The rise of side hustle jobs in the UK has been a significant trend in recent years, with more and more people seeking additional income sources to supplement their primary employment. According to research by insurance firm Aviva, as reported by Sage, one-in-five people in the UK have started one since 2020.
Of course, because of the pandemic and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, for many a side hustle is a necessity to make ends meet. But this entrepreneurial spirit here in the UK has also been fuelled by the desire for financial freedom, the thrill of chasing one’s dreams and turning their passions into pounds.
And who is leading the charge? Millennials and Generation Z, of course. Indeed, Henley Business School reports that individuals aged between 25 to 34 are the most likely to have a ‘hustle on the side’. Yep, this age group are investing in their own cosmetics lines, drop shipping, reselling on amazon and flipping designer goods for profit.
The Guardian comments that “some people call it a new golden age of entrepreneurialism, others the rise of the side hustle. But at the core of Gen Z’s attitude to work is a desire as old as capitalism itself – to be financially independent, to opt out of old-fashioned ideas, like having a boss, altogether”. And that’s something we can get onboard with.
And it’s technology that has empowered and emboldened this generation to become the most entrepreneurial driven of our time, with many using the internet and social media to turn their side hustles into seven-figure empires. The rise of e-commerce especially has opened up a world of opportunities for individuals to create profitable side hustles that have turned into successful businesses.
Indeed, platforms like Shopify and Etsy have allowed people to monetise hobbies and turn them into full time jobs. So, if you’re feeling inspired to join the ranks of the UK’s side hustlers, remember that there’s never been a better time to take the plunge. With technology at your fingertips and a nation of like-minded entrepreneurs cheering you on, here’s some ideas for starting your own e-commerce shop as a side hustle…
Cakes & Condiments
Did you hear about husband and wife team Marc and Emily Slater, who have grown their love of hot sauce from a hobby to a full-time business in just a couple of years? If you fancy yourself as a culinary creative, then you could do the same.
Starting a baking or condiments e-commerce business as a side hustle can be an exciting and rewarding endeavour for those with love to cook. This type of venture allows individuals to explore their talents in the kitchen. However, to succeed it’s crucial to choose a specific niche within the baking or condiments industry that aligns with your skills and interests.
Perhaps you are an obsessive brownie baker and are considering a letterbox-friendly online bakery shop. Or maybe you, too, are addicted to you’re own homemade chilli condiments and want to get the rest of the world hooked? Whatever your niche, be aware that starting a foodie e-commerce business isn’t as straightforward as selling a homemade scarf. You’ll have to comply with local regulations and requirements to ensure compliance with food safety standards and other relevant laws.
Read: 6 tips on how to start a food business from your home kitchen
Handmade Crafts & Goods
Making and selling handmade crafts and goods have always been popular, but with the advent of e-commerce platforms, they have gained even more traction. As a side hustle, selling handmade products allows entrepreneurs to showcase their creativity while making a profit.
Do you love creating your own jewellery? Or perhaps knitting is more of your thing? Once you’ve identified something you’re passionate about, then set up an online store on platforms like Etsy or Shopify to reach potential customers.
To stand out from the competition, it is essential to create high-quality products, use captivating images, and provide excellent customer service. Should you be keen to concentrate on the heart and soul of the business, then consider outsourcing the building and maintaining your website; this list of ecommerce PPC agencies will be your friend moving forward.
Read: 4 IDEAL things to consider before starting a side hustle
Arts & Prints
Art and prints offer another avenue for creative individuals to monetise their talents through e-commerce. By producing original artwork or designing digital prints, artists can cater to a wide range of customers with varying tastes and budgets.
To start, artists must create a diverse portfolio showcasing their unique style. Platforms like Society6 or Redbubble allow artists to upload their designs and sell them on various products such as wall art, phone cases, and clothing. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest can also be instrumental in promoting an artist’s work and driving traffic to their online store, too.
Vintage & Secondhand Items
Vintage and secondhand items have experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks to a growing awareness about the importance of sustainable living. An e-commerce shop specialising in these items can cater to the environmentally conscious consumer perfectly. And, lucratively, we might add…
To begin with, one must source unique and desirable items, such as clothing, accessories, or home décor items. Visiting thrift stores, flea markets and garage sales can yield valuable finds at reasonable prices. Once the inventory is ready, an online store can be set up on platforms like eBay or Depop. Detailed product descriptions, appealing photographs, and competitive pricing are crucial to attracting customers.
Dropshipping
Dropshipping is an e-commerce model that allows entrepreneurs to sell products without holding inventory or managing logistics. By partnering with suppliers who handle the storage, packaging, and shipping, entrepreneurs can focus on marketing and customer service.
Firstly, it’s crucial to identify a niche and find reliable suppliers through platforms like AliExpress or SaleHoo. Setting up an online store on Shopify or WooCommerce and integrating it with dropshipping apps like Oberlo can streamline the process.
Successful dropshipping businesses rely on effective marketing strategies, such as social media advertising and search engine optimisation, to attract customers.
Read: 4 tips for making your side business a success
The Bottom Line
The possibilities for starting a side hustle e-commerce shop in the UK are vast and varied. From handmade crafts and goods to vintage and secondhand items, art and prints, and dropshipping, there is something for everyone. By identifying a niche, creating high-quality products or services, and utilising effective marketing strategies, aspiring entrepreneurs can tap into the lucrative world of e-commerce and establish a successful side business.