Northern Ireland (NI) is quickly emerging as a powerful eCommerce marketplace, thanks to its unique advantages and benefits. In this blog, we’ll explore why it is the perfect location for your eCommerce business. Also, how partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) company like PaakPOD can help you take advantage of opportunities and benefits in this area with Northern Ireland eCommerce fulfilment services.
Expanding your eCommerce business to new demographics or territories can be a daunting task, but with PaakPOD as your 3PL partner, navigating the online business landscape has never been easier. Whether you’re based in Northern Ireland or located elsewhere, we’ve got you covered with our easy-to-use platform for selling, storing, and managing your products. And if you’re looking to expand your business into the EU, Northern Ireland is the perfect eCommerce hub to set up shop. With its advanced technology infrastructure, well-educated workforce, and business-friendly environment, Northern Ireland offers a range of benefits that make it an ideal location for eCommerce businesses looking to expand their horizons. So why not partner with PaakPOD and join the many businesses that have already made the smart choice to establish a presence in Northern Ireland?
NORTHERN IRELAND ECOMMERCE MARKET
The eCommerce market in Northern Ireland is growing rapidly, with more and more consumers shopping online for a wide range of products and services. According to recent data, the eCommerce market in Northern Ireland is projected to grow by 9.7% per year, reaching £2.2 billion by the end of 2023. The report also notes that Northern Ireland has a high proportion of digitally connected consumers, with around 80% of adults owning a smartphone and 70% using social media – important marketing facts for online shop owners.
According to Invest NI, the region’s economic development agency, Northern Ireland has a thriving eCommerce sector, with a number of successful home-grown eCommerce businesses. Invest Northern Ireland also notes that the region’s proximity to both the UK and the EU markets makes it an attractive location for eCommerce businesses looking to expand their operations.
“The pandemic has been a catalyst for a significant shift to ecommerce in Northern Ireland. This trend is expected to continue, with online retail set to account for an increasing share of overall retail sales in the years ahead.”
-Andrew Webb, Chief Economist Grant Thornton NI
NI STRATEGIC LOCATION AND MARKET ACCESS
Northern Ireland is strategically located at the crossroads between the UK, Europe, and the rest of the world. It is well-connected to major shipping routes and has easy access to the EU. This makes it an ideal location for eCommerce warehousing and distribution, as it can serve as a gateway to both the UK and the EU markets.
The region is located at the intersection of major trade routes between Europe and North America, giving businesses access to global markets. With easy access to major ports and airports, businesses can quickly and efficiently move goods in and out of Northern Ireland.
PaakPOD ECOMMERCE FULFILMENT WAREHOUSING AND DISTRIBUTION
At PaakPOD, we understand that proximity is key when it comes to efficient 3PL services. With a strong presence in both London and Belfast, we offer our clients easy access to these locations, allowing them to expand their eCommerce businesses with confidence. Our turnkey fulfilment operations provide businesses with warehousing, custom packaging for brands, next-day delivery, and other essential features that are designed to help them scale faster in Northern Ireland and the surrounding areas.
We know that the ever-increasing demands of customers require a reliable and efficient 3PL provider, and that’s why we’ve made it our mission to deliver cost-effective solutions that are tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. By partnering with PaakPOD, businesses can rest assured that their logistics are in capable hands in Northern Ireland, allowing them to focus on what matters most – their core competencies.
NI ECONOMIC INCENTIVES AND BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT FOR ECOMMERCE
One of the main economic incentives to eCommerce companies in Northern Ireland is having access to a growing new market of willing buyers online. The combined population of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland is roughly seven million people, which represents a significant potential customer base for businesses. With the growth of online shopping, this market is only set to increase.
Some of the most popular products sold online in Northern Ireland include DIY, homeware, electronics, furniture, and beauty. However, the largest eCommerce sector by far is fashion. Online Fashion fulfilment includes many categories such as apparel and footwear, watches and jewellery, eyewear and other accessories.
The current business environment has a strong tradition in engineering, technology, and research. NI also offers a range of economic incentives and tax benefits to businesses, particularly those in the eCommerce sector. For example, the region has one of the lowest corporation tax rates. Additionally, businesses can take advantage of a range of financial incentives, grants, and support services that are designed to help them grow and succeed. So, if you’re looking to grow your online business, there is a bevy of governmental support. Overall, Northern Ireland’s business-friendly environment and low operating costs make it an attractive destination for eCommerce.
NI TECHNOLOGY AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Northern Ireland is equipped with state-of-the-art warehousing facilities, advanced technology, and efficient logistics networks that can benefit eCommerce businesses. With modern infrastructure and automated systems, businesses can streamline their operations, reduce costs, and enhance customer service.
Northern Ireland has a strong commitment to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship. The province continues to foster a business-friendly environment with investments in technology and infrastructure, incentivising business and foreign investment. Additionally, Northern Ireland’s historical experience and tech-focused capabilities in logistics can help businesses make informed decisions and optimise their supply chain.
JOIN PaakPOD FOR NORTHERN IRELAND ECOMMERCE FULFILMENT
Partnering with PaakPOD in Northern Ireland can help your business take advantage of the benefits of this region’s eCommerce ecosystem. With a strategic location, access to global markets, economic incentives, and advanced technology, Northern Ireland is the perfect hub for your eCommerce warehouse. At PaakPOD, we offer a range of warehousing and logistics services that can help you succeed in Northern Ireland and beyond.
Contact us today to learn more and start growing your eCommerce business.