How to open a food e-commerce in 2025?

In recent years, the virtual trade in food has expanded significantly in Brazil. According to the Brazilian Association of Electronic Commerce (ABComm)42% online transactions grew between 2022 and 2024.

This advance reflects a transformation in consumer behavior, driven primarily by the Covid-19 pandemic, which accelerated the digitalization of retail.

In this context, many food entrepreneurs are betting on digital to expand their operations and reach a wider audience. But what are the initial steps to structure a food e-commerce in 2025?

Structuring the business: essential first steps

To start an e-commerce in the food segment, detailed planning is indispensable. Unlike other areas, this sector demands special attention with logistics, storage and compliance with health standards.

The first step is to define the model of action: will it be a trade in dry, perishable, organic or frozen products? Each type has specific requirements, from transportation to ideal conditions of conservation.

Another fundamental aspect is to obtain the necessary health authorizations.In Brazil, the marketing of food over the internet is regulated by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) and must follow the guidelines of the Consumer Protection Code.

In addition, the E-commerce Law (Decree 7.962/2013) establishes rules on transparency, exchange policy and clear information for customers.

Create your own website or sell via marketplace?

One of the first decisions for those who want to join the food e-commerce is to choose between developing an exclusive online store or using marketplaces. Having a website of your own ensures greater control over brand identity, user experience and pricing. 

However, consolidated platforms such as iFood and Mercado Livre already have an established audience and can expedite the first sales.

If you choose your own website, it is essential to invest in a secure and responsive platform.Functions such as integration with payment methods, adaptation to mobile devices and intuitive navigation contribute to a positive shopping experience.

How to promote e-commerce and attract customers

Business promotion is one of the pillars of e-commerce success. Strategies such as paid ads, content marketing and social networks help to win consumers and strengthen brand presence.In addition, partnerships with influencers and loyalty programs can increase engagement and encourage recurring purchases.

Another indispensable tool is SEO (Search Engine Optimization). Applying strategic keywords, creating detailed product descriptions and investing in blogs about healthy eating are effective ways to improve store positioning in search engines.

Logistics and delivery: challenges and solutions for the food sector

Perishable products, for example, require refrigerated transport and agile deliveries.Small and medium-sized businesses can turn to partnerships with specialized logistics companies or delivery applications to optimize the operation.

Fernanda Abdala, e-commerce manager at Banca do Ramon, comments on the adaptations necessary to ensure quality deliveries: “we work with high-end products and always analyze the logistics solutions that provide the customer with an experience similar to face-to-face shopping.Whether for wines and champagnes, or foods such as codfish and built-in, everything needs to maintain quality and arrive with agility.”

Another trend on the rise is the “dark store” model of small distribution centers focused exclusively on digital commerce. This strategy has been adopted by entrepreneurs seeking to reduce delivery time and ensure efficient service.

What to expect from the food e-commerce market in the coming years?

The growth of digital shopping is expected to continue to intensify, driven by convenience and the wide variety of products available online.For food business owners, investing in technology, optimized logistics and digital marketing actions will be essential to stand out from the competition.

Keeping up with trends and understanding consumer preferences are key factors for success in e-commerce. The future of online sales promises countless opportunities for businesses of all sizes that know how to innovate and meet the new demands of the modern public.