Independent trade body Manchester Digital is using its annual Ecommerce Conference in Manchester to highlight the significant opportunity ecommerce presents for the North West and across the UK.
The event brings together more than 200 business leaders, policymakers and academics to discuss how the sector can drive innovation, job creation and export growth.
Speakers have underlined the strength of the UK’s ecommerce ecosystem and a clear appetite to harness emerging technologies and new business models. Discussions have focused on the role of AI in delivering more personalised and immersive shopping experiences, the growing importance of cyber security, and how circular economy principles can be embedded in retail.
In response to the ambition and momentum in the room, Manchester Digital has developed a proposal calling on the Government to explore the creation of a National Centre of Ecommerce Excellence, in partnership with The Manchester Metropolitan University and the UK Tech Cluster Group (UKTCG).
The initiative aims to future-proof the sector, create jobs and ensure the UK remains competitive in the global digital economy.
The UK is currently the fourth largest ecommerce market in the world, after the US, China and Japan, contributing more than £80bn a year in exports.
With online retail expected to account for over a fifth of all UK retail sales by 2027, Manchester Digital believes there is a strong case for a dedicated, Government-supported body to help the sector grow further and reach new markets.
Making ‘return to office’ worthwhile for employees & businesses
“The UK is home to a thriving ecommerce sector, with much of it based here in Manchester, yet there is no dedicated institution for fostering innovation, skills development and business growth,” said Katie Gallagher OBE, managing director of Manchester Digital and chair of the UKTCG.
“As AI is rapidly reshaping digital commerce, and with global political uncertainty, the tech industry and Government must work together to ensure the UK stays ahead.”
The proposed centre would launch as a pilot in the North West before expanding into a network of regional hubs across the UK, supported by local tech ecosystem organisations.
These hubs would support the creation of at least 2,500 new jobs, help ecommerce businesses grow global and upskill individuals for roles.
David Edmundson-Bird, faculty lead in AI at The Manchester Metropolitan University, added: “Targeted support through a National Centre of E-Commerce Excellence would strengthen supply chains and boost exports, while also helping the sector respond to changes brought about by AI.”