The Council of the European Union has approved new customs rules for imported parcels valued at up to 150 euros. These shipments were previously exempt from customs duties, but that will change on July 1. From that date, a flat rate of 3 euros will apply to each item category contained in a small parcel entering the EU.
As cross-border ecommerce in Europe continues growing, many online sellers are interested in entering the German market. But expanding internationally requires preparation. Online sellers should consider the character of the German consumer, says Andreas Giese, CEO of Dexport.
Ceconomy, the parent company of MediaMarkt and Saturn, has posted revenue growth for the twelfth consecutive quarter. This growth is driven by online sales, particularly the development of its marketplace. Spending on retail media is also rising sharply.
Only 28 percent of the 100 largest online stores in Belgium and the Netherlands offer customer service in the evening. And only 44 percent use WhatsApp as a customer service channel, even though the app is very popular among consumers. As a result, online stores are missing out on conversions.
Amazon significantly increased revenue in its two largest European markets last year. The company generated 45.9 billion dollars in Germany and 43.2 billion dollars in the United Kingdom, representing growth of 12.3 percent and 14.2 percent, respectively.