Etsy to connect sellers with manufacturers

Online craft shop Etsy has launched a program that links its sellers to manufacturers.

According to the company's senior program manager of manufacturing, there is a growing number of sellers who want to ramp up their production, but are having difficulties looking for manufacturers. In addition to having a directory of businesses, a manufacturer would receive an e-mail that a seller is interested in their services. The manufacturer can take a look at the seller's items and see if these are products they can produce.

For now, the manufacturers are limited to those in the US and Canada, as the Brooklyn-based firm is looking for responsible partnerships. The program is currently in prototype mode, and transaction fees might be put in place in the future.

While Etsy goes through a vetting process for its potential manufacturers, it also encourages sellers to do their own due diligence. There are at least 600 applications from manufacturers so far, and jewelry is a major category. Other popular categories include clothing such as dresses, and home items.

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