A B2B shop may be useful for accommodating existing customers.  For this purpose, you should first obtain feedback from your established clientele base, as to whether they would be willing to order via a web shop without having seen the product beforehand.  In addition, this option may be beneficial for accommodating new customers who find your site through a marketplace.  However, new customers should be required to register with you before having access to your web shop.  This will allow you to first verify their company status and credit-worthiness.  You can offer a registration form on your web site.  The payment usually takes place via traditional bank transfer.

 

It should be noted that SMEs whose product specifications are highly standardized are more likely to benefit from a web shop, as buyers can trust that products will meet a certain quality standard if they are assigned a particular specification.

 

Benefits:

• Direct entry of order information by the customer to your database, eliminating need for manual entry
• Reduced possibility of error
• Improved customer service through addition of a new method of purchasing
• Bolstered company image through offer of web shopping capability

Risks:

• Higher programming cost than simple web page
• Possible continuous costs associated with functionality modifications requested by buyers
• Logistics and transportation costs
• Need for continuous update of the web site implies significant time, staff commitment, and financial commitment to keep the web site current