In the past year, 21 million adults in the United Kingdom used a parcel locker to collect, return or send a parcel. This comes down to two in five adults. During that period, more than 115 million parcels were delivered or returned via lockers.
Continue readingECDB presents a new ranking of the Dutch ecommerce market, based on gross merchandise value per domain name. The top 10 includes four Dutch and three Chinese players. What is striking is that the latter are growing much faster. We were given a preview.
Continue readingIn the second quarter of this year, Shopify increased its business. Compared to the same period in 2024, the company’s gross merchandise value (GMV) grew 42 percent in Europe. Overall, its revenue increased 31 percent.
Continue readingZalando once again looks back on a strong quarter, with higher revenue and increased profit. The number of customers is 3.1 million higher than in the second quarter of last year. The German company now serves 52.9 million consumers across Europe. With a new feed, Zalando aims to better engage and retain these users.
Continue readingRunning a business without a website is like opening a store without a front door. Customers can’t find you, trust is harder to build, and competitors with professional websites gain an edge. The problem? Traditional website development is often expensive, time-consuming, and overwhelming. Enter AI website builders. They are changing how entrepreneurs create professional websites—faster, cheaper, and easier. If you’ve been wondering, “Can AI build a website?” or searching for the best AI website builder for ecommerce, this blog post is for you. Let’s dive in! How to sell online Tips from e-commerce experts for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Subscribe Please enter a valid email address I consent to receive Ecwid Newsletter. I can unsubscribe anytime. What Are AI Website Builders? If you’ve been wondering, “Is there an AI website builder?” the answer is a definite yes. AI website builders are platforms that use artificial intelligence to automate and simplify the website creation process. Unlike traditional website builders that require you to manually drag, drop, and design every element, these smart tools can generate entire website sections, layouts, and designs based on your input. Think of an AI website builder as your personal web designer that never sleeps. You simply describe what you want—perhaps by uploading a screenshot of a website element you admire or typing out your vision—and the AI creates a customized section ready for your review and editing. The technology behind these platforms combines machine learning, natural language processing, and design algorithms to understand your business needs and translate them into functional, attractive web elements. This means you can build a website with AI that looks professionally designed without hiring expensive developers or spending countless hours learning complex design software. Top AI-Based Tools to Streamline Business ProcessesRead more Benefits of Using AI Website Builders Small business owners are among those who benefit most from AI-powered website builders. Ease of Use The most compelling advantage of AI website builders is their incredible user-friendliness. Traditional website development often requires understanding HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and various design principles. AI website builders eliminate these technical barriers entirely. Business owners can focus on what they do best—running their businesses—while the AI handles the technical complexities. The learning curve is minimal, and the results are professional-grade websites. Efficiency Time is money, especially for small business owners juggling multiple responsibilities. AI website builders dramatically reduce the time needed to create a functional website. What once took weeks can now be accomplished in hours. The AI can generate multiple design options instantly, allowing you to compare and choose the best fit for your brand. Revisions that previously required back-and-forth communication with developers can now be made in real-time with simple commands or uploads. Customization Don’t let the automated nature fool you—AI website builders offer remarkable customization capabilities. The best AI website builder 2025 platforms can create unique designs tailored specifically to your business, industry, and personal preferences. The AI learns from your inputs and feedback, continuously improving its suggestions to match your vision. This level of personalization ensures your website stands out from cookie-cutter templates while maintaining professional quality and functionality. How to Use AI Tools Effectively as a Business OwnerRead more Who Benefits Most from AI Website Builders? If any of the descriptions below sound like you, it might be time to explore AI website builders. Small Business Owners Small business owners often operate with limited budgets and tight schedules. AI website builders level the playing field, allowing