Main Street Market
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October 11, 2023

The online marketplace has created a revolution for many wholesalers and retailing businesses. They get a dedicated platform for a flourishing business.

Faire has historically been a preferred platform for sellers seeking to present and market their products. Despite having numerous online marketplaces, the emergence of new wholesale marketplaces like Faire is taking place. Retailers and wholesalers can easily have more options to explore, thanks to the demand for wholesale marketplace platforms.

Nonetheless, in the wake of several online marketplaces, there are newer wholesale marketplaces like Faire for retailers and wholesalers to investigate.

Finding the right one can be a daunting task. It can be challenging to analyze the distinctive characteristics and benefits alone. But don’t worry, we have just the right one for you.
So be ready to know about yet another, the best wholesale marketplace like Faire.

Understanding Wholesale Marketplace

Wholesale marketplaces represent online platforms that serve as mediators, bridging the gap between retail buyers and wholesale suppliers. These digital marketplaces provide a seamless and well-organized avenue for brands to source the ideal products.

Businesses can purchase and sell products in large quantities, specializing in discounted prices. The landscape of wholesale marketplaces is diverse, with numerous options, each showcasing its distinct advantages and limitations.
There are leading wholesale marketplaces renowned for their enticing incentives for businesses. Such platforms

simplify the sourcing process and extend compelling benefits to retailers and suppliers alike.

With websites similar to Faire, businesses can access wide-ranging products. They can streamline the procurement operations and tap into exclusive opportunities to fuel their growth.

Things To Consider When Choosing A Wholesale Marketplace

We have observed that some vendors have flourished while others have faced challenges when using a marketplace. The primary factor setting them apart is their approach. Therefore, here are some valuable considerations to remember when choosing a digital wholesale platform.

Let’s take a look-

1. The audience

Consider the target audience carefully when selecting a marketplace. It involves understanding the specific audience that aligns with the products you offer. Determine whether your target audience is primarily international or domestic.

Additionally, consider whether you intend to cater to small businesses or target larger retailers. Tailoring your choice of the marketplace to your intended audience can impact the success of your business within that platform extensively.

2. The reputation of the marketplace

If you have doubts regarding the marketplace, go for the one with recognition and reputation. Conduct thorough research on your selected marketplace.

Assess community feedback regarding the fee structure and estimated order volumes within specific time frames. Note the presence of brands in your industry already operating on the platform.

Investing time in research is crucial to selecting a reputable marketplace that can optimize your chances of success.

3. Terms of service

When searching for the right marketplace, it is essential to address the practical aspect- the terms of service. Before listing your products on the platform, try to obtain and review the terms of service.

Different marketplace platforms have varying rules and policies. Some may have strict guidelines, while others are more flexible.

Understanding and aligning with these terms is crucial. It guarantees a smooth and compliant experience when operating within the chosen marketplace.

4. Not every marketplace is a silver bullet

By the above phrase, we mean not every marketplace guarantees instant success. You may experience an initial boost in sales when you join a marketplace. But it is crucial to understand that sustainable growth does not happen overnight.
Do not rely solely on a magical, immediate transformation for your business. Building a lasting presence and customer base takes time and effort.

5.  Diversified approach

Marketplaces keep coming and going. Do not rely on it for your business’s success. We say this from many real-life experiences. Try looking for a more active and passive approach.

Think of using multiple online marketplaces to lower the risk. It will act as a backup plan if someday they disappear or change.

Be sure to cultivate relationships through these different channels. It is vital to do so, to look at the growth of your business holistically. It is just for your safety.

6. Compare policy, commission, and fees

Handling a business is not an easy task. There are various things to think about. Many wholesale marketplace websites similar to Faire may charge high commission rates on every order sale. They may charge a membership fee (annually or monthly) without commissions.

Consider the option that sounds better for you. Consider the minimum order and fees for both scenarios to study the decrease or increase in profit margin for your wholesale business. See the fee structure for a sensible financial decision.
If you feel too bewildered, ask professional help to guide you with the numbers.

