To adapt for a digital new normal, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is leading micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to go a step further towards digital transformation.

As the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the transition of MSMEs to online selling, the DTI partnered with UnionBank GlobalLinker to help MSMEs convert their ‘brick-and-mortar’ business model into ‘brick-and-click.’

With the partnership, MSMEs are able to receive training and assistance to build their own online store for free through UnionBank GlobalLinker, where they can access a range of business efficiency tools, collaboration, and networking capabilities. They can also avail of exclusive offers and user privileges on a range of business products and services on the platform.

Also read: Create your own online store on UnionBank GlobalLinker for free

“Going digital is a great enabler for MSMEs as it will help them stay relevant and competitive in an evolving marketplace. It will enhance MSMEs' competitiveness and understanding of consumer behaviour,” shares Marievic Bonoan, Director of DTI – Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (DTI-BDTP).

What are the benefits of digitizing your business?

Having an online store and utilizing digital tools can help MSMEs cope up with the impact of COVID-19 outbreak.  Some of the best benefits are the following:  

• No longer bound by location. With an online store, you are no longer limited to where your physical store is located. You can reach targeted customers through digital marketing anytime, anywhere.
• Reduce costs. It costs less to set up and manage your online store than a physical shop where you incur expenses like rent and utility costs.
• Boost brand awareness. You get more visibility and prominence online
• Keep in touch with customers 24/7. Your customers can buy at any time they want, giving you greater flexibility to boost sales.

Also read: How to drive more traffic to your eCommerce store

Going digital is a great enabler for MSMEs as it will help them stay relevant and competitive in an evolving marketplace.

“In a time of crisis where everything is no longer within reach, and most of the crucial things for business survival is no longer available, MSMEs need a partner who can deliver digital platforms, as well as use and maximize technology,” explains Jaypee Soliman, UnionBank’s Vice President for the SME segment, in an interview.

Also read: 5 problems of new business owners and how to solve them 

With this, DTI and UnionBank GlobalLinker established Go Lokal Mall, a digital mall that features products of MSMEs from different regions of the country. Products on sale include food & beverages, fashion & accessories, health and beauty, gifts & souvenirs, and home & living products.

Visit the Go Lokal Mall to find out more local products from MSMEs by clicking here