SME retailers in the UK are more positive about trading conditions for 2017 and into 2018, according to independent research commissioned by delivery provider Shutl.
Over two thirds of the 500 SMEs surveyed felt that their business would be in a stronger position by Spring 2018. One third cited smarter and better delivery options for smaller sellers as key to that success.
However, 73% of those surveyed said that competition from larger online retailers pose the biggest threat to their success, and 59% felt the spread of delivery or distribution networks gave larger retailers the biggest competitive edge.
Increased Competition
Some 70% of the retailers believe that a more personalised customer service and a unique brand experience will win out against larger retailers, while 34% felt smarter e-commerce technology, and better delivery options for SME retailers would help them compete more effectively.
“The results of this survey point to buoyant SME retailers, who are increasingly using technology and smarter selling options to compete against the bigger retailers with larger budgets," said Jason Tavaria, head of Shutl.
“Today delivery is no longer such a big USP. Carriers have become increasingly savvy about the SME group as a compelling audience, and in turn costs have reduced and technology is supporting an infrastructure that is dynamic and cost effective. Thus the continuing technological innovation to support SMEs is making it easier, and more cost effective for this group to compete.”
© 2017 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Aidan O’Sullivan. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
