ECONOMY

George Hadjigeorgiou: Online shopping a protagonist in the Covid-19 era

George Hadjigeorgiou: Online shopping a protagonist in the Covid-19 era

SKROUTZ SA

Within a short period of time and even before the implementation of the restrictive measures to deal with the pandemic, Skroutz was among the first companies in Greece to implement a crisis management plan, taking strict protective measures and fully implementing the teleworking model already utilized at the company.

From the outset of teleworking and the subsequent implementation of restrictive measures, the company has taken care to support its people in adapting to a new daily routine, which differed significantly from any other until then. Moreover, it laid out the framework for professional cooperation and distance communication, while placing special emphasis on practical issues and matters of overall employee support at a particularly difficult time.

A new dynamic in the online market played out during this unprecedented period. The e-commerce industry has been called upon to meet a unique challenge, as the exclusive channel to meet all consumer needs, as well as the only sales channel for Greek trade.

In this unprecedented market environ­ment, Skroutz immediately redesigned its strategy. It recruited more than 60 new executives who received a completely different experience of being welcomed to and entering the company, as – for the first time – the whole process took place remotely. In addition, the newly established Skroutz Merchants Marketplace service has been expanded, offering the possibility of online commercial activity to yet more entrepreneurs. Now, any commercial business – even if it does not have an online store – has the opportunity to use the dynamics of e-commerce via Skroutz.

According to traffic and market data, the increase in online sales has been significant. In March 2020 alone, sales through Skroutz increased by 41%.

The transition of consumers to e-markets in Greece is expected to be accelerated further and boosted. Firstly, due to significant changes that have come about in consumer habits, the Greek e-commerce market has stepped up rapidly and may have reached a phase of maturing. On the one hand, many consumers came into contact with online shopping, and on the other, many traders realized the prospects of online sales. What’s more, significant growth prospects are available, as, according to Eurostat, only 39% of Greeks made online purchases in 2019 – a significantly lower percentage compared to the European average (60%). Overall, the penetration of e-commerce in Greece is 7% of the general trade market, when the European average reaches 14%, while the growth rate is at least 15% per year.

The possibilities of a digital economy are inexhaustible

The digital transformation of citizens, businesses and the state is already a major vehicle for the development and evolution of the Greek economy and society. The possibilities and opportunities created through the digital economy and e-business are truly inexhaustible. With a successful and constantly evolving course in the market, but also with the passion and enthusiasm that have defined the team for 15 years, Skroutz will continue to develop its business model, aiming to remain a protagonist and pioneer in the new digital economy.

THE COMPANY AT A GLANCE

Skroutz SA was founded in 2005 and is active in the development of innovative technology services, creating innovative e-commerce platforms. It manages the popular platform for searching and comparing products and prices. The website www.skroutz.gr displays more than 10 million products in over 4,500 online stores. It employs 350 employees. The www.skroutz.gr site has established itself in the perception of consumers as the leading website for electronic purchases in Greece, with 8.5 million unique visits on a monthly basis.

Subscribe to our Newsletters

Enter your information below to receive our weekly newsletters with the latest insights, opinion pieces and current events straight to your inbox.

By signing up you are agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.