While Shopster usually has its eyes on the horizon and is focused on staying on top new tips, tricks, & trends (so we can share them with you), we wanted to take a few moments to focus on the now, and give credit where credit is due. So here it goes: A huge congratulations to all of our Merchants – you are knocking it out of the park this holiday season! Sales are strong, and we’re seeing more connections and business relationships being built than ever before.
But, while sales are still booming this holiday season, it’s already time to start planning for the New Year and the sales it will bring. The good news is that eBay and other major sales channels do not see a significant drop in consumer spending in January. This means you can continue promoting your business without having to worry that your sales will take a nosedive come January 1. In fact, though the holiday sales season is touted as the be all end all in the world of retailing; many merchants do not experience highs and lows typical of the traditional bricks and mortar retail sales cycle. Rather they rather enjoy consistent sales volumes year round.
Experienced eBay sellers often suggest that a Merchant’s niche and choice of sales channels are better indicators of personal sales trends than seasonality. Take Myattic2u of advertising collectibles for instance, her take on the matter is: "While I can't speak for everyone, I don't think there is anytime that is better than another to sell on eBay….It just depends on the item and if there is more than one interested bidder out there when the item is up for auction."
So what’s this mean for you? Sales will continue well into the New Year. Not feeling your sales are where they should be? Remember, different niches follow different trends, so don’t rest on your laurels and wait for the next big wave to hit. Think of products that sell in the less traditional retail months (office supplies, winter products, books). Take stock of your business and your sales approach. Search the network for hot products to sell, scour the web for the next big trend, and spend some time testing out new marketing and merchandising ideas for your site. This way you’ll be prepared to double or triple your offerings when your selling season picks up.
As a Shopster Member, you are a part of a growing number of Merchants looking to move beyond traditional seller and supplier relationships, an entrepreneur looking to take your sales to the next level. At 24,000 Merchants & counting, 2010 is your year, so lets keep the momentum going and make it the best one yet!
Happy Holidays,
The Shopster Team
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