7. Be cautious of stockists

As an independent business owner, you should exercise caution when dealing with stockists on some marketplaces. Some platforms may entice you by giving a 0% commission rate promise if you get your existing stockist on the platform. While this offer can be tempting, it’s critical to be aware of potential pitfalls.

In practice, some makers have encountered issues with these agreements. Marketplaces may not consistently honor the 0% commission arrangement. Or they might require the stockist to use your specific referral link for it to be valid.

Unfortunately, in many cases, there is limited explanation and no clear resolution process for either scenario. It is essential to thoroughly understand the terms and potential risks before proceeding with such arrangements.

8. A buyer’s perspective

It can be valuable to examine various marketplaces from a buyer’s perspective. It often provides fresh insights. Consider whether the storefront effectively guides potential buyers or current stockists towards other similar brands offering lower minimums and prices.

Besides, evaluate whether your brand gets overshadowed in a crowded sea of competition.

Enhancing your visibility within the marketplace is essential because it results in increased ad space allocation.

Ultimately, this increased visibility can lead to higher spending by customers.

Consider these few things to gain a perfect wholesale marketplace platform. It is necessary to be careful with your business by analyzing every perspective.

Faire- A Look at The Online Marketplace

Faire (also called Faire Wholesale Marketplace) was founded in 2017 by Max Rhodes, Lauren Cooks Levitan, Marcelo Cortes, Daniele Perito, and Jeffery Kolovson. The vision was to empower independent makers and artisans (handmade lines) by connecting them with retailers or independent boutiques. This platform aims to simplify the wholesale buying process traditionally marred by complex paperwork and outdated practices.

Faire’s founders envisioned a platform enabling retailers to discover high-quality products effortlessly while independent brands could access a broader market.

This platform’s growth has been nothing short of spectacular. Within a few years, it has evolved from a startup into a billion-dollar company, attracting substantial investments. It has garnered attention as a disruptor in the retail industry. Faire was already gaining significant traction, and its trajectory has continued to spike upward.

The Business Model of Faire

Faire’s model is based on a simple yet effective premise. It connects retailers with a vast network of independent brands. Therefore, it offers a seamless wholesale purchasing experience.
Faire generates revenue through two primary sources:

1. Commission on Sales:

Faire charges makers (independent brands) a commission based on the sales made through its platform. The commission rate can vary depending on the product category but typically falls within the 15% to 25% range. In exchange for this commission, makers gain access to Faire’s extensive network of retailers. They benefit from various tools aimed at helping them expand and enhance their businesses.

2. Retailer Commissions:

On the retailer side, Faire adopts a no-membership-fee approach, allowing retailers to join the platform without any upfront costs. Instead, Faire earns a commission on all orders retailers place, typically around 15% of the total order value. Furthermore, Faire extends additional value to retailers through various services, including inventory management software, financing options, and customer support.

In a nutshell, Faire’s business model creates a seamless connection between independent brands, facilitating wholesale transactions. It does promote growth in the industry. It leverages commission-based revenue streams from both sellers and retailers. All this happens while providing valuable services to enhance the overall experience for its users.

 The Rise Of Main Street Market And Gifts

Main Street Market & Gifts, the best wholesale marketplace like Faire, offers the best wholesale merchandise expertise to brands from different sectors. Such an online wholesale marketplace platform brings retailers and wholesalers together under one roof. It makes room to elevate independent businesses with the exclusive wholesale marketplace forum.

In a time when wholesalers and retailers need a reliable option, Main Street Market and Gifts comes as a refreshing change for many businesses. It provides a new take to let independent firms thrive uniquely, even after having websites like Faire.

Let us look at why Main Street Market and Gifts swiftly came into the limelight-

1. Verified and Diverse Collection

Every business needs something that feels different and creates more names in their sector. Main Street Market and Gifts has a team that curates a diverse and ever-expanding selection of products from independent brands.

These brands span various categories, from home decor and fashion to gourmet food and beauty products. But it does not end there. All products are verified for authenticity so that no faulty items come across.

It was why the platform rose swiftly and gave stiff competition to other vendors.

2. Promising Secure and Speedy Delivery

Main Street Market and Gifts have prioritized efficient and secure delivery through their platform. It guarantees timely delivery to the destination, along with regular updates. The faster the products go to potential buyers, the higher the likelihood of their purchase.

