Reaching a Global Audience: The Power of Mobile Commerce

It’s a safe bet that you’ve got at least one mobile phone - you could even be reading this on one now. Statista state that there are 16.8 Billion mobile devices now (2023) increasing to 18.22 Billion by 2025. Furthermore, mobile devices make up 92.3% of how users access the internet and did you know that we spend 30% of our waking time using smartphones and 2.5 hours on social media every day?[1]

So how are you including mobile commerce in your mix to reach your global target audience?

In today's hyper connected world, the realm of commerce has transcended traditional boundaries, thanks to the ever-expanding reach of mobile devices. The proliferation of smartphones has presented businesses with a golden opportunity to tap into a global audience and sell their products through mobile commerce.

This shift is not just about convenience; it's a strategic game-changer that can redefine the way businesses engage with consumers around the world:

It's all about ease of use.

The appeal of mobile commerce lies in its accessibility. With a smartphone in hand, consumers have a virtual marketplace at their fingertips, enabling them to explore, compare, and purchase products from anywhere, at any time. This fundamental shift in shopping behaviour has prompted businesses to rethink their strategies, placing mobile commerce at the forefront.

Localisation is key.

The key to harnessing the power of mobile commerce for global sales lies in understanding the unique characteristics of this platform. To engage a diverse audience, localisation is paramount. This involves tailoring the user experience to accommodate varying languages, cultures, and preferences. A seamless, localised experience ensures that consumers in different corners of the world feel valued and understood, leading to increased trust and brand loyalty.

Reach your target audience on a platform they like and trust.

Social media, a powerful conduit for global connectivity, plays a crucial role in mobile commerce. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have transformed into virtual storefronts, enabling businesses to showcase their products through captivating visuals and engaging content. This shift from passive advertising to interactive experiences empowers consumers to actively participate in the brand narrative, fostering a sense of community that transcends borders.

Ensure credibility and security.

Security and trust are paramount in the global digital marketplace. To ensure a smooth mobile commerce experience, businesses must prioritise robust cyber security measures and transparent payment processes. By establishing a secure environment, companies can alleviate concerns and encourage consumers to confidently make purchases regardless of their geographic location.

The era of mobile commerce offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses to tap into a global audience and expand their horizons. It's a realm where innovation and adaptability reign supreme. To succeed, businesses must be agile, open to embracing new technologies, and committed to understanding the evolving needs of their international customers.

The fusion of accessibility, personalisation, and connectivity makes mobile commerce a compelling tool for reaching a diverse audience and selling products to customers around the world. By understanding and harnessing the potential of mobile commerce, businesses can embark on a journey of global expansion and transformation.

This was our topic of discuss at the Ecommerce Expo in London last week where the photograph was taken courtesy of Closer Media. Thank you to Jennifer Smith McCloskey, Deepak Anand Ralph Aoun and Susan Roe MCIEx for being on my panel and a special thanks to Lucas Perraudin for sharing the stats.

Connect with the Department for Business and Trade for free support and consultative advice, visit?https://www.great.gov.uk/?for more information.

[1] Statistic courtesy of Lucas Perraudin Mula Digital in association with Meltwater and We Are Social .