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The EU e-commerce market in a pandemic context – linking demographic factors and territorial convergence

    Ancuța Stângaciu Affiliation
    ; Laura Țimiraș Affiliation
    ; Luminița Zaiț Affiliation
    ; Bogdan Nichifor Affiliation
    ; Marcela Danu Affiliation
    ; Eugenia Harja Affiliation

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the European Union’s e-commerce market within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It examines the correlation between demographic factors and the territorial convergence of e-commerce activities across EU member states. By leveraging empirical data and employing the General Linear Model – Repeated Measures (GLM-RM) to analyze temporal changes in the phenomena of interest across EU countries, the study provides a nuanced understanding of the market’s evolution during and after the pandemic. The research reveals a notable expansion in the EU’s e-commerce market value, leading to a reduction in economic disparities among member states. It highlights the role of consumer demographics in shaping online shopping behavior, with age being a pivotal factor that demonstrates significant variations. Additionally, the study delves into the differential performance of various product categories, reflecting a pattern of selective sectoral convergence. A key finding is the pandemic’s dual role as a disruptor and an accelerator for digital integration, particularly in enhancing digital inclusivity in less economically developed EU regions. This study contributes to the broader discourse on e-commerce market dynamics in times of global crises, offering valuable insights for policymakers and business strategists.

Keyword : e-commerce, demographic factors, online purchases, EU, share of e- commerce in GDP, convergence, pandemic period

How to Cite
Stângaciu, A., Țimiraș, L., Zaiț, L., Nichifor, B., Danu, M., & Harja, E. (2024). The EU e-commerce market in a pandemic context – linking demographic factors and territorial convergence. Journal of Business Economics and Management, 25(1), 21–46. https://doi.org/10.3846/jbem.2024.20705
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Jan 26, 2024
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