Here’s a breakdown of the provided text, focusing on the key points and themes:
The Core Problem:
high Prices in Argentina: Products in Argentina are significantly more expensive (up too five times) than in Chile. This is the primary driver for Argentines seeking alternatives.
The Solution/Trend:
Cross-Border Online Shopping: Argentines, particularly those from Mendoza, are increasingly shopping online from Chilean retailers like Falabella, Sodimac, Paris, and Adidas.
Simplified Process: Previously, this required a Chilean “rout” (likely a local address or contact).Now, Argentines can use their Argentine ID to create accounts, manage payments, and even have items delivered to their accommodation in Chile. This optimizes their travel.
Why This is Happening Now:
Winter Vacations: The timing coincides with winter vacations in Argentina,leading to increased travel to Chile. favorable Weather: good weather forecasts in the mountains are facilitating travel.
Increased Border Crossings: Data shows a meaningful number of Argentines traveling to Chile daily during the vacation period.
Payment and Logistics:
Payment Methods: Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted.
Financial Advice: Experts recommend having dollars in a bank account to pay without Argentine taxes.
New Business Opportunities: Some Argentines are capitalizing on this trend by offering services to pick up and deliver purchased items from chile to Argentina.
Impact on Argentine Businesses:
Initial Lack of Noticeable Impact: Mendoza merchants haven’t yet seen a significant impact from online cross-border shopping, as it’s currently a niche for a specific demographic.
Preference for Physical Stores: Some consumers still prefer physical stores for trying on clothes and shoes. Adaptation strategies: The Chamber of Commerce is working on a “pool” of purchases for small and medium-sized businesses to increase competitiveness and encourage imports and changes in their business models.
Acknowledgement of Impact: There’s an understanding that this trend will affect Argentine industry.Key Players and Locations:
José Alberto: A neighbour from mendoza who traveled to Chile.
Mendoza: The primary city mentioned as a source of cross-border shoppers.
Santiago: The capital of Chile, where the shopping malls are located.
Falabella, Sodimac, Paris, Adidas: Prominent Chilean retailers.
“We kept your request Chile”: An entrepreneurship offering delivery services.
* Adrián Alan: president of the Business Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Tourism and Services of the City of Mendoza.
In essence,the text describes a growing trend of Argentines leveraging the price disparity between Argentina and Chile by shopping online from Chilean retailers,facilitated by simplified processes and increased travel. This is prompting Argentine businesses to consider new strategies to remain competitive.
