Saree is the ultimate fashion statement for an Indian woman. This nine-yard drape is a symbol of elegance and class. Being one of the oldest garments adorned by Indian women till now this ethnic wear has come a long way. Our mom and grandmom are the persons who are carrying forward the legacy of traditional sarees. Indian offers a variety of fabrics when it comes to saree. This ethnic garment is available with a wide range of variations depending on the geographical location.

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Some popular choices of sarees that every woman prefers to keep in their wardrobe are Kanjeevaram, pure silk, benarasi, tant, Kerala cotton, etc. Owing to its huge demand, it carries the potential to flourish into a big business if managed effectively.  

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Presently, the retail value of women's wear in India is estimated to be INR 122,600 crores of which 30% is contributed by saree which is approximately INR38,000 crores. The CAGR growth is expected to be 5-6% between 2018-2024 owning to the rising demand.

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What do customers look for while shopping for sarees online?

Until the pandemic came there are equal demand for store shopping as well as online. But since the outbreak of this virus customers are more inclined to shop online to maintain social distancing and their health. Every customer has their taste and style and based on that they choose the fabric of their saree.

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Some may like a simple and casual look they may go for a cotton saree whereas some women prefer a more bold and gorgeous style they may choose a silk saree. In this article, we will talk about the several requirements an online store has to fulfil to satisfy its customers.

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Satisfying customer preference for garment

Every customer has their own choice and taste when it comes to choosing a garment. The fashion sense of a person reflects their personality and style. If the client is a big fan of traditional wear she may pick up a kanjeevaram or benarasi sarees. Or if you want to buy a new saree to attend a wedding or any similar occasion and want a gold patterned fabric that will match your jewellery and will look elegant you may go for a zari pattern saree.

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Also, some customers who want a simpler look or a saree that they can wear comfortably for daily use can opt for a Khadi cotton or Kerala cotton saree. Which looks simple yet graceful on the person who abrades it. Keeping all these different preferences, and liking in mind an online store has to keep a wide variety of saree with the latest designs available for the customer to choose from.

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Certified store

Always go for a certified store if you are buying a saree online. A verified store can guarantee the quality of the fabric you buy. As you cannot touch or judge the fabric through your own eyes, there is always an uncertainty in your mind that whether the garment will be authentic or not. This is the reason why you should always go for a certified store that will guarantee the quality of the fabric also in case you don't like the product you will always have the option to return it.

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Quality website

It is important to provide a well-designed website to the consumer. A garment store provides a wide range of sarees depending on different types based on pattern and fabric. If your website is well designed the customer can easily filter their preferences and don't have to search from the whole collection. A quality website offers a good filter so that it becomes easy for the buyer to find their preferred saree without taking the pain to search from a huge collection.

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Also, your website should offer a different space for saving the garments the buyer liked and wanted to purchase at a later date. This way they can easily find their hand-picked cloth without the requirement of searching for them again when they wish to buy them.

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Comparing price

Several sellers are selling the same product from separate selling online platforms. Being a customer you need to look and compare all the pricing available on different websites for the saree of your choice. Choose the best pricing for a high-quality saree after comparing between the store selling it at lower and higher prices. Analyze the quality and feedback and buy the best option within your pocket pinch.

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Try and buy the option

This is a great option provided by some selected websites like Myntra. Try and buy option suggests that you can choose the garment of your choice and it will be delivered to your home. After you try the cloth out you can decide if you want to keep them or return them. If you like the garment only then will you pay for it, this way you can decide more easily on the cloth you preferred?

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Coupon and discounts

Discounts and coupon codes are the perks you get from an online shopping store. You will be provided with a discount code which you can apply on your first order or a special seasonal discount. Also, another advantage of online shopping is that they provide free shipping on your first order. Whatever the billing amount is you will get a free shipping code for your first order. There are also huge discounts on special occasions, year ending and big billion day sales.

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Get Familiar with the customer care service facilities

Get more familiar with the customer service of the online selling website. Check if they are quick to respond to any problems that you come with as a customer. In case you have a complaint or query about a product you purchase online the customer service should be quick to respond to any query. You won't prefer to buy anything from a website who are not cooperative or attentive towards their customer.

