Should I Sell on Marketplaces?

Inquiring minds want to know. Finally here’s an honest answer

I’m often asked, “Should I be selling my products on marketplaces?” For some that’s a loaded topic that opens up deeper questions about diluting your brand, potentially losing margin, and opening yourself up to copycats. We could go on for days, but I like a simpler approach.“Should I sell on #marketplaces?” Here’s your answer. @Amazon @eBay @Etsy @Magento Click To Tweet

I say, yes, sell on marketplaces, like Amazon or eBay, and here’s why. Everyone should experiment with this sales model because there’s lots to learn from it, but it shouldn’t be the only strategy. Everyone knows it’s not wise to build a house on land that’s owned by someone else. Also, it’s good to diversify. So, if you’re going to build an e-commerce business and all of your sales are driven by a single marketplace, don’t be surprised if, in a few years, the rules of the game change and you no longer can sell on that channel. Or don’t be caught off guard when the terms change or the fees go up. Be smart. Absolutely, sell on a marketplace or multiple marketplaces, but learn from the experience and from the fierce competition. From there, take the necessary steps to grow your business and grab your own piece of e-commerce property by developing your own online store. Read more about selling smart online. 

–  Parag Mamnani, Founder and CEO