# E-Marketplace State of the Art and Trends: VR-ZOCO--An Architectural Proposal for the Future
###### Abstract
Selling immediately by eliminating the need to create and maintain a dedicated e-commerce website. 4. Accessing tools that perform valuable data collection and analysis on customer behavior, product performance, and market trends. 5. Streamlining order management and gain more time to focus on product development and customer satisfaction. In order to conduct business online, SMEs simply have to decide who they want to work with, which is an e-market selection problem [13]. However, it is crucial to recognize that, despite the undeniable benefits, the adoption of an e-marketplaces also entails distinctive challenges. One of the most notable disadvantages lies in the loss of control over the customer experience. By relying on external platforms, companies may find themselves limited in their ability to fully customize customer interaction from site design to customer service management. Furthermore, fierce competition within these portals can often result in market saturation, making standing out among a multitude of similar options a constant challenge [13; 14; 15]. Limited visibility and difficulty in differentiating the brand can become significant obstacles to building a unique and solid identity. Another critical challenge is the reliance on third parties to process payments and handle financial security. Although e-marketplaces usually provide integrated payment solutions, vulnerability to potential platform failures or cyberattacks can raise concerns about the security of financial data and customer trust. Finally, the fees associated with the use of these marketplaces must also be considered. Transaction fees and other charges can significantly impact profit margins, especially for smaller businesses. No longer being an issue exclusive to e-marketplaces but rather a general concern of e-commerce is the issue regarding environmental impact [16; 17]. There is a growing concern about the increase in the carbon footprint associated with packaging and shipping. The proliferation of individual packages, often with excess packaging, poses significant challenges to environmental sustainability. The expansion of online sales can also have an impact on local businesses. As shopping shifts to digital platforms, local retailers may experience a decline in football, negatively impacting the local economy and the vitality of communities [18]. The current vision of e-marketplaces challenges the underlying philosophy of the 15-minute city concept [19]. The preference for online shopping and home delivery not only undermines support for local businesses, which has a negative impact on the economy and community cohesion, but can also increase the carbon footprint associated with transport, which is contrary to the principles of sustainability. Changing the dynamics of these marketplaces is essential for reconciling them with the ideals of proximity and sustainability of 15-minute cities. In conclusion, although e-marketplaces provide a convenient gateway to the digital realm, it is imperative to holistically tackle their drawbacks. This comprehensive approach is crucial for optimizing the overall business experience and performance within the fiercely competitive digital landscape, aligning seamlessly with the core tenets of the 15-minute city concept. The primary objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current landscape of e-marketplace development and prevailing trends in the e-commerce domain. The focus was on gaining insight into the current state of these portals, identifying key patterns, and discerning the factors influencing their evolution. Ultimately, the aim was to use this understanding to propose a visionary outlook for the future of e-marketplaces. By synthesizing emerging trends and envisioning potential advances, we aim to contribute valuable perspectives that could shape the trajectory of e-marketplace development in the future.