In today’s discussion, we’re diving deep into January’s revenue from two print-on-demand shops. This analysis includes how much time was dedicated to managing these shops, the number of listings in each, and the distinction between personalized and non-personalized products. This journey isn’t just about numbers; it’s about growth, motivation, and understanding the dynamics of e-commerce.
Understanding the January Slump
January often brings a post-holiday sales dip which many new entrepreneurs may find intimidating. After the bustling sales in December, it’s normal for consumers to tighten their budgets in January. People have spent their money on gifts, travel, and festivities, leading to a predictable lull in spending. It’s a common phrase that months starting with “J” tend to be slow for businesses, underscoring the reality of January’s challenges.
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While the drop in sales can feel disheartening, it’s important to acknowledge that these slower months are part of the ebb and flow of the e-commerce cycle. Instead of fretting over reduced sales, utilize this time to organize, refine processes, and lay down a game plan. Embracing the slower pace can ultimately lead to better preparedness as sales pick up again.
Analyzing Shop Performance
Let’s take a closer look at how both shops performed in January.
In my main shop, which serves as my reliable backbone, I have approximately 820 listings. Interestingly, 90% of these listings are non-personalized. This was a strategic choice made early on, as the initial goal was to create a relatively passive income stream, given the limited hours available for personalized items. In January, this shop generated a total of 553 orders, resulting in $2,448.76 in revenue and a solid 4.1% conversion rate, which I’ve fine-tuned over time through optimized listing images.
For profit tracking, I utilize specialized tools that provide a clear picture of both revenue and expenses. My net sales from this shop reached $3,924.22. After deducting costs such as production, shipping, and transaction fees, my operating profit was $494.21.
In contrast, my second shop—a newer venture—had about 242 listings. Interestingly, this shop, while less loaded with listings, achieved significantly higher revenue. It generated over $35,840 from slightly over 1,000 orders and maintained a 3.4% conversion rate. The net sales here were recorded at $39,649.92, with an operating profit peaking at $9,750.45. The focus here has been more on personalized listings, with a roughly even split between personalized and non-personalized products.
Time Investment and Earnings
When it comes to time investment, January was a month where I spent approximately 30 hours managing both shops. Most of this effort went into the newer shop, including creating new listings and responding to customers. The cumulative profit from both shops, after various deductions, was $3,844.66. This breaks down to an impressive hourly rate of approximately $461, showcasing the power of compounding efforts over time.
Looking Ahead
February is an exciting month for me, not only due to personal celebrations but also as an opportunity to reignite a consistent listing routine across both shops. Establishing clear goals and areas of improvement is essential for maintaining momentum as we continue into the New Year.
Now, I’d love to hear from you. How did your shop fare in January? Was it in line with your expectations? Are you focusing more on personalized or non-personalized listings? