In an era where generative AI and advanced technologies are reshaping industries, 2024 is emerging as a pivotal year in the evolution of B2B ecommerce. The B2B Ecommerce Site Search Trends 2024 report, a study Algolia recently conducted in partnership with Escalent, Inc., captures this transformation, focusing on how B2B organizations are leveraging AI-driven search and discovery platforms to enhance their digital capabilities and drive sales.

Data and insights from this report provide a roadmap for B2B decision-makers seeking to expand and intensify B2B ecommerce through search and discovery technology and AI. The core of the report is a comprehensive analysis of the B2B buyer's journey for search platforms and technology that will help B2B organizations stand out in an increasingly competitive marketplace, reduce costs, and drive profitability.

Responses across the board indicate that a top strategy for B2B organizations during 2024 is to scale revenue by shifting it to ecommerce channels. Many are already building toward those aims, with 48% either recently invested in ecommerce or prioritizing it for the year ahead. Building on those investments, B2B organizations aim to stand out in a competitive marketplace, reduce costs by simplifying and automating business processes, and drive profitability. To achieve those aims, B2B businesses need solutions that can help boost ecommerce sales and increase market share. Many are embracing AI-powered tools and technology in the search and discovery space.

B2B organizations currently face tech stack limitations that complicate or slow performance, as well as frontend platform challenges that inhibit merchandisers and business users. B2B organizations are seeking advanced search solutions and platform upgrades to

At the frontend, B2B organizations continue striving to deliver a faster, more accurate, and more personalized customer experience. They're seeking tools and platforms that better understand user intention, leverage user preferences, and provide accurate and up-to-date product and inventory information in real-time – enhancements that improve the shopping experience and drive sales. A key trend emerging from the report is that B2B decision-makers are preparing to employ AI-powered search tools with advanced generative AI features as well as data analytics to deliver an overall better experience across the board to their customers—regardless of industry.

Ultimately, decision-makers are looking for solutions that personalize the customer experience (46%), reduce manual labor and associated costs (42%), and improve the accuracy and relevance of search results (38%).

As we step into 2024, the B2B ecommerce landscape is delving further into what is shaping up to be a transformative era, driven by rapid advancements in AI and ML-led technologies. The readiness of companies in this space to embrace the AI wave is varied, reflecting a spectrum of digital maturity. However, one thing is clear: the adoption of AI is no longer a futuristic vision but a present-day imperative. Below, Algolia search experts provide guidance on how to get started on your journey to provide an AI-enabled performant search experience.

Companies' readiness for AI-powered technology is a complex matrix of infrastructure, mindset, and skill set. A significant portion of the B2B ecommerce sector is making strides, with investments in digital infrastructure and a growing openness to innovation. However, there remains a gap between the early adopters and the majority who are cautiously optimistic but still navigating the basics of digital transformation.

To gauge readiness, companies must assess their current technological infrastructure, data management capabilities, and the AI readiness of their workforce.

Companies need to invest in robust ecommerce platforms that are AI-compatible. This includes scalable cloud solutions, advanced data analytics tools, and cybersecurity measures.

Central to AI integration is a comprehensive data strategy. Companies must ensure data is not only clean and well organized but also compliant with privacy regulations.

Cultivating an AI-ready culture is essential. This involves training employees to work alongside AI tools. Additionally, fostering a mindset that embraces continuous learning and adaptation is crucial.

For many B2B companies, developing in-house AI solutions may not be feasible. Partnering with AI solution providers can offer access to cutting-edge technology and expertise.

Customer expectations in B2B ecommerce are evolving rapidly, influenced by B2C experiences. Today's customers expect personalized, efficient, and seamless online experiences. They are increasingly comfortable with AI-driven recommendations, chatbots, and automated services, expecting these technologies to be integrated into their B2B buying journey.

This shift in expectations serves as a barometer for companies' readiness and positioning. Companies that align their digital strategies with these expectations are more likely to gain a competitive edge, improve customer satisfaction, and drive sales.

AI enables hyper-personalized experiences tailored to individual business needs and preferences at a scale previously unattainable.

From automated customer service to AI-driven inventory management, these technologies are streamlining operations, reducing costs, and improving accuracy.

By understanding complex search queries and learning from user interactions, AI algorithms can deliver more relevant and precise search results, leading to a more seamless B2B buying experience.

Enhanced data analytics capabilities are enabling more informed decision-making, from product development to market strategies.

AI's ability to analyze vast amounts of data provides deeper insights into customer behavior, preferences, and trends.

As B2B ecommerce ventures forward, the integration of AI and technology is not just an option but a necessity. The journey toward AI readiness involves a holistic approach encompassing technology, people, and processes, with a keen eye on evolving customer expectations. In this journey, partnerships with AI experts can provide the necessary momentum and direction.