Online Stores are the Silver lining for Business Operations in Saudi Arabia

 Saudi Arabia is one of the largest countries in the Gulf with the petroleum industry taking a lead in the giant sectors of the country`s economy. In terms of technology, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia prides itself with high internet penetration and smart phone usage. In the main cities, namely, Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah and Jubail, internet and smart phone penetration is over 95%. These statistics help to explain the recent trends in business operations in Saudi Arabia as business enterprises in diverse industries set up online store. It is a matter of principle that a business which defies the forces of technology in the present age risk losing relevance and possible closure in the long run. It is a business tact to retain relevance by observing the emerging trends and making the requisite changes accordingly. It is even considered a superior strategy when businesses anticipate the future trends in technological changes and make the necessary adjustments in readiness.

Businesses have however expressed positive remarks regarding the impact of online stores on their operations and especially in sales turnover. As most customers turn to online shopping, businesses are embracing online stores and providing critical information regarding the products such as availability and other attributes to enhance customer experience. Marketing costs have also reduced significantly as businesses shift from the conventional marketing methods that were less effective and more expensive to digital marketing approaches that are more effective and less costly. In this light therefore, businesses embracing online shops have innumerable benefits to count both in operational efficiency and cost saving. One such business in Saudi Arabia is Prime Puff Paper that stocks premium Tobacco accessories such as rolling paper, filter tips and tobacco bowls. The business recorded a 40% rise in sales turnover in the first year of operations after setting up the online shop. Other businesses in diverse industries have similar experiences since the inception of online stores in Saudi Arabia.