Small crafts and design businesses usually start their sales through Facebook and Instagram or at local markets where it is easy to communicate directly with buyers, but this can be quite time-consuming for both the seller and for the buyer who may just prefer to browse, click and buy. This means the craft-maker now has to learn about selling online and the complexities of ecommerce. Now they face a critical decision – whether to build their own website or leverage the power of established online marketplaces. Both have their own advantages, but many then realise that building a website entails a lot more costs both financial as well as time.
Aside from the time and cost of building a site, there can be many ongoing fees for maintenance, updates, hosting, and having a site does not mean more sales. Investing in SEO and ads is extremely costly, not to mention all the intricacies of setting up Google Merchant Center, Facebook Marketplace, tracking analytics and all the other things involved in selling online through one’s own website. This is why selling on a marketplace can be far more attractive.
One of the most enticing benefits of joining an online marketplace is the immediate exposure to a diverse audience. By tapping into the existing and growing customer base, many crafts and designs can quickly gain far more visibility and reach potential buyers who might never otherwise stumble upon an independent website.
Marketing can be a daunting task for small businesses with limited resources. When you opt for an online marketplace, you leverage the platform’s marketing efforts. These established marketplaces invest heavily in attracting and retaining customers, allowing you to benefit from their advertising, promotional campaigns, and search engine visibility. This not only saves you time but also significantly reduces your marketing expenses.
Building a secure and reliable e-commerce website from scratch involves a considerable investment in both time and money. On the other hand, online marketplaces provide a ready-made, trusted infrastructure. They handle crucial aspects such as payment processing, data security, and transaction management, freeing you from the complexities of maintaining a secure online environment.
Launching your own website requires technical know-how, ongoing maintenance, and constant updates. Online marketplaces, however, offer a streamlined and user-friendly setup process. You can have your crafts listed and ready for sale in a matter of hours, sparing you the intricacies of website development and allowing you to focus on what you do best – crafting unique and beautiful designs.
Joining an online marketplace places you within a community of like-minded creators. Interacting with fellow artisans and designers fosters collaboration, learning, and networking opportunities. You can gain inspiration, share experiences, and even cross-promote your products within this supportive community, enhancing your business’s visibility and credibility.
While the dream of an independent online presence is enticing, the benefits of selling on established marketplaces are undeniable for small crafts and design businesses. From better exposure and reduced marketing efforts to trusted infrastructure and community engagement, these platforms provide a launching pad for your business to thrive in the competitive e-commerce landscape.
At SpecialGitfs.ie, we do not charge any upfront fees, subscription costs or ad fess. We just take a very fair commission when processing sales, which is far more competitive than most other marketplaces. We also focus on quality and keeping everything local so if you’re interested in more info, just drop us a line: [email protected]
As February is upon us, love is in the air, and the world prepares to celebrate the most romantic day of the year – St. Valentine’s Day. While this day has become synonymous with love and affection, its origins are shrouded in the mists of time. Join us on a journey back in history as we unravel the captivating story behind the creation of St. Valentine’s Day.
In a world of mass-produced goods, there’s an irreplaceable charm in owning something crafted with love and dedication. When you choose to buy local Irish products, you’re not just making a purchase; you’re investing in a piece of Ireland’s rich culture and heritage. Here are compelling reasons why supporting local Irish businesses should be at the heart of your shopping endeavours.
In this gift guide, we will explore a range of
