Do you own a store and are struggling to get foot traffic to your store? Have you tried offering discounts, or hosting sales and finding customers is still proving difficult?
The COVID-19 pandemic changed how businesses operate, with more consumers going online to transact or make purchases. The big question is what options are available for business owners looking to go online.
In this article, we explore two major options, marketplaces and websites, that enable small businesses to build a digital presence and to start making sales online, and further compare the costs of both options.
Marketplaces
Marketplaces enable buyers and sellers to come together to complete transactions. In recent years, marketplaces have gone online, creating an opportunity for vendors to transact with their customers through an e-commerce platform. According to Shopery Insights 60% of sales already happen through marketplaces and some of the most successful companies operate on this business model.
Learn more about the different types of marketplaces in our Guide to Marketplaces in South Africa to find out more.
4 reasons why your small businesses should join a marketplace
Find an alternative way to market your products or services.
Small businesses without big marketing budgets can advertise their products or services for a small fee.
Expose your business to new markets beyond your immediate location.
Gain customers' trust in your business or services through positive online reviews.
How much does it cost to join a marketplace?
Different marketplaces have different fees. Some marketplaces are free to join but, depending on the benefits offered, fees can start at R150.
A new addition to South Africa’s marketplace landscape, Serv is the country’s first B2B service marketplace. Serv connects B2B service providers with businesses seeking professional services, including accounting, marketing, IT, web development and business consulting services.
You can join Serv now for as little as R150 per month and get qualified leads straight to your inbox.
Websites
Many businesses use their websites to provide general information about their company and as an e-commerce platform for selling products. A website helps build credibility and can be used to position your business as a leader in your market space.
4 reasons why small businesses should invest in a website for your small business?
Shoppers are likely to search for your business to see if you are legitimate.
A website allows you to find out more about your customer, such as their interests and how you can market and sell to them.
Use your website to collect leads that could potentially become customers.
Build an e-commerce website to sell your products online.
How much does a website cost?
To build a website you need to either find a website developer who can charge you between R1500 + or utilise more cost-effective website builders. The costs on a month-to-month basis include:
Website hosting (± R89 p.m.) - to store content, like a website, on internet servers.
Domain name (± R85 p.a.) - to help visitors access your website content.
Subscription plans are offered by website builders with various functionalities, such as e-commerce stores, analytics and data, payment methods and more.
Payment gateways - to allow your website to accept online payments
Want to build a website and would like a Web Developer to contact you?
How Serv B2B Marketplace Can Help Your Small Business
Are you a B2B SME looking for leads? Join Serv today for as little as R150 per month and start getting leads straight to your inbox. Using Serv, small B2B businesses can market themselves, save money, and start competing with big businesses.
SMEs looking for B2B Service Providers can also easily and quickly find a local B2B Service Provider. Whether you are looking for an accountant, web developer or business consultant, explore Serv today and find a trusted service provider.
Learn more about Lead Generation and Serv B2B Service Marketplace on our FAQ Page.
READ MORE BLOG POSTS HERE:
Your Ultimate Guide to Marketplaces in South Africa
What is a B2B Service Marketplace?
Using Lead Generation to Get More Customers for Service Businesses
