The Evolving Marketplace

What is the best platform to sell on in 2025? I see many recommendations online that champion one marketplace platform or another. One of the most common recommendations for what platform to sell on is solely based on fees. It is true that this can serve as a meaningful data comparison point. However ,most of my conversations with artisans show it is more nuanced than simply fees.

I have interviewed several marketplaces as part of the Marketplace report. Each interview is available on YouTube. I have gained a meaningful understanding of strategic approaches being used by different marketplaces. There are several topics to consider when choosing a handmade marketplace. Using proactive research you can create a meaningful marketplace strategy for your handmade business.

The Definition of Handmade

How does the marketplace define what is considered handmade? There is more nuance to the definition of handmade than most artisans realize. I have not yet found two marketplaces that have the exact same definition. Researching a marketplace's definition of handmade helps you understand more about their philosophy.

Many marketplaces that are handmade only may require proof. That may mean a combination of pictures from your production process or a description of how the product is made. Platforms often have their own independent review processes to verify this information. This isn't something to be intimidated by, but is a normal part of the process across the industry.

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