Around GMA

Manila City illuminates its Christmas tree and celebrates with a concert
#WilmaPH continues to move slowly east of Borongan City
GMA Pinoy TV Supports OFW Empowerment at the 17th PHILSME Business Expo

Article Inside Page

Showbiz News

With online commerce thriving in the time of COVID-19 pandemic, here are a few tips that will come in handy, in case you ever decide to venture in online selling.

There are many strategies budding sellers can apply depending on the nature of their businesses. Whether they are in it for the long run or just until the situation lightens, one thing is sure, online sellers will continue popping in the business industry, and there is no stopping it.

If you're thinking of putting your brand or products on the world wide web, we asked local online sellers for a few ideas on how to start your business venture.

1. Know what attracts a customer.

Apparently, customers are more attracted to buy products that look decent and appetizing, especially that the trend calls for posting food stories every now and then, which is why for Max Mango proprietor, Jochell Quinones, it is crucial to invest in packaging and product presentation. While this greatly attracts customers, it is still important that the quality surpasses the client's expectation and product presentation, to retain loyal ones.

With new cups made for personalization, and the delectable appeal of their smoothies all topped with ice-cream, perfect for the humid weather, it is no wonder how this thriving beverage business sells more than 500 cups a day, with more than 18 branches in Luzon.

Max Mango San Jose Batangas Branch (FB)

2. Know who influences your customer.

While it is costly to hire endorsers especially for start-up brands, one can choose an alternative that will almost do the same without the need to spend big, which is collaborating with influencers in your area of business. Since they are the people who are most likely to influence more customers, giving them a taste or experience of your product can largely benefit your business in the long run, especially if your product meets the influencer's satisfaction.

With this, customers can assume what your product is really like without actually buying it which is crucial especially for clients who are on a tight budget and don't have the luxury to just try out products.

Check this collaboration of @RakiterangNanay and Batangas-based Food channel We Crave.

WeCrave (FB)

3. Know what your customers miss.

No doubt that people are always up for something new, and trendy, but re-introducing something old, give customers not only the taste of that product but also the surreal and nostalgic memories they had along with it. It lightens up the consumer's feeling, knowing their favorites are going into this new normal trend with them.

This is how Elle Vergara came up with the idea of selling scramble tubs in their local neighborhood. Since the recent pandemic situation prevents people from indulging with the all-time favorite street food. @ARFoods DIY Scramble tub does not only offer an experience of Classic Filipino dessert but also comes at a very low cost of P99 which includes a 750 ml tub plus six toppings.

AR Foods (FB)

4. Consider a customer's budget.

This is where sellers and buyers usually get a gap. When sellers create costing, it is not new that they want to profit from it, but they should also consider whether customers can afford it to create a larger market for their products.

This is what Aileene Cruzada, owner of Sweet Bite Pastries and Kitchen, considers in pricing her home-cooked dishes and sweets, which is why she offers a variety of quantities to suit every consumer's needs and budget. Sweet Bite Pastries and Kitchen offers a wide array of home-cooked dishes, from platters and bilao to budget-friendly meals.

Sweet Bite Pastries and Kitchen (FB)

5. Know what your community needs.

With the pandemic affecting transport, it is difficult for customers and sellers to run errands, which scales the trend for deliveries and concierge services. While large restaurants and other business enterprises try to maximize their delivery services, it is difficult for small and medium businesses to adapt to this, which is the reason “Pahki express” was created.

This local online concierge service located in Batangas City saw the need to provide errand and delivery services especially for those people and businesses who don't own private transport. They also charge minimal fees and can deliver anywhere within the confines of Batangas including farm-situated areas.

Pahki Express (FB)

6. Offer a personalized experience

While restaurants are now open for dine-in services, it is not that enjoyable, noting that social distance should still be observed. Food is still best enjoyed when consumed with the entire family, which gave Janela Vidal, a graduate from UE, the idea for Dan Bam - a Korean Samgyupsal delivery service.

With Dan Bam, families can enjoy the Korean dining experience in their own homes, without the need for social distancing. Also, their prices are comparatively cheaper than those of the usual Samgyupsal rates, which starts at P658 (good for 2 to 3 pax).

DanBam Samgyupsal Delivery (FB)

7. Know your customers.

People are always curious about selling things online, but what's best is to know a customer's take on what they want and not just what you want to sell. This is to save money and effort and benefits well especially those sellers who want less risk in businesses.

Businesses succeed in reselling because they only sell what their customer wants. Peak Prints owner, Kaycee Manalo, who was originally in the printing industry, ventured into the reselling business and have been selling numerous stuff from Korean grills to chocolates and chips since before the implementation of the ECQ, however, their sales boosted during quarantine since people are restricted from their old shopping habits. They sell whatever people want them to sell, which is a win-win situation for both the buyer and the seller.

Peak Prints (FB)

We hope these nuggets of wisdom from industry experts help you in your future business endeavor. Good luck and happy selling!