Monday 8 April 2024

Shopee’s ‘The Future of Shopping’ Study Reveals Gen Z Purchase Habits

 


Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, officially unveils the ‘The Future of Shopping: Engaging Generation Z Shoppers in the Digital Era’ study. The study discovered that 7 in 10 Generation Z (Gen Zs) consumers aged 18 to 24 leverage e-commerce platforms as the primary touchpoint in their shopping journey. This highlights a critical shift, with Gen Z actively utilising these platforms to gather information and conduct in-depth research before committing to a purchase.


Findings revealed a continued preference for e-commerce platforms despite exploring alternative channels for product research and discovery. A significant 68% of Gen Z respondents demonstrate a higher purchase completion rate on e-commerce platforms. 18% of Gen Zs prefer to explore products on social commerce platforms, while the remaining 14% opted to finalise transactions through other channels.


Enhancing Service Quality for Gen Zs


Interestingly, when asked, “What information do you search for when shopping for a product?”, a significant 67% actively seek out positive recommendations, emphasising the importance of high customer reviews and influencer endorsements. This focus on external validation aligns with their value for user trust. They view clear communication of product benefits and effectiveness as justification, prioritising products that deliver strong value for money over affordability (16%) and quality (17%).


While two-thirds of Gen Zs complete their purchase journey within a day, another third dedicate at least five days to in-depth research, demonstrating meticulous research habits. This extended research phase prioritises reviews and video demonstrations to ensure product performance and user satisfaction.


Ming Kit Tan, Head of Marketing and Business Intelligence at Shopee Malaysia, said, “Gen Zs in Malaysia are more than just online shoppers; they're digital explorers who leverage e-commerce for deep dives and informed decisions. They crave a seamless, dependable, and unified shopping experience. Brands can cultivate trust through authentic user-generated content and crystal-clear product information, presenting a golden opportunity to leverage affiliate marketing and Shopee Live. By prioritising their needs, we can continue to be the leading destination for Gen Z's shopping journey.”


Enlivening Shopping Experience


When asked why Gen Zs are choosing e-commerce platforms for purchase, nearly 82% cited the platforms' extensive product variety and brand selection, competitive pricing, and guaranteed quality as key factors. The remaining 18% make informed decisions based on a platform’s reputation and personal experiences. This highlights Gen Z's data-driven approach to shopping, where they actively utilise platform functionalities to validate purchases before committing.


A significant difference emerged among Gen Z shoppers regarding the most impactful attributes influencing their choice of purchase channel. Established fulfilment practices, encompassing flexible shipping options, on-time deliveries, and real-time order tracking, were prioritised by a dominant two-thirds of respondents while the remaining third prioritised a seamless checkout experience and product search convenience. This finding underscores the critical role that trust in fulfilment practices plays in securing Gen Z's loyalty.


In response to these evolving shopping behaviours, Shopee introduced the 15-Days Free Returns, No Questions Asked* program. This policy empowers buyers with unprecedented flexibility by offering "Change Of Mind" returns on eligible items with No Questions Asked* for hassle-free returns, fostering a culture of unwavering customer trust. By prioritising customer satisfaction, Shopee is streamlining the shopping journey and providing users an ultimate peace of mind.

Sunday 24 March 2024

SPX Express Optimises Logistics Network, Accelerates E-commerce Delivery by 30%

 SPX Express (SPX), Shopee's trusted logistics partner, celebrates a nationwide boost in e-commerce efficiency with the opening of the new Bukit Raja Sorting Centre in Klang, Selangor. Since January 2024, SPX has achieved a 30% improvement in delivery times for parcels travelling from Klang Valley to non-Klang Valley regions. SPX continuously improves their overall logistics network across Malaysia; 50% of customers can now receive their orders in three days or less.

In 2024, SPX aims to further increase their delivery capacity and area coverage, improve end-to-end user experience, and reduce costs to better serve Malaysians. SPX's extensive network of over 140 hubs and warehouses and over 1,200 service points supporting both seller drop-offs and buyer self-collection across Malaysia positions them as a frontrunner in efficient e-commerce logistics. SPX will also expand to 700 buyer self-collection points outside of the Klang Valley within the next six months, allowing online shoppers to pick up their purchases at locations that fit their daily routines.

