(05.10.2022) The end of health restrictions has only moderately impacted online business. According to a study by the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), only 28% of companies experienced a decline in sales between May and August 2022.
The survey of 625 e-commerce companies, mainly in Switzerland and neighboring Austria, revealed that just over a quarter (28%) have seen a decrease in online orders. The lifting of the health restrictions has had almost no impact on online sales for two in five retailers (41%).
However, reassuring these results are, they must be put into perspective. The sector is now facing economic difficulties linked to delivery delays, shortages of raw materials and soaring energy and logistics costs.
Competition and price wars are major challenges for 69% of the companies surveyed in the sector. In addition, 64% reported difficulties in sourcing, resulting in delays and higher delivery and import costs. Over half (53%) of companies also cited logistical problems due, in part, to rising fuel prices.
Nevertheless, online merchants are less concerned about issues related to fraud and cybercrime (19%), payment methods (20%), or order processing (24%).
The study also looked at online business success factors. Quality (74%) and exclusivity (52%) of the products or services offered remain significant. In comparison, sustainability of the products or the company (28%), as well as regionality of products or services (23%), seem to be less critical.
Last modification 05.10.2022
