Game over! Do marketplaces such as Bol.com and Amazon have the right to exist?

The emergence of niche marketplaces
Significant marketplaces such as Bol.com and Amazon have dominated online shopping recently. But is the era of these giants over? More and more entrepreneurs and consumers are opting for niche marketplaces. These specialized online marketplaces focus on a specific industry or product category. Consider, for example, Etsy for handmade and vintage products, Vinted for second-hand clothing, or the Bon App for small and medium-sized online stores.

What are the benefits of niche marketplaces?
Niche marketplaces offer several advantages over significant marketplaces for both entrepreneurs and consumers. First of all, they ensure better findability of products. Due to the enormous amount of products on marketplaces such as Bol.com and Amazon, it is often difficult for smaller entrepreneurs to stand out. In a niche marketplace, the competition is smaller, and it is easier to address a specific target group.

In addition, niche marketplaces often provide a better user experience for consumers. They are more apparent and focus on a specific product category. Therefore, it is faster and easier for consumers to find what they want. Moreover, niche marketplaces can respond to particular needs and wishes of their target group, for example, by offering additional services or personal customer service.

The Future of Marketplaces
Although niche marketplaces are gaining popularity, there is still time for marketplaces such as Bol.com and Amazon. These giants have a vast reach and will always play an essential role in online shopping. However, the emergence of niche marketplaces is increasing diversity and providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and consumers to create a unique online shopping experience.

As a business owner, looking at the opportunities niche marketplaces offer and considering whether they could be an excellent addition to your current sales channels is essential. And as a consumer, it is interesting to discover these specialized marketplaces and take advantage of their benefits.