small businesses to compete with larger companies by creating professional websites without the associated costs. Entrepreneurs Entrepreneurs launching new ventures need to move quickly to capitalize on market opportunities. AI website builders support this need for speed, enabling rapid deployment of online stores and business websites. For entrepreneurs testing business concepts or pivoting strategies, the ability to quickly iterate website designs without significant investment is invaluable. Those with Limited Resources Not every business owner has thousands of dollars to invest in professional web development. AI website builders offer a cost-effective alternative that doesn’t compromise on quality. The subscription-based pricing models of most AI website builders are fraction of traditional development costs, making professional websites accessible to businesses of all sizes. How to Build a Website with AI With numerous AI website builders available today, we’ll focus on one of the most affordable and user-friendly options to demonstrate how to create a website using AI. Ecwid by Lightspeed stands out as an ecommerce platform that includes a built-in AI website builder specifically designed for business owners. This combination makes it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs who want to build a website with AI while maintaining full ecommerce functionality. Getting Started with Ecwid’s Instant Site Ecwid’s Instant Site builder is the tool for creating an ecommerce website from scratch. It is a code-free website builder, enabling you to create a professional website without any tech experience. Instant Site offers a diverse selection of pre-designed templates, carefully crafted to suit a variety of business niches. No matter your niche, Ecwid offers a variety of customizable templates to help you quickly create a professional business website The site builder also includes customizable sections tailored to achieve specific goals, such as sharing your business mission or displaying contact information. Add these sections to your site and personalize their content to fit your needs. Alternatively, you can use a built-in AI tool to create any site section you need, offering more flexibility and customization. Using AI to Generate Site Sections The real magic happens with Ecwid’s AI site sections tool. This feature offers two methods for creating custom website elements: Upload a screenshot: Found a website component you love? Simply take a screenshot and upload it to Ecwid’s AI tool. The artificial intelligence analyzes the design, layout, and functionality, then creates a similar section customized for your business and brand. Describe your vision: Prefer to start from scratch? Describe the section you want in plain language. Whether you need “a modern product showcase with customer reviews” or “a professional about us section with team photos,” the AI interprets your description and generates appropriate designs. That’s it! The AI website builder will generate and add the section you described to your site. Creating a custom site section with Ecwid’s AI tool The generated sections aren’t static templates—they’re fully editable elements you can modify to perfectly match your vision. Here’s a brief instruction on how to use AI to build a website with Ecwid: Sign up for Ecwid. Select a site template that suits your business. In the “Sections” menu, click on “Add Section.” Choose “Create Your Own Section” and select “Generate Section.” Follow the prompts to generate your custom section. Customize the content by editing text, images, and other elements. Repeat this process for as many sections as necessary. Benefits of Building a Website with AI Using Ecwid Whether you use Ecwid’s AI site builder to create an entire website section by section or start with a template and enhance it with AI-generated content, this tool delivers the perfect blend of simplicity and flexibility for small business owners. It makes Instant Site the best AI website builder for ecommerce. Effortless Website Creation Ecwid’s AI tool transforms website creation from a complex project into a straightforward process. Business owners can generate on-brand online stores quickly and efficiently, reducing the traditional barriers that prevent businesses from establishing professional online presences. AI-Driven Customization What sets Ecwid apart as potentially the best AI website builder for many businesses is its customization capabilities. The AI doesn’t just create generic sections—it develops unique web elements tailored to your specific business needs. This AI-driven approach means you’re not limited to predetermined templates or designs. Instead, you get custom solutions that reflect your brand personality and business objectives….
Continue readingAfter 46 years, Otto is pulling the plug on its unprofitable operations in the Netherlands. Unlike in its home market in Germany, Otto’s promising marketplace model never took off in the neighbouring country. The decision will impact around 70 employees.
