Is your retail operation missing out on the potential of cloud ERP?

retailer
65% of ecommerce retailers see untapped potential of cloud technology - is yours one of them?

With consumer behaviour in constant flux and competition fiercer than ever, midmarket retailers are under pressure to deliver seamless online experiences, maintain efficient operations, and respond to rapid changes in demand. In this landscape, cloud ERP isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for staying resilient, competitive, and ready for what’s next.

Our latest report on UK midmarket ecommerce reveals that while 87% of ecommerce companies have adopted cloud-based or hybrid ERP solutions, a striking 64% still see the cloud as an untapped opportunity. As retailers brace for shifting economic conditions, harnessing the full potential of cloud ERP could be a key differentiator in 2024 and beyond.

The high stakes of downtime

A day of downtime can set an ecommerce business back in countless ways, from missed sales to dissatisfied customers. Our research shows that 84% of firms expect revenue losses from ERP downtime, with an average estimated hit of £26,578.95 per day. Beyond financial losses, downtime disrupts critical functions, like order processing and delivery schedules, which can chip away at customer trust—a valuable currency in ecommerce.

With cloud ERP, companies gain reliable, high-availability systems that help prevent costly disruptions. As consumer expectations for fast and reliable service grow, investing in dependable technology is becoming non-negotiable.

Real-time data for real-time decisions

Data is the backbone of agile decision-making. In an industry where trends can change overnight, 59% of ecommerce businesses consider real-time data one of the most valuable features of ERP. Cloud ERP systems provide continuous access to the insights that let businesses pivot quickly, whether it’s launching a new promotion, adjusting stock levels, or tweaking marketing strategies.

Real-time data means real-time responses—something ecommerce companies need to stay relevant and customer-centric in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Meeting operational demands with cloud ERP

Efficient supply chain and inventory management are crucial to ecommerce success. With rising logistics costs and frequent global supply disruptions, maintaining control over stock and delivery is more challenging than ever. Our report found that 93% of ecommerce firms have digitised their supply chain and logistics, and 79% are localising their supply chains for greater control and resilience.

Cloud ERP strengthens these efforts by unifying data and automating processes across departments, reducing waste, and ensuring quick, informed responses to supply issues. With these capabilities, businesses can navigate operational challenges smoothly, ensuring they’re ready to meet customer demand and maintain profitability.

Future-proofing with AI, IoT, and automation

Emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and automation offer huge potential for ecommerce, yet 41% of firms feel held back by their limited cloud use, which restricts access to these advanced tools. Cloud ERP enables seamless integration with AI-driven insights, predictive logistics, and IoT applications, giving ecommerce businesses the tools to automate routine tasks, personalise customer experiences, and streamline operations.

In a competitive market, leveraging these technologies will be key to standing out, adapting quickly, and optimising every area of the business. By adopting cloud ERP, midmarket ecommerce businesses can better position themselves for growth and innovation.

The takeaway

In 2025, ecommerce success will depend on more than just keeping up with the latest trends. It will require embracing technologies that improve agility, efficiency, and resilience. For midmarket ecommerce businesses, cloud ERP provides the tools to do just that—unlocking data, strengthening operations, and future-proofing for the next big change.

Ready to learn more? Download the full UK Midmarket Ecommerce Report below.