With the rapid development of the Internet, e-commerce models are thriving. Under the impact of e-commerce, graphite board companies are seeking transformation. As a traditional manufacturing industry, companies face numerous obstacles when transitioning to e-commerce. Therefore, finding a balance between online and offline operations is crucial for graphite board companies.
Impact of E-commerce on Traditional Distribution Channels
For most consumers, e-commerce is more of a trend. Browsing through a variety of products in online stores can satisfy their desire to consume, but few feel completely at ease purchasing large items online. The inability to experience products in-depth is a significant reason why e-commerce has not gained full traction. Additionally, e-commerce involves challenges related to logistics, delivery, and after-sales services.
Moreover, many companies struggle to advance their e-commerce initiatives due to a deeper issue: the conflict between e-commerce and traditional distributor channels. Industry experts believe that physical stores and e-commerce are fundamentally different, with inherent conflicts between traditional channels and e-commerce in practice. E-commerce directly impacts traditional channels, and some brands that have done well through traditional channels face significant initial costs and relatively low market prices when venturing into e-commerce. Developing e-commerce can also harm the interests of distributors and agents.
“Physical + Virtual” Model Helps Companies Open New Markets
Currently, the e-commerce marketing model in China is still immature, but this does not hinder companies from exploring e-commerce, nor can it halt the progress of e-commerce. Industry insiders suggest that even in advanced Western countries, e-commerce cannot fully replace traditional channels. It is unrealistic to expect domestic companies to immediately overthrow traditional marketing models. E-commerce is a trend that needs to be adopted gradually.
Companies need to have a correct understanding of e-commerce. Essentially, e-commerce is still about buying and selling, but it uses the Internet to quickly gather a large number of potential consumers. The core conflict that e-commerce can trigger with agents is the protection of the pricing system. If the advantages of both channels can be integrated and benefits evenly distributed, companies can open new markets. One industry expert noted, “Consumer characteristics dictate that sales need to develop both online and offline. Online channels address transparent and fair consumer demands, while robust offline resources are needed to support design, display, logistics, and more.”
In the current e-commerce trend, adopting a “physical + virtual” model may enable companies to open new market opportunities.