🛍️ New Ecommerce Storefronts
Salesforce has launched integrated ecommerce storefronts within its Starter and Pro Suites, combining commerce with marketing, sales, and service. The update, available since October 22, 2024, aims to streamline digital transformations for small businesses in the U.S. The suites now enable businesses to set up branded storefronts using low-code tools, providing an easier pathway to launch an online presence. "Whether their customers are buying online through the storefront, engaging with sales teams to make a purchase, or asking for help, they will now be able to deliver a fully connected experience," said Kris Billmaier, SVP and GM, Salesforce self-service and growth.
📊 Why It Matters for Small Businesses
The integration of ecommerce into Salesforce's offerings addresses a critical need for small businesses transitioning online. According to Salesforce's research, over 50% of small business revenue will come from digital channels by 2025, up from 42% today. This shift highlights the lasting impact of the pandemic, which drove many companies to adopt digital platforms. Salesforce’s all-in-one suite offers tools to manage products, pricing, customer orders, and promotions—features designed to meet the needs of small businesses seeking streamlined solutions.
📈 Features and Capabilities
The new storefront capability allows businesses to quickly launch online stores while benefiting from built-in CRM functionality. This integration means that personalized communication, product management, and customer support are easier to manage in one place. Additionally, pre-built performance dashboards are included, offering insights into customer behavior, sales trends, and overall store performance. The ability to monitor these metrics can be crucial for small businesses seeking to understand their customer base and optimize their operations.
📅 Immediate Availability in the U.S.
Salesforce’s integrated ecommerce offering is currently available only to customers in the United States. By targeting this market, Salesforce aims to capture a share of small and growing businesses looking for a unified platform for their digital needs. Although the ecommerce landscape is competitive, Salesforce’s combination of commerce, sales, service, and marketing within one suite could attract businesses seeking simplicity and efficiency. The company’s move comes amid an evolving digital economy, where small businesses increasingly rely on comprehensive, easy-to-use tools for online sales and customer engagement.
Will Salesforce's integrated approach boost small businesses?
