When I think about the Long Tail I think about Etsy. This is a website where individuals are able to sell items that they have created, truly niche items that aren't available to the masses. Etsy allows consumers to search their site for numerous items that range from jewelery, clothing, art, home decor, etc. Anyone can create an Etsy account and then can begin to sell their product. This creates a huge niche market where many products can be found . Also itunes is a great example. They have around 2 millions songs available to purchase online and musicians can get their music on itunes while your local Walmart can only offer you around 25,0000 songs of the artists they choose to carry.
I have a very particular style when it comes to dressing so the internet and this "Long Tail" are a blessing. I'm able to search websites that carry hundreds of clothing brands not just one. I don't love a brand I just like individual items of clothing so these websites like Karmaloop.com and JackThreadz are perfect for scrolling through tshirts, hoodies, and snapbacks until I find something I really enjoy. Also these niche websites usually have some awesome deals.
I didn't know about Etsy until I read your post. It's a very cool website and good example of Long Tail. It allows consumers to have an access to a great variety of products that they can't find easily in traditional stores. It also makes it easy for non-professional sellers to have an active part in shopping process.
ReplyDeleteYou are also right that if you have a very particular style, online shopping is the best option because its a lot faster than searching something in shopping malls or stores.