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7 tips to expand your webshop internationally
13-06-2023
You have the ambition to grow as a webshop, but the possibilities in the Netherlands have been used in the meantime. Maybe you have thought about selling your products across the border. Cross-border eCommerce brings new opportunities. But how do you approach the roll-out abroad step by step? In this blog we discuss the benefits and prepare you for international growth through 7 practical tips.
Online shopping is a huge global industry with many growth opportunities. By expanding abroad, you can expand your customer base significantly. You also spread your risks, because you are less dependent on one market. An inspiring example of this strategy is Coolblue, which originated in the Netherlands and subsequently quickly and successfully expanded to Belgium and Germany, cleverly exploiting their lead over competitors.
But despite all those possibilities, it can be exciting to sell your products in other countries. Each market has its own specific characteristics that you have to take into account. And that can be a big challenge for many entrepreneurs, especially if they don't know where to start. It is therefore important to prepare well before you start.
Firstly, it is important to ensure that your company is ready for international expansion. Therefore, assess whether you meet the necessary requirements, employees and logistics infrastructure (e.g. fast suppliers). It's smart to invest in an eCommerce platform that can be customized to the needs of international customers, such as local VAT rates and currencies. It is also advisable to have an advanced ERP system suitable for international activities.
Set clear goals for your international expansion and develop a strategy that fits the target market. For example, identify the needs, challenges and trends of potential customers. And collect information about the competition, potential partners and the regulations in the target market.
Then you can start with a market analysis. Research potential foreign markets, identify growth opportunities and analyze local business practices, cultural nuances and legal requirements. Be well prepared to get started!
By taking into account the local context, you can make your brand more relevant and better aligned with the needs of your customers. It is good to immerse yourself in local values, traditions and language. This contributes to a good relationship with your target market. Therefore, adapt your marketing messages, promotions and customer communication to the local culture and habits. This allows you to build a strong relationship with potential customers in different markets.
💡With the Country Comparison tool you can compare countries based on six value dimensions. This gives you a good first insight into cultural differences.
To meet the expectations of the international market, it is important to translate all content. Therefore, make sure that your product descriptions, payment information and customer service are available in the languages ​​in which you operate. When you sell products abroad, it is also important to take a good look at the correct currencies and VAT rates.
In addition, think about the domains. Do you use .com and provide local translations so that you can maintain the SEO reputation of your website? Or are you going for a local domain, which may give your new target group more confidence, but should again build good findability in the search engines?
Many countries use credit cards and PayPal instead of iDEAL. It is important to research and implement the payment methods that are popular among your target audience. A locally known payment method inspires confidence and this way you ensure a smooth handling of an order. This increases the chance that the customer will come back to you again.
When setting up your logistics handling for internationale eCommerce, it is essential to cooperate with reliable shipping lots. Choose partners with fast delivery times, expertise in customs formalities for international shipments and an easy returns process. These important elements ensure satisfied customers and an efficient logistics operation.
A marketplace is a valuable starting point before you start selling immediately. You can offer your products or services on these online platforms and at the same time explore which products and services are popular in the market. It's a strategic way to understand the needs and preferences of potential customers before setting up your own sales channel.
Multi-market features are a must for companies with a global market. With these functions you manage several stores efficient from one back-end, thereby reducing the administrative burden. This means you extend your reach to different markets without the hassle of managing separate systems. That saves you time!
Another important advantage of working from one back-end is the ability to open shops quickly with a similar front end. Due to minimal adjustments in color and shape, you can open a new webshop relatively quick. This not only saves time, but also allows you to be consistent in look and feel of your brand, which is important for a cohesive customer experience.
For a successful expansion into cross-border eCommerce, professionalization and seeking external support is a strategic step. Bring in local or international experts and benefit from their valuable knowledge and experience. After all, they already have knowledge of the market, so you don't have to acquire it completely yourself.
Leverage advanced tools and technologies to simplify international sales management and analytics. This way you continue to improve your cross-border sales.
By applying these 7 tips, you are well on your way to achieving a successful roll-out abroad. It is very important to research and get to know your new market. If you understand the needs of the foreign market and respond to them, you are guaranteed to reap the benefits. Good luck!
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