What can you sell in an online store?

An online store can sell a virtually unlimited variety of products and services. Setting up a modern online store opens up the opportunity for entrepreneurs to reach customers around the world without the constraints of a physical store.

There are several factors to consider when planning your online store's product range. Products should address a clear need or problem. Knowing your target audience's lifestyle, preferences, and purchasing behavior helps you build your range.

A starting online retailer should also consider logistical aspects: are the products easy to store and deliver? The size, weight and shelf life of the products have a significant impact on the operations and profitability of the online store.

Which product categories are most successful in online shopping?

Products that are easy to ship, do not spoil quickly, and have sufficient margin are particularly successful in online commerce. Online commerce products can be roughly divided into three main categories: physical products, digital products, and services.

Popular physical products include clothing, accessories, electronics, beauty and health products, and specialty items that are not easily found in brick-and-mortar stores. However, competition in these categories is fierce, so it is important to stand out.

Digital products such as e-books, online courses, software, and memberships are highly profitable, as their shipping costs are non-existent and they can be sold indefinitely. Subscription services and membership fees that enable ongoing revenue streams are also a growing trend.

Selling services online has become increasingly popular. These include consulting, design services, and various expert services that can be provided remotely.

How do I choose the right products for my online store?

Choosing the right products for your online store starts with a target audience analysis. Define exactly who your customers are and what problems you solve in their lives. An online business succeeds when it responds to genuine demand.

Do thorough market research: study trends, industry developments, and what your competitors are offering. A good starting point is to analyze what your competitors are selling, but try to find your own area of ​​specialization or a way to differentiate yourself.

Evaluate the profitability of your products. Carefully calculate all costs: purchase price, storage, packaging, delivery and marketing. Look at the profit margin and consider whether it allows for a profitable business.

Also consider practical aspects:

• Logistics and warehousing: How and where do you store products?
• Delivery methods: Are the products easily and affordably delivered?
• Returns: How do you manage the returns process?
• Scalability: Can you meet growing demand?

What legal requirements must be taken into account in the product range of an online store?

There are several legal requirements associated with the product range of an online store that every entrepreneur should be aware of. In Finland, optimizing an online store to comply with the law is as important as its technical functionality.

Consumer protection legislation sets requirements for product information, pricing and return rights. As an online retailer, you are obliged to provide clear and truthful product descriptions as well as information on product prices, delivery costs and times.

Product safety regulations vary by product category. Cosmetics, food and toy products in particular have strict regulations. Make sure that the products you sell meet EU and Finnish safety requirements and include all required labeling.

Data protection issues are also key. GDPR legislation sets requirements for the processing of customer data, and online retailers must ensure that customer data is stored and processed appropriately.

Building an online store product range: summary and next steps

Building an online store's product range is an ongoing process that requires market monitoring and understanding customer needs. Digital marketing plays a key role in introducing the product range to the right target groups.

Start with a smaller, carefully considered selection and expand it as you gain experience. In practice, it is better to manage a much smaller selection than to offer everything to everyone. Initially, focus on products that you know sell and in which you have special expertise.

The Shopify platform provides a great foundation for starting and growing an online store. It allows you to easily manage your product range, track sales, and optimize your online store based on data.

Remember that building a successful online store takes time and patience. Continuously collect customer feedback and track which products are successful. This way you can develop your selection in the right direction and build a profitable online business that truly meets customer needs.