Shopee Malaysia has announced an RM15 million (US$3.5 million) support package for sellers on its network.
The online retail platform’s package aims to assist around 70,000 SMEs in the territory trading in a range of sectors and is an outcome of engagements between itself, retail associations, business owners and chambers of commerce.
“These SMEs need assistance or a partner that can provide them a clear instruction set to ensure they succeed with online selling,” said Shopee’s regional MD Ian Ho, who expressed concern that smaller businesses lack knowledge critical to digitalization.
Benefits in the package include discounts for sellers in promotional programs to help lower operating expenses for business owners.
“Shopee has allocated RM6 million ($1.4 million) in the form of vouchers and free paid advertising credits,” said Ho. “Sellers stand to benefit from RM100,000 ($23,000) worth of dedicated campaign vouchers every week and receive up to RM400 ($92) each in free paid advertising credits to get more exposure for their products and stores.
“Shopee wants to drive the digitalization of traditional businesses and bring them online,” he said.
“The package will support all its sellers by creating sales and growth opportunities, reducing operational costs and facilitating sustainable development through funding, subsidies and education.”