E-tailer Guatemala Digital follows Amazon Playbook; opens platform for SME sales

Guatemalan e-commerce company Guatemala Digital has launched a digital platform aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country.

The platform offers small and medium-sized businesses a digital shelf where they can sell their products and services, reach a wider customer base and streamline logistics operations.

Guatemala Digital’s SME platform also includes dedicated customer service channels, assistance with logistical tasks such as arranging deliveries with partner suppliers, and quality control measures at every stage.

Guatemala Digital said there are no membership fees for those who jump on board. It did not specify whether there are any other costs, however. The company said it will take on most of the digital and logistics overhead, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on their products. All they need to do is create a profile, upload their products and ship to Guatemala Digital.

The model works similarly to those used by large online retailers like Amazon, but focuses specifically on Guatemalan small and medium-sized businesses, giving them access to a broader domestic market.

The average number of transactions on the platform already amounts to 18,000, and the number of visits per month exceeds 2 million.

Founded in 2007, Guatemala Digital is the largest online retailer in Guatemala as of 2018. The company boasts over 250,000 subscribers and operates in Costa Rica, Honduras, and El Salvador.