Marketplaces, comparison sites, shopping galleries. Do you know where and how to do business online? With us you will find your way around

Nowadays, it is crucial for every e-shop to use online trading platforms such as marketplaces, comparison shopping sites and shopping galleries. Find out how these platforms work, what benefits they bring you and how to use them to increase the visibility and marketability of your products?

1. Marketplace.

Think of Marketplace as an online marketplace of high-traffic sites where sellers can list their products. The benefits are large customer base, ability to get visibility and sell products of your own making, quick time to market with lower upfront costs. Some marketplaces offer comprehensive services that also include logistics, warehousing, product distribution and customer support. The downside can be higher sales commissions, strong competition and lower customer loyalty. In the Czech Republic, the main marketplaces include Alza, Mall/Allegro, Heureka and Kaufland.

Offer exclusive products and perfect customer service on marketplaces

To trade on the marketplace, you need to have a clear strategy. In this case, it pays to offer customers truly unique products that are not commonly available. Of course, you should also have first-class customer service: quick response to questions or proactive resolution of any customer problems. All of this will increase the chances that customers will return and buy from you again. Don't forget the power of customer reviews and invite your customers to write their buying experience on the marketplace. Regularly analyze sales data to better tailor your marketing strategy.

2. Product Comparison Engine.

Product comparison engines such as Google Shopping, Heureka and Goods help shoppers discover products at the best possible prices and provide useful reviews and ratings. Comparison sites are a valuable tool for shoppers looking not only for bargains, but also for trustworthy product and store reviews.

_Price is the name of the game on comparison sites

Make sure your product pages contain complete and accurate information, including specifications, pricing and availability. Customers use comparison sites primarily to find the best price. So don't go overboard with your price, this will keep you competitive. Regularly monitor how much other retailers are selling the same goods for and price accordingly. Again, encourage customers to post their buying experience. Take advantage of paid campaigns to increase product visibility and track key metrics using the platform's analytics tools.

3. Shopping galleries.

Shopping galleries such as Glami, Favi and Biano focus on specific product categories and often serve as inspiration to encourage purchases. These platforms offer advanced filtering options and customers discover products they would struggle to find through a normal search. Dedicated shopping galleries can bring the right customers to your online store.

In shopping galleries, invest in professional product photography

Shopping galleries rely on visual presentation. In this case, invest in high-quality photos that show your products in the best light. Consider professional photography that includes different angles and close-ups. Also use product sponsorship to increase visibility.

And as with marketplaces and comparison sites, don't forget to respond to customer questions and reviews.

Which sales channel will be a hit for you?

Selling on multiple platforms will minimize the risk of failure and also expand your customer base. Choose platforms that best match the nature of your product. Decide between targeting the local market, and international expansion.

For smaller, niche sellers, it may be advantageous to start on platforms with less competition and, in turn, a more engaged community. For those who want to expand quickly while still having access to a wide audience, large international marketplaces and price comparison sites may be best. Always consider your business goals and the resources you are willing to invest in e-commerce.

Don't underestimate the preparation before signing up for a commerce platform.

Don't underestimate good preparation before signing up for a marketplace, price comparison site or any other e-commerce platform. We've put together a list of key steps you should consider to make your entry as smooth as possible:

• Research the different platforms and determine which ones best match your product type and target market. Make sure the platform contains categories that are relevant to your e-commerce store. This will give you an overview of competitors in the market and the prices at which they offer similar products. Using the Similarweb tool, you can get information about the traffic of the selected platform in the target country and its competitors.

• Find out how high the cost of advertising is, some platforms have a defined minimum monthly payment.

• Learn about the rules for sellers, including requirements for product photos, descriptions and product names. Make sure you have a product feed that meets the platform's requirements. You can use Mergado or even Xemel to edit your feed.

• If you are planning to expand overseas, make sure you have a properly registered business and meet all the requirements for online sales in your country of operation and in the country you plan to expand to. Find out about the tax obligations associated with selling on international platforms.

• Choose reliable shipping partners. If you are expanding, find out which carriers are preferred by customers in that country.

• Improve the SEO of your products to make them easily traceable. Use keywords, quality photos, engaging and relevant descriptions.

• Think about how you will promote your products and what tools and platform features you can use to increase sales.

• Test your top products first and consider adding more based on the results.

• Set up processes to communicate with your customers efficiently and quickly.

• Create a strategy for getting positive reviews that can significantly impact your credibility and visibility on the platform.

• Utilize the analytics tools available on the platform to track sales, traffic and customer behavior.

Preparing to enter a marketplace or comparison site is a complex process that requires thorough planning and strategy. The right approach and preparation can significantly increase your chances of success. Not sure and need help with selecting or registering on domestic or international platforms? Don't hesitate to contact us. We offer expert advice and support to help you optimize your business strategy and maximize your e-commerce reach. Contact us and together we will find the best solution for your business.