“The Bukit Raja Sorting Centre represents a significant expansion of SPX Express's capabilities in servicing the e-commerce sector. This strategic investment allows us to enhance our value proposition for e-commerce vendors, particularly those situated outside the Klang Valley region. By leveraging best-in-class warehouse and sorting management systems, we've already witnessed quantifiable improvements in operational efficiency. Looking ahead, we're committed to continuous improvement and plan to integrate cutting-edge technologies throughout the year to reach an operational capacity of an estimated 1.5 million parcels by year-end,” said Cheah Lee Sun, Head of SPX Express Malaysia.

This year, SPX's close partnership with Fulfilled by Shopee will further elevate the e-commerce delivery experience to better serve their users. The Bukit Raja Fulfilment Warehouse strategically houses an average of 3 million readily available products – a portion of the estimated 5.5 million total stock capacity. This equates to a wider selection for users and faster processing, with aims for 95% of e-commerce orders shipped out on the same day for orders placed before 2PM. Additionally, leveraging the facility’s secure storage and expedited deliveries through consignment services has demonstrably boosted customer satisfaction and brand loyalty for local businesses.


SPX's robust logistics network levels the playing field for Malaysian businesses. Small sellers, independent brands, and customers nationwide enjoy reliable, affordable, and efficient delivery, thanks to SPX's in-house technology and the dedicated couriers and sorters. This empowers entrepreneurs to achieve sustainable growth, supported by faster average delivery times for their e-commerce orders.


SPX has championed diversity and inclusion in its workforce since 2021. By launching innovative programs, SPX has empowered their teams – from facility workers  to fleet supervisors – to achieve a healthy work-life balance and fostered a strong sense of community. The opening of the Bukit Raja Sorting Centre has generated over 400 new full-time and part-time jobs for individuals in the Selangor area. This significant investment creates much-needed opportunities for Malaysians to improve their livelihoods and give back to their local community.

Thursday 7 March 2024

Shopee’s 2024 Fashion Show, ‘Raya Stail Kita’, Celebrates Malaysia’s Golden Age of Culture

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, on 5th March 2024, unveiled its #ShopeeRaiLokal Raya Stail Kita fashion show on Shopee Live, to inspire Malaysians nationwide to dress well and buy local. Themed ‘Tarakucha Retro’, Shopee collaborated with long-term sellers, celebrities, and influencers to style Malaysians for three 2024 trends this Raya: kek lapis, burnt orange, and nostalgia with a twist. 

“This fashion show is a love letter to the golden days of P. Ramlee and Saloma,” said Shopee Head of Marketing, Kenneth Soh. “By design, fashion and beauty on Shopee are deliberately wholesome and inclusive for all Malaysians who need to balik kampung, pay respects to their elders, and attend Raya celebrations all over the country with dignity. With Raya Stail Kita, Malaysians can now dress with style and support their local sellers.”

A departure from run-of-the-mill fashion shows, Shopee’s runway slowed down the models’ catwalks to teach audiences nationwide how different garments could be styled from a variety of brands for each look to coordinate with their whole families. 

Ten Shopee muslim fashion sellers, namely Asikin Ahmad, Liyana Collection, Adnaa, Indah Pesona, Hernes, Inhanna, Zoe Arissa, Panda Eyes, Bayu Somerset, and Mikaseries by Zoey Rahman. Habib Jewels joined forces in the spirit of gotong-royong to sponsor outfits and accessories to complete the looks. 

Sponsoring brands lending their generosity to the event included beauty and skincare names such as Y.O.U, SimplySiti, Silkygirl, Wardah, Papa Feel, Mikaseries, lemooc, Emina, Dazzle Me, barenbliss, Alha Alfa, and AISASEA.

Body positive model Hikma Al Hassan headlined Shopee’s inclusive and affordable looks that were curated based on how Malaysians are shopping for their Baju Raya online. With its first look, Kek Lapis, Shopee called for Malaysians to experiment with unconventional layering of colors, prints, and textures. As popularized by Intan Najuwa at her wedding recently, Shopee then presented various ways to dress Burnt Orange this season for both men and women of various skin tones. The final look, Nostalgia Balik Kampung, encapsulated a rich tapestry of traditional and retro styles familiar to every Malaysian.

Kiffy Razak, Managing Editor of NONA, Hijabista, and Mingguan Wanita,  gave her styling advice on how Malaysians could tap into popular trends and dress up these looks: “Incorporating a dash of kek lapis color blocking, lively yet chic orange or nostalgia in one’s ensemble while integrating a bit of glam and a classic touch to perfect the look will provide an excellent nod to Raya trends this year. More importantly, it’s about interpreting and styling it in a way that reflects your best and true self as well as respecting values and cherished traditions you hold dear in celebration of Eid.”

