What: a ecommerce giant make a push into physical retail

Why it is important: as the pandemic has forced an increase in online retail, such moves show that physical retail still remain relevant and essential for retailers

Chinese retailer JD.com plans to expand its brick-and-mortar reach and aims for a network of 5 million physical stores in the next 3 years, as a response against online Chinese competition. The retailer won’t open 5 million units but will rely on its partner stores to reach its objectives. Through this aggressive physical push, JD wants to reach out to all customers, including the ones in smallest cities that are courted by competition, including rival Alibaba.

JD.com wants a network of 5 million stores as e-commerce battle heats up