Description: Electronic retailing, commonly known as e-commerce, refers to the transaction of goods and services through digital platforms, primarily the Internet. This business model allows consumers to purchase products from the comfort of their homes using devices such as computers, tablets, or smartphones. Electronic retailing encompasses a wide range of products, from clothing and electronics to food and services. The main characteristics of this type of sale include 24/7 availability, the ability to easily compare prices, and the personalization of the shopping experience through recommendations based on user behavior. Additionally, e-commerce has transformed the way businesses interact with their customers, allowing for more direct and efficient communication. The relevance of electronic retailing has grown exponentially in recent decades, driven by technological advancements and increased Internet access, becoming an essential component of the modern global economy.
History: Electronic retailing began to take shape in the 1970s with the development of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) technology. However, it was in 1991, with the opening of the World Wide Web to the public, that e-commerce began to gain popularity. In 1994, the first online payment system was launched, facilitating transactions. By the late 1990s, companies like Amazon and eBay emerged, establishing business models that revolutionized retail. Since then, e-commerce has evolved with the rise of social media and mobile devices, becoming a fundamental pillar of the global economy.
Uses: Electronic retailing is primarily used for the buying and selling of products and services over the Internet. This includes the sale of physical goods, such as clothing, electronics, and food, as well as digital services, such as software subscriptions and multimedia content. Additionally, businesses use e-commerce for marketing campaigns, managing customer relationships, and analyzing sales data to enhance user experience. It has also become a key tool for small and medium-sized enterprises looking to expand their reach without the need for a physical store.
Examples: Examples of electronic retailing include platforms like Amazon, where consumers can purchase a wide variety of products, and eBay, which allows for the buying and selling of new and used items. Other examples are online stores of brands like Zara and Nike, which offer their products directly to consumers through their websites. Additionally, services like Netflix and Spotify represent e-commerce in the realm of digital services, allowing users to access on-demand multimedia content.
