The rise of e-commerce: Origins and milestones

Have you ever heard about the first e-commerce sites, the products they offered and how e-commerce has developed over many years? How long has the e-commerce industry existed and what are the main factors that have contributed to its meteoric growth? In this article, we will explore the origins of e-commerce and all the important steps that allowed its expansion. Together, we’ll go back in time to see how this industry has made an incredible leap from its beginnings to today. You’ll learn exactly when the digital revolution arrived and how it forever changed the way we shop online. Ready for a history lesson? Let’s explore together when e-commerce began!

History of e-commerce

E-commerce is a form of commerce that developed from the 1960s and has grown considerably since then. It is a form of commerce based on the use of the Internet to carry out commercial transactions, whether it is the sale or purchase of products or services.

1990s: The beginnings of e-commerce

The first attempts at online commerce were made in the 1960s, but it was not until 1971 that the first online transaction was completed. In 1984, data encryption was invented to secure online transactions.

The advent of the World Wide Web in 1991 allowed the e-commerce to develop and democratize.

2000s: Explosion of e-commerce and start of globalization

During the 2000s, e-commerce experienced explosive growth and quickly became international. Many companies have started selling their products and services online, including Amazon, which is now the largest online seller in the world.

Mobile technology has also played an important role in the development of e-commerce, as it has allowed consumers to access online stores from anywhere.

Years 2010 – 2020: New technologies appear

Since 2010, digital technologies have further improved and contributed to the growth of e-commerce. Technologies such as voice recognition, augmented and virtual reality, contactless payments and chatbots have all helped to facilitate online transactions and improve the customer experience.

The current state of e-commerce in France

Presentation of the main players in the sector

In France, the due-commerce market is dominated by a few large players such as Amazon, Cdiscount and Fnac Darty. These companies account for more than 50% of the total online sales made each year in the country.

Key figures on e-commerce in France

According to figures published by the French Fashion Institute, e-commerce in France generated a turnover of more than 60 billion euros in 2020. This represents an increase of 16% compared to 2019 and shows that e-commerce is growing.

In addition, according to data from the National Center for Liberal Professions, more than 80% of French consumers have purchased products or services online in the last 12 months.

The main sectors impacted by e-commerce

E-commerce is having a significant impact on many industries, including retail, travel and financial services. According to a study carried out by Deloitte, nearly 70% of French companies currently use e-commerce solutions to sell their products and services.

Perspectives and trends for e-commerce in France

The main innovations to watch out for

Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain and augmented reality are some of the main innovations that are expected to contribute to the growth of e-commerce in France in the years to come. These technologies will allow businesses to better understand their customers and provide a personalized experience.

What are the drivers of technology adoption?

The growing adoption of digital technologies is primarily driven by businesses’ desire to improve their operational efficiency and their ability to deliver a better customer experience. In addition, the growing use of mobile and contactless payments as well as the increase in the number of consumers who trust online transactions are all factors contributing to the growth of e-commerce.

What is the impact of the pandemic on e-commerce?

The pandemic has caused a dramatic rise in the number of online shoppers, leading to a surge in online sales across all industries. The companies that have been the fastest to adopt digital technologies have had the greatest competitive advantage during this difficult period.