NEWS ROUND-UP


98% of business owners value customer service over price when shopping online


When it comes to B2B e-commerce, customers favour high- quality customer service over delivery speed and competitive pricing, according to new research. The survey of 1,000 UK B2B consumers, conducted by


full service e-commerce agency, PushON, found that almost one hundred percent of people procuring business products, including computer software, furniture and office supplies, value customer service above all else. The findings could present an opportunity for B2B retailers


who are struggling to compete with the likes of marketplace giants Amazon or eBay on cost. In fact, the research found that 52% of business customers would buy from a smaller retailer if they offer a good level of service. Similarly, 40% would buy from a smaller B2B retailer if they


felt they were experts in their field and could provide specialist advice and support.


The report also highlights that B2B customers value


customer service more when buying big ticket items such as computer hardware or furniture – 87% stated this as ‘really important’. Sam Rutley, managing director of PushON, said: “These findings show that for online retailers, customer service is king. “This is something we know has always been important for


bricks and mortar stores, but evidently is also imperative for e-commerce businesses serving B2B customers. “Valued more highly than competitive cost, smaller retailers


are presented with an opportunity to compete with online retail giants such as Amazon through a wider offering. “Whether it’s implementing a customer portal, a live chat function, or a responsive ‘call now’ button, B2B retailers should continue to listen and respond to the needs of their shoppers to stay ahead of the competition.”


Getronics launches ‘Women in Technology’ to empower women in the ICT industry


Getronics, one of the world’s leading ICT service providers, is determined to play a principal role in workspace diversity. Through Getronics Women in Technology, the company aims to promote diversity by encouraging women to take up a leading role and become an example of encouragement within Getronics in particular and the ICT world in general. As a global player with clients from all over the world, all


with different backgrounds, cultures and ideas, Getronics attaches great importance to promoting equal opportunities for all, to reflect the diversity of its customers among its employees. Therefore, Getronics will be encouraging women, still a minority within the company, to pursue their ambitions and develop their full potential in order to become role models for other young women worldwide who lack the information or references in an ICT world still mainly dominated by men. “We know that human capital is the core of business success, and that diverse talent is the heart of innovation. Diversity is not just a buzz word. Differing perspectives and unique points of view are a vital force for growth. And, for our employees to truly represent the communities in which they live and work around the world, this means embracing


difference,” emphasises Deborah Exell, Global Head of Human Capital and Change at Getronics. “Our culture is founded on respect, integrity and transparency, and we act as we believe. Our diversity is visible. We foster challenges and differences and are looking to ensure that, wherever possible, we break down old barriers and hurdles to success. Everyone has a voice. We protect what is our harassment- free / bullying-free work environment and discrimination-free workplace; and ensure equal opportunities in hiring, training, promotions, benefits and compensation.” To do so, the company has already outlined some practical measures, some of which are presently in place and some of which will be launched shortly. They will have an impact on the development of women within the enterprise in the short-, medium- and long-term. Among other activities, Getronics has put together a working group composed of role models within leadership to drive the initiative. Moreover, Regional Round Tables will be organised to get input into strategy and identify talent, develop a coaching program, emphasise women’s successes, participate in external events, engage with universities as well as organisations that value women, and produce a Women in Technology strategy to 2020.


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