Tag: eRetail

  • RHB expands e-Retail solution with MPOS

    RHB expands e-Retail solution with MPOS

    Malaysia’s RHB Bank has expanded its SME e-Retail Solution with the introduction of RHB Merchant Mobile Point of Sale (MPOS), which allows SME retailers to begin operating as quickly as seven days.

    SME e-Retail Solution offers Business Current Account for transactional needs, Reflex Online Cash Management system that enables low cost internet banking, cloud-based electronic point of sale (ePOS) system and remote access to back office analytics and CRM for better management for the proprietor.

    Other features include credit and debit card terminals to enable card transactions, customised SME insurance package specifically for retailers to protect their businesses, and business credit card to help SMEs with expenses and payment plans.

    Its latest offering Merchant MPOS is a wireless device that accepts all types of cards transactions, and is Chip & Pin enabled. Users can receive e-receipts via emails or notifications to their mobile phones.

    The MPOS is integrated to the merchant ePOS system to enable fast and convenient payment collection supporting bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

    Meanwhile RHB’s partnership with SAGE software Asia Pte Ltd will see the introduction of SAGE One cloud accounting software. This cloud solution will be synced to the ePOS terminal to enable automatic updates of transactions. SMEs will then have access to the real-time financial position of their businesses.

    “We are the first financial institution in Malaysia to offer a total connectivity solution for SMEs. The SME e-Retail Solution offers SME retailers a holistic solution for seamless connectivity. SMEs are able to achieve cost reduction and increase efficiency in their businesses,” said RHB Bank director of group business and transaction banking Datin Amy Ooi.

  • The future of cross-border eCommerce

    The future of cross-border eCommerce

    Unrestricted by geographic borders, today’s consumers are buying from international merchants more than ever before.

    While B2C eCommerce sales in Asia Pacific are projected to increase at moderate double-digit rates through to 2019, consumers are increasingly expecting brands to maintain service levels with prompt delivery and regular updates on their order status.

    Nevertheless, retailers serving eCommerce customers in other countries often face challenges  with customs procedures, regulatory requirements and taxation issues. These complications can lead to delays in shipping, as well as making it hard to predict delivery times.

    With the final part of the delivery journey (the “last mile”) being the most important touchpoint between a brand and a consumer, having the right fulfilment strategy is vital.

    Technology helps determine the efficiency of cross-border eCommerce. For example, Flexible Order Management Systems and Warehouse Management Systems are software packages designed to support eRetailers with multi-channel sales and distribution. They help to improve order accuracy as well as drive efficiency in processing orders.

    Moreover, data analytics offer businesses insights into buying behaviour, sales cycles and trends, as well as help with troubleshooting.

    Internet of Things (IoT) technologies also play a significant role in last-mile fulfilment by connecting parcels, machineries, logistical equipment and transport vehicles, thus driving dynamic new business models.

    One interesting aspect in IoT-enabled last-mile fulfilment is the flexible delivery address. This offers recipients greater accuracy about expected delivery times, enabling them to specify a change in address if necessary (such as having their parcel delivered to their workplace instead of their home).

    It is crucial for retailers to work with the right fulfilment partners, especially with consumers demanding greater flexibility in shipping options. Partners that offer both domestic and international delivery options at affordable rates will allow businesses to meet customers’ wishes regarding deliveries.

    Another key consideration is a fulfilment partner’s ability to overcome the legal limitations of each country. Duties and taxes, import and export laws, packaging and returns, and varied consumer privacy and protection laws hinder prompt door-to-door delivery. A fulfilment centre in the right location is an asset to online and offline merchants, who will be seen as reliable while slashing costs commonly associated with cross-border logistics.

    eCommerce consumers have zero tolerance for delivery delays or problems. Retailers, logistic service providers and fulfilment centres all play an integral role in ensuring the “last mile” is a success. The entire eCommerce chain needs to collaborate to ensure delivery times are prompt, costs are kept low and customer experiences stay positive.