Enterprise eCommerce Platforms in the Philippines: What You Need to Know

Understanding Enterprise eCommerce Platforms

Choosing the right eCommerce platform is not just about setting up an online store. Enterprise platforms offer much more. They help manage large-scale operations, multiple sales channels, and heavy traffic without breaking down. According to McKinsey, eCommerce sales have doubled in the past five years, with projections to nearly double again by 2026, making scalability a critical feature of any enterprise platform. As businesses grow, they need a platform that can handle increasing traffic and transactions efficiently, especially as fulfillment costs alone can account for 12% to 20% of eCommerce revenues. But what exactly makes an eCommerce platform fit for enterprises?

What Makes an eCommerce Platform ‘Enterprise’?

An enterprise eCommerce platform is built to handle the needs of large businesses. These platforms offer advanced features, security, and the ability to handle high volumes of traffic. Here are some key features:

• Scalability: The platform can grow with your business, managing thousands of products and transactions. Scalability is a critical feature for enterprise platforms. Shopify Plus, for instance, has demonstrated its ability to manage massive traffic spikes, handling thousands of orders in real time during flash sales.
• Customization: The ability to tailor the platform to your specific needs, from design to functionality.
• Security: Enterprise platforms come with top-notch security features to protect sensitive customer data.
• Integration: These platforms integrate smoothly with other systems like CRM, ERP, and payment gateways.
• Support for Multichannel Sales: You can sell across multiple platforms like websites, apps, and even physical stores.

These features make enterprise eCommerce platforms a must for big businesses that want to expand and handle more complex operations.

The Role of Enterprise eCommerce in Business Growth

Enterprise eCommerce platforms don’t just help set up an online store. They play a significant role in growing your business. Here’s how they contribute to your growth:

• Improved Efficiency: Automation features save time by handling repetitive tasks such as order processing and inventory updates.
• Customer Retention: Platforms offer features like personalized experiences and customer segmentation, helping to improve customer loyalty.
• Increased Revenue: Multichannel selling and SEO tools help you reach a wider audience and improve visibility.
• Analytics and Reporting: Enterprise platforms provide in-depth data to help you make better business decisions.
• Global Reach: Many platforms support international sales, allowing your business to expand beyond the local market.

With the right platform, businesses can streamline operations, retain customers, and grow their revenue.

Top Enterprise eCommerce Platforms in the Philippines

In the Philippines, several enterprise eCommerce platforms are leading the market. Let’s take a closer look at the top options available to businesses in this region.

Shopify

Shopify is one of the most popular eCommerce platforms globally and has a significant presence in the Philippines. It’s a fully hosted solution with a user-friendly interface that suits businesses of all sizes.

• Ease of Use: Shopify is perfect for businesses that don’t have a lot of technical expertise. It’s easy to set up and maintain.
• Customizable Themes: You can choose from various themes to design a store that matches your brand.
• Multichannel Selling: Sell across your website, social media, and marketplaces.
• Scalability: Shopify’s enterprise version, Shopify Plus, offers advanced features for large businesses.
• Great Support: 24/7 customer support ensures that you get help when needed.

With its ease of use and scalability, Shopify is a go-to platform for many businesses.

BigCommerce

BigCommerce is another popular choice for businesses looking for enterprise eCommerce platforms. It offers a range of features that can help you scale your business.

• Customization Options: BigCommerce allows for more customization compared to Shopify.
• No Transaction Fees: BigCommerce doesn’t charge transaction fees, which is great for businesses with high sales volumes.
• SEO-Friendly: Built-in SEO tools help improve your online visibility.
• Multichannel Selling: Sell through your website, Amazon, eBay, and social media.
• Flexible Plans: Various pricing plans are available to suit different business needs.

BigCommerce is a powerful platform for businesses that need more control over their store’s functionality.

WooCommerce

WooCommerce is an open-source plugin for WordPress, making it a popular option for businesses that already use WordPress.

