Etsy
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The Etsy Grift
The Etsy Grift: How They Get Away With It 1. They sell a dream Etsy built its empire on the cosy promise of “supporting small makers” so people like you join thinking: “Finally, a place that gets it!” But under the surface, it’s become more Amazon-in-a-floral-cardigan than artist utopia. 2. They control the traffic, then charge to unlock it Etsy used to promote everyone equally, now? You're competing with factories posing as makers, unless you pay. So they’ve created a problem and are now charging you for the illusion of a solution. Those adverts? feels like a slot machine: no guarantee, all gamble. 3. Because you're replaceable Brutal, but true: if one seller leaves, ten more sign up. So Etsy doesn’t need you, but your products, your fees, and your clicks? Oh yes. Those they’ll take. 4. Buyers trust the brand, not the individual shops Buyers go, “Oh, I got it on Etsy!” not “from 'your shop'” That’s how Etsy keeps the power. You're doing the graft, but they get the glory. 5. Regulation is practically non-existent They’re not legally required to promote you fairly. They bury you in the algorithm unless you play ball, and since there’s no watchdog for "being a bit of a corporate goblin," they continue unbothered. This review is based on how Etsy now work for sellers. They're not here for you, to promote you. Their ethos is dead. 65% of Etsy sellers make less than £100 a year .. you'd do better getting your own website.. good luck 🤞🏻