Spain, e-commerce and logistics
With several strong e-commerce players and a nation of consumers
that are increasingly spending online, Spain is an interesting market to keep an eye on. Here is what you need to know about e-commerce in Spain.
Why Spain?
Spain is the fifth most populated country in EU, with a population of 46.5 million people, out of which 80%1 uses the internet. It is also one of the fastest-growing e-commerce markets in the region.
E-commerce in Spain is progressively becoming more relevant. Spending comprised 6% of the countries GDP in 2022, ranking among the highest in Europe. Forecasts suggest that there will be a steady rise in e-commerce users and the significance of e-retail revenues until 2027, indicating that e-commerce wil account for a more substantial slice of the Spanish economy in the years ahead.2
- 32.7 billion USD
- B2C e-commerce market revenue
- 71%
- E-commerce penetration rate
- Amazon
- Online store with highest net sales value
[Stats taken from: www.statista.com/topics/7745/e-commerce-in-spain#topicOverview]
The e-commerce landscape
Internet penetration is high in Spain and estimated at 83%. Whilst e-commerce penetration is a 63%. The number of e-commerce users is expected to grow by 25% to 37 million by 20253
Convenience plays a pivotal role in the decision-making process for online shopping, followed by affordability. Being able to shop at all hours and organise a home delivery are some of the driving forces behind the recent surge in online shopping in Spain.
Opportunities
In Spain, consumers prefer shopping online via their desktop computers over any other device. Smartphones are catching up, but are not yet the average consumers device of choice.
Because the e-commerce landscape and consumer preferences are constantly changing, there is always room for new market trends to emerge. Livestream commerce is becoming progressively popular as well as the increased use of social networks for online sales and purchases. By 2023, more than half of e-commerce professionals in Spain were using Facebook for commercial purposes, while 46% had utilised Instagram.
Digital e-commerce growth in Spain
The year-over-year (YoY) change in revenue on a per-period basis. For instance, Q1 2020 over Q1 2019.
Logistics
There are many couriers and shipping companies offering to ship to Spain, as well as many major online markets. However, it pays to shop around to find the best rates. Other factors, such as delivery times and customer service may be of equal importance to you and your business, so we'd always recommend looking at the full picture.
You can familiarise yourself with the weights and prices of sending a package to Spain using our helpful shipping rates chart .
Keep in mind:
How much is VAT in Spain? The standard VAT rate in Spain is 21%. It applies to most goods and services. The two reduced VAT rates are 10% and 4%4
What our experts say:
“The potential for e-commerce in Spain creates vast opportunities. The time to get in is now.”
Simon Perkins, Commercial Director, SAMOS.