Shopee is dedicated to offering a diverse and wholesome range of fashion choices for the whole family. Dato’ Jovian Mandagie, a Fashion Designer who also has Shopee Celebrity Squad store on Shopee, echoes this sentiment with his expert take: “Aidilfitri is a celebration of love and victory over Ramadan, whether you're at a kampung house or a city ballroom. Dress comfortably with modesty in mind. Avoid overdressing that will lead you looking like a Christmas Tree. When choosing baju Raya, prioritize comfort, and only follow trends if they suit your personality.”

Fellow Shopee Celebrity Squad, Zoey Rahman, Malaysian Actor and Founder of Mikaseries, gave his take on how to do Raya 2024: “I prefer classic Baju Melayu featuring a cekak musang collar and concealed buttons. I will style with instant sampin that can be ready within 2 minutes to complete the look. I like this outfit idea because it is classic suitable for Raya morning.”

Raya Stail Kita study* covering Malaysian shoppers on the platform revealed that over 9 in 10 surveyed are driven to shop by coordinating looks with their whole family this Raya. Five in ten embrace the layer cake Raya trend, four in ten buy retro outfits and the remainder search burnt orange. This fashion show is the third chapter in #ShopeeRaiLokal, an episodic content platform to feature local sellers who build communities**.

This Raya season, shop worry-free with Shopee as our new Change of Mind 15-Days Free Returns feature will make your shopping experience a pleasant and peaceful one. From 19 March 2024 onwards, you can return a product for a full refund, within 15-Day Shopee Guarantee period.




Visit Raya Stail Kita microsite at https://shopee.com.my/m/raya-stail-kita and the Ramadan Bersama Shopee campaign microsite at https://shopee.com.my/m/ramadan-sale#SLM1

Monday 26 February 2024

Bella Hazaha Makes Pyjama Fashion Go Viral on Shopee Live

 One homegrown Shopee Live entrepreneur has disrupted the Malaysian sleepwear market by targeting customers searching for trendy, modest, and affordable pyjamas that can be worn publicly. Bella Hazaha Pyjamas, launched in September 2023, has carved out a unique space in ready-to-wear pyjama fashion, by selling over 500 pyjamas daily and becoming a top seller on Shopee Live.


"Shopee Live has been a game-changer," says founder Bella. "Gone are the days of niche social media advertising. Now, I connect directly with customers, showcasing products in real time. It's like having a personal shopping assistant – the platform tracks orders while the host explains each pyjama's details. This has streamlined operations and boosted my business significantly. I even opened a physical office and warehouse to meet demand!"


Redefining Sleepwear Beyond the Bedroom

Going beyond traditional sleepwear, Bella Hazaha shatters stereotypes with bold prints, vibrant colours, and playful patterns. Their best-selling Kaftan Dress, designed by Bella herself, resonates with women who crave both comfort and self-expression, boasting over 36,600 pieces sold. The collection consists of 16 stunning patterns, ensuring every woman finds her perfect match, from ‘Daisy’ to ‘Leopard print’.



“Our customers are owning their individuality,” she explains. “While satin and silk sleepwear offer undeniable luxury and sensuality, their hefty price tag can be a barrier for many. We strive to create affordable luxury fashion pieces without compromising on quality. That’s why we use cotton mix for our sleepwear. This material isn't just budget-friendly, but it also provides comfort and practicality, offering low maintenance and easy care.”


Harnessing the power of live streaming, Bella revolutionises the way customers connect and shop. During a recent session with over 3,400 viewers, a viewer asked, "What size is right for me? I'm 151cm and 60kg." The host, demonstrating quick thinking and product expertise, promptly recommended a size ‘S’ and went on to explain the brand's sizing guide in detail, giving viewers confidence in their purchase decision. The brand goes live daily at 12PM, offering Malaysians not just affordable pyjamas below RM30 but also a friendly and informative shopping companion.


Personalising Audience Experience

To maintain brand consistency, Bella handpicks and trains each host as a brand ambassador. “I believe that livestream hosts are not just tasked to answer questions  – they are the face of our brand. I ensure that my hosts are trained far beyond scripts, standardising everything from makeup and headscarf styles to host-audience interaction. It’s a demanding approach, but what truly sets us apart is our ability to captivate viewers with both stunning fashion and genuine connection."



