E-commerce has revolutionized the relationship between users and businesses, becoming the basis for many projects that are born and grow exclusively in the digital environment. Online sales represent one of the areas of greatest global growth: it is estimated that they will reach 5.8 trillion euros by the end of 2024, according to a report by eMarketer.
But ecommerce is not just an online store; there are multiple models that define how businesses, consumers and even governments interact in the digital world. Did you know that choosing the right model can make the difference between the success and failure of your business?
In this article we will explore the 9 most important types of ecommerce, give you practical examples and analyze the trends that are currently revolutionizing the sector.
An ecommerce is a digital platform that allows the purchase and sale of products or services over the Internet. Depending on the parties involved in the transaction (companies, consumers or governments), we can identify different e-commerce models.
Ecommerce can be classified into three main blocks according to the actors involved:
-B2 (Business to): Companies lead transactions.
-C2 (Consumer to): Consumers as protagonists.
-A2 (Administration to): Public administrations as an active party.
Here are the 9 most relevant types of ecommerce, along with examples and tips to differentiate them.
A b2b ecommerce is a business that takes place between two companies. Neither end consumers nor individuals are involved in their transactions. The clearest example is wholesalers selling products to retailers.
Some of the subtypes that we can find of b2b would be intermediaries that seek to close transactions between buyers and sellers.
Key trend for 2025: Automation of B2B processes using AI to improve inventory and logistics management.
B2C ecommerce is the most common model: companies sell directly to the end consumer.
-Real example: Online stores such as Amazon, Zara or any business with its own digital store.
-Practical advice: If you have a B2C ecommerce, consider creating a mobile app for your business. 70% of online purchases are made from mobile devices.
In this model, companies sell products or services directly to government agencies.
-Real example: businesses that develop accounting software or administrative management platforms.
B2E business models, business-to-employee, allow their workers to acquire some products or services with some additional benefit. Generally, this is a branding strategy for each company and allows for greater talent acquisition and retention.
-Key trend: Increased interest in B2E ecommerce from companies and startups looking to differentiate themselves through employee incentives.
They are all those electronic commerce that facilitate transactions between companies and investors.
The c2b type of ecommerce responds to transactions between consumers and businesses.
The best example for these businesses is, for example, image banks, where some photographers sell their content.
Consumer-to-consumer without going through any business itself, but using some platform or service that facilitates the transaction.
The clearest example of C2C is transactions through Vinted or AirBnB.
The public administration can offer through its A2B ecommerce some services for companies. For example, contracting a license or paying a tax through a government ecommerce application. They are also known as G2B, which stands for Government to Business.
Finally, the last type of ecommerce according to intermediaries that we will see today is the A2C ecommerce, that is, the transactions that are made from an ecommerce of the public administration and the consumer or ordinary citizen.
Generally, they are also related to the settlement of taxes or the completion of certain procedures.
Ecommerce continues to grow at an unstoppable pace, consolidating its position as one of the most dynamic and competitive sectors of the global economy. According to eMarketer's report, global ecommerce sales will reach $6.3 trillion by 2025, a figure that reflects both the expansion of digital marketplaces and consumers' adaptation to new ways of buying.
Within this scenario, mobile apps are rapidly gaining prominence. In fact, according to Statista, in the United States, 30% of ecommerce sales are already mobile. And this figure is expected to continue to rise in the coming years.
Apps not only offer a smoother and more personalized user experience, but also drive loyalty, thanks to features such as personalized notifications, shortcuts and exclusive options. For ecommerce, having a mobile app is not just a competitive advantage, but a strategic necessity to stand out in a saturated and ever-changing marketplace.
Regardless of the type of ecommerce you manage, one factor remains the same: a convenient, agile and simple shopping experience is key for users. A mobile app not only improves accessibility, but also allows you to offer faster, more personalized experiences focused on the needs of each customer.
Whether you work in the B2C sector, where mobile purchases lead the market, or in B2B, where fast transactions are essential, having an app can be a strategic differential for the success of your project.
Why? Apps offer immediate accessibility, personalized notifications and exclusive features that increase loyalty. For example, brands with well-designed apps can experience up to 6x conversion rate growth.
If your ecommerce does not yet have a mobile app, you are missing a strategic opportunity. At Reskyt, we design apps adapted to each business model, helping you to improve the customer experience and maximize your sales. Ask for a no obligation demo of your business and we will show you a 100% functional demo of your ecommerce.