Indian e-commerce market is valued at $70 billion as of 2023, and is expected to grow to $259 billion by 2032. This represents about 7% of the country’s total retail market, and India is the world’s second-largest internet market with over 950 million users
Example Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C) in India:
In India C2C model has gained popularity, especially with the growth of online marketplaces that facilitate buying and selling between individuals. These platforms cater to a range of needs, from secondhand goods and fashion to services and rentals.
Examples of popular C2C websites in India:
1. OLX India
- Website: olx.in
- Industry: Classifieds
- What they do: OLX is one of the leading online classifieds platforms in India, where users can buy and sell secondhand goods such as electronics, vehicles, furniture, and more. It operates as a C2C marketplace where individuals can list their products for free and connect directly with buyers. OLX is widely used for selling used items within local communities, making it easy for people to declutter and find affordable deals.
2. Quikr
- Website: quikr.com
- Industry: Classifieds
- What they do: Quikr is another major online classifieds platform in India that facilitates C2C transactions across a wide variety of categories, including electronics, furniture, vehicles, real estate, and jobs. Quikr offers features like doorstep delivery, inspection services, and the option to sell items instantly to Quikr’s own buyers, making it a versatile platform for both casual sellers and those looking for quicker transactions.
3. Facebook Marketplace India
- Website: facebook.com/marketplace
- Industry: Social Media / Online Marketplace
- What they do: Facebook Marketplace allows users in India to buy and sell goods within their local communities. As an extension of Facebook, Marketplace benefits from the platform’s large user base, allowing people to list and find items quickly and easily. It’s particularly popular for secondhand items like furniture, electronics, and fashion. Facebook Marketplace is integrated with users’ profiles, adding a layer of trust and security to the transactions.
4. eBay India (Now Part of 2GUD)
- Website: 2gud.com
- Industry: Online Marketplace
7. Rentomojo
- Website: rentomojo.com
- Industry: Rental Marketplace
- What they do: Rentomojo operates in the rental space, offering furniture, electronics, and appliances on a rental basis. While it primarily offers rental services, Rentomojo also supports C2C rentals, where individuals can rent out their own items to other consumers. This is especially useful for those looking to monetize unused assets like furniture or electronics.
Example Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C) in India:
In India Direct-to-Consumer (DTC or D2C) refers to businesses that sell products directly to customers, bypassing traditional retail channels and middlemen. In India, the DTC model has gained significant traction, especially with the rise of e-commerce and social media, enabling brands to create direct relationships with their consumers and offer personalized experiences.
Here are some examples of popular Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) websites in India:
1. boAt
- Website: boat-lifestyle.com
- Industry: Consumer Electronics (Audio Products)
- What they do: boAt is a leading DTC brand in India specializing in affordable audio products such as earphones, headphones, speakers, and wearables. The brand focuses on stylish design, durability, and affordability. By selling directly through their website and select online marketplaces, boAt has managed to cut down costs and pass the savings on to consumers. boAt’s marketing strategy revolves around collaborations with celebrities and influencers, which helps them directly connect with their young, tech-savvy audience.
2. Mamaearth
- Website: mamaearth.in
- Industry: Beauty and Personal Care
- What they do: Mamaearth is a DTC brand that focuses on toxin-free, natural skincare, haircare, and baby care products. They market themselves as a “Made Safe” certified brand, appealing to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers. Mamaearth sells directly through its website as well as through major e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. Their strong digital marketing and influencer-driven campaigns have helped them build a loyal customer base, particularly among young parents and eco-conscious individuals.
3. Lenskart
- Website: lenskart.com
- Industry: Eyewear
- What they do: Lenskart is a DTC eyewear brand that provides a wide range of eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses. Lenskart operates both online and offline, allowing customers to order glasses from their website or visit one of their physical stores. The brand has gained popularity through its home trial service, which lets customers try on frames at home before making a purchase. By vertically integrating its supply chain and selling directly to consumers, Lenskart has been able to offer affordable eyewear without compromising on quality.
4. Wakefit
- Website: wakefit.co
- Industry: Sleep Solutions (Mattresses and Furniture)
- What they do: Wakefit is a DTC brand that sells high-quality mattresses, pillows, and other sleep-related products. Wakefit focuses on affordability, innovation, and customer satisfaction. By selling directly to consumers through their website, Wakefit eliminates the costs associated with middlemen and retail stores. The brand has also expanded into furniture, offering products like beds and sofas, which are sold exclusively online. Their commitment to research and customer feedback has helped them build a strong reputation in the sleep and home products industry.
5. The Souled Store
- Website: thesouledstore.com
- Industry: Fashion and Pop Culture Merchandise
- What they do: The Souled Store is a DTC brand that specializes in pop culture merchandise and apparel, including t-shirts, hoodies, and accessories inspired by movies, TV shows, and sports teams. The brand focuses on quirky, fandom-oriented designs and sells directly through its website. By targeting niche audiences and offering exclusive collections, The Souled Store has built a loyal customer base among India’s youth. Their direct-to-consumer model allows them to maintain control over product quality and pricing.
6. Bombay Shaving Company
- Website: bombayshavingcompany.com
- Industry: Grooming and Personal Care
- What they do: Bombay Shaving Company offers premium grooming products for men and women, including razors, shaving kits, skincare, and haircare products. The brand focuses on high-quality materials and sophisticated packaging, positioning itself as a luxury DTC brand in the grooming industry. By selling directly through its website, Bombay Shaving Company is able to offer a personalized shopping experience, including subscription options and curated gift sets.
7. Sugar Cosmetics
- Website: sugarcosmetics.com
- Industry: Beauty and Cosmetics
- What they do: Sugar Cosmetics is a DTC beauty brand that offers a wide range of cosmetics, including lipsticks, foundations, eyeliners, and more. The brand focuses on bold, high-quality products designed for modern women. Sugar Cosmetics sells directly to consumers through its website, mobile app, and retail stores, ensuring a seamless shopping experience. The brand has successfully leveraged social media and influencer marketing to engage with their audience and build a strong presence in the Indian beauty market.