Niche Marketing: Advantages and Disadvantages for E-Commerce Business

Share

Introduction and definition of Niche 

A niche is a target market domain that is appropriate for companies that cater to specialists or specified clientele (Nasrudin. 2022). Due to their concentration on a particular clientele, do my homework, niche businesses can be proven profitable. They also receive little exposure, though. Understanding a niche is important because it enables entrepreneurs to determine a potential market’s requirements and develop new product ideas that adhere to their target market’s requirements. Finding the ideal method of communication with the target audience to boost engagement is also made easier with the help of this.

Introduction to Niche marketing

A niche market is considered as a subsection of a large size market, distinguished by its different preferences, necessitates, and identifiers (Economic Times. 2023). They differ from the more general market segment due to their various needs, online dissertation writing service and preferences. By attracting consumers in a smaller market, niche marketing seeks to promote and sell products to them (niche market). In order to cater to specific requirements and desires in that market, businesses revise their marketing mix and strategies (Urdea, and Constantin. 2021). As a result of having fewer customers, the niche market is small in size. Individual necessities, priorities, and flavors are particular to each consumer in the market. A well-defined segment of the population is targeted with all marketing efforts in a niche market.

One thing that is crucial to realize is that a “niche” is not something that already exists; essay typer rather, it is created through clever marketing strategies and determining what the target market wants (Blakeman, 2018). A marketing strategy called “niche marketing” is used to focus on a particular, distinctive market segment. The development of a niche market takes place with the determination of the consumer’s requirements and demands. This is also possible if the organization is aware of the customer’s requirements along with the better infusion and then tries to provide a better solution for the challenges where the relevant concerns have not generally been raised by the participating business enterprises. A niche market involves a specific target audience and a specialized offering; it does not necessarily mean that the market is small. Through participation in this business deal and regarding context the enterprises have been found to capture their preferred market ownership and put the maximum market knowledge and effort to hold the position. The business captures the market’s leadership position and is capable of entering into a larger market range. 

E-commerce Niches 

Entrepreneurs in the e-commerce industry face a variety of difficulties, particularly when trying to expand their clientele and draw in new customers. However, the best niche e-commerce businesses have discovered nooks and crannies where they can operate without incurring significant advertising costs and still draw in incredibly devoted customers. When the context is to discuss niche marketing in e-commerce businesses platform, niche marketing holds a particular region of the market that is generally not regarded by competing business enterprises. Handmade goods, pet owners, pet food, trendy t-shirts, eco-friendly goods, beauty goods, gadgets, and other popular goods are a few examples of niche markets (Yijin, and Liangmou. 2019). A market’s untapped regions and segments can be found by focusing on one’s analysis of the market.

Examples of E-commerce Niches 

Sustainable, eco-friendly products: Many people’s awareness of their surroundings has increased as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. In the EU, 56% of consumers think about the effects of their purchases on the environment (Kachaner et al. 2022). When asked, 67% of respondents said they would be willing to pay more for products that are good for the environment (Forbes. 2022). The pandemic prompts us to act to address climate change because it serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of natural disasters. People are working to make the world healthier. This trend is predictable, and it will likely continue even after a crisis or pandemic. A responsible business strategy will be crucial in the post-pandemic era, according to Forbes (Osibanjo, 2022). The need for environmentally friendly products has driven the automobile industry to develop electric vehicles and enterprises like Shell to develop cleaner forms of energy.

Digital products: The pandemic’s most obvious trend is probably digitalization. Online courses and Zoom conferences are possible thanks to closed schools and WFH. Nowadays, people can work and learn from anywhere, and this trend will only continue in the future. Many experts have predicted that the popularity of hybrid working, which alternates between working offline and online, will ensure that remote working will continue. 70% of the workforce, according to Vox, will decide to work from home at least five days a month (Forbes. 2022).

Examples of the products that come under E-commerce niche marketing

Marketing for Beard oil: One item that wasn’t particularly well-liked five years ago but has since become increasingly popular is beard oil. Naturally, it reaches its peak during the holiday period when individuals aim to put their focus and effort in identifying the ideal present for a loved one with a beard.

Source: (https://www.bigcommerce.com/blog/ecommerce-niches/)

Early adopters will undoubtedly have benefited from the trend and will have websites that are more trusted by Google as compared to those who are known for discovering the niche later. For men, Old Spice Barber Shop sells beard and hair care products and relevant supplements which the customers generally came to know from the e-commerce niche marketing promoted by the brands (DeAcetis, 2021). One can purchase beard oil separately or as part of the Smooth Kit. Customers can learn more about the importance of the product to their beard care routine from the product description.

Pet products marketing: Nobody can deny how much we love our furry friends now that dogs and cats are so popular on the internet. Consequently, it is not surprising that pet-related products have become more and more popular in recent years. More people are finding ways to keep their pets healthy and happy as they treat them like family members.

