Chinese online marketplace Temu is understood to be recruiting new UK-based suppliers as it ramps up growth in the country and increases pressure on its high street rivals with reduced delivery times.
Under a new “local” initiative at Temu, customers can buy products from suppliers in the UK that are set to arrive in between one and two days, as first reported by The Times.
Temu shoppers to date, of which there are more than 12 million in the UK, have only been able to order products from Chinese suppliers which can take up to two weeks to arrive.
Temu products sourced in the UK are understood to be “predominantly bulky goods” including furniture, tents, winter coats and kitchen appliances.
The Chinese retail giant has hired directors from rival marketplace eBay to build its localised business in the UK and is said to be recruiting “dozens more people” in the country.
The opening of a London-based office is also reportedly on the cards.
Market intelligence company Sensor Tower reported that there are now more than twice as many UK customers using the Temu app than there are using those of competitors Amazon or eBay, as the Chinese retailer continues to win consumer spend in an increasingly competitive market.
Temu continues to face scrutiny, alongside Chinese fast-fashion giant Shein, regarding a tax loophole that allows the businesses to avoid import duties on small packages sent directly to customers.
Temu denied its new “local” business strategy in the UK is related to mitigating the impact of increased import duties.
A Temu spokesperson said: “Temu is actively recruiting UK-based sellers to broaden the range of affordable, quality products on our platform.
“This initiative reflects our strategy to support local businesses while offering customers a more diverse selection of goods.”
No comments yet