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Be aware of the Payment mode

If the store is not well known or new it is better to go for the cash-on-delivery option for your payment. Only if the store is well known and popular you can go for online payment. As there is the possibility of fraud if you do your payment beforehand and the product may not be delivered to you case of unknown online sites. So, you need to be careful about your mode of payment when you buy something online. If an online site matches all the criteria mentioned above it will be easier to choose and buy sarees online.

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Advantages of online saree business

Here are some perks of having an online saree business:

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1. Low Start-up Investment

Setting up an online saree business does not require much of an investment in the initial phase. One has to invest in website cost and marketing in the initial stages. The overall cost will be less than INR 30,000 for an online saree venture. Once the business expands, it might require inventory management, but if one is planning to opt online marketplace like Amazon, it can be easily taken care of. The inputs that must be fed into the business are passion and dedication.

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2. Can be Started from Small settings like home

If one plans to sell sarees through an online platform, they do not need to have a store or office. In the initial stages, one can easily manage all the activities from the comfort of their house.

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3. Flexibility

An online saree business gives you the flexibility to work as per your wish. One can invest a dedicated amount of time at their convenience and have the liberty to manage all facets of the business independently. One can either start a website of their own or even register at famous marketplaces. The added advantage is that location is not a constraint in online businesses. One can work from anywhere and be his/ her boss in this type of business. This lets one fulfil their "being an entrepreneur" dream.

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4. Gain Good Profits

The benefit of an online saree business is that one has more time to display the product to the customer. The buyer can anytime surf through the website and buy the product. Having a 24*7 window to sell the products on all days is a considerable gain, and one does not have to worry about nights or holidays. The margins for Saree Business are generally high, which account for around 40%, can generate huge profits and allows the business to proliferate.

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5. Attract Customers worldwide

A business can cross borders through the internet compared to a physical store. Having a website or displaying the product on already established sites can bring the product into the eyes of a broad customer base. One can host the product of famous online marketplaces like Amazon that will help to reach a more broad and new audience, thus enhancing sales.

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6. E-commerce is the new way

Online marketplaces have been growing tremendously, and people are more comfortable with online shopping nowadays. Ecommerce offers convenient shopping to the customers enhancing their satisfaction and motivating them to purchase the product.

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7. Less Build in Time

The average time required to bring the product into the market is much less for a saree. This will help in producing huge volumes at a faster pace.

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8. Customised Marketing

An online saree business can encourage buying the products by offering discounts and offers. One can alter the placement, price, and packaging to influence the customer's decision and promote "Impulse buy". Additionally, having a website will help you understand customer behaviour to perform target-based marketing.

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9. Scalable Initiative

Sarees are always in demand, and with an online saree venture, there will always be a demand for new designs and patterns. It can be scaled up gradually.

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10. No Upper Cap to the Income Generated

The more robust the business skills, one can generate a higher profit in this field. The income cap can go very high and is not limited.

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11. Simple Model

To start a saree business, one doesn't require much technical knowledge. An artistic mind can create beautiful products, and the online platform again reduces much of the manual work. Many sites help in the logistics part, allowing the trader to focus on the product.

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12. Follow the passion

Last but not least, if one has passion and interest in this area, then it can be the right method to fulfil the dream by following the passion. It is rewarding to work; by catering to customer demands, you are helping them, and at the trader level, it is an area they care about.

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13. Easy marketing

The marketing process through digital media is easy and has the potential to reach a large audience. Rigorous marketing can attract and convenient mode of shopping will retain customers. Through online mode, a referral mechanism can be enabled to incentivise customers to refer the product to their friends or family.

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Determining profit margin for online saree wholesalers

Starting and scaling up a business is a very cumbersome process and takes a lot of smart work. If one can play the cards rightly, then profits will come flowing. Many unique ideas are transforming into small and medium-sized businesses in today's world.

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Indian traditions and culture have consistently raised the demand for sarees, highlighting sarees' significance in the market. Sarees are one such product that can fetch a massive profit in B2B and B2C models. However, every business can fall if proper care is not given in the nurturing phase. One should know how to set an average profit in any sort of business so that in any adverse situation, they can manage to break even.  

