Local artisan products—whether they are handcrafted foods, speciality crafts, or unique gifts- all tend to thrive in community markets. But on top of that, they create a sense of place and charm that appeals to local buyers and tourists alike. But why keep it local when the world is hungry for unique, high-quality products?
It’s great to serve the community, but sometimes it’s better to go beyond that! Expanding online doesn’t take away from the “local” experience; it enhances it by allowing more people to appreciate the artistry and passion behind your products. Plus, setting up an e-commerce store is far easier than you expect.
So, even if your business thrives in farmers’ markets, grocery stores, or local gift shops, selling online can unlock new opportunities you might not expect. Now, with all of that said, here’s exactly why leaping from local to global (or at least national) is worth considering.
Reach a Wider Audience
So, here’s the thing, selling your products online opens the door to a much broader market. People outside your local community are always on the lookout for unique, handcrafted items that they can’t find in their local shops. By moving online, you’re able to reach customers far beyond your town’s borders, allowing people across the country—or even the world—to access and enjoy your products.
Not only that, but you also have the opportunity to share your product’s story, whether it’s how the product is made, the local ingredients used, or the inspiration behind it. Besides, consumers love learning about the origins of their purchases, and your online platform lets them connect with your products in a more personal way.
Attract Tourists and Nostalgic Buyers
As you already know, tourists who fall in love with local products during their visits often face the frustration of not being able to find them once they return home. You’ve probably dealt with that, too, right? So, just by offering your products online, you’re making it easy for them to order their favourite finds from afar.
But it’s not just a tourist thing either; in fact, people who have moved away from their hometowns often long for the tastes and products they grew up with, which is understandable, so you’re giving them a taste of home.
Now, if your business wants to expand and sell beer and wine online (especially if you’re in a region that specialises in something) then you need to make sure to navigate the specific regulations around shipping alcohol. Generally speaking, there are different rules, laws, and regulations for that.
Nice Way to Diversify Your Income
This one might be obvious, but it still deserves some attention. Generally speaking, relying solely on local markets means you’re at the mercy of foot traffic, seasonal shifts, and tourism. But overall, selling online helps stabilise your business by providing year-round income. Plus, you can introduce new products, run limited-edition offerings, or test new ideas without worrying about physical shelf space.
Top E-commerce Platforms to Kickstart Your Online Store
If you’re ready to make the leap, here are some e-commerce platforms to consider:
- Shopify – Easy to set up, no coding required, perfect for scaling your business.
- Etsy – Ideal for handmade, vintage, and unique products with a built-in audience. Get 40 Free Listings Here!
- WooCommerce – Best for those who want full control over their website, integrates with WordPress.
- Ecwid – A great option for adding e-commerce functionality to an existing website.
- Amazon – Reach a global audience with this well-established marketplace.
- eBay – Another global platform that works well for both new and vintage items.
- EKM – EKM is another great option for setting up your online store, especially if you’re based in the UK. It’s designed with British businesses in mind and offers fantastic customer support. One of its standout features is that it automatically updates your site to keep up with e-commerce trends. Plus, it’s user-friendly, so you don’t need technical expertise to get started.
In conclusion, expanding your local artisan business online opens up a world of opportunities. It allows you to reach a broader audience, connect with customers on a deeper level, and provide those who love your products with easier access. Plus, selling online adds stability to your income and gives you the freedom to experiment with new ideas.
