As e-commerce continues to gain popularity worldwide, businesses are constantly looking for innovative ways to reach and engage customers. One such way is through live selling platforms. Live selling, also known as live commerce, is a new form of e-commerce that enables sellers to showcase and sell their products in real-time.
Unlike traditional online marketplaces, sellers on live selling platforms use video streaming and social media tools such as Instagram or Facebook Live to engage with customers, creating an interactive and engaging shopping experience. These platforms offer a unique experience that combines the convenience of online shopping with the interactivity of in-person sales.
With the use of live streaming and social media, online retailers can showcase their products in real-time and interact with customers in a way that was not possible before. This guide to live shopping platforms in Singapore explores popular live selling platforms in Singapore, their benefits for businesses and how businesses can utilise them to expand their reach as well as grow their sales.
Overview of the live selling scene in Singapore
Some of the most popular live selling platforms in Singapore include TikTok, Shopee Live, Lazada Live, and Facebook Live. These platforms allow businesses to market as well as sell a wide range of products and services, from clothing and accessories to online fish purchases.
In fact, live fish has become a popular product category on these platforms, with many sellers such as local celebrity turned business owner of e-commerce company Sibay Shiok, Terence Cao, offering tutorials on how to choose the best live fish online and where are the best places to buy fish.
Clothing, accessories and luxury goods such as bags as well as watches also continue to be popular products, with countless brands using Facebook Live to reach out to their audience and showcase their latest collections.
Overall, the live selling scene in Singapore is diverse and exciting, with something for everyone, from those looking to buy live fish online to those interested in selling clothes on Facebook Live.
Benefits of live selling for small/home businesses
1. Improved sales conversion rates
Live selling provides businesses with the opportunity to showcase their products in a visually appealing and interactive manner, which can lead to improved sales conversion rates. This is seen in how McKinsey reports that companies stated that conversion rates are 10 times higher than in traditional e-commerce.
The popularity and virality of live selling marketing can also reach a wider audience and increase brand awareness, resulting in more sales and revenue.
2. Cost-effective marketing
Live selling allows businesses to market their products and services without incurring high costs associated with traditional marketing methods, such as print ads or billboards.
In that sense, it represents a low barrier to entry and low overhead costs for many small or home businesses. To discover more tips about operating home businesses, read our guide to running a successful home-based business in Singapore.
3. Increased customer loyalty
Engaging with customers through live selling can create a sense of community and loyalty among customers as they repeatedly tune in for the live commerce shows, leading to repeat purchases and positive word-of-mouth marketing. As live selling continues to gain popularity, businesses that incorporate it into their marketing strategies gain a competitive edge of strengthened brand loyalty over those that do not.
4. Real-time feedback
Live selling provides businesses with real-time feedback from customers, allowing them to quickly adjust their strategies based on customer preferences and demands.
Benefits of live selling for buyers
1.Personalised shopping experience
Live selling enables buyers to interact with sellers in real-time, allowing them to ask questions and receive personalised recommendations for their needs.
2. Transparency of purchase decisions
Live selling provides buyers with a high level of transparency when they make purchases, as they can see the product in real-time and get a better idea of what they are buying. This process also builds trust between buyers and online businesses as buyers feel assured that they will be receiving goods that they have personally seen beforehand.
3. Access to unique products
Live selling often features a wide range of goods, including unique and niche products that are not available in traditional retail stores, providing buyers with a wider range of options to choose from.
4. Convenience in shopping
Live selling allows buyers to shop from the comfort of their own homes, saving time and effort compared to traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Additionally, it is a game-changer in the e-commerce space because it offers shoppers the chance to interact in real-time with sellers and products unlike typical modes of online shopping.
5. Exclusive deals and promotions
Live selling often features exclusive deals and promotions that are not available elsewhere, giving buyers the opportunity to save money on their purchases.
Shipping considerations for live selling businesses
1. Shipping options in Singapore
As live selling businesses in Singapore consider their shipping options, they must choose a provider that can meet their specific needs while ensuring timely and secure delivery of their packages.
While there are various shipping options available, DHL Express Singapore stands out as a reliable and trusted partner for businesses of all sizes with their unparalleled expertise in both local courier services and international deliveries. With a range of shipping options, including express, door-to-door, and same-day delivery, DHL Express offers businesses the flexibility and convenience they need to ship their products internationally.
Regardless of whether you are a live selling business that needs to ship out perishable food items such as fish, clothing or luxury watches and jewellery, DHL Express is well-versed in helping business to ship different goods from diverse industries. If you are looking for advice on shipping luxury goods, read our shipping guide for luxury watches and jewellery & partner with DHL Express to ensure your high-value items reach customers safely.
Moreover, DHL Express' global network and expertise in customs clearance ensure that packages are delivered on time and at the best possible cost. By choosing DHL Express as their shipping provider, businesses can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that their shipments are in good hands.
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2. Factors affecting shipping cost and delivery time
Several factors can affect shipping cost and delivery time, including the weight and dimensions of the package, the destination country, and any customs requirements, especially when shipping perishable food items such as fish.
For international shipping, live selling businesses must also consider factors such as shipping regulations, duties and taxes, and import/export restrictions.
When you partner with an experienced and trusted shipping expert like DHL Express, businesses can receive guidance and support to navigate these factors and ensure their shipments arrive on time and at the best possible cost. For more information on cost-effective shipping, read our guide on how to cut down on shipping costs.
3. Importance of clear shipping information for a positive customer experience
Clear and transparent shipping information is critical for a positive customer experience. Small & home live selling businesses must communicate shipping options, costs, and delivery timelines upfront to avoid confusion or delays.
Providing shipment tracking information and regular updates can also help keep customers informed and satisfied with their purchase experience.
Additionally, businesses must ensure that they provide accurate shipping information to avoid any shipping issues, such as package loss or delays, which can harm customer trust and loyalty.
Working with a reliable shipping provider like DHL Express enables businesses to provide customers with accurate, prompt shipping information and ensure timely, secure delivery of their packages.
