What 2024 Has Taught Us About eCommerce

The world of eCommerce has undergone significant changes in recent years, and 2024 is no exception. From evolving (and very high) customer expectations to lots of global supply chain challenges, brands are learning fast that success in 2025 will need flexibility, innovation, and efficiency. In 2024, we have seen a number of trends to be aware of, and one key takeaway is how third-party logistics (3PL) providers are playing a crucial role in helping businesses scale effectively.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the key lessons learned in eCommerce throughout 2024 and how 3PL providers are the way forward for growth for eCommerce businesses…

Speed and Convenience

Customer expectations are higher than ever, and the demand for fast and convenient shipping is no longer just a luxury – it's an expectation. In 2024, consumers are more likely to shop with businesses that offer faster delivery times, easy returns, and seamless tracking experiences. In fact, a recent study revealed that 80% of shoppers consider delivery speed a top priority, with same-day or next-day shipping becoming the standard. For eCommerce brands, this means they need to optimise their fulfilment processes to meet these heightened expectations.

Sustainability

Sustainability is another huge factor in how consumers make decisions. More than ever, shoppers are looking to align their purchasing habits with their environmental values. Consumers have admitted they are willing to pay more for products from brands that prioritise sustainability, and therefore this could be the difference between your brand and your competitors brand.

More and more customers expect brands to use sustainable packaging, use ethical sources for the production of products and transport products in the most eco-friendly way. You should make sustainability a key factor of your business and by prioritising these things, you can help the environment, as well as keeping consumers happy too.

Data-Driven Decisions

Data continues to be one of the most powerful tools for eCommerce businesses. In 2024, brands are increasingly relying on data to inform everything from inventory management to customer behaviour insights. Creating demand forecasts from previous years data, as well as constantly gathering data from consumers and the market you’re in can help you make the right choices in 2025.

A data-driven approach enables businesses to make smarter decisions, reduce waste, and improve customer experiences. In 2025, you should look at all of your 2024 data and decide what the best options for you will be when it comes to stock levels, staffing, product development and investments.

The Need for Personalisation

In a crowded eCommerce marketplace, personalisation has become a key differentiator for brands and customers are obsessed with it. Customers want a shopping experience that feels tailored to their individual preferences, whether it’s through personalised recommendations, exclusive offers, unique packaging experiences, and targeted marketing.

A seamless and positive customer experience can turn a first-time buyer into a repeat customer and foster brand loyalty. More and more brands are building communities with their customers (both on social media and in real life) and this causes customers to stay loyal to a brand. As more brands have focused on this in 2024, it will continue to rise in 2025, and your brand needs to feel prepared to keep up with this.

How 3PL will Help Businesses Grow in 2025

As we look back at what 2024 has taught us about the world of eCommerce, one thing is clear: the complexities of modern business require a strategic approach to logistics and 3PL providers can make it as easy as possible for businesses.

A 3PL provider will offer a lot of benefits that enable eCommerce brands to navigate challenges and grow their businesses.

Here’s how partnering with a 3PL can help:

Scalability: As your business grows, your logistics needs will evolve. 3PLs offer the flexibility to scale operations quickly, without the need for major infrastructure investments.

Cost efficiency: With access to established fulfilment centres, shipping networks, and bulk shipping discounts, 3PLs can help brands reduce operational costs, leading to improved profit margins.

Focus on other areas: By outsourcing logistics to a trusted 3PL, brands can focus on what they do best – whether it’s product development, marketing, or customer service – while leaving the complexities of warehousing, shipping, and returns to the experts.

Shipping: 3PL providers can help you offer free and fast shipping to customers to ensure that you’re staying ahead of competition.

Risk Mitigation: With 3PLs managing the logistics side of your business, they are often better equipped to handle disruptions, minimise inventory risks (and help you demand plan), and be able to sort any sudden issues that may occur in the supply chain.

Third-party logistics providers are at the forefront of helping businesses manage these demands, providing the tools, expertise, and infrastructure needed to thrive. By leveraging a 3PL, eCommerce brands can grow more efficiently, deliver exceptional customer experiences, and scale their operations for the future.

Choosing GNOC in 2025

As we enter into another year, it is time to put your trust into GNOC and let us help you grow and scale your business in 2025. From warehousing to omnichannel fulfilment (including Amazon), we offer a range of services to help your business. By working with us, you can reach more customers than ever before, reduce costs, scale your brand and receive expert advice from us. We have years of experience in eCommerce and understand the issues that eCommerce brands face.

By partnering with us, we can store, pick, pack and ship your products to your customers, fast and efficiently. You can contact us or fill out our enquiry form today, and one of our helpful team will be back in touch ASAP.