Numerous surveys have indicated that a significant number of customers expect free shipping. They may deter them from engaging with the wholesale platform if they don’t offer. Such strategic focus on shipping has been instrumental in the Main Street Market and Gifts’ growth.

3. Swift Customization

The rapid online customization capabilities offered by Main Street Market and Gifts set them apart from others. On the other hand, many platforms struggle with slow online product customization processes. MS Market and Gifts excels in streamlining and expediting the process of customizing an online storefront.

Main Street Market and Gifts’ commitment to rapid online storefront customization efficiently establishes a digital presence. It capitalizes on the benefits of e-commerce without unnecessary delays or complexities.

4. Perfect Return Policies

Main Street Market and Gifts prioritize customer satisfaction by offering a generous 24-hour return policy for products that may not meet expected standards. Under this policy, clients would get a full refund for any product that minimizes their expectations. This policy applies to all items within their product range.

The return process has a hassle-free and straightforward design. People can initiate a return by simply tapping a few buttons, and the request is promptly verified and processed within seconds.

This commitment created a name for the online marketplace.

5. Dropshipping Facility

With the dropshipping facility, businesses no longer need to maintain huge inventories of products. Instead, they can partner with Main Street Market and Gifts to access various brands through the vast catalog of products.

It eliminates the need for warehousing, reducing overhead costs and operational complexities. This facility also creates space for a diverse product range, risk mitigation, scalability, and cost-efficiency.

Through this feature, better brand collaboration made way for the rise of Main Street Market and Gifts.

6. Better Algorithm

Some companies similar to Faire have poor algorithms for their consumers, while others flourish on it. A superior algorithm excels in understanding consumer preferences and behavior. It can analyze past interactions, such as browsing history, purchase history, and product reviews, to provide personalized product recommendations.

This personalization creates a more engaging shopping experience. It increases the purchasing likelihood and keeps customers returning for more.

Main Street Market and Gifts creates great user engagement, conversion rates, and a finer competitive advantage over others through a perfect algorithm system.

7. Data-Driven Insights

Data-driven insights are a valuable resource provided by the platform to retailers. These insights include the collection analysis and data presentation related to consumer behavior, preferences, and market trends.

Main Street Market and Gifts made sure they did a thorough analysis and created a worthy pricing strategy for the target market. Through this process, they check the performance tracking and consumer retention. It works to their benefit.

Data-driven insights entrusted wholesalers to make strategic decisions to optimize their product offerings and marketing efforts.

8. No Recurring Listing Fee, No Commission

The absence of recurring listing, processing, packaging, and commission fees via Main Street Market and Gifts poses a substantial advantage. It fueled the platform’s continuous growth. This fee structure allowed them to expand their product offerings and boost their revenue ultimately. It isn’t on other sites like Faire or other platforms.

Wholesale-like Faire charges listing and processing fees and high sellers/retailers commission fees. This wasn’t the case with Main Street Market and Gifts. It enabled sellers to showcase their products without incurring ongoing expenses. It became an attractive proposition for businesses of all sizes.

This affordability factor has contributed to the platform’s popularity and the ability to attract a diverse range of sellers.

Comparative Analysis- Main Street Market and Gifts Versus Faire

We know how confusing it can get when there are several other websites like Faire. So we are here to help you. You will know about two iconic wholesale marketplace platforms- Faire and Main Street Market and Gifts.

By examining these platforms side by side, we aim to provide insights that can assist people in making informed decisions. Let’s know which marketplace aligns best with unique needs and objectives.

1. Products Variation

In the wholesale business, having diverse products is vital to success. The audience keeps looking for something different and improved to experiment with. It is why many keep browsing for new and advanced items to find the best one.

There’s no doubt that Faire has its fair share of wide-ranging products. But Main Street Market and Gifts understands the audience and creates a niche via an updated list of items. The quality and assortment of products are more refined, which makes it a perfect wholesale marketplace in 2023. Every product is verified from the source, and there is guaranteed authenticity.

