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The Importance of B2B E-Commerce for Small Business Growth

11/5/2023

In recent years, e-commerce has grown exponentially and has become a key channel for many businesses. However, it is not just limited to B2C (Business-to-Customer) transactions. In fact, B2B (Business-to-Business) e-commerce has also seen a significant increase in popularity. It is a great opportunity for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to expand their market and reach new customers.

1. B2B vs. B2C: What's the Difference?


E-commerce can be broadly divided into two categories: Business-to-Customer (B2C) and Business-to-Business (B2B). While B2C targets end consumers directly, B2B is intended for professionals.

comparison B2B B2C

The tools and solutions available for B2C e-commerce may not always be suitable for B2B, making the ordering processcomplex for businesses.

2. Why Switch to B2B E-Commerce?

E-commerce B2B has several benefits for businesses, including cost reduction associated with order processing and transaction costs through automation of tasks such as billing and inventory management.

Furthermore, e-commerce B2B allows businesses to reach a broader audience and generate additional revenue. For example, an enterprise that was previously limited to selling locally can now expand its market and reach customers worldwide through a B2B e-commerce platform.

In summary, the advantages of B2B e-commerce include:

  • Access to new customers and markets
  • Optimization of inventory management
  • Improvement in operational efficiency
  • Reduction in order processing and sales costs
  • Enhancement of the customer experience

3. Streamlining Your Business With a B2B E-Commerce Platform

Although there are numerous internet tools available for managing B2C e-commerce (B2C platforms, social media, etc.), the same cannot be said for B2B. Currently, professionals struggle to efficiently manage their B2B customer orders.

Popular B2B e-commerce platforms include Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, and PrestaShop. However, these platforms may not always be compatible with the specific needs of small businesses.

Fortunately, there are more tailored solutions available, such as Erplain's B2B Store. This e-commerce platform is designed specifically for professionals and is directly connected to the sales and inventory data of Erplain. As a result, B2B customers can place, track, and pay for their orders directly, while also enjoying real-time visibility into available stock levels.

Erplain's B2B Store provides an affordable, easy-to-use and customizable platform that helps SMBs manage the ordering process between professionals more efficiently. The B2B Store has become an indispensable solution for our wholesale and distribution clients.

Benefits of Erplain's B2B Store

avantages clients

Your customers can:

  • Place orders independently, with their pre-determined prices
  • Have real-time visibility on available stock
  • Access their order and invoice history
  • Make direct payments
  • Enjoy a simplified purchasing experience
avantages entreprises

For your business:

  • Improved efficiency and time savings
  • Increased order reliability
  • Reduced unpaid invoices
  • Boosted B2B sales
  • Streamlined order processes
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction

4. Must-Haves for a Successful B2B E-Commerce

When it comes to B2B e-commerce, having the right tools is essential for success. Along with a dedicated e-commerce platform, the following are also recommended:

  • Inventory and B2B sales management software, such as Erplain, through which you can activate Erplain's B2B Store
  • Accounting and tax management software, such as QuickBooks
  • An online payment solution, such as Stripe

Fortunately, Erplain offers all these functionalities in one comprehensive solution with the above integrations.

Interested in learning more about Erplain's B2B Store? Find all the information you need here:

learn more

Try Erplain for free to test the B2B Store and see how it can help your business save valuable time!

As you can see, B2B e-commerce market is an opportunity not to be missed for small businesses. The benefits are numerous, including automated order processes, reduced errors, improved customer satisfaction, and increased sales.

With tools like Erplain's B2B Store, businesses can implement an efficient and customizable B2B e-commerce platform, while having the necessary resources to effectively manage their operations.

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