Press release - 20 November 2024 11:42

Brits Are Cashing In: Over 1 in 4 Are Turning Online Marketplaces into Money-Making Machines - Some Earning An Extra £400 a Month

Two-thirds of Brits are buying and selling from online marketplaces
However, maintaining positive reviews is crucial as 40 per cent of buyers won’t make a purchase until they’ve checked the sellers’ reviews
Top ways sellers are maintaining high ratings include getting packages shipped quickly and responding to enquires within the hour
Post Office branches are a one-stop-shop for online sellers – with a choice of carriers and expert advice from postmasters on which service is most suitable

Two thirds of Brits love buying and selling from online marketplaces – with the average person exchanging 21 items so far this year.

A poll of 2,000 adults revealed fashion items, hobby products and home and garden ware are the most popular items shoppers and sellers are exchanging via these internet platforms.

In fact, 20 per cent even claim selling second-hand goods online is their ‘side hustle’ – with some making more than £400 per month. Additionally, almost one in 10 (9 per cent) have turned selling on online marketplaces into their full-time job.

However, 3 in 4 (83 per cent) know it’s important they maintain a high overall rating on their profile as 49 per cent of buyers are deterred from poor reviews. While 40 per cent won’t make a purchase until they’ve checked the reviews.

To ensure sellers maintain high reviews, 48 per cent pride themselves on getting packages shipped quickly and 43 per cent will respond to queries within the hour to maintain their reputation.

These items are not just being sold to neighbours, 47 per cent of sellers are posting goods nationwide – and 47 per cent of sales have been shipped off around the country since the start of the year.

Neill O’Sullivan, Managing Director of Parcels and Mails at Post Office, which commissioned the research, said: “It’s incredible to see how many people are not only decluttering through online marketplaces but also turning it into a significant income stream. Maintaining a high seller rating has become crucial, with quick delivery and prompt communication being the key to happy customers.

“In a world where next-day delivery is expected and customers want to see exactly where their parcels are along the way, we know the importance of ensuring packages are tracked and arrive safely. Now even smaller sellers can offer this kind of service if they use the right delivery carrier.

“With Christmas on the horizon, shoppers are more likely to spend with sellers who can offer a choice of delivery options and provide tracking, matching the service from big brands.”

The rise of marketplaces is due to people loving the variety of products available (62 per cent), while 58 per cent say it’s more convenient being able to shop from home. A further 48 per cent claim it gives them the ability to compare prices easily and 39 per cent love the opportunity of selling their unwanted items for extra cash. But 53 per cent have been put off from buying from an online seller due to high shipping costs.

Alison De Lara, Founder of Mamma Duck Company, who has been selling her popular wooden ducks online since 2013, says “While being an online seller has been brilliant at allowing me to grow my business and build loyal, returning customers, it comes with its challenges such as ensuring items get to them on time and securely.

“Just like those in the research, for me, affordable delivery options, convenient drop-off locations, and reliable tracking are important aspects which make sending items a positive experience.

“Tracking, in particular, gives my customers peace of mind and being able to offer delivery options that suit their budget and time scale has absolutely been key in boosting my customer experience.”

Neill O’Sullivan explains how online sellers can get support with their deliveries in the run up to Christmas: “Our branches are a one-stop-shop for online sellers – offering a choice of delivery partners including Evri, DPD, Royal Mail and Parcelforce. This means online sellers can make the most of the Christmas rush, without the stress, as Postmasters can advise on the most suitable posting options.

“Online sellers can also take advantage of our Drop & Go service which means customers don’t have to wait in line at the counter. Parcels can be dropped off in local branches and the team will take care of weighing, labelling and payment from prepaid accounts."

For more information visit: postoffice.co.uk/mail

ENDS

About the Post Office

With over 11,500 branches, Post Office has the biggest retail network in the UK, with more branches than all the banks and building societies combined.
Post Office is helping anyone who wants cash to get it whichever way is most convenient. Partnership with over 30 banks, building societies and credit unions means that 99% of UK bank customers can access their accounts at their Post Office.
Cash withdrawals, deposits and balance enquiries can be made securely and conveniently over the counter at any Post Office; and the biggest investment by any organisation or company in the last decade is being made to safeguard 1,400 free-to-use ATMs across the UK.
Post Office is simplifying its proposition for Postmasters with a focus on its cash and banking; mails and parcels; foreign exchange; and; bill payments services.
Research has found that visits to the Post Office help drive another 400 million visitors to other shops, restaurants and local businesses equating to an estimated £1.1 billion in additional revenue for High Street businesses.
99.7% of the population live within three miles of a Post Office; and 4,000 branches are open seven days a week.