5 common problems for online retailers - and how to solve them

Art. no. 216462939 24 Apr 2025

Running an e-commerce business can be challenging in many ways. Although e-commerce has grown exponentially in popularity in recent years, it is not easy to start, run and make it profitable. E-commerce retailers can face a variety of problems when trying to increase their online profitability. However, by identifying the problems and implementing the right measures, these problems can be solved and profitability increased.

Low conversion rates

One of the most common challenges for e-retailers is getting visitors to their website to actually buy the products. This may be because visitors find the site unclear or difficult to navigate, or because there is a lack of trust in the company or its products. To increase conversion, e-retailers can take a range of measures, such as optimizing the design and usability of the website, offering a quick and easy buying process, including social proof and reviews from previous customers, or offering free shipping or returns.

Poor search engine optimization (SEO)

Another challenge for e-retailers is to rank high on search engine results pages. This can mean that fewer visitors find the site, reducing the chances of making sales. One reason for poor SEO can be a lack of keyword analysis and optimization of website structure and content. E-retailers can consult SEO experts or use different SEO tools to identify and optimize the most important keywords.

High return rate

A high return rate can negatively affect an e-retailer's profitability. This can be due to a lack of product quality, unclear product information or a complicated returns process. To reduce the return rate, e-retailers can work on improving product quality and descriptions, including high-quality product images and videos, or offering a simple and clear returns process.

Competition

E-retailers often face stiff competition, which can make it difficult to stand out and attract new customers. To reduce competition, e-retailers can offer unique products and brands, or differentiate themselves by offering better customer service or faster delivery. E-retailers can also work on their marketing, for example by offering high-quality product images and videos, or by using influencer marketing to reach out to new customers. Another important factor is creating a clear brand identity and communicating it clearly throughout the customer experience.

Lack of marketing

E-retailers can find it difficult to reach their target audience and market their products effectively. This may be due to a lack of digital marketing knowledge or insufficient marketing budgets. To overcome this problem, e-retailers can work on a clear marketing strategy that focuses on reaching their target audience on the channels where they are. This could mean using social media to promote products, creating promotions or competitions to attract new customers, or working with email marketing to keep existing customers informed about new products and offers. It is also important to measure and analyze the results of marketing activities in order to adjust and improve the strategy over time.

These problems can negatively affect an e-retailer's profitability and it can be difficult to know how to fix them. However, with the right strategy and actions, these problems can be solved and e-retailers can increase their online profitability.