4 Signs it's Time To Get Off Etsy
So you started selling your products on Etsy because it was quick to set up, made your products easily searchable for your target customer, and didn't have to build a whole website to get going. After all, you're a small business owner, not a Website Developer, right? Etsy is GREAT for new e-commerce businesses that are just getting off the ground. However, after a certain point, Etsy no longer makes sense and can actually end up stunting the growth of your business. Transitioning from Etsy to your own e-commerce website could be a total game-changer for your e-commerce business, but when's the best time to make the switch?
Here are 4 signs it's time to get off Etsy and get some online retail space of your very own:
Your Brand Needs Room to G R O W
Etsy provides an excellent platform for starting your e-commerce journey, but as your brand evolves, you may find its design limitations hindering your growth. A big part of what your target customer is buying into is your brand. And let's face it, Etsy's predetermined design structure doesn't allow for much brand expression. Having your own e-commerce website empowers you to build a unique online store to express your brand's identity and captivate your target audience. The freedom to create a full online retail experience for your customer rather than just a transactional one is essential for growth.
You're sick of all those unnecessary fees
I'm just gonna say it, Etsy charges a dumb amount in fees. Between transaction fees, listing fees, it seriously impacts your profit margins. Switching to an e-commerce platform like Shopify, you can set your own pricing, reduce transaction costs, and majorly maximize your profitability.
You're Tired of Being Surrounded By Competition
While Etsy provides a platform for you to showcase your products, the sheer volume of sellers can not only make it difficult for your product to really stand out, it's one giant pricing competition. If another seller is offering a similar product at a lower price, your target customer is more often than not going to go with the cheaper product. This can often lead to small business owners pricing their products lower than they feel comfortable, which can lead to burnout and low-profit margins.
Your Marketing Strategy Needs a Boost
Effective marketing is vital for business growth, but etsy's marketing capabilities are...how should I say this...nonexistent? Selling from your own e-commerce website, allows you to implement robust marketing tools and integrations that empower you to reach a broader audience. From SEO optimization and customizable meta tags to social media integration and email marketing, platforms like Shopify offer an array of features designed to amplify your brand's visibility and drive customer engagement in ways Etsy just can't match.
Resonate with any of the signs above? It's probably time to consider switching from Etsy to your own e-commerce website. With the potential customization options, pricing control, marketing capabilities, and super approachable user interface, it's the perfect next step for any small retail business ready to stop playing small and get serious about building a thriving brand and e-commerce business!
Not sure if this is the right time for you to make the switch? Shoot us a message and we'll have a super casual, completely obligation-free chat to let you know!
