Digitalization challenges the physical presence

When the Internet began in the early 2000s, it was predicted that many physical stores and services would disappear and become digitized. Retail and wholesale was one of the first to make the move from store to network. Several industries have followed in their footsteps, and there are pros and cons.

E-business.

Most people think of e-commerce when we talk about industries that have gone from a physical presence to a digital presence. It's not surprising that such a parallel is drawn. Seventy percent of Swedes regularly shop online. That is more than in any other Nordic country. Clothing and cosmetics make up a large group of products, but food, medicine and furnishings are also bought. 

In recent years, fitness and workouts have become digitized. Many gyms offer workouts and video tutorials with exercises you can do at home. Even sports companies like Nike and Adidas have expanded their workout programs. The gaming industry was one of the first to adopt digitization and has had an online presence since the early 2000s. Players have access to table games, slot machines, betting and live games right on their cell phones and computers. They have been developed and updated over time. Today, for example, you can log in to the online casino https://freespins24.net/ using bankID. Tools are offered to encourage responsible gaming, and players can set limits on both deposits and losses. 

Benefits of digitization  

Digitization has enormous benefits for both customers and businesses. For the customer, the need to go to a physical location or facility disappears because services are available regardless of location. The time aspect disappears and the customer doesn't have to think about getting to the store before it closes. Being able to shop or use other services on their own terms can reduce stress and pressure. 


For businesses, digitalization means lower costs. The need for physical space is eliminated and, depending on what is offered, a warehouse may suffice. Online boundaries are blurred and services and products can be offered in several other countries. In an effort to increase profitability, many companies are taking new routes. The big question is, is it always a successful recipe? Read in this article. 

Disadvantages of the transition

There are downsides to development. Some industries need human contact and presence. Those who only work out at home don't get the same help as in the gym. This means that exercises can be performed incorrectly, which can lead to injury. A training instructor could quickly see an error and correct it. People who are looking for a specific medication cannot communicate with pharmacists online the same way they would in a store, but have to wait for an answer. In doing so, there is a risk that they will buy a product that won't help them. 

 
E-commerce, on the other hand, is not exactly environmentally friendly, although many are trying to use environmentally friendly delivery options. Offering free shipping and free returns to their customers has led to many people ordering more than they actually intend to keep. This increases the burden on both shipping companies and emissions.


Despite digitalization, market analysts don't believe the so-called "death of stores" will actually happen. Many businesses and consumers still want a physical presence. More likely, physical presence will be streamlined and combined with digitization to fit our new way of consuming.