Why These Are the Best eCommerce Platforms in the Philippines?
When setting up an online store, choosing the best eCommerce platform is one of the most important steps. The right platform can make or break your business, and in the Philippines, where the eCommerce market is growing fast, this choice is even more crucial. This guide explores the best eCommerce platforms available to help you make an informed decision.
What are eCommerce Platforms?
An eCommerce platform is a software that allows businesses to manage their online stores. It provides all the tools needed to run a store, such as creating a product catalog, managing inventory, processing payments, and handling shipping. These platforms are essential for businesses of all sizes, from startups to large enterprises.
Some key features include:
- Tools to design your website.
- Inventory and order management.
- Payment gateways for secure transactions.
- SEO tools for better visibility.
- Marketing features like email campaigns.
In short, an eCommerce platform helps you run your online store smoothly by providing everything you need in one place.
Overview of the eCommerce Landscape in the Philippines
Growth of eCommerce in the Philippines
The Philippines is one of the fastest-growing eCommerce markets in Southeast Asia, with the industry seeing a 31.3% growth in 2022 alone, reaching PHP 500.9 billion (USD 9.8 billion). This growth is fueled by increasing internet and smartphone usage, as well as improved delivery services and payment options. With initiatives like the Philippine eCommerce Roadmap 2022, the country aims to increase the contribution of eCommerce to 5.5% of GDP.
Several factors contribute to the growth of eCommerce:
- The rapid increase in online shopping, especially after the pandemic.
- More Filipinos owning smartphones and using them to shop.
- Affordable internet access in both rural and urban areas.
- Support from logistics companies offering better delivery options.
- Strong social media presence, where businesses promote their products.
The eCommerce landscape in the Philippines is set to grow even more, and choosing the right platform to support this growth is essential.
Importance of Choosing the Right eCommerce Platform
Selecting the right eCommerce platform is essential for scaling your business. The right platform offers tools for easy website design, secure payments, and integrated marketing. With the Philippines eCommerce market expected to generate over $17.4 billion by 2024, it’s important to choose a platform that provides scalability and supports growing market demands. Businesses that invest in user-friendly, customizable platforms are better positioned to tap into this expanding digital economy.
Here are some things to consider when selecting a platform:
- Ease of use for beginners.
- Scalability as your business grows.
- Payment methods suitable for your customers.
- Customer support availability.
- Customization options for your store’s design.
Selecting the best platform ensures that your business runs smoothly and delivers a seamless shopping experience to your customers.
Top eCommerce Platforms in the Philippines
When it comes to choosing the best eCommerce platforms, several options stand out. Below, we will look at some of the top platforms available for businesses in the Philippines.
Shopify
Shopify is known for being user-friendly and scalable. It offers a simple setup process and a wide range of themes to choose from. Shopify is a great option for businesses of all sizes because it supports both small and large operations.
- Easy-to-use store builder with drag-and-drop features.
- Large app store for additional features.
- Supports multichannel selling (online, in-store, social media).
- Strong SEO tools for visibility.
- Multiple payment gateways, including local options.
- Excellent customer support available 24/7.
Shopify is a versatile option, making it one of the most popular platforms globally.
Wix
Wix is a drag-and-drop website builder that also offers eCommerce capabilities. While it’s primarily a website builder, its digital commerce solutions make it a solid choice for small businesses and startups.
- Easy to customize templates.
- Integration with social media for marketing.
- Affordable pricing options for beginners.
- SEO-friendly tools to increase traffic.
- Includes mobile optimization features.
Wix is best suited for small businesses that need a simple but effective online store.
BigCommerce
BigCommerce is known for its strong scalability, making it ideal for large enterprises. It offers advanced tools and customization options, perfect for businesses that want to grow quickly.
- Supports high-volume businesses with ease.
- Advanced SEO tools.
- Multiple selling channels, including Amazon and eBay.
- Supports global sales and payments.
- Strong API support for developers.
BigCommerce is ideal for businesses aiming to scale and reach a global market.
Adobe Commerce
Formerly known as Magento, Adobe Commerce is one of the best eCommerce platforms offering great flexibility for businesses that require a custom-built online store. However, it often requires a development team to manage.
- Highly customizable for complex business needs.
- Flexible product management features.
- Advanced SEO features.
- Strong integration options for third-party apps.
- Requires hosting and developer support.
Adobe Commerce is best for large businesses that need flexibility and customization.
WooCommerce
WooCommerce is a free WordPress plugin that adds eCommerce functionality to your existing WordPress site. It’s great for businesses that already use WordPress and want to add an online store.
- Free to install, with paid add-ons available.
- Ideal for WordPress users.
- Wide range of customization options.
- Supports multiple payment gateways.
- Great for SEO, especially for blogs that sell products.
WooCommerce is a good option for small to medium-sized businesses using WordPress.
Squarespace
Squarespace is a website builder with elegant templates and simple eCommerce capabilities. It’s perfect for businesses that want a visually appealing store without too much complexity.
- Beautiful templates for online stores.
- Integrated payment gateways.
- User-friendly interface.
- Limited multichannel selling options.
- Strong focus on design and aesthetics.
Squarespace is ideal for creative businesses that prioritize design.
