October 1, 2024

How to Tap into a Global Audience with a Multilingual Store

In today's era of internet globalisation, having an online presence is as crucial for a business as that Monday morning cup of coffee! However, it’s not just about having an online store—it’s about having a multilingual ecommerce website.

 

That’s right! Limiting your potential by only catering to a single-language audience could hold your business back.

 

Researchreveals that 40% of customers won’t purchase from a website that isn't available in their native language. In fact, 65% prefer content in their own language. These statistics emphasise the importance of a multilingual online store that connects with your diverse customer base.

 

This becomes even more critical if you're selling in a country with multiple official languages or looking to expand internationally. To truly engage your target audience, a multilingual ecommerce website is essential. Discover how you can create one below.

 

The Importance of a Multilingual Ecommerce Website

Let’s explore why having a multilingual ecommerce website is crucial for brands aiming to broaden their reach.

 

Global Presence

Building a multilingual ecommerce website is more than just translating content; it’s about establishing a truly global presence. By making your online store accessible in multiple languages, you open the door to new markets and attract an international customer base.

 

Brand Image

A multilingual ecommerce website does more than just sell products—it promotes your brand. By offering customers the option to shop in their native language,you demonstrate a customer-centric approach, showing that you value their needs. This fosters trust and boosts your brand’s credibility, helping to strengthen your overall brand image.

 

SEO Advantage

Multilingual ecommerce websites also provide an SEO advantage. Search engines favour websites that cater to a wider audience, and having content in multiple languages can help your site rank higher in various regions, leading to increased organic traffic.

 

Local Legislation

When catering to a global audience, it's vital to comply with local language laws. By translating your website into the languages of your customers, you ensure that your store policies align with local regulations.

A multilingual ecommerce website guarantees that your customers are well-informed about policies in their native language, leading to a more transparent and trustworthy shopping experience.

Personalised Experience

Translating your store into your customers' preferred language offers a truly personalised experience. From browsing products to receiving transactional emails, every interaction will feel more relevant and engaging tothem.

Economic Advantage

Currency conversion plays a key role in shaping the customer’s shopping experience. Displaying product prices in the local currency enhances personalisation and ensures a seamless, hassle-free shopping experience on your multilingual ecommerce website.

 

How to Create a Multilingual Ecommerce Store

Setting up a multilingual ecommerce store might see mlike a complex task. On many platforms, it often requires installing paid apps or themes, creating a separate website, adding tabs, or even custom development.

At Rekisa, we’re committed to making your success as straightforward as possible by equipping you with the right tools. We’ve developed a seamless multilingual solution that allows your customers to effortlessly view your store in their preferred language with just a click.

Effortless Translation for Your Online Store

Select from 36 languages to easily translate yourstore directly from your Rekisa admin panel—no need for third-party software.

Rekisa automatically translates all interface text and store labels (such as buttons or headings on product pages) based on your customer's chosen language.

Your customers can select their preferred language while browsing, or it can be automatically detected via geolocation, ensuring a smooth and convenient shopping experience for both you and your customers.

 

Easily Add Custom Text Translations

Enhance your multilingual shopping experience by seamlessly adding translations for your custom text directly in the Rekisa admin. This includes product names, descriptions, variations, options, shipping methods, and more.No coding skills are required—simply copy and paste your translations for a smooth setup.

Adding Translations for Shipping Methods in the Rekisa Admin

Translate Key Store Documents

Improve your store’s policies and tax documents by providing translations that are localised, compliant, and easily understood by all your customers.

With Rekisa, you can automatically send translated tax invoices to customers in their preferred language, ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Additionally, you can add translations to essential legal documents,including your terms of service, privacy policy, and return policy.

Strengthen Customer Engagement with Translated Emails

Rekisa allows you to enhance customer interactions by automatically sending translated emails and notifications in the language your customers use while browsing your store.

Ready to get started? Set up a Rekisa account and follow the step-by-step guide in our Help Centre to create your multilingual ecommerce website with ease.

 

Examples of Multilingual Ecommerce Websites

In need of some inspiration? Have a look at these successful multilingual ecommerce websites powered by Rekisa:

Eden, a nonprofit dedicated to employing and educating disabled adults,sells natural wellness products. Their online store is available in two languages, making it accessible to a broader audience.

Lovely Roses is a floral boutique and delivery service with a website available in three languages.

Meanwhile, Banzai, a unique stationery and print shop, allows customers to choose from four languages. Now that's how you tap into the global market!

More Tips to Convert International Customers

If you're serious about expanding your business globally, it’s essential to evaluate your international shopping experience.

Creating a multilingual ecommerce website is a great first step, but here are a few additional strategies to consider:

  • Display Prices in Local Currency: International customers typically shop using their own currency, so eliminate the need for mental conversions. Use a Currency Converter app to show prices in local currencies, making the shopping experience seamless.
  • Offer Global Payment Solutions: Simplify payments for international customers by using a global provider like PayPal, available in over 200 countries. If you want to offer specific local payment options that are popular in certain regions, Rekisa offers over 70 integrated payment methods to choose from.
  •  Choose a Reliable International Shipping Provider: Ensure smooth global delivery by selecting trusted providers. Rekisa integrates with leading carriers like UPS, USPS, and FedEx,all of which offer fast and reliable international shipping.
  • Set Up Taxes and Comply with Local Laws: For example, if you have customers in the EU, you'll need to configure VAT and comply with GDPR regulations. Ensuring compliance with local tax and legal requirements is crucial to building trust.

In summary, a multilingual ecommerce website not only broadens your audience but also enhances the shopping experience for international customers. With the right tools and strategies, you can navigate the complexities of selling globally and successfully enter new markets.

Remember, having a global presence isn’t just about selling everywhere—it’s about understanding your customer’s language, meeting their needs, and exceeding their expectations. Don’t wait any longer; make your ecommerce website multilingual to become more customer-focused and accessible worldwide.

Sign up for Rekisa Academy and transform your eCommerce journey with expert insights and actionable techniques!

Originally sourced from Ecwid by Lightspeed