Blessing in disguise: How pandemic was a catalyst for Saudi SMEs to change

Blessing in disguise: How pandemic was a catalyst for Saudi SMEs to change

JEDDAH: Saudis continue to shop online despite the government easing the COVID-19 lockdown, with the surge in e-commerce prompting small and medium-sized enterprises to adapt.E-commerce saved global retail markets from collapse and stopped consumers from having to go out during the first wave of the outbreak. However, SMEs were the most vulnerable to the pandemic's consequences and e-platforms played a crucial role in their survival.Saudi Arabia's consumer behavior was transformed during the COVID-19 lockdown as soon as stores were ordered to shut their doors, creating a frenzy among consumers although they were quick to adapt. SMEs were also forced to adapt, not only to accommodate the growing demand for online shopping but to ensure they survived with minimal losses.Marion Janson, the chief economist at the UN's International Trade Centre, said