One can expect a range of products, from home decor to clothing, which appeals to a broader customer base. In contrast, Faire also has a good product variety but leans more towards contemporary and trendy items, which might not suit everyone’s preferences. Main Street Market and Gifts excels in offering a more eclectic and customizable product range.

2. Product Listing system

Product listing is an important process for any business to thrive. Anything that goes slightly off in this segment may hamper the overall business outlook. We have seen many dealers lose money just because the product listing system failed them.

For Faire and wholesale vendors like Faire, it is interesting that both have almost similar listing systems, but there are faint differences.

The listing process is simpler and intuitive for Main Street Market and Gifts. Vendors can quickly list the products without a steep learning curve. There is more personalized support, unlike Faire, where the response time is very long. The hands-on approach is quite beneficial, especially for vendors new to the wholesale market.

Also, when product listing, Faire may charge a fee per product upload. It isn’t the case with Main Street Market and Gifts, which poses a positive for vendors. The listing process in MS Market and Gifts is more flexible and visible for local and overseas nations, garnering more conversions.

3. Pricing

We all know how product pricing is why businesses see hits and misses. Studying the market is crucial for all businesses to prosper.

Vendors on Main Street Market and Gifts can provide competitive pricing for their products, focusing on affordability without compromising on quality. They frequently run promotions and discounts, making it a budget-friendly choice for customers. The wholesale platform plays a crucial role in catering to the clients and their audience.

Companies like Faire, while offering quality products, tend to have vendors put the price on the higher end of the spectrum. They charge a 15-25% commission and processing fee, making the products less viable. One will also find high packaging and handling fees per order at Faire, making products quite expensive. It becomes profitable for them as a platform, but many businesses suffer.

Main Street Market and Gifts stands out for its ability to provide cost-effective options without sacrificing value. It charges no commission on sales as it relies on other services and features for profits.

4. Shipping and Return Policies

The shipping and logistics of the two platforms have some distinct dissimilarities. For the Faire wholesale marketplace, there is a no-commission option for shipping, but it comes with an “Insider” membership of around $19 a month. For Main Street Market and Gifts, there are no such fees for domestic shipping. However, they charge a small fee for international shipping.

When comparing the return policies of Main Street Market and Gifts with that of Faire, there are distinct differences worth noting-
Main Street Market and Gifts offers a straightforward and expedited return process. Customers have the convenience of a 24-hour return policy for products, subject to the policies of individual stores and brands. There are no charges on return. The quick turnaround time ensures that customers can swiftly address any purchasing issues.

Faire, on the other hand, offers a more extended return window, which can be advantageous for online shoppers. They provide free returns for a generous period of 60 days on the first order placed with any brand. This policy instills confidence in consumers when trying new products online.

However, while the initial order with a brand enjoys free returns for up to 60 days, subsequent orders are chargeable. Even if customers purchase new products they haven’t previously ordered from that brand, the free return option is not applicable. Therefore, customers should be mindful of this condition when making additional orders with a particular brand on Faire’s platform.

There are other complexities in the return policy under Faire, like accepting returns on personal care products, which isn’t healthy in terms of contamination. Many other incidents make it less practical for people and also hamper vendors’ earnings on the platform.

5. Delivery and Location

Main Street Market and Gifts maintains consistent delivery standards. This holds for the Faire wholesale marketplace as well. But there is the restriction of locations in contrast to stores like Faire.

Faire provides delivery restricted to Canada, the US, The UK, France, Belgium, Finland, Denmark, Italy, Germany, Norway, Portugal, Spain, The Netherlands, and Sweden. Whereas Main Street Market and Gifts delivers products worldwide.

It is great for vendors, customers, and the platform in every way possible. A diversified delivery location calls for a great business.

6. User Experience

Companies like Faire have a lovely website to browse. However recently, some glitches made it a less preferred one. Constant changes and tweaks on the web platform haven’t gone down well with artisans.

There have also been reports of transparency issues and little information on the selling. Faire has influenced indirect control over brand image that many artists/sellers did not like. Users have complained of brand dilution.

(Brand dilution is a fear of losing the brand name and replacing it with the wholesale company’s name. For example, people may say this is in Faire, rather than it’s an XYZ brand.)

