B2B commerce was always seen as relatively separate from B2C commerce. Companies used to focused on only one of the business models. However, the internet and eCommerce has changed all of that. The commerce industry is fluid and organic as it grows alongside new industry standards, advancements in technology, and of course, trying to stay one step ahead of the competition.
Some businesses are transitioning from B2B eCommerce to B2C eCommerce, and some are moving towards B2B eCommerce from B2C eCommerce. Regardless of what business model you fall under, having an eCommerce solution in place is critical to the continued growth of your business. The transition can be a big B2B project that takes careful planning.
The B2B industry is continually expanding and evolving in eCommerce. In eCommerce, interactions between two businesses tend to be much more significant than an interaction between a business and a single consumer. Because of this impact, many B2C businesses are transitioning to a B2B business model or a hybrid option where they can cater to both audiences.
The size of B2B eCommerce will be approximately double the size of B2C eCommerce by 2020, according to Forrester Research. If businesses are transitioning from B2C to B2B eCommerce, here are some things that they have to be mindful of.