Internet Retailers Will Need To Develop An International Perspective Suggests the eRetail Association

July 10th 2000 - Many experienced Internet retailers can expand their market share significantly in the international arena but very few are taking advantage of the opportunity, according to the latest report by the International eRetail Association.

In its 2000-6 eRetailNews report, the association suggests many companies can gain a significant competitive advantage by leveraging their experience in international markets. "Many companies that entered the US market early have built considerable expertise in how to sell online," says Nigel Fenwick, Editor of the latest eRetailNews Report and President of the International eRetail Association. "By leveraging this experience and bringing their technology to new markets, these companies can create significant barriers to entry in emerging International markets."

The latest report focuses on strategies Internet retailers can adopt to expand their operations internationally, taking examples from the real-life experiences of leading companies. The report also points out the risks of ignoring international markets. "It's possible for astute entrepreneurs from other countries to copy successful business models from the US and apply them to local markets," says Fenwick. "These entrepreneurs can build a first-mover advantage that makes them difficult to dislodge at a later stage. Companies that build international online operations are in a better position to defend their niche. Ironically, the online business model depends upon the economies of scale resulting from a global market, yet few companies are approaching the market from a global perspective."

The 2000-6 Report also examines the latest online advertising technology from ePod as well as recent "new sites and site news".

As a global organization of e-commerce professionals, the eRetail Association provides members with analysis and insights into the world of Internet retailing through exclusive monthly reports (eRetailNews) and online at www.eretailnews.com.

The eRetail Association's mission is "to further the global success of online retailing through the development of professional standards and codes of conduct, and by helping eRetailers to harness the power of the Internet to profitably deliver outstanding customer experiences."

International eRetail Association membership is open to members of the Internet retailing industry and its supporting service providers. Details of membership can be found online at www.eretailassociation.org.