Let’s look at a few little case studies I put together:

There is a very neat coffee shop close to where I live that also has a gift shop. They sell the coolest stuff and have an online store. If they didn’t have their shop also online, the only customers they would have would be the surrounding area right? It’s a simple concept but sometimes things aren’t considered until they’re right in front of you. This shop now has the ability to reach an audience not considered by many and the potential to grow a small business exponentially.

Here’s another example of an online store that might be a little less obvious:

Salons often sell products that they use and the only place to get these magical potions is typically AT the salon itself. Another option, if you are a salon owner, is to have your website not just be an “online presence” but also a useful resource for your business. If you were to add a booking feature and an E-commerce solution, clients (and the world) could purchase salon products and book their next haircut at the same time. It’s great to have a website but it’s better to have a website that can actually work for you.

E-commerce can be useful for just about any business – sell merch, digital downloads, event tickets, take donations, etc. It doesn’t just need to be for retail outfits. Branch out of the ordinary!