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Factors that affect the Profit Margin

Every business depends on various factors, which must be considered before setting up the profit margin. When it comes to online saree business, the buyer must sustain the required quality of product to the customer to keep the business running. A few factors that have a considerable role to play in this industry are listed below:

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1. Quality

The business must ensure to supply good quality products; sarees will never get sold if the cloth material is not of good quality. Hence a set standard should be maintained to fetch more demand. The business owner should also buy the clothes for the sarees from a credible supplier. If the quality is compromised, the number of customers will eventually fall.

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2. Pricing

Nobody likes to buy overpriced products. Hence the seller should not quote a huge price on the product. Simultaneously, they should keep a small profit margin while selling it to a customer or trader. The owner can keep the price lower by applying average profit on the product. One can visit the retail stores or online marketplaces and understand the price offered to the customers for different types of sarees and, based on that, frame the pricing strategy.

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In online shopping, the option of free delivery or nominal cost on delivery can be charged based on the location. In addition, as the other investments in labour or workspace are very limited in online business, the profit margin can be decided based on the product. After deducting the expenses, an online saree business's profit margin is around 40%.

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3. Stay Updated

Fashion is evolving, and designs get replaced within no time. When it comes to clothes, people love to stay updated with the current trend. The retailer must be aware of the current trend and design accordingly. It is also recommended to have an idea of the market size and produce volumes based on the size. The entrepreneur can attract customers by offering discounts on products that are in stock for a long time and quote a little high for those in trend.

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4. Knowledge about the types of sarees

The business owner should have a fair understanding of the types of sarees and quote prices based on the product's popularity among the customers. For example, a Pathani saree and a Chiffon saree will fall into two price categories.

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Understanding the Latest trends in online saree shopping

There are many latest trends in sarees which are liked by millions and adding them to your collection can help your business gain consistent and loyal clients-

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Top trends in sarees that can change the fashion game:

1. Thin Bordered Saree:

Gone are the times when heavy and thick bordered sarees dominated the fashion industry. This year is about showcasing minimum work on the saree yet making them look elegant. We saw a lot of celebrities and models portrayed thin bordered saree at various events styled by famous designers like Manish Malhotra and Suneet Verma. If one is looking to revolutionize the wardrobe with the current trend, then a saree with a thin border in mirror work or embroidery will be the best option.

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2. Net Sarees

Net sarees have always secured a special spot in the fashion industry and have never gotten outdated. This saree can be styled in any way and is one of the best choices for an evening or office party.  

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3. Tissue Sarees:

Tissue Sarees are created using a delicate fabric that makes them very easy to be carried. They are extremely light weighted and preferred by all as it adds to the elegance factor. They are usually designed in every colour but are predominantly seen in gold, silver and bronze.  

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4. Ruffle Sarees:

The greatest part of this saree is that it doesn't need a complementary designer blouse or matching heavy jewellery. The saree is a signature product and is complete within itself. The texture and layers are unmatched by any other type and it has identified itself as a charming player in the fashion spectrum.

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5. Organza Saree:

Organza Sarees are silked derivatives and top the list of latest trends in 2024. They are made out of pure silk and are incredibly light weighed fabric with an attractive appeal that one cannot resist. They are ideal choices to showcase fashion with minimal effort. They are also designed in floral prints or murals, which are trending now.

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6. Leheriya Saree

The Jaipuri Lehriya Saree has been one of the leading names in fashion for ages. They are carved with beautiful Gota Pattoi work and are unbeatable in terms of charm and elegance. These sarees are designed in vibrant colours due to their roots in Rajasthan. Leheriya Sarees has established a safe spot in the fashion industry and will never fade no matter how much the fashion evolves.

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7. Rajasthani Rajputi Poshak

Rajasthani Rajputi Poshak is a junction when elegance meets royalty. It originated as a royal attire for Rajputana women but currently can be accessed by anyone. These are available in vivid colours and designs. It is accompanied by a lehenga, Dupatta, Kurti and Kanchali. These are weaved into a format that represents the traditional culture of Rajasthan.