Source: (https://www.simicart.com/blog/ecommerce-niches/)

Source: (https://www.bigcommerce.com/blog/ecommerce-niches)

Many pet owners now give their animals organic, natural food which they usually collect from easy-to-avail e-commerce websites. Various e-commerce marketers promote organic pet foods and other products through advertisements (Niche marketing) where their target is to take the attention of a limited range of customers(Pet owners).  In fact, a survey found that 43.6% of respondents are more particular about what their pets eat than they are. Pet wellness products are increasing in popularity alongside organic foods. There are many helpful products to sell for animal lovers, ranging from supplements to help with gut health to CBD oils that lessen anxiety symptoms to cat toothbrushes (Arford. 2021).

Vegan food and makeup: Vegan cuisine in current times can be considered as the best and unique example of a secondary niche rather than a primary niche as the pre-existence of the niche significance has been observed. Here in general terms, this is not considered to be worth building a new product, website, or enterprise but the fact consists of holding the marketing options at the same time with the utilization of the new marketing strategies, awareness about having vegan products, and others. Here the promotion of non-dairy milk products and non-meat meal products change the whole game by convincing some of the people around the world who genuinely do not support animal killing and are ready to switch to vegan food items along with using vegan products for their living.  

Source: (https://www.simicart.com/blog/ecommerce-niche)

Many consumers are altering their eating habits, even if they do not strictly adhere to a vegan diet, as a result of increased awareness and novel food alternatives. Making the transition easier while still promoting a healthier lifestyle and helping the environment are flexitarians, who eat primarily plant-based foods but occasionally indulge in meat and other animal products (Vegan Food & Living. 2020)

Source: (https://www.freepik.com/premium-psd/vegan-food-promotion-social-media-banner-template_11042679.html)

Here the e-commerce marketers used Influencer marketing, exaggerating public relations, social media marketing, celebrity influence, vlogging, and others way to create a market impression about vegan products. 

Differentiation between niche marketing and mass marketing

Particular products and regarding marketing strategies are generally established by business firms through the utilization of niche marketing. Instead of standardized mass market marketing, they adopt a marketing differentiation strategy. There are distinct market needs. Customers may seek a particular set of advantages from a product, such as self-actualization. For an in-depth understanding of target niches, businesses rely on focused marketing campaigns. They are able to guarantee that the product better suits the tastes of the customer in this way. When mass marketing is used, however, the company offers the same goods and marketing strategies to all customers. There is no segmentation of their target market into distinct, smaller market segments. Companies that sell standardized goods to the mass market rely on those sales. Due to the low-profit margins per unit, they rely on high sales volumes to make up the difference. For establishing a general business that sells shoes, mass marketing is a good option; however, a business that sells sports footwear will only appeal to customers who enjoy sporting goods. Simply put, mass marketing aims to reach everyone, while niche marketing concentrates on a specific segment of the population.

Advantages of niche marketing for e-commerce business

Fewer competitors

According to (Shaw. 2020), Due to having a limited market focus and a narrow range of customers’ target, niche marketing leads to little competition risk.  This low competition in this marketing option is one of the main advantages so far. There are fewer rivals in this market range and it would be easier for the firms to cater to the small business with the appropriate application of niche marketing. It’s also important for the firms to select suitable potential customers along with the appropriate market focus which helps them to avoid competition and convince customers to use the products. 

Brand fidelity

Customer loyalty can be increased through niche marketing. One firm or marketer able to participate in strong interaction with the customer is the number of targeted customers is limited. As a consequence, the existing firms are able to focus on excellent superior customer service through the cultivation of public relations. When the opportunity has come to meet the customer’s needs the firm is able to supply the products and services as per the demands and become a good partner of the customers. 

Greater Profit

Profit margins in niche businesses are substantial. Niche businesses meet the specialized needs of their customers. Furthermore, consumers are not able to access the product or service elsewhere. As a result, they have no dilemma paying a higher price for the service.

Spending less on marketing

Niche marketing simplifies both advertising and marketing. As a result, substantial savings on advertising and promotion are possible. Marketing in a niche market is customarily very targeted. As a result, it is also cost-efficient.

Expertise

One company innately assumes the position of an industry authority while producing productive purposes and catering to a niche sector. Focus and expertise are the best options for identifying adequate interventions. It is incredibly hard to be an authority in every field.

Disadvantages of niche marketing for  e-commerce business

Less but Strong Competition

Others will discover an opportunity where you did in a particular market. Even though there aren’t many competitors in a given niche, the competition can get brutal. Those who lack the experience or marketing expertise to succeed in this competition risk being negatively impacted.

