14-06-2023, 01:59 PM
(This post was last modified: 14-06-2023, 04:37 PM by Wildreamz.)
The idea that stationary sector is facing digital disruption is interesting. What's the angle and insights?
Personally a fan of cool, exotic, as well as practical stationaries. I have bought more stationaries (both online and offline) in recent years, even as we go increasingly paperless (I do own and use an iPad for notetaking and ideation as well).
That said, I recognize that disruption is not evenly distributed. Intuition suggest that the low-end (commoditized, non-differentiated) stationaries will get disrupted by cheaper options online; and high-quality, high-margin products will continue to command demand, perhaps more demand and margin today, due to more exposure (though YouTube, and online advertising etc) and accessibility to their product catalogue due to online channels (Shopee, Shein, Amazon etc.).
Edit: Asked ChatGPT4 and it gave some interesting insights:
ChatGPT4:
The stationary sector, like many others, is indeed facing disruption due to digital trends. You've pointed out some interesting angles and insights. Let's delve into a few aspects:
Digital Note-taking: The advent of tablets, smartphones, and applications for digital note-taking has changed the way people record information. As you mentioned, using devices like iPads for notes and ideation reduces the need for traditional paper-based stationery.
Environmental Concerns: There is a growing concern for environmental sustainability, and many consumers and businesses are looking to reduce paper consumption in favor of more eco-friendly practices, further pushing the decline of traditional stationery products.
Online Shopping: As you've mentioned, the rise of online shopping platforms like Amazon, Shopee, etc., has made it easy for consumers to buy stationery products online. This impacts the physical retail stores but could be an opportunity for stationery brands to expand their reach globally through online platforms.
Niche Market for Premium Products: There is a niche market of consumers who appreciate high-quality, exotic, or designer stationery. These are often seen as luxury items and can be used as gifts. Social media and online advertising have indeed made it easier for these high-end products to gain visibility among a global audience.
Customization and Personalization: One of the trends that have emerged is the demand for customized and personalized stationery items. Whether it’s for corporate branding or personal use, people are looking for products that can be tailored to their preferences.
Subscription Boxes: Subscription services offering a curated selection of stationery items delivered monthly have become popular. These often include unique or themed items that cater to stationery enthusiasts.
Artisan and Craft Market: There is a resurgence in interest in craft and artisan products, including stationery. This is partly driven by a desire for uniqueness and authenticity. Handmade paper, journals, or custom pens are examples.
Educational and Hobby-Based Demand: Despite the digitization, there is still a demand for stationery within educational settings. Furthermore, hobbies like scrapbooking, journaling, and drawing still require traditional stationery.
Hybrid Solutions: There are products that aim to bridge the gap between digital and paper, such as smart notebooks that can digitize handwritten notes, or styluses that feel like traditional pencils but are used on tablets.
Brick and Mortar Experience: Physical stationery stores could enhance the shopping experience by creating a more immersive and experiential environment. For instance, allowing customers to try out different pens on various paper types, hosting workshops, or offering expert advice on products.
In conclusion, while the traditional stationery sector is facing disruption, there are still opportunities for growth and innovation. The key for stationery businesses is to adapt to changing consumer preferences, leverage online platforms, and find ways to offer unique products or experiences that cannot be replicated digitally.
“If you buy a business just because it’s undervalued, then you have to worry about selling it when it reaches its intrinsic value. That’s hard. But if you can buy a few great companies, then you can sit on your ass. That’s a good thing.” - Charlie Munger