• Flexibility: WooCommerce is highly customizable, making it suitable for businesses with specific needs.
• Cost-Effective: The basic plugin is free, but you may need to pay for additional features.
• Large Community: WooCommerce has a large community, meaning you can find plenty of resources and plugins to enhance your store.
• SEO: Since it runs on WordPress, WooCommerce is very SEO-friendly.
• Integration: WooCommerce integrates with many third-party tools and services, giving you more control over your store.

WooCommerce is ideal for businesses that want more flexibility and control over their store’s design and functionality.

Shopee

Shopee is a mobile-first platform that is very popular in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. It’s known for its focus on social shopping and mobile experiences in digital commerce services.

• Mobile-Friendly: Shopee is designed for mobile users, making it easy for customers to shop on the go.
• Local and International Reach: You can sell to both local and international customers.
• Social Features: Shopee has features like chat, which helps sellers and buyers communicate easily.
• Wide Audience: With millions of active users, Shopee provides access to a large customer base.
• Payment and Shipping Integration: Shopee integrates with local payment methods and delivery services.

Shopee’s mobile-first approach makes it ideal for businesses targeting customers in Southeast Asia.

eBay

eBay has a long history as a marketplace and remains a popular option for businesses selling a variety of products.

• Auction and Fixed-Price Options: Sellers can choose between auction-style listings or fixed prices.
• Global Reach: eBay gives businesses the opportunity to sell to a global audience.
• Trusted Brand: eBay is a well-known and trusted platform, which can help build credibility.
• Easy to Use: It’s simple to list products and manage orders on eBay.
• Variety of Payment Methods: eBay supports multiple payment options, making it convenient for customers.

eBay is ideal for businesses looking to expand their reach and sell internationally.

Carousell Philippines

Carousell is a peer-to-peer marketplace that allows businesses and individuals to sell new and used goods.

• User-Friendly Interface: Carousell is easy to navigate, making it simple for sellers to list products.
• Mobile-Centric: Like Shopee, Carousell focuses on mobile users.
• Free Listings: Listing products on Carousell is free, making it a cost-effective option.
• Chat Feature: Buyers and sellers can communicate easily through the in-app chat.
• Local Reach: Carousell is great for reaching local customers.

Carousell’s user-friendly platform makes it an excellent option for small businesses and individuals.

Zalora

Zalora is a leading online fashion retailer in Southeast Asia, offering a wide variety of clothing and accessories.

• Fashion-Focused: Zalora is ideal for businesses that specialize in fashion and accessories.
• Large Customer Base: With millions of users, Zalora provides access to a large audience.
• Marketing Support: Zalora offers marketing support to help businesses promote their products.
• Multiple Payment Options: Customers can choose from several payment methods, including cash on delivery.
• Returns Management: Zalora handles returns, making it easier for sellers to focus on sales.

Zalora is perfect for businesses in the fashion industry looking to reach a large audience.

OpenCart

OpenCart is a free, open-source eCommerce platform that offers plenty of features for large businesses.

• Free to Use: OpenCart is free, although you may need to pay for some extensions.
• Customizable: You can modify the code to suit your business needs.
• Multiple Payment Gateways: OpenCart supports a variety of payment methods.
• Multi-Store Capability: You can manage multiple stores from a single admin panel.
• SEO-Friendly: OpenCart has built-in SEO features to help boost your store’s visibility.

OpenCart is a great choice for businesses looking for a free, customizable eCommerce solution.

Metrodeal

Metrodeal is an eCommerce platform that offers deals and discounts on a variety of products and services.

• Deals and Discounts: Metrodeal focuses on providing discounted products and services.
• Large User Base: Metrodeal attracts a large number of bargain hunters.
• Easy to Use: It’s simple to list deals and manage transactions.
• Wide Range of Products: You can sell everything from electronics to travel deals.
• Local Focus: Metrodeal is popular among local consumers in the Philippines.

Metrodeal is a good option for businesses looking to offer discounted products and attract local customers.

Shopboxo

Shopboxo is a unique platform that allows small businesses to set up their online store using only a mobile phone.

