Belgium has witnessed a significant surge in online expenditure during the first half of this year, with the total amount spent by Belgians surpassing €8 billion. This remarkable growth in online shopping highlights the increasing popularity and convenience of e-commerce in the country.
According to a report by BeCommerce, the Belgian association for e-commerce, online sales in Belgium reached €8.2 billion in the first six months of 2021. This represents a staggering 17% increase compared to the same period last year. The report also revealed that online purchases accounted for 25% of all retail sales in Belgium, further emphasizing the growing importance of e-commerce in the country’s economy.
One of the key factors contributing to this surge in online expenditure is the COVID-19 pandemic. The restrictions and lockdown measures imposed to curb the spread of the virus have forced people to rely heavily on online shopping for their everyday needs. Consumers have turned to e-commerce platforms to purchase groceries, household items, electronics, and even clothing, as physical stores faced closures or limited access.
The convenience and safety offered by online shopping have also played a significant role in driving this growth. Belgians have increasingly embraced the ease of browsing through a wide range of products from the comfort of their homes, comparing prices, reading reviews, and making informed purchasing decisions. Moreover, the availability of various payment options and reliable delivery services have further enhanced the overall online shopping experience.
The report also highlighted the sectors that experienced the highest growth in online sales. Unsurprisingly, the food and beverage sector witnessed a substantial increase, with online grocery shopping becoming more popular than ever before. The health and beauty sector also saw significant growth, as consumers turned to online platforms for their personal care needs.
Furthermore, the report revealed that Belgian consumers are increasingly using their smartphones to make online purchases. Mobile commerce, or m-commerce, accounted for 37% of all online transactions in H1 2021, indicating the importance of mobile-friendly websites and apps for businesses to cater to the evolving consumer preferences.
The surge in online expenditure has not only benefited consumers but also provided opportunities for businesses to expand their online presence. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have particularly benefited from this trend, as they can reach a wider customer base without the need for a physical store. This has led to an increase in the number of online businesses and startups in Belgium, contributing to the overall growth of the e-commerce sector.
However, challenges remain for the e-commerce industry in Belgium. The report highlighted concerns regarding cybersecurity and data protection, as well as the need for improved logistics and delivery services to meet the increasing demand. Additionally, ensuring a level playing field between online and offline retailers remains a priority for policymakers.
In conclusion, the first half of 2021 has witnessed a remarkable surge in online expenditure in Belgium, with the total amount spent surpassing €8 billion. The convenience, safety, and wide range of products offered by e-commerce platforms have driven this growth, with the COVID-19 pandemic further accelerating the shift towards online shopping. As the e-commerce sector continues to evolve, businesses and policymakers must address challenges and seize opportunities to ensure its sustainable growth in the future.
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- Source: Plato Data Intelligence.
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