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At The Digital Media Feed, we understand how the digital world can overwhelm your senses. The constant flow of emails, social media updates, and news notifications has become a part of our everyday routine, often leading to digital burnout. We’ve all been there—feeling like the world’s noise is closing in. Sometimes, the best way to fight this is to take a step back, disconnect from everything digital, and reconnect with nature. We’ve curated a list of five of the best destinations in the world where you can truly take a digital detox. 1. Faroe Islands, Denmark: A Destination Where There Are More Sheep Than People The Faroe Islands are a picturesque escape, with steep cliffs, dense green forests, and quaint villages that feel untouched by time. When you visit, you’ll find a place that doesn’t just offer tranquility but also freedom—freedom from the constant ping of notifications and the pressures of the digital world. There’s very little phone reception, and some areas offer no connection at all. It’s the perfect place to leave your phone behind and embrace the stillness. 2. Tulum, Mexico: Sun, Sand, and No Wi-Fi Tulum offers a tropical paradise that promotes an unplugged experience. Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant cenotes, Tulum’s charm lies in its intentional lack of fast Wi-Fi and TV. Most places encourage you to leave your devices behind and fully embrace relaxation. It’s the ultimate destination to immerse yourself in the sun and nature without distractions. 3. Bhutan: The Kingdom of Happiness Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan is a small kingdom dedicated to promoting happiness. It’s a place where life moves at a slower pace, and technology takes a back seat. With limited internet access and a culture that prioritizes mindfulness, Bhutan is the perfect destination for those looking to unplug and reconnect with their inner peace. 4. Finland’s Lapland: Northern Lights Viewing Lapland’s snow-covered forests, clear skies, and serene quiet make it one of the best places in the world to disconnect from the digital noise. The region’s remoteness and lack of distractions offer a rare opportunity to experience true stillness and natural beauty, especially during the mesmerizing display of the Northern Lights. 5. Svalbard, Norway: A Frozen Escape at the Edge of the World Svalbard is located so far north that it feels like an entirely different world. Here, you’ll find no bustling cities, no noise, and very limited access to the internet. It’s the ultimate place for those looking to escape everything and experience a true digital detox. The icy landscapes and the stillness of the region offer an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect. The Takeaway At The Digital Media Feed, we believe that the world is overflowing with breathtaking landscapes and tranquil nature, waiting for you to disconnect and truly live in the moment. These five destinations provide the perfect environment to leave your devices behind and reconnect with the world around you. Whether it’s hiking in the Faroe Islands or witnessing the Northern Lights in Lapland, a digital detox is the best way to recharge and restore your mind, body, and spirit. So, if the digital noise has become too overwhelming for you, consider visiting one of these stunning locations. Leave your phone behind, take in the beauty of nature, and return with a renewed sense of purpose. Your mind and body will thank you for it. Happy Travels from The Digital Media Feed.
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Continue readingEcommerce software company BigCommerce has announced the launch of Commerce, its new parent brand. Under Commerce, the ecommerce software will be unified with other software solutions Feedonomics and Makeswift. According to the company, it will help online sellers adapt to AI.
Continue readingEvery successful business owner knows that the secret to strong profit margins lies in one fundamental principle: buy low, sell high. But how exactly do you secure high-quality products at prices that leave room for substantial profit? The answer lies in mastering the art of cost-effective procurement. Smart procurement isn’t just about finding the cheapest suppliers—it’s about building relationships, understanding market dynamics, and making strategic decisions that benefit your business long-term. Let’s explore the proven methods for finding and purchasing products from primary sources that you can sell to retailers or directly to consumers. How to sell online Tips from e-commerce experts for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Subscribe Please enter a valid email address I consent to receive Ecwid Newsletter. I can unsubscribe anytime. Understanding Wholesale Product Sourcing Wholesale product sourcing is the process of purchasing goods directly from manufacturers, distributors, or authorized suppliers at significantly reduced prices. When you buy products from primary sources, you’re cutting out middlemen and accessing the same inventory that major retailers use to stock their shelves. The key difference between wholesale and retail purchasing lies in volume and pricing structure. Retail customers buy individual items at marked-up prices, while wholesale buyers purchase in bulk at substantially lower per-unit costs. This price difference—often 50% to 70% below retail—creates the profit margin that makes reselling viable. However, wholesale sourcing involves more than just buying in large quantities. Successful product sourcing requires research, relationship building, and strategic planning. You need to identify reliable suppliers, understand market demand, and negotiate favorable terms that support your business goals. Why does this matter for your business? When you master wholesale procurement, you gain several competitive advantages: Higher profit margins on every sale Greater pricing flexibility to attract customers Access to exclusive products not available through retail channels Scalability to grow your inventory as demand increases. How to Procure Merchandise at a Low Cost Finding the right suppliers is crucial for cost-effective procurement. Let’s examine the most effective methods for locating wholesale items to resell. Online Wholesale Marketplaces This option is