Bella Hazaha’s live team drives a sevenfold increase in sales through captivating Shopee Live sessions. Since its launch, the brand has strategically expanded its team from three to eight hosts, attributing a significant portion of its sales success to their lively streams that build trust and drive conversions.


"Maintaining energy and engagement during our four to eight hour daily streams demands a lot from our hosts," says Bella. "To ensure their well-being and maximise viewer interaction, we rotate between two hosts per stream, allowing for short breaks and recharged energy. Peak sales periods on Shopee can be intense, with viewership spiking over sevenfold from an average of 36,000 views. We prioritise addressing every comment, fostering a sense of community and ensuring no viewer feels neglected." she concluded.

Thursday 15 February 2024

Shopee Affiliates Embrace Authenticity & Personalisation in 2024

 Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan, has conducted their ‘Championing Inclusive Commerce 2024’1 study involving over 3,000 affiliates, revealing a resounding positive sentiment for the year ahead. The results highlight a significant trend towards humanised content and increased immersive experience of livestream.


Shopee Affiliates are emerging as key players in shaping consumer perceptions. The study reveals that over two-thirds of affiliates are eager to create more personalised content, emphasising authenticity and genuine engagement. This trend is underlined by the staggering 420% increase in affiliate-driven orders last year, with over 60,000 new affiliates joining the Shopee ecosystem in 2024 so far.


Kenneth Soh, Head of Marketing at Shopee Malaysia said “We have outstanding affiliates who have driven exceptional traffic growth, lending credibility to local sellers and brands through quality content that resonates with Malaysians. As we step into 2024, it is time to embrace authenticity and personalisation. Our study supports this, with 75% of our exceptional affiliates expressing a desire to humanise e-commerce experience and wanting to connect with their customers through relatable stories and genuine experiences.”


The survey highlighted a shift towards leveraging Shopee Live, with 93% of affiliates expressing a desire to grow further using this platform. Additionally, 87% of the surveyed respondents indicated plans to conduct more live streams, incorporating interactive features like polls to create dynamic and participative audience experiences while 94% foresee more local consumers engaging with the platform. 


“Our affiliates are the voices and trendsetters of their communities. They have the power to spread trust and connection to their audiences beyond the digital walls. Growing our ecosystem to support e-commerce will continue to be our key priority. We believe in the power of affiliates in driving important and impactful narratives and providing local sellers a platform to further flourish,” continued Soh. 


Affiliates are recognising the potential of live streaming, with a 500% increase in live stream orders over the past year. They see the value of live streaming in generating lively consumer engagement through real-time interaction and its ability to convert to immediate sales.


Celeste Phuah, one of Shopee’s top-performing Affiliate Livestreamers emphasised the authenticity of live sessions. "I always keep it real when talking about a brand's product. I share my honest thoughts on its quality, and that's how I build trust with my followers. Before promoting any sponsored products, I make sure to try them out myself. This way, I can be sure they're beneficial for the audience and reasonably priced.”



Celeste is one of the many affiliates that harnesses personalisation and authentic engagement via Shopee Live. She simplifies the shopping journey for approximately 36,000 rural Malaysians seeking convenience online every day. Over the past six months, Celeste has facilitated the redemption of over six million discount vouchers across the platform. Through her educational Shopee Live sessions, Celeste humanises e-commerce, explaining the intricacies of platform and store vouchers to empower users.


Rita Zafran, a high-performing Shopee Affiliate, shared, "My connection with the audience is built on shared interests and common challenges, such as the struggles of preparing children's lunchboxes and organising school bags. My main purpose is to identify products that truly meet my audience's needs. In 2024, I believe live streaming will be a major trend for affiliates. I am joining live streams to interact with my audience in real-time, address their questions and promote the products I'm currently using.” 



Since Rita started streaming in 2024, she engages with her users by sharing her favourite home and living products, and her most-used Muslimah shawls. Rita describes these products with the aim of creating a helpful space where users can openly ask any product questions they may have. In the comments section, Rita patiently addresses questions such as ‘Where did you buy these cute lunch boxes?’, ‘Do these tumblers retain heat well?’, and ‘Can you share some styling tips for tudung please?’, providing a human-touch to her e-commerce content. 


The ‘Championing Inclusive Commerce 2024’ study is part of Shopee’s thought leadership series. These data-driven insights showcase how Shopee Affiliates have the unique opportunity to build win-win relationships that drive customer loyalty for local brands and sellers.