Why was the COD (Cash on Delivery) business able to spread in Eastern Europe?
Sellers who have worked in the Southeast Asian market know that the rise of Cash on Delivery (COD) services in Southeast Asia a few years ago was partly due to locals' lack of trust in online payments and low credit card penetration, leading most to prefer cash or COD payment methods. However, with more and more people entering the market, it is now quite saturated. Only those focusing on boutique or brand-name websites can continue to thrive; many early sellers who only aimed for quick profits have long since gone out of business.
Then some people might ask: "Isn't online payment very developed in Europe?"
While online payments are prevalent in some parts of Europe, they are not yet widespread in others. Consumers also choose between online and offline payment methods. In some European countries and regions, consumers tend to prefer the Cash on Delivery (COD) payment model, so COD is still developing in Europe.
Moreover, most parts of Europe have a high GDP per capita, so with increased purchasing power, the acceptance rate will naturally be more stable.
The Southeast Asian market is currently overcrowded, with low average order values and fierce competition. Eastern Europe's COD market, on the other hand, is a blue ocean market with relatively low pressure, presenting a very good opportunity for large sellers.
Date: August 16, 2021