Limited expansion

The term “niche marketing” itself implies that it is confined to a particular market. This may have an impact on the opportunities needed for a business to expand. Reaching target audiences or customers may be very difficult depending on the niche of the business. It has an impact on business expansion.

Brand-new rivals

When a new niche is developed, new competitors will eventually appear. On a niche audience, the effects of marketing may be more noticeable. As a result, a new rival may have a greater effect on a niche audience than on a larger audience. When it comes to protecting businesses, brand loyalty and a positive relationship can be very helpful.

Non-guaranteed higher ROI      

Contradictory to what was previously stated, representing a relatively small target market can now and again be more challenging to turn a profit. Serving a niche with fewer customers can be tempting but volatile on the other hand.

Marketing

Marketing is crucial for all businesses, without a doubt. Because a niche market is untapped, marketing is essential. Making connections with the target market may or may not be successful for the business. Therefore, marketing is essential.

Less Opportunity for Growth

Without any competition, it may be challenging to advance and improve. The most valuable resource for any business is a happy customer. They will stick around as regular clients and recommend you to others. Positive word-of-mouth advertising is also helpful for niche businesses. Even though there might be fewer rivals in a niche market, everyone there is aiming for the same clients. As a result, differentiating yourself from the competition becomes difficult but essential.

Summary 

At the end of this blog, the conclusion can be made where that niche marketing has been defined as that particular marketing range that enhances the focus to a narrow range of customers with higher possibilities for growth in the e-commerce platform. The current market challenges and opportunities have been taken into the account during the comparison between the niche marketing and mass marketing scopes in the e-commerce platform. 

Reference

Arford, K. (2021) What to know about canine CBD in 2021, American Kennel Club. American Kennel Club. Available at: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/know-canine-cbd-2021/ (Accessed: January 31, 2023). 

Blakeman, R., (2018). Integrated marketing communication: creative strategy from idea to implementation. Rowman & Littlefield. https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=m-1DDwAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PR3&dq=One+thing+that+is+crucial+to+realize+is+that+a+%22niche%22+is+not+something+that+already+exists%3B+rather,+it+is+created+through+clever+marketing+strategies+and+determining+what+the+target+market+wants&ots=REMkovogVw&sig=8fNKEGPTcVuHdNi0j0VN0nGpmzg

DeAcetis, J. (2021) Old spice barbershop launches with Celebrity Barbers and Content Studio, Forbes. Forbes Magazine. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/josephdeacetis/2021/04/20/old-spice-barbershop-has-celebrity-barbers-in-2021/ (Accessed: January 31, 2023). 

Kachaner, N. et al. (2022) The pandemic is heightening environmental awareness, BCG Global. BCG Global. Available at: https://www.bcg.com/publications/2020/pandemic-is-heightening-environmental-awareness (Accessed: January 31, 2023). 

Marketing a vegan brand to non-vegans (2020) Vegan Food & Living. Available at: https://www.veganfoodandliving.com/vegan-business/marketing-a-vegan-brand-to-non-vegans/ (Accessed: January 31, 2023). 

Nasrudin, A. (2022) Niche marketing: Meaning, advantages and disadvantages, Penpoin. Available at: https://penpoin.com/niche-marketing/ (Accessed: January 31, 2023). 

Osibanjo, D.R. (2022) The post-pandemic workplace: 5 shifts every leader must make, Forbes. Forbes Magazine. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/richardosibanjo/2022/02/27/the-post-pandemic-workplace-5-shifts-every-leader-must-make/ (Accessed: January 31, 2023). 

Remote work is here to stay and will increase into 2023, experts say (2022) Forbes. Forbes Magazine. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bryanrobinson/2022/02/01/remote-work-is-here-to-stay-and-will-increase-into-2023-experts-say/ (Accessed: January 31, 2023). 

Shaw, Ali .A. (2020) Advantages and disadvantages of niche marketing, Marketing Tutor. Available at: https://www.marketingtutor.net/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-niche-marketing/ (Accessed: January 31, 2023). 

Urdea, A.M. and Constantin, C.P., (2021). Experts’ perspective on the development of experiential marketing strategy: Implementation steps, benefits, and challenges. Journal of risk and financial management, 14(10), p.502. https://www.mdpi.com/1911-8074/14/10/502

What is niche marketing? definition of niche marketing, niche marketing meaning (2023) The Economic Times. Available at: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/definition/niche-marketing (Accessed: January 31, 2023). 

Yijin, Z. and Liangmou, G., (2019). Research on the Niche Evaluation of Platform Enterprises Based on Value Delivery——Taking the E-commerce Industry as an Example. Management Review, 31(9), p.116. http://journal05.magtech.org.cn/jweb_glpl/EN/Y2019/V31/I9/116

DMCA.com Protection Status