1. Who They Sell To

  • B2B (Business-to-Business): B2B companies sell to other businesses. For example, a software company selling tools to other companies for managing their teams.
  • B2C (Business-to-Consumer): B2C companies sell directly to individual people. Think of a clothing store that sells shirts to regular shoppers.

2. How the Buying Process Works

  • B2B: Buying in B2B is more detailed and takes longer. There are usually multiple people involved in the decision, and businesses might negotiate prices before they buy.
  • B2C: Buying in B2C is quick and straightforward. Shoppers buy based on their personal preferences and usually don’t need approvals or negotiations.

3. Order Size and Pricing

  • B2B: Orders are generally large (often in bulk), so B2B companies may offer special pricing or discounts based on the order size.
  • B2C: Orders are typically smaller since individual shoppers buy fewer items. Pricing is standard, though consumers might get discounts during sales.

4. Customer Relationships

  • B2B: B2B companies focus on building long-term partnerships. Businesses often work together for years if they trust each other.
  • B2C: B2C companies focus on winning over individual buyers and keeping them engaged. While the relationship may be shorter, loyalty programs can keep customers coming back.

5. Marketing Style

  • B2B: B2B marketing is all about showing how products solve specific business problems or save money. It’s more formal and may use channels like email, LinkedIn, and industry events.
  • B2C: B2C marketing is more emotional and geared toward creating a fun or meaningful connection with the brand. Common channels include social media and influencer partnerships.

6. Payment Options

  • B2B: Payment methods are more flexible. Businesses might get options like credit or pay-later plans.
  • B2C: B2C payments are typically made right away, with credit cards, digital wallets, and payment apps.

Quick Summary

In B2B e-commerce, businesses are building relationships with other businesses, which involves a longer buying process and custom pricing. In B2C e-commerce, companies sell directly to people, focusing on a fast, easy buying experience with straightforward prices.