particularly advantageous for business owners wondering how to buy wholesale. Digital platforms have transformed the way wholesale products are purchased, offering a host of benefits through online marketplaces: Vast product selection across all categories Easy price comparison between suppliers Built-in communication tools and payment protection Access to supplier ratings and reviews. Alibaba remains the largest global marketplace, connecting businesses with manufacturers primarily in Asia. The platform offers millions of products across every category imaginable, often at extremely competitive prices. Alibaba features hundreds of reliable suppliers DHgate and Global Sources provide similar services with different specializations. DHgate focuses on smaller order quantities, making it ideal for testing new products. Global Sources emphasizes verified suppliers and quality assurance. For domestic sourcing, Faire and Wholesale Central connect you with suppliers across the United States. These platforms often offer faster shipping times and easier communication due to shared time zones and language. To simplify product imports, look for online wholesale marketplaces that integrate with your ecommerce store. For example, if you’re using Ecwid by Lightspeed for your online store, you can easily import products from Alibaba to your Ecwid store and sell them as your own. Ecwid also integrates with Wholesale2B, a platform that connects you with suppliers and manages order fulfillment on your behalf. Trade Shows and Expos Industry trade shows remain one of the most effective ways to discover wholesale items for resale. These events bring together manufacturers, distributors, and retailers under one roof, creating opportunities for face-to-face relationship building. The benefits of trade show sourcing include: Direct communication with decision-makers Opportunity to inspect product quality firsthand Exclusive show discounts and promotional pricing Networking opportunities with other business owners. Major trade shows like the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), MAGIC Marketplace for fashion, or the National Hardware Show for home improvement products showcase the latest trends and innovations. Regional trade shows often focus on specific product categories or geographic areas. Directly from Manufacturers Establishing direct relationships with manufacturers represents the ultimate goal for many businesses seeking to buy products from primary sources and sell to retailers or consumers. This approach eliminates distributor markups and provides the lowest possible wholesale prices. Finding manufacturers requires more effort than using marketplaces, but the payoff can be substantial. Start by researching companies that produce products in your target categories. Many manufacturers have separate wholesale divisions specifically designed to work with resellers. Communication and negotiation with manufacturers typically involve longer lead times and higher minimum orders, but the cost savings can justify these requirements. Manufacturers also offer greater customization options and exclusive distribution agreements. Discover more about connecting with manufacturers in this article: The Science of Contacting Suppliers and Manufacturers as a BusinessRead more Liquidators and Closeout Suppliers This is another viable choice for business owners wondering where to buy things in bulk to resell. Liquidation companies purchase excess inventory, returned merchandise, and closeout products from major retailers and manufacturers. This inventory is then sold at deeply discounted prices to businesses looking for wholesale items to resell. The advantages of liquidation sourcing include: Extremely low prices, often 10-20% of retail value Access to name-brand merchandise Opportunity to purchase mixed lots for variety Quick inventory turnover for fast-moving businesses. However, liquidation sourcing also presents challenges such as variable product conditions, limited ability to inspect merchandise before purchase, and unpredictable inventory availability. Companies like B-Stock, Direct Liquidation, and 888 Lots specialize in different types of liquidated merchandise. Some focus on customer returns, while others handle overstock situations or seasonal closeouts. Now that you know how to procure merchandise at a low cost, you can choose the option that best suits your business needs and proceed. And if you’re looking for product ideas, check out this curated list of wholesale items to resell: 45 Best Things to Bulk Buy and SellRead more Factors to Consider for Product Sourcing Successful product sourcing requires careful evaluation of multiple factors beyond just price. Here are the critical elements to consider when deciding where to buy things in bulk to resell. Quality vs. Cost The cheapest option isn’t always the most profitable. Product quality directly impacts customer satisfaction, return rates, and your business reputation. Low-quality products may cost less upfront but can result in higher customer service expenses and damaged brand credibility. Establish quality standards before you begin sourcing. Request samples from potential suppliers and test products thoroughly. Consider factors like materials, construction, packaging, and consistency across units. Calculate the total cost of ownership, including potential returns, warranty claims, and reputation damage. Sometimes, paying slightly more for better quality results in higher overall profitability. Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) Wondering how to procure merchandise at a low cost? Purchasing in bulk is often the key to unlocking those discounted prices. Most wholesale suppliers require minimum order quantities (MOQs) to qualify for wholesale pricing. Depending on the product and supplier, MOQs can range from a few dozen units to several thousand. Evaluate your cash flow and storage capacity before committing to large minimum orders. Starting with smaller quantities may cost more per unit, but it reduces risk while you test market demand. Negotiate MOQs when possible, especially after establishing a relationship with suppliers. Many vendors will lower minimums for repeat customers or businesses demonstrating growth potential. Shipping and Logistics…
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