Estonians are shopping (and shipping) smarter, keeping a close eye on prices—especially when it comes to delivery costs. According to Bauhof, changes in VAT earlier and mid-year have made customers more price-conscious than ever.
“Customers are increasingly looking for wallet-friendly alternatives,” said Artjom Bulgakov, Bauhof’s head of e-commerce. “While brand and quality remain important, price and delivery time are now the main drivers of purchase decisions.”
Bauhof’s strategy of keeping prices attractive year-round, rather than only during promotions, has led shoppers to buy more frequently, but in smaller quantities. In many categories, cheaper alternatives are now preferred over pricier options.
Shipping Costs Matter—A Lot
Price sensitivity extends beyond the product itself. “We see that customers prefer solutions where shipping doesn’t add extra cost,” Bulgakov explained. Bauhof’s popular “order & pick up” service, where customers order online and collect their items in-store, has proven both convenient and budget-friendly.
The company’s partnership with Venipak also helps keep delivery costs low and access convenient. “Our network of Venipak parcel machines makes affordable and easy parcel collection possible for everyone,” Bulgakov noted. Andrius Ladauskas, CEO at Venipak, added: “Working with Bauhof allows us to provide customers with a seamless, cost-effective delivery experience, which is increasingly important for Estonian shoppers.”
Home Renovation and Construction: Cheapest Often Wins
For Estonian homeowners, price often trumps everything else during renovation or construction projects. “It is crucial that all our products meet international standards, so customers can confidently choose the most affordable solution without compromising quality,” said Bulgakov.
Bauhof reports that this shift toward price-conscious shopping is visible across multiple product categories, from everyday items to DIY and home improvement products.