Informal retailers are tapping social media and messaging apps for e-commerce. We conducted field research in Tanzania to study merchant practices, and understand the value proposition superplatforms present to merchants and vice-versa. Read our insights from the study.
How Can Small Merchants Get The Most Out of E-commerce Using Superplatforms?
Small merchants in emerging markets are increasingly adopting digital commerce to expand their customer base and market their goods and services on online marketplaces. These merchants are using digital platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Jumia and WhatsApp to promote their businesses, sell their goods and services, communicate with clients and suppliers and to receive payments.
At FIBR, we have been researching superplatforms to determine their value proposition to micro, small & medium enterprises (MSMEs). What value do these platforms provide directly and indirectly to merchants? How are these superplatforms helping merchants to build and grow their businesses? Who are the merchants that sell online and what is the role of trust in these interactions?
Our latest research shows that small, informal merchants are using social media and messaging platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram to advertise their business, market goods and services, and communicate with clients. The uses, interactions, and workarounds by micro, small & medium enterprises (MSME) in Africa to sell online through these platforms offer insights into 1) personas 2) needs such as for financing their business, and 3) product and service concepts that could help small merchants close gaps in skills, working capital, and business intelligence.
Join FIBR’s webinar and panel discussion to learn how merchants benefit from superplatforms and digital commerce. The webinar covers how merchants are using digital platforms and how superplatforms can better serve merchants.
When: 28th February 2019, 9am-10:00am EST
Meet the Speakers
Additional Reference
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Superplatforms Tumblr - updates from our ongoing research and thinking
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FIBR Superplatforms - a compilation of our work up to date and our research hypotheses
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FIBR Superplatforms Whitepaper - the seminal paper by FIBR that examines the rise of superplatforms and their potential in pulling users in Africa into formal and digital economies
Beyond Marketing: Generating Trust to Sell Online
In emerging markets, small merchants or micro and small enterprises are increasingly using social networks, e-commerce & messaging platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Jumia and WhatsApp to promote their businesses. However, generating and maintaining trust online is still a struggle for the majority of these business. We provide 3 strategies to create and maintain trust with customers online. Read our blog.
FIBR in 2018: how might a more digital world help MSMEs and PAYGo providers grow?
We're excited to share the FIBR in 2018 video which showcases our work with our partners.
Watch our video below.
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