With digital wholesale being the future, it’s better to look for the Faire wholesale alternatives, like Main Street Market and Gifts. The new-age platform has an impressive user experience as it focuses on catering wholesale and retail business needs.

If the user experience turns out disappointing, it would reflect on the dissatisfactory wholesale and retail business. For what it’s worth, research on more wholesale marketplace platforms and analyze which has the best user experience. It would also be good to have multiple platforms rather than relying on just one.

7. Customer Support

Customer support is critical for any wholesale or marketplace platform at every stage. Having a strong customer support system can greatly impact a vendor’s experience. There have been reports of slow and unhelpful customer support from vendors partnering with Faire.

There is sluggish customer service, especially about new applications for new vendors, even though the application process is simple. It’s the waiting period. It is connected to the growth that Faire is experiencing, leading to an increase in the number of applications from vendors. It also marks a question on how Faire handles company growth!

Main Street Market and Gifts has a slightly better understanding of the unique challenges and needs of vendors. There is scope for quick and personalized assistance. Vendors act quickly because of the fast customer support, which is a bit tedious for companies like Faire wholesale marketplace.

8. Reviews and Success Stories

There are approximately 700,000 retailers on Faire with many having impressive reviews and success stories. It would be unfair to say that it has reached its height, which no other wholesale marketplace platform could. The reach and product variations speak for themselves.

However, the company has negative reviews because of a lack in certain fields. A sense of personal touch seems lost with Faire as it expands. After careful research and experience, some vendors say their main focus is on the buyer, not the brand. It creates certain doubts about the platform.

With Main Street Market and Gifts, this isn’t the case (till now). They are hell-bent on what the wholesalers and retailers want. The platform works according to them, creating a sense of community in itself. Although there is room for improvement, the success stories and reviews show only positive signs.

9. Free Social Media Marketing

Social media is the crux of every business nowadays because everything inevitably depends on it. The Faire wholesale marketplace has done well for itself through different features. However, Main Street Market and Gifts has a free service that creates much more exposure.

Social media marketing is the most powerful tool any business could have. Unlike Websites like Faire, MS Market, and Gifts wholesale platform provides it for free. You may wonder about its importance in wholesale marketplace platforms, but here are a few good reasons to use it-

Brand recognition for independent businesses

  • Audience engagement
  • Better website traffic, sales, and conversion rate
  • Improved search engine results presence
  • Greater return on investment
  • Retargeting missed customers

The Future of Wholesale with Main Street Market And Gifts

Seeing the continual rise of such a platform so quickly, we think the future of the wholesale marketplace with Main Street Market And Gifts is promising.
Here are a few reasons why-

1. Expansive Product Cataloging

Main Street Market and Gifts offers a diverse and ever-expanding range of products from independent brands across various sectors. The platform continues to attract more sellers and brands. It is becoming a one-stop destination for high-quality goods.

2. Brand Association

Main Street Market and Gifts promotes collaboration, benefiting retailers and independent brands. The platform’s commitment to supporting and promoting independent makers and artisans creates a thriving ecosystem. It is bound to attract more innovative and unique products.

3. Responsive Innovation

Main Street Market and Gifts will adapt and evolve by staying agile and responsive to market trends and user needs. It ensures that it remains relevant and competitive in a dynamic industry. It is the reason the wholesale marketplace with MS Market and Gifts will be amazing in the coming years.

4. More reachability

The business has the potential to grow if it collaborates with wholesale sites like Faire. The increase in visibility through such a platform guarantees more networking, leading to more growth within the sector in the future.

A Flourishing Business

Every entrepreneur aspires to succeed when launching their own business. There are some disadvantages and benefits of online marketplace, especially in a highly competitive environment. Having the right tools is essential for climbing the ladder of success.

Whether you operate as a wholesaler or a retailer, numerous options are available for starting your venture. However, Main Street Market and Gifts stands out as a game-changer. It is the perfect Faire alternative for you.
Whether your niche is accessories, food, clothing, or home decor items, we offer a valuable and reliable platform. With us, you can expect guaranteed profits and a thriving business. Don’t hesitate any longer; seize this opportunity now!