Woolworths expands to China via Tmall

WoolworthsSupermarket giant, Woolworths, has launched its online store on Tmall Global, the overseas platform of Alibaba Group’s B2C Tmall business in China, enabling Chinese consumers to order a range of  products directly from the company.

The new e-commerce platform will provide an opportunity for Woolworths’ local suppliers to enter the China market, as Australian products are increasingly being sought by China’s rapidly growing middle class.

Steve Greentree, director, Woolworths FoodCo, said the company’s foray into international markets was driven by this demand:

“Woolworths is pleased to launch our store on Alibaba’s Tmall Global online site, opening up our business directly to Chinese consumers.

“We know there is a strong demand for high quality, Australian made products, and we’re proud to be able to supply those products into this market.”

In a statement regarding the partnership, Ken Ma, head of Australia, New Zealand and Japan regions for Tmall Global, reinforced Chinese consumers’ affinity with Australian products.

“Health and product safety is very important to Chinese consumers, who are very discerning in their choice of products and are willing to source them from trusted providers in countries like Australia,” Ma said.

“We’re delighted to have a retailer of Woolworths size and reputation open a store on Tmall Global”.

The Woolworths announcement comes as Tmall Global celebrates ‘Australia Day’ on Monday January 4, as the platform highlights a range of Australian brands and products available to Chinese customers.

Want more Inside Retail? Subscribe to Inside Retail Weekly now and get our premium print publication delivered to your door every week. 

You have 7 articles remaining. Unlock 15 free articles a month, it’s free.