(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
The digital landscape in China is vastly different from the rest of the world. To succeed, overseas brands must implement a digital-first sales strategy tailored to Chinese consumers’ preferences and behaviors. Here, we explore the critical steps for building a strong digital sales presence in China.
1. Optimize for Mobile Commerce
1.1 Mobile-First Approach
China is a mobile-first country, with most consumers shopping directly from their smartphones. Your brand’s digital presence must be optimized for mobile, ensuring seamless user experiences across e-commerce apps and social media platforms.
1.2 In-App Purchases
WeChat and other platforms allow for smooth in-app purchases, offering convenience and fast transaction times. Brands should make use of this feature to convert customers more easily and streamline their purchasing journey.
2. Leverage Data-Driven Insights
2.1 AI and Analytics
Chinese consumers generate immense amounts of data. Leveraging AI and analytics to track consumer behavior, predict trends, and personalize marketing can significantly enhance your brand’s sales performance.
2.2 Real-Time Adjustments
Using data allows for real-time marketing adjustments. Brands can quickly respond to changes in customer behavior, allowing them to make quick decisions about promotions or product offerings to meet demand.
3. Collaborate with Local Platforms
3.1 WeChat Ecosystem
WeChat is not just a messaging app; it’s a super app offering e-commerce integration, brand mini-programs, and loyalty rewards. Brands that integrate their sales funnel into WeChat create a seamless buying experience.
3.2 Baidu and Search Engine Marketing
Baidu remains China’s dominant search engine. Optimizing for Baidu PPC and SEO, as well as running ad campaigns, can help overseas brands gain greater visibility and drive sales.
4. Adapt to Local Payment Systems
4.1 Alipay and WeChat Pay
China’s digital payment ecosystem is dominated by Alipay and WeChat Pay. Ensuring your brand’s payment system supports these methods can simplify transactions and increase customer satisfaction.
4.2 Cashless Society
Most Chinese consumers prefer cashless payments. Brands need to integrate these payment systems across all platforms to cater to local shopping habits.
Case Study: L’Oréal’s Digital Transformation in China
L’Oréal embraced a digital-first approach by integrating WeChat, Tmall, and other platforms into its sales strategy. This transformation helped the brand achieve significant growth, particularly among younger consumers, who prefer to shop via mobile and social media channels.
Conclusion
A successful digital-first sales strategy in China requires optimizing for mobile commerce, leveraging data insights, collaborating with local platforms, and integrating local payment systems. With these strategies in place, overseas brands can create a strong foothold in China’s dynamic market.
PLTFRM is an international brand consulting agency that works with companies such as Red, TikTok, Tmall, Baidu, and other well-known Chinese internet e-commerce platforms. We have been working with Chile Cherries for many years, reaching Chinese consumers in depth through different platforms and realizing that Chile Cherries’ exports in China account for 97% of the total exports in Asia. Contact us, and we will help you find the best China e-commerce platform for you. Search PLTFRM for a free consultation!
