Promoting the digitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and strengthening international trade activity are the cornerstones of a more cohesive Europe for SMEs. In this context, we recently published a report confirming that the eBay Global Marketplace is helping to achieve these important goals across the EU.
For nearly 30 years, eBay has been at the forefront of opening new markets for small and medium-sized businesses around the world, regardless of their location, and driving exports at an unprecedented rate. Our research shows that 97 percent of eBay SMEs in the EU are exporters, far more than the 4.8 percent of traditional EU companies that sell across borders. Additionally, these EU eBay SMEs reach more than four times the average number of markets for traditional EU businesses (18 vs. 4). Looking at individual member countries, the eBay Small Business community collectively exports to well over 100 countries and territories.
These international sales diversify markets and customers far beyond the norm for small businesses. This makes businesses more resilient as they are less dependent on the local economy and less susceptible to local downturns. Comparing the top export markets for eBay SMEs and traditional companies further demonstrates the power of the eBay platform in developing new sales opportunities. In the majority of EU member states, the top 10 export markets for eBay SMEs included at least four markets that were not in the top 10 for traditional companies.
The report also features several testimonials from sellers across the EU, including Paul Jonas, owner of Revive. He said: That changed when I realized how easily eBay connected me to a global market. Now I sell all over the world, giving new life to used furniture and working towards a more sustainable circular economy. Not only has this contributed to the growth of my business, but it has also supported our mission to reduce waste and extend the lifecycle of our products. ”
Finally, the success of eBay SMEs in Europe is not concentrated in the fastest growing technology and business hubs, but is more widespread. By country, eBay’s top selling communities can be found in different regions in terms of GDP per capita, population, and population density. This sales activity often acts as an antidote to geographic imbalances within countries and proves that the digitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises can support inclusive opportunities and sustainable economic growth.
Our findings demonstrate that maintaining a well-functioning and accessible European single market remains a fundamental contributor to enabling small and medium-sized enterprises to continue to grow internationally and thereby prosper. points out the importance of
Read the full report here.
