eCommerce (noun)
Pronunciation: /ˈiː.kɒm.ɜːs/
Also written as: e-commerce, electronic commerce
Definition:
eCommerce refers to the buying and selling of goods or services over the internet. It includes a wide range of business models, such as B2C (business-to-consumer), B2B (business-to-business), C2C (consumer-to-consumer), and C2B (consumer-to-business). Transactions are conducted electronically via websites, mobile apps, or online platforms, often supported by digital payment systems, logistics integration, and real-time inventory management.
Example:
“Thanks to its eCommerce platform, the wholesaler expanded nationwide without needing physical shops.”
Origin:
The term "eCommerce" emerged in the 1990s alongside the growth of the internet. It stems from the words electronic and commerce, reflecting the digital transformation of traditional trade practices.
Use in Context:
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B2B eCommerce is transforming how wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers operate by enabling them to sell online without intermediaries.
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Modern eCommerce platforms support advanced features like real-time pricing, multi-vendor marketplaces, and cross-border VAT compliance.
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The rise of inventory-free eCommerce models allows businesses to sell products without physically stocking them.