5 Ways to Stand Out from Etsy Competition (Without Lowering Your Prices)

5 Ways to Stand Out from Etsy Competition (Without Lowering Your Prices)

Competing on Etsy can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to avoid getting caught in a price-cutting war. However, standing out from the competition isn’t just about offering the lowest price—it’s about providing more value, better service, and unique options. In this blog post, I’ll show you 5 powerful strategies to help you stand out from Etsy competition and grow your shop without sacrificing your profits.

These actionable tips will help you attract more customers, increase sales, and build a thriving Etsy shop, all while staying competitive in your niche.

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1. Enable Customization to Attract Unique Buyers & Stand out From Etsy Competition

One of the simplest ways to stand out from Etsy competition is by offering customization options. Many Etsy shops limit their offerings to standard items, but by allowing customers to request personalized options—whether it’s adding a name, changing a design, or modifying a product—you open up new revenue streams. Customization creates a unique shopping experience and encourages buyers to choose your shop over others that don’t offer personalized options.

Allowing customization also means you’re creating products that your customers actually want, rather than guessing at trends. This can boost customer loyalty and attract repeat business.

How to Implement Customization:

• Enable custom requests in your shop settings and mention this option in your product listings.
• Highlight examples of custom orders in your photos and descriptions.
• Offer a variety of personalization options (e.g., names, sizes, colors, etc.) to give customers flexibility.

Example: Compete with other wall art shops by offering personalized options on designs like this macramé headboard.

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2. Offer Unique Sizes Your Competitors Don’t Have

Another effective way to stand out from Etsy competition is by offering sizes that other sellers don’t. While many Etsy shops stick to standard sizes, introducing smaller or larger variations can attract a wider customer base. For example, offering smaller sizes allows you to list a lower starting price on the search results page, while offering larger sizes increases your Average Order Value (AOV), helping you reach higher profit margins.

This approach can make your shop more appealing to customers who are looking for something different or for more options that fit their specific needs.

How to Offer Unique Sizes:

• Add variations for both smaller and larger sizes to your listings.
• Use the smaller size to display a lower starting price in search results.
• Promote larger sizes to increase your AOV, helping you earn more from each sale.

Example: Compete with this wood wall art shop by offering a wider range of sizes that appeal to different customers.

3. Introduce Colors or Patterns that Competitors Don’t Offer

Offering a broader selection of colors or patterns is a great way to differentiate your products and stand out from Etsy competition. By simply asking your customers what other colors or designs they’d like to see, or by observing current trends, you can expand your product offerings without needing to introduce entirely new products.

This approach not only helps you cater to customer preferences but also positions your shop as a trendsetter that offers more than the standard options seen elsewhere.

How to Introduce New Colors and Patterns:

• Survey customers or check trending colors to identify new opportunities.
• Offer additional color or pattern options in your existing listings.
• Highlight new options in your product titles, descriptions, and images to attract more buyers.

Example: Compete with shops like this natural teepee seller by offering trendy or seasonal color variations.

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4. Use Your Own Original Photos Instead of Mockups to Stand Out From Etsy Competition

One of the most common pitfalls on Etsy, especially in categories like print-on-demand (POD), is using the same mockups that other sellers use. This makes it difficult for customers to distinguish between shops. Using original photos of your products, rather than generic mockups, will make your shop more recognizable and trustworthy.

You don’t need a professional photographer—simple lifestyle photos that show your products in real environments can be highly effective in building trust and helping you stand out from Etsy competition.

How to Implement Original Photos:

• Print samples of your products and take photos in natural, real-life settings.
• Use lifestyle images to show your products being used or styled in real environments.
• Incorporate original photography into your listings, even if you’re in a highly competitive space like POD.

Example: For inspiration on how to create custom lifestyle shots, check out this example showing how to differentiate your products with personalized photos.

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5. Offer Faster Turnaround Times and Rush Options

Turnaround times can be a dealbreaker for customers, especially those in need of a product quickly. Offering a wide range for your turnaround time—such as 3-10 business days—can help you attract a larger audience by appealing to both fast and slower buyers. This also gives you the flexibility to capture more orders and avoid missing out on customers who prioritize speed.

By offering a rush order service as an upsell, you can further increase your AOV while providing customers with the option to receive their items sooner. This added service allows you to stand out without lowering prices.

How to Offer Competitive Turnaround Times:

• Set a wide turnaround range (e.g., 3-10 business days) to appeal to more buyers.
• Highlight the quick turnaround in your product descriptions and titles.
• Offer a paid rush order option to customers who need their items faster.

Example: Compete with shops offering longer lead times by offering fast turnaround and a rush order option as a paid service.

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FAQs About Standing Out From Etsy Competition

1. How can I stand out from Etsy competition without lowering prices?
You can stand out by offering customization, unique sizes, new color options, original product photos, and faster turnaround times, all while maintaining or increasing your prices.

2. Is customization really important for standing out on Etsy?
Yes! Customization allows you to cater to customers’ specific needs, which many competitors may not offer. This gives your shop a competitive edge and increases the chances of repeat business.

3. How do turnaround times affect Etsy sales?
Turnaround times can have a significant impact on customer decisions. Offering a flexible turnaround range, plus a rush order option, can help you attract more buyers and increase your AOV.

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By implementing these 5 strategies, you can effectively stand out from Etsy competition without reducing your prices. Focus on customization, original photography, turnaround times, and variety to create a shopping experience that sets you apart. Start applying these tips today, and watch your Etsy shop thrive!

Ready to learn more about growing an Etsy shop?

Book a call with us to discuss your Etsy shop, any struggles, and hear more about how we can help you through my program, Multi-Six Figure Etsy Blueprint and 1:1 coaching! https://calendly.com/dylanjahraus/program-strategy-call?month=2024-07

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