In their second quarter results, Etsy announced Etsy Insider, a new buyer membership programme which will launch to invited buyers in September this year – just in time for the busy Christmas period.
Think of Etsy Insider as being somewhat akin to Amazon Prime – free shipping is the big one, but other benefits are also coming to those who opt to pay a yet to be disclosed membership fee. There will be options for both annual and seasonal membership, so those that use Etsy for gifting at Christmas will be able to have membership only when they need it.
Etsy say that they are making progress on efforts to position Etsy as an indispensable partner for Gifting – Gifting GMS was up 4.1% YoY, representing approximately 27% of total GMS and Etsy say that this significantly outperforming select online gifting focused peers. Gift Mode became available everywhere Etsy operates globally, and in ten languages.
Etsy Insider benefits
- Free US domestic shipping
- A special birthday bonus
- A limited edition tote bag that Etsy partnered with an Etsy seller – Kerry Stokes of Etsy shop Calhoun and Co–to design (Pictured above)
- Etsy will work with select Etsy sellers to offer members first access to merchandise and special discounts
Impact for Etsy Sellers
Sellers won’t need to make any changes to their workflow or shipping settings to participate in Etsy Insider – there’s no cost to you. US buyers who join Etsy Insider will be able to use their benefits when purchasing from your shop. Sellers will be paid the full shipping fee less the transaction fee, and earnings and fees will appear the same as any other order on your ledger. You’ll be able to see shipping was paid by Etsy on the order email, order details page, packing slip, and in Messages.
Etsy will be working with select sellers to offer Etsy Insider deals and item drops. While offering Etsy Insiders deals and first access to items is completely optional, it’s a great opportunity for sellers to be highlighted in Etsy Insider marketing, helping drive even more traffic to their shops.
