Prominent technology company, GoDaddy, has unveiled exciting findings from its GoDaddy 2023 Data Observatory. The survey delves into the world of small businesses worldwide providing valuable insights into the state of small businesses in the APAC region. This study involved a total of 4,682 entrepreneurs and small business owners, with 488 respondents from the APAC region (Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand combined).
The survey reveals that 46% of businesses globally and in the APAC region have launched in the last 1 to 5 years. The findings of the survey suggest that the APAC region is a promising market for small business due in part to the region's strong economic growth and the rise of the digital economy.
Once business is established, entrepreneurs focus on building a robust online presence with 45% of respondents opening social media profiles (49% in the Philippines) and 30% advertising online (also 30% in the Philippines).
Entrepreneurs recognize the power of having a strong online presence. In the APAC region, specifically in the Philippines, 62% of small business owners make up to half of their annual revenue from online sales channels. Not to be outdone, 37% of entrepreneurs globally and 38% in the APAC region (38% for the Philippines) rake in a significant 51-100% of their revenue online.
In a digital world, a website is every entrepreneur's secret weapon. In addition, entrepreneurs understand the importance of a multi-faceted approach to thrive online. In the APAC region, 57% of businesses utilize a website, online store or a combination of both as their primary sales channel. The Philippines boasts 51% of businesses harnessing the power of a website while 67% shine by using social media as a complimentary sales channel surprassing the global average of 58%.
The research survey found that 66% of global businesses highlight the importance of raising awareness through advertising on social media, having a business website, and conducting online non-paid marketing strategies to maintain momentum. The APAC region including the Philippines echo this sentiment with Philippine entrepreneurs preferring to focus on online advertising on social media, having a physical store and having their online store.
Selina Bieber, Commercial Strategy Senior Director, International Markets at GoDaddy, emphasizes that for small businesses, going digital is a necessity to thrive as more consumers shift to the online marketplace. She shares, "It’s also important that small businesses continuously adapt. Having a strong online presence, coupled with tools that make it easier is crucial for Filipino entrepreneurs to thrive. As a trusted partner, GoDaddy offers an integrated suite of online tools to help create your online presence along with expert support.”