Amazon is trying to leverage the dense network of offline stores in the key overseas market by helping neighborhood stores launch their own digital storefronts.
Smart Commerce is a new offering from Amazon that will allow stores to create their own online storefronts and also offer in-store shopping experience to their walk-in customers.
Two years ago, the US giant launched Smart Stores to help neighborhood outlets serve their walk-in customers. Two years ago, it launched Local Shops, a program that allows offline stores to sell directly on Amazon. Stores of any size can sign up for Amazon's Smart Commerce service, and the company will give them assistance with logistical and digital payments.
Over 1.5 lakh stores are already selling on Amazon.in within two years of launch, thanks to the Local Shops on Amazon program.
The launch of Smart Commerce will allow any store to become a digital dukaan and serve customers with the best of Amazon no matter where they are.
The firm said that Smart Commerce will offer a range of features to stores, including the ability to manage inventory, as well as a voice and chat-based shopping experience. Some of the features will be rolled out in the coming weeks.
Over 125,000 neighborhood stores are already selling online using Amazon's marketplace.
In recent years, both Amazon and Flipkart have tried to work with neighborhood stores in India. These mom-and-pop stores are family-run and pay little to no rent. There are more than 30 million neighborhood stores in India and no retail giant can offer a faster delivery. Their economics are often better than their digital counterparts.
Meta is keeping an eye on this segment. Reliance Retail, India's largest retail chain, is bringing several of its commerce offerings to the messaging service. A startup that helps stores across the nation serve customers online has been invested in by Google.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
