E-commerce Models: B2B, B2C, C2C, C2B, B2A and C2A
Why in the news
India’s business-to-business online trade has expanded strongly, putting e-commerce models in focus.
Key facts
- Drivers: digital tools among firms including MSMEs, smoother procurement, better logistics.
- Digitised supply chains bring savings, transparency and efficiency.
| Model | Meaning | Example or feature |
|---|---|---|
| B2B | Business to business | Bulk goods, large recurring orders |
| B2C | Business to consumer | Most common; customer experience |
| C2C | Consumer to consumer | Second-hand sites like OLX |
| C2B | Consumer to business | Freelancers, influencers, photographers; reverse of B2C |
| B2A | Business to administration | Software, equipment, consulting for public bodies |
| C2A | Consumer to administration | Tax filing, bill payment, documents |
Exam angle
- Reverse of B2C: C2B.
- OLX-type platforms: C2C.