Temu reports that 34 percent of European small businesses selling on the platform have expanded into new markets since joining. Another 50 percent of the surveyed sellers reported that they have increased production capacity, hired additional staff, or done both. These findings come from a survey of 152 small businesses located in Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Poland, and the United Kingdom. The marketplace asserts that it serves as a pathway for merchants to scale their cross-border ecommerce operations. The data indicates a significant shift in how small enterprises approach international trade, leveraging digital marketplaces to bypass traditional barriers.
Temu launched in Europe in 2023 and opened its doors to European sellers the following year. The company states that it is active in over 90 markets, including all member states of the European Union. Sellers from more than 35 markets can now register on the site. According to the report, 75 percent of respondents consider the marketplace an important additional sales channel, with 25 percent citing it as their primary channel. This widespread adoption suggests that the platform has successfully integrated itself into the sales strategies of a diverse range of merchants.
The data also suggests that long-standing businesses are entering the platform. About 43 percent of the sellers surveyed had been operating for more than a decade before joining Temu. This indicates that established companies are utilizing the marketplace to reach a wider audience. The report notes that the company has been in communication with ecommerce associations, industry bodies, and other stakeholders to support local sellers. These interactions aim to support a collaborative environment that benefits both the platform and the local economy.
Despite these efforts, sellers often identify complexity, cost, and support as primary challenges. The survey found that 38 percent of respondents value the ease of use of the seller platform, while 35 percent consider the cost structure fair. When asked about dedicated support, 65 percent of sellers indicated that they find this aspect valuable. These statistics highlight the specific areas where the marketplace excels and where there is room for improvement to better serve the merchant base.
The company’s spokesperson stated that the findings highlight the potential for small businesses and entrepreneurs to grow if they have access to simpler, more affordable ways to reach new customers. The spokesperson added that the company looks forward to continuing its work to help sellers grow at home and abroad and create jobs within their communities. This vision aligns with the platform’s broader goal of democratizing access to global commerce for smaller entities.
While the survey data shows growth, the path for smaller merchants to handle international regulations and logistics can be difficult. Even with a supportive platform, a seller might struggle to manage supply chain logistics across borders without dedicated staff. This could limit expansion for some businesses despite the initial interest shown by sellers. Temu’s expansion into the UK reflects a broader trend of digital platforms reshaping global trade.