Shopee Continues To Empower MSMEs In Gen Z-led Retail Era

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 5 (Bernama) -- Shopee reinforced its commitment this year to supporting the growth of Malaysian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), rolling out new features to enhance the shopping experience for buyers and give sellers more ways to grow.

Shopee, in a statement today, said this includes programmes like platform-wide Free Shipping and an On-Time Guarantee and ramping up Gen Z-friendly channels like Shopee Live, Shopee Video and Affiliate Marketing Solutions. 

It added that with a focus on innovation and support, Shopee continues to empower businesses to reach new heights and capture the hearts of Gen Z consumers.

“Gen Z, with their digital-native instincts and high expectations, is redefining the rules of retail in Malaysia. These savvy consumers meticulously research products, demanding immediacy and seamless shopping experiences. Unbeatable deals, hassle-free returns, security and convenience draw them in,” it said.

It said a key challenge for local MSMEs is keeping pace with the rapid-fire demands of Gen Z, who are acutely aware of value and seeking free shipping, competitive prices and product guarantees.

“Shopee's data underscores this trend, with monthly 1.6 million ‘value-based’ keyword searches,” it said, adding that trust is also paramount for Gen Z shoppers.

According to Shopee, two in three respondents in Kantar’s latest research commissioned by Shopee, ‘The Future of Shopping: Engaging Generation Z Shoppers in the Digital Era’, prioritise reliable fulfilment and are twice as likely to purchase on trusted e-commerce platforms.

“This underscores that, alongside deals, exceptional fulfilment and delivery, the selection of a business platform holds equal significance,” the statement said.

Shopee Malaysia’s head of marketing and business intelligence Tan Ming Kit was quoted as saying in the statement that “We see ourselves as more than just a platform; we're a partner in growth.”

“We take pride in empowering homegrown entrepreneurs, generating exposure and enthusiasm around Made-in-Malaysia products, and enabling local brands to deliver top-class products and customer experiences,” he said.

Meanwhile, entrepreneur Khairil Adhzaha, who’s the mastermind behind the Tokey Sambal Hitam, a Bentong-born ‘Shopee Preferred Seller’ brand, said with Shopee’s support, he experienced a remarkable 20 per cent year-on-year profit increase and garnered prestigious awards, including ‘Best-Selling Sambal Hitam on Shopee’ and the ‘Super Favourite Buatan Malaysia’ title at the Shopee Super Awards 2022.

“Without online platforms like Shopee to connect customers with brands, Tokey Sambal Hitam would not be what it is today. What really made a difference for me was being able to nurture trust and enhance satisfaction among my customers.

“Now, 25 per cent of my daily orders are consistently coming from Shopee Live. By tapping on Shopee’s extensive network of logistics partners and marketing support features, I can deliver a quality user experience well-deserved of a great Bentong delicacy,” he said.

Henry Ting, chief executive officer of TTRacing who launched and operates the ergonomic chair brand solely online out of Ipoh, said TTRacing reached a turning point after partnering with Shopee.

By leveraging Shopee’s integrated solutions, including free shipping and flexible payment options, TTRacing transformed its business, making its premium ergonomic chairs more accessible to a wider audience, doubling their order volumes in just six months.

"Partnering with Shopee has been a game-changer for us. Our mission to deliver ultimate comfort and support to every gamer has truly taken off. Thanks to Shopee, we've expanded our reach across Malaysia and Southeast Asia, solidifying TTRacing as the go-to name for premium ergonomic solutions.

“Participating in Shopee’s themed campaigns has also allowed us to attract buyer attention during peak shopping periods. I am both excited and humbled by our growth after seeing a 188 per cent uplift in orders year-on-year when comparing this 7.7 campaign with the last,” he said.

-- BERNAMA