If you have not heard about eBay’s new initiative yet then you are in for some good news. In an effort to help smaller companies reach a wider international market eBay intends to create shops overseas with the intent to launch 90,000 UK retailers in to international trade.
UK retailers will be able to take advantage of PayPal and the site’s translation tools to breakdown language barriers and trade in different currencies: assisting British businesses increase their visibility across Europe.
The director for policy and external affairs at the British Chambers of Commerce, Dr Adam Marshal, spoke to The Telegraph: "UK businesses face a range of challenges when selling into new markets. Unfamiliar languages, customs rules, local bureaucracy and logistics are all common issues, particularly for smaller companies who are new to exporting". By offering a platform to cater to these challenges eBay is opening the doors for British businesses.
One of many successful companies that have used eBay’s international network is the outdoor retailer, Mountain Warehouse.
Launching its eBay store in the summer 2012 the company engaged their international customers almost immediately. As a result the Mountain Warehouse team were able to market their seasonal products throughout the year, and by entering international market they increased their addressable audience from 18.5m in the UK to 124m worldwide.
If you have a surplus of winter products that you’re stuck with over summer or you are simply looking to increase your sales, then it is not the time to narrow your target audience. Consider accepting international payment methods and including international shipping options to reach a wider market, you may be surprised by the results!
