DARK STORES: THE E-COMMERCE REVOLUTION

At first, the ‘Dark Store’ concept had no meaning whatsoever in the retail sector. However, the pandemic gave rise to an unprecedented digitalisation in every sense. Undeniably, one of the areas that has evolved the most has been e-commerce, mainly creating new sales spaces. It is then that the so-called Dark Stores appear.

It is, therefore, thanks to the rise of e-commerce that the Dark Stores appear. According to a report by Statista, global online sales will reach 5.42 billion by 2022. With that increase also being significant in the coming years. Moreover, by the end of 2024, the figure is expected to reach 6.39 billion. At the same time, it is predicted that in 10 years’ time the turnover will multiply by 6.

Above all, new consumers demand speed and want their orders to take as little time as possible to reach their destination. In this way, this is something that Dark Stores try to fulfil. In fact, do you want to know more about this revolutionary concept, how it can benefit your business and what type of packaging you should use? Then read on and we’ll tell you all about it!

What are Dark Stores?

Dark Stores are shops that only sell their products virtually. In other words, the physical space is only used for a logistical function. The physical shops are turned into small distribution and shipping centres. They are centres closed to the public, as they serve only to respond to orders that are placed via the Internet.

Before the pandemic, this type of business was more common in sectors such as food. However, nowadays, Dark Stores are also present in other sectors: fashion, large retailers, furniture, household appliances, among others.

How do Dark Stores work?

One of the main objectives of the Dark Stores is to improve the shopping experience for all customers, through lighting, music, location of the displays, among others. For this type of business, one of the key points is the company’s own website. However, the automation of processes is also central. Thus, the aim is that when the customer places an order, the machinery will be activated to ensure that nothing fails in the dispatch process and that the established delivery and reception deadlines are met.

There are two types of Dark Stores: those that promote the collection of the product in the establishment (Store Collection) and those that deliver it at home. In the former, the company opens a special collection section so that customers do not have to go through the whole shop to find the item of their interest. On the other hand, when it comes to home delivery, the process is fast, convenient and contactless.

Advantages of Dark Stores you should know about

• Better distribution. As customers cannot enter Dark Stores, their distribution can be optimised and planned for greater and better storage (better order fulfillment capacity);
• Greater reach. Transforming a physical shop into a Dark Store offers a much larger potential audience, as the products are online for everyone, 24 hours a day;
• Security in purchases. The pandemic forced a greater social distancing and the creation of safe environments where you can buy whatever you want, without any kind of problems. While Covid-19 exists, Dark Stores will fulfill that function by allowing consumers to buy products in a physical shop without having to enter it;
• More efficiency. By adopting 4.0 logistics methods and more technology in the loading, storage and collection stages, shops have the ability to increase the number of units delivered while generating a more efficient operation;
• Better quality. According to a study by ShopperVista one in five customers stopped shopping online because of the short shelf life of products. One in six did so because of the unsatisfactory quality of the merchandise. At Dark Stores, this management is done in the best way possible, ensuring stock rotation. In addition, all products have a guaranteed shelf life.

RAJA’s best packaging for a Dark Store

Undeniably, packaging is everything in e-commerce. Therefore, packaging also plays a key role in Dark Stores, as it ensures that the products arrive in the best possible condition. So, are you unsure whether you should pack the items you sell in a simple cardboard box or in a customised cardboard box? Do you know the packaging that makes returns easier to manage? Discover the RAJA packaging that allows you to save space and Eco-Responsibility, making the best impression on your clients:

1. RAJA packaging for shipping books

If you sell manuals or books in your e-commerce, it is best to turn to cross-body cases. The corners of these boxes are reinforced, so that the contents are protected against shocks that may occur during transportation.

2. Cardboard boxes for clothes

There are clothes that are very delicate and need special care. In this sense, packaging plays a fundamental role. The most suitable for the packaging of these items are bags and covers for clothes, wardrobe boxes for clothes and, above all, instant mounting folding boxes. They are therefore easy to assemble and store. In addition, they have kraft paper, inside and out, to take care of your clothes.

3. Mug shipment boxes

When the product is a mug, there is nothing like using a personalised packaging that protects the contents well. At RAJA, there are cardboard boxes for sending mugs. They are environmentally friendly, 100% recyclable and recommended for e-commerce.

4. Boxes for flat products

If the product to be shipped is flat, you should not use a large box. Furthermore, excessive packaging damages your brand image. Opt for the extra flat boxes or cases available from RAJA.

These are just a few examples, but we have many other packages to meet the needs of Dark Stores. Visit our shop!

Converting a physical shop into a Dark Store is a way to reduce costs, optimise the supply chain and take advantage of online shopping. If you need advice, to know which packaging best suits your business, ask our experts by phone: 707 788 008 or e-mail: contacto@rajapack.pt