Types of E-Commerce: Understanding Online Business Models for Filipino MSMEs
The Growing World of E-Commerce in the Philippines
E-commerce has transformed how businesses operate in the modern world — and the Philippines is no exception. With more Filipinos shopping online through mobile devices and social platforms, understanding the different types of e-commerce is now essential for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that want to stay competitive.
In simple terms, e-commerce refers to buying and selling products or services over the internet. But beyond that definition lies a variety of models that determine who sells, who buys, and how transactions happen. Each model presents unique opportunities for Filipino businesses.
For local entrepreneurs ready to take advantage of this shift, tools like Bentamo Hub (BNTM HUB) — an all-in-one business management platform developed by BNTM Technologies Inc. — provide the flexibility and integration needed to manage e-commerce efficiently. Built in Cagayan de Oro, this Filipino-made solution empowers MSMEs to manage sales, inventory, payments, and customer relationships in one place.
Why Understanding the Types of E-Commerce Matters for MSMEs
Knowing the types of e-commerce helps entrepreneurs choose the right model for their products and target markets. Many MSMEs start selling online through social media, but scaling up requires more structured systems — from online payments to automated inventory and finance management.
By identifying which e-commerce model fits best, business owners can design better strategies and use the right digital tools to streamline operations. With Bentamo Hub, MSMEs can support any e-commerce model through integrated modules that synchronize sales, stock, finance, and customer data.
The 4 Main Types of E-Commerce Models
Let’s explore the main types of e-commerce and how each applies to Filipino MSMEs:
1. Business-to-Consumer (B2C)
This is the most common form of e-commerce. Businesses sell directly to individual customers — think of fashion retailers, restaurants, gadget shops, or online groceries.
For example, a local clothing brand in Davao or Manila can sell online through its website instead of relying solely on mall kiosks. With an e-commerce system, customers can browse products, place orders, and pay digitally.
Using Bentamo Hub’s E-Commerce Module, MSMEs can easily set up online stores, manage orders, and synchronize inventory automatically. Every sale updates the Inventory Management and Finance modules in real time, ensuring that business owners always have accurate data on stock levels and revenue.
2. Business-to-Business (B2B)
B2B e-commerce involves transactions between two businesses. For instance, a furniture manufacturer in Cebu may supply items to multiple retail stores or interior design firms.
B2B requires a system that can handle large orders, invoicing, and recurring payments. Bentamo Hub’s Online Payments & Invoicing Module simplifies this process by generating digital invoices and recording transactions instantly. The Finance Management Module then provides summaries for accounting and analysis — helping MSMEs manage bulk operations with ease.
3. Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C)
This model happens when individual sellers trade with other consumers through online marketplaces or social platforms — such as Facebook Marketplace or Carousell.
Although C2C often involves smaller transactions, MSMEs can learn from its convenience and reach. Entrepreneurs who start as small online sellers can eventually scale into formal e-commerce operations using Bentamo Hub’s system — transitioning smoothly from informal to structured digital selling.
Bentamo’s modular approach allows these businesses to start small with one module and expand as they grow.
4. Business-to-Government (B2G)
This lesser-known model refers to businesses providing goods or services to government institutions. For example, an MSME offering IT services or office supplies can bid for government contracts online.
In this model, compliance, documentation, and proper invoicing are crucial. Bentamo Hub helps MSMEs maintain professionalism by managing records, contracts, and financial transparency within a single platform — ensuring readiness for formal engagements with larger institutions.
Emerging Types of E-Commerce
Beyond the four primary models, several emerging types of e-commerce are gaining traction among Filipino businesses:
- Direct-to-Consumer (D2C): Brands sell directly to customers, bypassing traditional distributors. Many Filipino skincare and fashion brands now use this approach through online stores powered by tools like Bentamo Hub.
- Consumer-to-Business (C2B): Freelancers and creators offer services or content to companies, such as photographers selling images or consultants providing digital services.
- Mobile Commerce (M-Commerce): Transactions done primarily through smartphones — now dominant in the Philippines, where mobile penetration is high.
- Social Commerce: Selling through social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. Bentamo Hub’s E-Commerce and CRM modules help MSMEs transition from social selling to structured e-commerce systems with real-time tracking.
