Online Flea Market Sales On The Rise: Good News for Online
Wholesalers
Online flea markets and classified sites have grown more than
80% in the past year, according to a re
cent study done by the Pew Internet and American
Life Project. In addition, approximately 1 in 6 American
adults have sold something using the Internet, which equates to
about 25 million people.
Taking advantage of this growing trend is extremely important if
you plan on being competitive in the online flea market game.
For instance, Craiglist.org had more than
eight thousand unique visitors in September of 2005 (the top
auction, classified and flea market site on the web for the same
time frame) with Trader Publishing
Company a close second. With this many people using what
technically are online versions of the flea market concept, you
have a bevy of qualified, interested users constantly at your
fingertips. Combine this with other, related Internet
technologies (such as e-commerce and e-storefronts) and you have
a win-win situation for many online wholesalers. Some other
benefits of selling in the online buy and sell marketplace:
Minimal Investment: The initial outlay for wholesalers looking
to resell wares through flea markets is low, at best. Plus, if
you find drop
shippers who can provide you with the product(s) your
customers want, your initial investment drops even further,
since you don't have to carry any inventory.
Low Skill Set Required: Except for some highly specialized
collectors or items (such as comic books or
antiques), most online flea market sellers can get by with
only minimal knowledge regarding the products they sell. Other
than learning how to run an online business, almost anyone can
get started easily.
Highly Flexible: Buying and selling high-demand items online is
a very flexible business opportunity. You can work from home, on
your own time, at times that are the most convenient for you -
not your bosses.
Whether you choose to sell apparel, electronics
, toys or handbags (or
all four!), the message is clear: the online marketplace for
flea market items is growing, and shows no sign of slowing down
anytime soon.