Online shopping: Temu, Shein and Co. increase market share to record levels
Asian shopping platforms are continuing to gain in importance in Germany. Providers such as Temu, Shein and AliExpress accounted for 5.3 percent of online retail sales in this country in the second quarter – a record. This is reported by the Federal Association of E-Commerce and Mail Order Germany (Bevh).
Compared to the same period last year, the portals increased their sales by more than 20 percent. The overall market, however, only grew by 5.1 percent. According to the association, providers are particularly strong in online fashion retail. In this area, Temu and Co. now accounted for more than 16 percent of all orders. “The Asian platforms are particularly popular because of their low prices,” said Martin Groß-Albenhausen, Bevh’s deputy general manager. Many consumers reported a positive shopping experience. Groß-Albenhausen believes it is possible that providers will further expand their share of sales.
Customs now also on cheap orders
Cheap goods ordered outside the EU could become slightly more expensive in the future. Customs rules changed on July 1st. Previously there was an exception for cheap deliveries, which is now no longer applicable. Customs duty is also due for orders worth less than 150 euros. A flat rate of 3 euros is charged per product group.
However, the Bevh expects little impact. “The tax will have little impact on cheap imports from Asia. The providers have already started to set up their own logistics structures within Europe,” said Managing Director Alien Mulyk.
Consumer sentiment at a low level
While the Asian platforms are making significant gains, consumer sentiment in this country remains tense. According to the current consumer barometer from the German Retail Association (HDE), there is a positive trend, but the level remains low.
According to HDE, the ongoing conflict in Iran in particular is having a massive impact on economic development and consumer sentiment. For the consumption barometer, 1,600 representative households are surveyed every month about, among other things, their propensity to purchase and save.
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