• Mobile-First: Shopboxo is designed for businesses that want to manage their store on mobile.
• Code-Free: You don’t need to know any coding to set up your store.
• Pre-Built Themes: Choose from customizable themes to create a professional-looking store.
• Mobile Order Management: Manage your store, track orders, and fulfill them on the go.
• Affordable: Shopboxo is budget-friendly, making it perfect for small businesses.

Shopboxo’s mobile-centric approach makes it ideal for small businesses in the Philippines.

Watch more: How to Succeed in Cross-Border eCommerce from the Philippines

Choosing the Right Platform for Your Business in the Philippines

When choosing an enterprise eCommerce platform, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you make the best choice for your business.

Key Considerations for Selection

Picking the right platform can be tricky. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Business Size: Make sure the platform can handle your current and future business needs.
• Customization: Choose a platform that allows you to customize the look and feel of your store.
• Budget: Some platforms have higher costs, so consider how much you’re willing to spend.
• SEO Capabilities: Ensure the platform has SEO features to help you rank higher in search results.
• Mobile-Friendly: Pick a platform that works well on mobile devices, as many customers shop via their phones.

Your choice should reflect the specific needs of your business and the market you’re targeting.

Evaluating Customer Support and Community

Support is crucial, especially when running an enterprise-level eCommerce store. Consider these factors:

• Availability: Choose a platform with 24/7 customer support to solve issues quickly.
• Community Resources: Platforms with active communities can help you troubleshoot problems.
• Documentation: Look for platforms that offer clear and detailed documentation.
• Training Materials: Some platforms offer tutorials and courses to help you learn the ropes.
• Third-Party Support: Check if there are third-party developers or agencies available for additional help.

Strong support and a helpful community can make a big difference in your platform experience.

Watch more: Comparing the 5 Best CMS for eCommerce Platforms in the Philippines

How SmartOSC Helps Businesses Thrive with Enterprise eCommerce Platforms

SmartOSC has a proven track record of delivering tailored solutions for businesses looking to excel with enterprise eCommerce platforms. Whether your business is aiming for scalability, enhanced customer experience, or seamless integration between online and offline channels, we provide the expertise and technological solutions to meet your goals.

As a partner of BigCommerce, Shopify Plus, and Adobe, SmartOSC helps businesses build scalable, secure, and efficient eCommerce ecosystems. With over 17 years of experience, we have supported hundreds of businesses in streamlining operations, enhancing customer engagement, and driving revenue growth.

Here are some notable benefits of partnering with SmartOSC for your enterprise eCommerce platform needs:

• Omnichannel Solutions: We specialize in creating integrated online-to-offline (O2O) strategies, ensuring seamless customer journeys across all touchpoints. For instance, ASUS Singapore needed to unify B2B and B2C operations and streamline their O2O shopping experience. SmartOSC delivered a comprehensive solution using Magento 2 and AWS infrastructure, resulting in a 56% increase in eCommerce revenue and a 43% boost in web sessions​.
• Infrastructure Optimization: SmartOSC’s team of experts ensures that your eCommerce platform operates efficiently while reducing infrastructure costs. The Mall Group partnered with SmartOSC to conduct system health checks and migrate to a containerized architecture, which led to a 10-15% reduction in infrastructure costs​.
• Personalized Customer Experience: Personalization is key to driving customer engagement. With advanced eCommerce platforms like Magento and BigCommerce, SmartOSC helps businesses personalize the shopping experience, which has been shown to increase conversions and customer satisfaction. For example, OCB Bank achieved a personalized omnichannel experience that reduce deployment time by 40% and cut costs by 50%.
• Performance and Security: With increasing concerns about cybersecurity, SmartOSC implements robust security measures to protect your eCommerce platform. Raffles Connect, a healthcare platform, enhanced its cybersecurity and saved 30% on manual testing efforts through SmartOSC’s solutions​.

Conclusion

Choosing the right enterprise eCommerce platforms can have a significant impact on your business in the Philippines. Each platform has its strengths, and the best choice depends on your specific needs. Whether you prioritize scalability, ease of use, or customization, there’s a platform for you. For more guidance on selecting the right platform or to explore solutions, contact us today!