In a fresh episode of the EGN Podcast, host Efe von Thenen engaged in an enlightening conversation with Friedrich Schwandt, the CEO of ECDB and Founder & Chairman of Statista. The discussion was packed with insights into the e-commerce industry’s trajectory, challenges, and the transformative power of data-driven decision-making. Curious about what they talked about? Find out below!
In the interview Friedrich Schwandt shared with us his journey from studying statistics and econometrics to founding two data-centric companies.
Our guest started with discussing Statista’s journey and its impact on the data industry. He discussed the company’s founding vision of creating a centralized platform for statistics, which has evolved into a leading global data provider. Friedrich Schwandt highlighted Statista’s commitment to delivering reliable and comprehensive data, emphasizing the importance of data accuracy and accessibility for informed decision-making across various sectors. He also touched upon the company’s strategies for international expansion and adapting to the dynamic data landscape.
ECDB: A new era of e-commerce data insights
His passion for creating and shaping impactful platforms has also resulted in founding ECDB which provides comprehensive data insights for e-commerce transactions globally. The platform aggregates over a billion transactions per month, analyzing metrics like revenue, customer behavior, and market trends for tens of thousands of retailers. Friedrich Schwandt described ECDB as a tool that empowers businesses to optimize their operations and strategize for future growth, making it a game-changer for companies navigating the complexities of digital retail.
State of e-commerce in Germany and beyond
The discussion then shifted to the state of e-commerce in Germany and beyond. Our guest observed that after the pandemic-induced boom, e-commerce growth has leveled off. While some sectors, like fashion and electronics, face stagnation, others, such as groceries and health, are experiencing significant growth. He also shared his insights on emerging trends, highlighting the growth of cross-border e-commerce, a shift among companies from growth-at-all-costs to sustainable, profit-driven strategies, and the noticeable impact of Asian players like Shein and AliExpress on European markets.
Our guest highlighted the e-commerce industry’s current obsession with profitability, a departure from the growth-driven mindset of the low-interest era. He argued that companies must now focus on long-term profitability by defining their unique value propositions—whether through brand strength, cost leadership, or niche positioning.
The discussion also delved into pricing strategies, emphasizing the need for top-management involvement and a shift from cost-based to value-based pricing. Friedrich Schwandt underscored the importance of brand loyalty in driving profitability, noting that a strong brand acts as an “insurance” during economic downturns.
The road ahead
Looking toward the future, Friedrich Schwandt believes e-commerce is no longer a standalone channel but a core component of every industry. He sees untapped potential in areas like B2B e-commerce and automotive sales, where traditional models are slowly giving way to digital innovation.
Curious to learn more from our guest? Watch the full talk below:
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