There is no shortage of challenges when it comes to the digital transformation of Quebec retail businesses. But they still need to act and accelerate their digital transformation to remain competitive.

Although the pandemic has forced companies to adapt, it remains much more strategic to plan the next steps so that this digital transformation is planned and not suffered. This is how it unfolds its full effect.

As the holiday season approaches, approximately 55% of Canadians plan to do their shopping online. And yet, in Quebec, nearly half of businesses say they use little or no digital technology.

That’s far too little when you consider that in Canada alone, online purchases have skyrocketed by $2 billion a month in 2021. Given this reality, it is important to build on the momentum created by the pandemic and step on the accelerator.

A reality full of possibilities

Ecommerce is a multitude of possibilities. A business established in Drummondville can now dream of selling in Amos, Toronto or Paris.

Something that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago.

But that’s not all about digital transformation. It is also the computerization of processes, in particular the digitization of stocks, the automation of the production chain and the opening of new markets.

The world is changing and the business community needs to keep up. It’s hard to imagine a small local business still open five years from now without an online presence. Digital transformation also means ensuring the survival of the convenience stores that are part of our culture.

Where to start How do I start or continue the round? Do I have the necessary skills in my company? While all of these questions can make you dizzy, there are tools to raise awareness and support Quebec businesses in their digital transformation journey.

Necessary support

No one would re-roof their home without being an expert, and the same goes for digital transformation. In order to recoup our investment of money and time, it is important to be accompanied by professionals when we start this process.

In this sense, the Association québécoise des technologies and the École des Entrepreneurs du Québec, with the support of the governments of Québec and Canada, in collaboration with several partners, have set up the Mon commerce en line, which allows Québec companies to be accompanied by experts in their digital transformation .

Entrepreneurs need to use all the tools at their disposal to move into the digital age. We must now move from thinking to action. The survival of our businesses and the growth of Quebec’s economy are at stake.

Nicole Martell, President and CEO, Association Québécoise des Technologies (AQT)

Marc Lapointe, Deputy Director General, Association Québécoise des Technologies (AQT)

Max La Roche, Digital Transformation Advisor for the Mon commerce en ligne program

Laura Pettigrew, Business Consultant and Trainer, School of Entrepreneurs of Quebec (ÉEQ)

Alexandre Berube, Economist specializing in Management, École des Entrepreneurs du Québec (ÉEQ)

manual champagne, General Manager, Retail Quebec