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8. Floral Embroidery saree

Perfect wedding attire for a woman can lead one to this masterpiece. These sarees are available in multiple designs and patterns that can make one look stunning. They have a concrete place in the fashion industry and are often opted by celebrities for weddings and other occasions.

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9. Double Fabric

Combining two fabrics is a deadly fusion, and this creative experiment enjoys a lot of appreciation in the fashion industry. Satin with net or Georgette with net are a few blended versions, which famous designers have presented as their signature products. It might sound like an experiment to many but belongs to the "must-try" category.

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10. Pastel Silk Saris

Silk Sarees are one of the most opted sarees in India, irrespective of the function. The soft texture and elegant pattern create an everlasting impression in the eyes of the beholder, which tags it as one of the most preferred types of sarees. The pastel silk sarees are trending now because of their adaptability to any body type and skin tone.

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11. Concept Saris

Pleatless sarees fused with beautiful designer blouses have evolved as one of women's most preferred go-to attire in 2024. If one finds the process of making pleats difficult, then this can be the perfect remedy for them to look gorgeous without the hard work. These are instant sarees that can be donned within no time with minimum effort. They are effortless to carry and are one of the most sorted saree preferred by all age groups for any occasion.

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12. Multi-colour Sarees

Multicoloured sarees have slowly replaced the monochromatic colour tones in 2024. A multicoloured block, waves, or other appealing patterns on the saree is trending in the market today. This is a trendsetter and is slowly breaking the monotonous fashion sense.

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13. Pleated Sarees

One of the top preferred types of sarees for cocktail parties or musical nights is pleated sarees. Pleated sarees offer a combination of classic and modern looks, and the design is spread all over the fabric of the saree giving a symmetrical waves-like pattern.

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14. Velvet Sarees

If any saree other than the Rajasthani Royal Poshak can take one to royalty, it is the velvet saree. The fabric's shine gives a classic look to this type of sarees. They are durable and drape well around the body.

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15. Dual-tone Ombre Sarees

Ombre sarees are made from a beautiful technique where the fabric is weaved into different colours. They give a luxurious appeal and have entered the race of fashion recently.

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16. Colour-Blocked Sarees

Colour-blocked sarees are trending this season and are crafted using different solid tone shades to create a beautiful and unique product. This technique is applied not only to sarees but also to Kurtis, shoes, bags, jackets etc.

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Tips to start an online saree store on Amazon

Amazon is the largest online marketplace for a variety of products in India. From gadgets to apparel, you can find it all here. The demand for sarees is particularly high on amazon and you can easily kick-start a business for the traditional Indian outfit here. Online selling has been a milestone in the business and entrepreneurial world in India. Especially for traditional businesses like saree, the methods have evolved manifolds, courtesy of the various online selling platforms.

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With basic knowledge of technology and the online marketplace, you can successfully start your business for sarees through Amazon.Here we have shared some insightful tips to start a business of sarees on amazon.

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1. Keep all documents handy

First thing first- to start any business on Amazon, you will need an email id and phone number, PAN card and a seller name. It is crucial to have these at hand right from the beginning to set up the seller account in minutes. Especially the business name must be created with deliberation. Your business would be known and branded by that name. Hence, you must select a unique and easy-to-remember name so that buyers can search your amazon store easily.

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Keeping the documents at hand ensure that you can quickly finish the registration process. Only when your PAN details are verified can your account have a proper transaction. As a result, providing accurate seller details is the most elemental step to starting this business.

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2. The registration process

The first thing to do is register as a seller on Amazon to set up your saree store. Amazon has a set list of quality standards and business policies. You can sell as many products as you want on amazon. But they must qualify the standards set by the brand. Enter your credentials and provide documents for verification so the registration is complete. To activate the store, you must submit the product titles, descriptions, specifications and even images so that they are scrutinized thoroughly for approval.

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All the items you have submitted must meet the clothing and accessories style guide provided by amazon to get approved. While applying provide the email address and contact details.

