Step by step • Workers

Sancti Spíritus. — With the first presentation of the virtual store, the biopharmaceutical laboratory company (Labiofam) in this region has made a big leap into e-commerce. The idea, after a year of development, was launched on the digital market on September 21 in line with the new banking policy implemented in the country.

It is designed in four sections and you can access them directly by clicking on the link. So far, about 25 products identified by name, image and price are being sold. You also have the option to purchase sets. “It has had a huge impact. In the first weeks, sales of more than 50,000 pesos were recorded. We are monitoring the process and acceptance directly through a group created for this purpose on Telegram,” said Roseda Perez Lopez, the entity’s director.

Behind the virtual stage, “an organized team works with the aim of providing the best offers and achieving customer satisfaction.” The strategy is to gain product support and maintain diverse assortments because they are here to stay, the manager said.

The positive impact of this virtual store indicates the advantages of e-commerce to customers. It is a simple, secure and efficient way to obtain goods and services through virtual payment gateways, in times when withdrawing cash is difficult. It is cheaper, Pérez Lopez noted, as the banking system has created a reward for this type of transaction. “The benefits are also clear for entities, as it simplifies accounting procedures and strengthens internal control.”

The store represents a new departure, even though Labiofam Sancti Spíritus has been in the e-commerce business for about a year. “In the first phase we integrated the QR code into veterinary pharmacy services and wholesale payments through EnZona; “For independent producers we set it up through Transfermóvil,” the interviewee said. “Initially it did not have the expected usage, but currently there is an increase in sales through these channels and the QR has been expanded to include all points of sale.”

Technology, a first step

Since the entry into force of Resolution 111 of 2023 of the Central Bank of Cuba, many institutions in the province, both governmental and private, have joined the country’s policy of doubling payment options and marketing via digital platforms, mainly through the use of QR codes. .

The fishing company Sancti Spiritus (Piscaper) implemented this method in September in 14 boxes located in communities and municipal capitals, but has not yet recorded any sales through this means, said Yoande Rodríguez Panizo, the production manager of that company. Entity.

“The staff of all establishments have been trained to use technology and customer service, but this service does not arouse interest. In the coming days, payment options will be expanded to include Transfermóvil, as was first implemented by EnZona, and other strategies will be put in place to encourage Online commerce.

In the transition from physical money to electronic payment, although a giant step has been taken in the application of technology, there is a long way to go. Like everything new, it involves a change in mentality and an adaptation process, because not all residents are digitally literate. The technology gap is also real, linked to poor connectivity and the impossibility of owning a smartphone.