How Bentamo Hub Simplifies Every Type of E-Commerce
E-commerce success depends on efficient management — from inventory to finance. Bentamo Hub (BNTM HUB) bridges all these functions seamlessly, giving MSMEs full visibility and control. Here’s how each relevant module contributes to different e-commerce types:
E-Commerce Module
Lets MSMEs build a digital storefront, manage product listings, and track orders. It syncs automatically with inventory and finance for accurate records.
Inventory Management Module
Monitors product levels across online and offline channels. Whether you’re in B2C or B2B, you’ll always know what’s in stock.
Online Payments & Invoicing Module
Simplifies collection for any e-commerce model. From direct consumer purchases to bulk corporate invoices, all payments reflect instantly in the Finance module.
Finance Management Module
Tracks expenses, revenues, and cash flow — helping MSMEs manage operations transparently. It’s especially useful for B2B or B2G transactions that require detailed reporting.
CRM Module
Keeps track of customer behavior, loyalty, and feedback — a critical tool for repeat sales in both B2C and D2C settings.
All of these modules work in real-time, accessible on any device, so business owners can monitor their operations anytime, anywhere. To learn more about the company behind this innovation, visit BNTM Technologies Inc..
Local Examples: How Filipino MSMEs Apply Different E-Commerce Models
1. Retail Boutiques (B2C)
A boutique in Quezon City sells apparel through an online store integrated with Bentamo Hub. Each order automatically updates inventory and records payment in the finance dashboard — eliminating manual work.
2. Food Suppliers (B2B)
A food packaging supplier in Laguna manages orders from restaurants and cafes using Bentamo Hub’s Invoicing and Finance modules, ensuring all transactions are digitally documented.
3. Freelancers (C2B)
Independent service providers use Bentamo’s digital invoicing to manage payments from multiple clients — a formal step up from manual receipts or chats.
4. Online Sellers (C2C transitioning to B2C)
A home-based seller on social media scales operations by launching an online store through Bentamo Hub’s E-Commerce module, transitioning from casual selling to professional e-commerce.
Common Challenges MSMEs Face Across E-Commerce Types
No matter which e-commerce model they follow, MSMEs often experience similar pain points:
- Fragmented Systems – Using different tools for sales, payments, and inventory leads to data mismatches.
- Manual Tracking – Without integration, errors in financial reports and stock levels are common.
- Limited Online Presence – Many MSMEs rely solely on social media without structured e-commerce setups.
- Payment Issues – Lack of automated tracking leads to delayed reconciliation.
Bentamo Hub addresses all these challenges by connecting every business function in one ecosystem — built specifically for Filipino MSMEs that value simplicity, affordability, and scalability.
To explore how Bentamo can power your e-commerce journey, contact Bentamo today.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Types of E-Commerce
1. What are the main types of e-commerce?
The four main types are B2C (Business-to-Consumer), B2B (Business-to-Business), C2C (Consumer-to-Consumer), and B2G (Business-to-Government).
2. Which type of e-commerce is most common in the Philippines?
B2C dominates, as most Filipino MSMEs sell directly to customers through online stores and social platforms.
3. Can I manage multiple e-commerce types under one system?
Yes. Bentamo Hub (BNTM HUB) allows MSMEs to manage B2C, B2B, or even C2C transactions in one connected workspace.
4. How does Bentamo Hub help with B2B transactions?
It streamlines invoicing, online payments, and finance tracking — ensuring transparency and efficiency for business-to-business operations.
5. What’s the best e-commerce system for MSMEs in the Philippines?
The best one is affordable, integrated, and locally supported. Bentamo Hub, built by BNTM Technologies Inc., offers all-in-one digital tools designed specifically for Filipino MSMEs.
The Future of E-Commerce for Filipino Businesses
The digital marketplace is no longer just an option — it’s the future. Whether you run a retail shop, supply chain business, or freelance service, understanding the types of e-commerce helps you choose the right path to grow online.
Filipino MSMEs now have access to powerful, homegrown platforms like Bentamo Hub, which make digital transformation simple and sustainable. By uniting e-commerce, payments, inventory, and finance, Bentamo Hub helps entrepreneurs manage everything from one dashboard — without complexity or high cost.
Ready to take your business online the smart way? Explore how Bentamo Hub can simplify your e-commerce operations — reach out today.