The article titled “6 Months Update: Progress of the Print on Demand Shop” provides a comprehensive update on the progress of the shop over the past 6 months. The video, produced by Alek, serves as a recap of the shop’s journey since its opening and discusses the new challenges faced in the business. Notably, the video touches upon the Etsy Legal section, possibly addressing legal issues related to the shop. Additionally, the video hints at future plans and sets the stage for what to expect moving forward, concluding with the phrase “Moving On…” to indicate a shift or change in the business. Overall, the article delves into the various aspects of the shop’s performance, revenue, and steps taken to prevent further copying and improve sales, while also showcasing the determination to achieve the goal of $100,000 by the end of the year.
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1. Shop Progress Overview
1.1 Recap of Shop Opening
Alek opens the article by providing a brief recap of the shop’s opening. The shop, a print on demand Etsy store, was launched on November 3, 2022, with the ambitious goal of reaching $100,000 in revenue within a year. Alek shares that the shop had a successful start, earning $5,500 in the first two months and maintaining a steady revenue of $1,700 even during the slowest month.
1.2 Initial Success
The author highlights the initial success of the shop, which generated a positive response from viewers and customers. Alek mentions that there was a YouTube series documenting the growth of the shop, which garnered significant attention and engagement. However, Alek reveals that the YouTube series had been paused, leading to questions from viewers and a lack of updates on the shop’s progress.
1.3 Paused YouTube Series
Alek acknowledges the interruption in the YouTube series and the impact it had on the audience’s perception of the shop’s progress. The lack of updates resulted in confusion and speculation among viewers about the shop’s current status and whether or not Alek had given up on the venture. This lack of communication created a gap in engagement and left the audience curious about what had been happening with the shop.
2. Challenges and Issues
2.1 Accidental Shop Name Leak
Alek addresses a significant challenge faced by the shop, which was the accidental leak of the shop’s name in a YouTube video. While the shop saw an increase in traffic as a result, the conversion rates declined significantly. Alek explains that over 35,000 viewers saw the shop name, leading to a negative impact on the shop’s rankings on Etsy due to the algorithm’s perception of low conversion rates. This unintentional leak had consequences beyond reduced conversion rates, affecting the shop’s overall performance.
2.2 Copying of Listings
Another challenge highlighted by Alek is the issue of other sellers copying the shop’s listings and posting them for sale in their own shops. Despite having unique and successful listings, the shop witnessed a trend of cloned listings appearing on Etsy. This affected the shop’s sales and rankings, as customers were more likely to purchase the cheaper clone listings rather than the original ones.
2.3 Stealing Listings on Etsy
The author emphasizes that the issue of copying listings is prevalent on Etsy, affecting both small and big sellers. Alek shares the frustration that comes with experiencing his designs being stolen and seeing clone listings flood the platform. The unethical practice makes the work and effort put into creating listings feel pointless, especially when the stolen listings overshadow the original ones.
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3. Etsy Legal
3.1 Addressing Legal Issues
Alek briefly touches upon the option of using Etsy’s legal system to take down the stolen listings. However, due to the significant number of copied listings, this process would be time-consuming and perhaps not worth the effort. Alek shares the experience of the challenge shop being targeted by clone accounts and expresses understanding for those who engaged in copying, albeit without condoning the behavior. The author reminds readers that copying designs is not only ethically wrong but can also result in severe consequences, such as shop suspension or legal action.
4. Future Plans and Expectations
4.1 Goals and Targets
Alek expresses a shift in perspective regarding the challenge and its future. Although the author admits to feeling disheartened by the challenges faced, Alek decides not to end the series. The author acknowledges the appreciation shown by viewers for insights into the realities of growing a business and believes that the challenge can serve as motivation and validation for others facing similar obstacles. The ultimate goal remains to reach $100,000 in revenue by the end of the year.
4.2 Current Revenue
The article reveals that the shop’s revenue currently stands at $8,776.60. While this falls short of the expected growth, Alek remains determined to overcome the setbacks and work towards achieving the set revenue target. The author acknowledges the slower growth rate but emphasizes the importance of persistence and resilience.
4.3 Measures to Prevent Copying
Alek outlines the measures being taken to prevent further copying of the shop’s listings. These include changing the shop name, creating more complex designs, and adding watermarks to mock-ups. These steps are intended to deter potential copycats and protect the shop’s designs from being stolen in the future.
5. Exploring Other Platforms
5.1 Shopify Considerations
Due to the persisting issues with copying listings, Alek contemplates the possibility of using Shopify as an alternative platform. The author highlights the potential benefits of using Shopify, such as greater control over the shop’s branding, increased customization options, and potentially driving more targeted traffic to the shop.
5.2 Building a Website
In addition to considering Shopify, Alek explores the idea of building a dedicated website for the print on demand shop. Building a website could provide more control over the shop’s online presence and potentially create a stronger, more independent brand image. By branching out from Etsy, Alek aims to diversify the shop’s reach and reduce reliance on a single platform.
6. Conclusion
The article concludes with Alek’s determination to continue the challenge. Despite the challenges and setbacks experienced, the author recognizes the value of sharing the journey with viewers and providing insights into the realities of growing a business. Alek’s commitment to achieving the $100,000 revenue goal by the end of the year remains unchanged, and measures are being taken to prevent further copying of listings. The considerations of exploring other platforms, such as Shopify or building a website, demonstrate a proactive mindset in adapting to the circumstances. Overall, the article leaves readers with anticipation for what lies ahead in the shop’s journey and highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.
