Here’s How Schneider Electric Is Leveraging Ecommerce for a Bright Future
With the twin challenges of the COVID-19 crisis and the effects of manmade climate change, many brands are trying to find ways to evolve their business models to better serve customers and combat these threats.
There is no easy answer to either of these challenges, but global industry has a responsibility to try and find one. This is especially true in the B2B space where companies can work together to help create a better world for everyone.
The energy sector is a massive source of concern when it comes to our impact on the planet and many brands operating in this space are working hard to discover new ways of keeping our society powered up and running in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.
Schneider Electric
As a multinational company providing energy and automation digital solutions for efficiency and sustainability, Rueil-Malmaison, France based, Schneider Electric has its share of skin in this game and has been pouring resources into ecommerce platforms to better serve its customers online.
Recognizing that ecommerce has become even more of a preferred channel for B2B buyers because of the COVID-19 crisis, Schneider electric knew it had to push more development in this area if it wanted to remain competitive in the new normal and serve customers in a way that was both efficient and safe.
Partnering with several ecommerce platform providers including JustStandOut and GTS Professionals, Schneider Electric has launched multiple new portals through which to reach this expanding pool of customers.
"Schneider Electric aims to ensure easy accessibility and identification of genuine products nationwide, giving customers clear visibility on its accredited online and offline distributors, with this information available on the Schneider Electric website," said former Marketing and Communications Manager for Schneider Electric, Viviane ODOH (Mike-Eze). "Our partners’ ecommerce platforms are an avenue for customers to access the company’s products online, conveniently, but also to enjoy exclusive promotions online"
The new platforms will also serve to empower Schneider Electric’s ecommerce supplier partners and increase their visibility in the B2B online space. Cross promotion across Schneider Electric’s multiple websites and social media accounts is now helping these new platforms reach vast numbers of its digitally engaged customers and other members of its audience.
Solar Power
As part of its push to increase its ecommerce presence while simultaneously promoting renewable energy sources to help meet the challenges of climate change, Schneider Electric has also launched a platform through which it can exclusively sell its range of solar energy products.
The Schneider Electric Solar Store has been designed with the purpose of enhancing the buying experience for customers looking for environmentally friendly energy solutions, while offering the convenience of B2C online shopping.
"The Schneider Electric Solar Store offers easy navigation to find all current Schneider Electric solar products that are available in the North American market, including the XW Pro and SW hybrid inverters, MPPT charge controllers, power distribution panels, InsightHome and InsightFacility edge devices, as well as accessories," said the company in a press release. "Customers can select expedited shipping options for locations in the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada. Products can be shipped in multiple shipments on the dates customers requested."
The convenience of online shipping is provided by a multitude of distinctive features, including access from desktop/mobile/tablet devices, flexible shipping options, product availability, advanced navigation and search functions, quick order, detailed product descriptions (including specs and links to datasheets), customer reviews, online payment, and guest checkout options.
By making these solar products more accessible through a dedicated ecommerce platform, Schneider Electric is making sure sustainable options are given the prominence they deserve. Giving its customers the means to switch to solar powered options where possible will hopefully create a new atmosphere of environmental consciousness among the company and its partners.
"The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the digitalization in both workplaces and households. We built the Schneider Electric Solar Store to make it easy for our customers to purchase our solar products online," said Vice President of Marketing, Research & Development, for Schneider Electric Solar, Bernhard Kiechl. "The e-commerce store is another way to establish a long-term relationship with our customers and help them get access to clean and resilient energy supplies."
Final Thoughts
Combatting COVID and climate change simultaneously is a huge challenge for the human race, and it can often feel we’re fighting the tide. Without the backing of governments and industry individual efforts will be futile, so it’s always encouraging to see a large brand such as Schneider Electric throw its hat into the ring.
You can hear Schneider Electric’s Senior Vice President of Global Marketing and Industrial Automation, Monique Elliott, speak at B2B Online 2022, taking place in April at the Chicago Marriott Downtown, IL.
Download the agenda today for more information and insights.