing what a few clicks and taps can get customers on online marketplaces.

While there is still a large preference for physical stores, there is more to online shopping than meets the eye. Customers are actually able to enjoy a lot of perks thanks to the opportunities that online marketplaces offer. Wondering about what they are? Read on to find out!

Shopping convenience

A major perk that Filipinos enjoy about online shopping is how easy it is to access and purchase from online stores. This includes online marketplaces like Shopee or Lazada, or a brand’s own website or social media platform. No matter the time or place, they can add their top picks to their cart and proceed to a hassle-free checkout. All this can be done without having to visit a physical store.

Options, options, and more options

Oftentimes, a physical store will have limited stocks of a particular item, while some won’t necessarily sell a particular collection. When Filipinos go online shopping, they are given a mountain of options for a single product that they’re looking for. Size, color, weight, material, other related-products – Filipinos can see them all. Consumers now have more choices, thanks to online marketplaces and the wide number of merchants they house.

Never-ending promos and deals

Easily one of the reasons why Filipinos love online shopping is because of the deals they’re able to score. Online marketplaces have made it easier for merchants to offer various promos and deals including monthly sales and seasonal bundles. As a result, customers now scour platforms so they’ll be able to buy more with less.

Vouchers and store credit

Filipinos continue to patronize their preferred online marketplace because they can add vouchers on top of other promos and deals. These platforms also give away free money through online games. They can be as simple as watering plants, crushing candies, taking care of a pet; it’s like those 10 in 1 games, only this time, customers get in-app credits, coins, and e-vouchers.

Value for safety

Apart from convenience, one of the main perks of online shopping is keeping Filipinos safe. Online marketplaces have security measures to keep customers safe from fraudsters and other potential cyber attacks. Virtual shopping also eliminates the need to go out. This lets customers prioritize their health as they get their essentials delivered to their doorstep.

Cash-on-Delivery

Likely the biggest reason for every Filipino to prefer online shopping is Cash-on-Delivery (CoD). As a cash-driven society, CoD is a popular payment option for Filipinos. This is especially true in online marketplaces because it gives shoppers various perk and helps shoppers that aren’t so tech-savvy. Customers can also verify if the item is really what they ordered when their package arrives.

These are only some of the many perks that Filipinos get from online shopping. But customers aren’t the only ones who can take advantage of online shopping — brands can as well. By partnering with an E-commerce enabler like Payo, they can easily put up online shops, manage them with ease, and reach countless potential customers.

Payo offers various services including Marketplace Optimization, which helps merchants set up and manage their shops. To make operations more convenient, Payo also has Live Customer Support for real-time communication, Warehousing for multiple storage locations, Fulfillment and Last Mile Management for quality management and safe delivery. Plus, Payo even has Cash-on-Delivery Integration to truly capture and appeal to more Filipino customers!

Want to secure more perks for your online business? Sign up with Payo today or send us a message at [email protected]. It’s your time to conquer the online marketplace!