Big Cartel
Big Cartel is designed for artists and makers who want to sell a small number of products. It’s simple and affordable but lacks the advanced features found in other platforms.
- Easy to set up and use.
- Affordable pricing, including a free plan.
- Limited features for small businesses.
- Suitable for creatives with small product catalogs.
- Simple marketing tools.
Big Cartel is great for artists or creatives selling a few items.
Square Online
Square Online is perfect for businesses already using Square for payments. It allows seamless integration between in-person and online sales, making it a good choice for small businesses.
- Free plan available for basic stores.
- Great for businesses with both physical and online sales.
- Simple to set up with Square’s payment systems.
- Limited customization options.
Square Online is ideal for small businesses that already use Square.
Shift4Shop
Shift4Shop is a flexible and affordable platform. It’s packed with features, making it one of the best eCommerce platforms for businesses of all sizes.
- Affordable pricing.
- Includes built-in SEO tools.
- Supports multichannel sales.
- User-friendly dashboard for managing the store.
- No additional transaction fees.
Shift4Shop offers a full package of features for businesses of different sizes.
Volusion
Volusion is one of the oldest eCommerce platforms and focuses on simplicity and ease of use. It’s a good option for businesses that don’t need advanced features.
- Simple and clean interface.
- Basic SEO and marketing tools.
- Easy inventory management.
- Affordable pricing.
- Limited design customization.
Volusion is best for small businesses looking for a simple, affordable platform.
OpenCart
OpenCart is a free, open-source eCommerce platform. It offers great flexibility but requires technical knowledge to set up and manage.
- Free to use, with paid modules available.
- Flexible and customizable.
- Large community of users and developers.
- Requires hosting and technical expertise.
- Suitable for businesses with IT resources.
OpenCart is best for businesses that need customization and have technical support.
Watch more: Comparing the 5 Best CMS for eCommerce Platforms in the Philippines
Comparative Analysis
Best for Small Businesses
For small businesses, platforms like Shopify, Wix, and Squarespace offer easy setups and affordable pricing. These platforms don’t require technical expertise and are ideal for starting your eCommerce journey.
Best for Large-Scale Operations
BigCommerce and Adobe Commerce are excellent for large businesses that need advanced features and scalability. These platforms can handle a high volume of sales and offer tools for managing complex businesses.
Best for Multichannel Selling
If multichannel selling is important for your business, Shopify and BigCommerce are top choices. These platforms allow you to sell on various channels like social media, Amazon, and eBay seamlessly.
Watch more: How Digital Transformation Trends are Shaping the Future of Philippine Enterprises
How SmartOSC Can Elevate Your eCommerce Platform Selection and Implementation
SmartOSC is an experienced partner in helping businesses select and implement the best eCommerce platforms. With a deep understanding of the unique needs of the Philippine market, SmartOSC provides customized digital commerce solutions that are tailored to your business goals. Our case studies demonstrate how we have successfully transformed businesses across various industries by implementing the right technology to drive growth and improve efficiency.
Here are some case studies that highlight how SmartOSC has helped businesses thrive by selecting and implementing the best platforms:
Challenges: ASUS needed to improve relationships with distributors and create a seamless online-to-offline (O2O) shopping experience.
Solutions: SmartOSC developed a unified B2B/B2C website using Magento 2, integrating O2O features and automating processes via ConnectPOS.
Results: 56% revenue growth, 43% web session boost, and reduced delivery lead times to less than three days.
Challenges: Their website had incomplete functionality and lacked an auction feature.
Solutions: SmartOSC rebuilt the website using Magento 2.4.3, adding auction features and improving site performance.
Results: 80% improvement in loading speed and a successful launch of the auction platform.
Challenges: The Mall Group sought to reduce infrastructure costs and improve data integration.
Solutions: We transitioned them to a containerized architecture and implemented CI/CD for seamless updates.
Results: 10-15% reduction in infrastructure costs.
Challenges: Matahari needed to adapt to the disruptions caused by COVID-19 and modernize its technology stack.
Solutions: SmartOSC implemented Magento 2, providing a seamless omnichannel experience and improving mobile and desktop functionality.
Results: 39% increase in purchases, 3x desktop conversions, and 25% faster load times.
Challenges: Sacombank’s website was outdated and lacked personalization for customers.
Solutions: We revamped their website with Adobe Experience Manager, improving the user experience and personalization.
Results: 2x increase in website traffic, 2.5x increase in leads, and a 3-second page load time.
Challenges: Daikin struggled with inefficiencies due to paper-based processes.
Solutions: We implemented an E-Office system that automated document management and improved communication across departments.
Results: 80% of processes were migrated online, leading to 100% customer satisfaction and an 80% reduction in paperwork.
By partnering with SmartOSC, your business can benefit from tailored solutions that streamline operations, enhance customer experience, and drive growth. We specialize in implementing platforms that fit your specific needs, whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise. Let us help you navigate the complexities of eCommerce, ensuring your platform is optimized for success.
Conclusion
Choosing the best eCommerce platforms is essential for your business success in the Philippines. Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, finding the right platform can make all the difference. To get started with the best platform for your business, contact us at SmartOSC today and let us guide you on your eCommerce journey!
