Etsy is an online marketplace founded in 2005 by Rob Kalin, Chris Maguire, and Haim Schoppik. It focuses on handmade, vintage, and unique factory-manufactured items. Sellers on Etsy offer a wide variety of products, including jewelry, clothing, home decor, art, craft supplies, and more. The platform is known for its focus on small businesses and independent creators, making it a go-to destination for customers looking for personalized and custom-made goods.
Etsy has a global presence, with millions of active buyers and sellers. It allows sellers to create storefronts where they can showcase their products, set prices, and handle customer orders. Buyers can browse through categories, use filters, and search for specific items or shops. Etsy also offers personalized recommendations based on user browsing and purchase history.
One of Etsy’s unique features is its emphasis on vintage items, defined as products at least 20 years old, which attracts collectors and those seeking rare or retro products. Etsy also promotes sustainability and ethical shopping by supporting artisans and small-scale producers.
Etsy charges sellers a listing fee and a transaction fee for each sale. In addition to standard listings, sellers can use Etsy Ads to promote their products on the platform and increase visibility. Etsy provides tools for managing orders, tracking sales, and communicating with customers, making it accessible for both hobbyists and professional sellers.
For buyers, Etsy offers a user-friendly interface and secure payment options. It supports various payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, and Etsy gift cards, and ensures that transactions are safe for both buyers and sellers.
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