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3. Setting up the store

After registration, you need to create an account with the GST/PAN details as well as an active bank account. This is essential for all the transactions to take place smoothly. As soon as you make a sale, the amount after deducting amazon’s commission will be transferred here. You can also schedule whether you want to transfer the amount instantly or in bulk after a certain period. Ideally, the amount gets transferred to your bank account after every seven days after deducting amazon fees.

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4. Delivery, storage and return shipment

With Amazon, you get complete flexibility regarding delivery, storage and return shipments. There are three ways to ship your products through amazon- Amazon fulfilled, self-ship, and easy-ship method. Thus, a lot of time and effort is saved when you opt for selling through amazon as they take care of the shipping as well.

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5. Quality and standard

To become a trusted seller on Amazon which is also listed as “Amazon verified”, it is important to set a high-quality standard. Your customers are likely to search and come back for more only when they get quality during their first purchase.

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Thus, your item must be exactly what you put forward through the images. Often clients are put off if they receive a lower standard of the product than what they expected from the picture. Upload relevant pictures of the product that gives the most realistic impression. Also, do not give stock photos but try to provide an actual image of the product you are listing.

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6. Description and specifications of the product

A potential buyer looking for specific types of saree is likely to check the description and specifications right after they are drawn by the image. Even if the saree designs you stock are fabulous, you may not get enough clients when the product description is obscure. The length of the saree, material, weave type, thread count of the fabric, colour, wash and care details are some of the specifications that buyers look for. Saree is rather tricky to shop online which is why the description is of utmost importance.

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7. Sponsored ad campaigns

Amazon also gives the facility to showcase your products whenever a customer search for relevant items. This is done through a nominal sponsorship charge. By running such an ad campaign you can ensure your sarees get featured at the top of the listing whenever a customer search for the item. However, if your product’s image is not up to the mark, even sponsored posts and ad campaigns cannot bring enough customers.

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8. Promote your business on other platforms

Though Amazon is a large selling platform, it is best to promote your items on other platforms simultaneously. This is because the competition is high here and as a result, your products may not always get enough views from potential buyers. But when you make the most of other platforms like Instagram and Facebook, you can build a follower base which in turn can improve your sales manifolds.

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You can also start simultaneous stores in other places like the Fynd Platform. By spreading the business over several selling platforms online, you can get more exposure from potential buyers. Moreover, by starting an independent website you have better control over your finances. With the help of Fynd Platform, you can start a website right away by choosing your plan as per your business goals.

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9. Right tags, keywords and category

When you add the products to your list, it is very important to select the right category of your business and the right tags so that your products are easy to discover. Often people filter the website by category or search for specific terms.

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Hence your keywords must be accurate and should be selected based on recent trends. It is best to take the help of digital marketing professionals to determine the best tags and keywords for your product. Much of your store’s success depends on how easily the potential clients can find your products.

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10. Good quality pictures

Several shots of the product from different angles and in high resolution are necessary for your amazon store. People are only going to spend so much time on your product if you can grab their attention with the product. To do so, you must have quality images.

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It is best to have images of the saree draped on a model which gives the best idea about the product’s aesthetics. Even a mannequin would work. Irrespective of how the photograph is taken, the key is to have clear and crisp images from every possible angle.

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Is Amazon the best place to sell sarees?

To kick start your business finding a popular online selling platform is important. It helps you to make the most of their existing customer base. As a result, you need not put too much effort into building your website from scratch and growing it to get substantial customers. However, if you built an independent website on a popular platform to sell your sarees, you can get the same benefits as starting on a platform like Amazon.

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One such place is the Fynd Platform. You can independently start a website for your saree business here. Simply set the goals for your business and select the plan. The dashboard is very user-friendly and designing your website would be easy. Moreover, the platform already has thousands of followers which can be beneficial for your business since you can get more leads right from the first day.

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Conclusion

Starting a saree business online at Amazon is a great way to start your entrepreneurial journey. However, Amazon has a lot of competition and it is not exactly an individual website which can eventually become a brand for your business. Nevertheless, it is a great place for start-ups and eventually, you can build an individual website for your business on the Fynd platform and similar places. Make your business venture a success by tapping into the infinite resources of the internet and online marketing.