Despite the country’s economic challenges, Pakistan is home to many thriving B2B companies. These companies operate in different segments, including manufacturing and IT. It would not be wrong to conclude that these organisations are the backbone of the country’s economy. Not only do they employ thousands of people, but they also contribute billions in the form of taxes.
This article delves into Pakistan’s top ten B2B companies and sheds light on their contribution to the country’s economic development. Before doing so, it is imperative to gain a comprehensive understanding of what B2B entails, as some might not fully comprehend the term. The article will also discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the country’s B2B sector.
What is B2B?
B2b stands for business to business and refers to transactions/activities between businesses. For example, United Sol. provides eCommerce website development services to businesses to maximise the potential of their online stores. Another B2B example can be a chip manufacturer that sells chips to automobile companies to use in vehicles.
The automobile manufacturer will then sell the vehicles to individual customers, an example of a business-to-consumer (B2C) transaction. It is pertinent to remember that some businesses are B2B and B2C. Now that you are familiar with B2B let’s focus on Pakistan’s top B2B companies.
Top B2B Companies in Pakistan
1. Bazaar Technologies
It is one of Pakistan’s leading startups, amongst a few that have stayed put despite the economic challenges plaguing the country. This business, or rather a platform, connects over 5 million businesses in Pakistan. It allows businesses to procure materials from vendors nationwide and even manage payments through a single portal. Just last year, this startup raised $70 million Series B funding, a sign of its true potential.
2. Systems Limited
When discussing Pakistan’s IT industry, the discussion is incomplete without mentioning Systems Limited. It is amongst the few IT companies in Pakistan that truly have made a mark in the international market. The company employs almost 10,000 people and is geographically spread over 5 continents. The company is considered a specialist in different areas, including managed IT services. Its profit for 2022 – 2023 is PKR 6.63 billion, a reminder of how much value it generates for its shareholders and the country.
3. United Sol
The company has recently expanded into Canada, which signifies its growth and customer satisfaction. The company excels in eCommerce website development, branding, and creating compelling apps for businesses. Its most notable projects include developing interactive apps for Hyundai, Geely, and Wallan Group.
4. PTCL
Most Pakistanis only know about the consumer side of this company. However, PTCL is a prominent name in the B2B sector. It provides managed IT services, cloud services, and data centres to other businesses. Almost every bank in Pakistan is connected and secured through PTCL’s infrastructure. The PTCL Group employs more than 10,000 people directly and more than double through other arrangements. Its operating profit for 2022 – 2023 is PKR 2.9 billion.
While multiple companies operate in the same domain as PTCL, none come close to its size and country-wide presence. Indeed, it would not be wrong to say that PTCL plays a strong role in the country’s digital transformation by providing businesses with affordable solutions. Secondly, the organisation is committed to the youth’s development through a wide range of programs.
5. Buzz Interactive
This company specialises in everything digital. Whether a business requires an engaging website or wishes to build a robust social media presence, Buzz Interactive has the required expertise. Led by a team of youthful professionals, the company is quick to integrate the latest trends in its offerings.
6. iBytes
It is a leading robotic process automation and digital solutions company. It specialises in different RPA platforms, allowing it to cater to clients’ diverse needs across different industries. The company’s digital solutions include search engine optimisation, search engine marketing, and more. The company primarily targets small to medium enterprises.
7. Dastagyr
It is another leading B2B eCommerce platform that connects buyers with sellers. The platform is not limited to Pakistan alone. Instead, businesses benefit from buyers in the Middle East and North Africa region. By offering products to such a diverse target audience, Pakistani businesses will undoubtedly see improvements in revenue. It can help bring much-needed money into the country and boost its reserves.
8. Tekrowe
This company specialises in fully managed digital product development. Whether you need an application for in-house use or client-side, Tekrowe caters to all sorts of requirements. The company employs a diverse set of experienced professionals from different countries. It allows the company to leverage the best talent on a project, thereby ensuring top results.
9. HireNinja
The biggest challenge for organisations nowadays is hiring the right candidate. Even after spending valuable time and resources on candidate screening, an organisation may end up with an unsuitable candidate. HireNinja helps businesses overcome this challenge by leveraging the power of artificial intelligence to screen candidates. It connects businesses with expert coders, allowing them to execute projects seamlessly.
10. Catkin Engineering Sale and Services
It is a leading B2B and B2C solar solutions company. The company has various projects under its belt, including setting up a 100 KW solar project at a leading Pakistani university. The company is a specialist in HVAC systems and has earned a good reputation for its work quality.
B2B Trends in Pakistan
Driven by technological advancements, Pakistan’s B2B landscape is undergoing drastic changes. Here are some emerging trends to watch:
E-commerce Integration
Despite the high instances of fraud and other challenges, Pakistan’s eCommerce industry continues to flourish. Due to this, B2B companies are also leveraging the power of eCommerce to maximise their reach. It is evident from the large number of businesses that are registered with Bazaar Technologies and Dastgyr.
Digital Transformation
While B2B transactions were mostly done using conventional ways, all this is changing now. B2B firms are undertaking digital transformation projects to streamline their processes and enhance the customer experience. They are more open to the idea of using data-driven insights to guide decision-making as it helps them better manage economic uncertainty.
Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainable practices and Pakistan are not something one often hears together, especially in a positive context. Unfortunately, despite being amongst the most vulnerable countries to be affected by climate change, the country has done little to address the problem. There is no national-level framework that addresses the problem. However, B2B companies in Pakistan are adopting sustainable measures to reduce their footprint. It is indeed a positive development.
Challenges and Opportunities for B2B Companies
While the B2B sector in Pakistan is thriving, it also faces unique challenges and opportunities:
Infrastructure Development
The need for improved infrastructure, including transportation and logistics, presents both a challenge and an opportunity for B2B companies to invest in and innovate within these sectors.
Regulatory Environment
Adapting to evolving regulations and ensuring compliance is a constant challenge. However, businesses that proactively engage with regulatory changes can gain a competitive edge.
Globalisation
As the world becomes more interconnected, B2B companies in Pakistan have the opportunity to tap into international markets. This requires a keen understanding of global trade dynamics and cross-cultural business practices.
New Markets
Due to the faltering economy, the government is actively pursuing foreign investors and looking for new markets. An increase in foreign investment would provide B2B companies an opportunity to receive a much-needed financial boost. The new markets present would allow the companies to expand their target market.
Conclusion
Like any other country, Pakistan’s B2B sector employs millions of people and accounts for a significant portion of the gross domestic product. The sector can play a greater role in the country’s economic development by exploiting the available opportunities and addressing the challenges. With the right strategies and a commitment to innovation, Pakistan’s B2B sector can attain new levels of success.
