Billa and Bipa: Online trade is growing, but still far from profitability

Billa and Bipa: Online trade is growing, but still far from profitability

The current situation in online trading shows that the boom has dropped significantly during the corona pandemic. An example of this is Billa, the sales of which are just 78 million euros in the 2023 online area. Even BIPA, a subsidiary of Billa, does not have much higher figures with 25 million euros. Despite an impressive increase in total gross turnover from 9.6 percent to a total of 10.45 billion euros for Billa, Billa Plus, BIPA and others, the online share remains relatively low.

Marcel Haraszti, the Billa and Bipa CEO, said in spring that even if there was no potential for profits in online trade at short notice, it would be "fatal" not to offer this sales channel. This illustrates the challenge that retailers are looking for when they try to be competitive in the digital world. However, the reality is that the market has changed significantly and that many companies that have rely on online sales have difficulty increasing sales.

low perspectives in online sales

The upcoming challenges in online trade show that sales in the digital area cannot keep up with expectations. The total turnover of 103 million euros for the two brands is in contrast to the total of 10.45 billion euros, which were generated in stationary trade. A clear proof that online sales do not currently have the usual income. Haraszti emphasized that it is important for the company to continue to operate this channel, although the profits are currently not in sight.

as www.krone.at reports , the view of an improvement in the online area is currently uncertain. Many providers face the question of how they can exist in this changing market environment. It remains exciting to see how Billa and Bipa continue to deal with these challenges and whether sustainable strategies are being developed to make online sales more solid.