E-Channel

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SMEs in UK & FR have comparatively less engagement in exporting, compared to other EU countries (Eurostat: 2016). Our research suggests many SMEs consider exporting/growing international sales but worry about doing this alone. They need a technology support package and ongoing advice and guidance which E-Channel offers. E-Channel provides a cross-border export e-platform to support SMEs (mainly Agro-Food) in the FCE area to grow their business through cross channel export. This Project will be delivered by two partner companies: Vertical Plus, based in Plymouth UK and Soledis, based in Vannes FR. Both partners operate successful models for growing small businesses using e-commerce. V+ has focused on B2C and Soledis on B2B. By pooling technical expertise and country specific cultural market knowledge we will create [1] a unique export focused e-commerce technical solution for participant SMEs: the E-Channel Platform [2] support SMEs with E-Channel Platform tools and adapting their e-commerce strategies through a UK & FR Launchpad. The tools and technology used by SMEs on the E-Channel Platform will be unique to them, based on their initial export readiness, their stage of development and the best e-markets for their products. SMEs working practices will be changed by working with real time e-commerce data via their E-Channel Platform dashboard. The unique E-Channel Launchpad model coaches SMEs in the use of E-Channel Platform tools. Launchpads ensure SMEs integrate their online presence with export services appropriate to their product range and scale of operation: including marketing in another language/culture, delivery logistics, payment, exchange rates, and legal administrative processes involved with export. The Platform tools used and related services will be reviewed regularly by a Launchpad AM working in partnership with each SME; there a focus on sales growth is maintained. SMEs are active partners in the E-Channel process and will receive training/support to access these services to optimise sales for themselves. E-Channel is innovative and offers value for money through the provision of tools and services which are geared to the needs of SMEs and delivered within a single joined up solution. With their experience of e-commerce growth for strong brands, V+ expects after 5 years, SMEs will see sales reach 100,000 per month after 12/18 months. At the end of the project we expect growth to continue at this rate, with turnover reaching 250,000 a month after 4-5 years. E-Channel focuses on Brittany/Normandy in FR and Devon/Cornwall in UK. We are endorsed by FR and GB Chambers of Commerce who share our goal to create long term, sustainable, international business relationships, employment opportunities and regional regeneration. It is envisaged that at the end of the project, participant SMEs will remain clients of V+ & Soledis and that E-Channel will be available to SMEs across the FCE. Information added on 2020-05-18, regarding the mitigation of the effects of COVID-19 (the coronavirus pandemic that started in 2019) (English language only): In the light of COVID19, many SMEs have been forced to make changes to their business models and in doing so, have found online or delivery focused markets to be an extremely valuable way of connecting with new customers and selling new products while maintaining social distancing. E-Channel provides focused consultancy and support for online selling in new markets and is also due to launch a unique data modelling tool in June, designed to help businesses develop new plans, conduct costing assessments, organise their product inventories and act on marketing opportunities as and when they arise. This will be extremely valuable for businesses looking to move into new markets as a result of the pandemic.

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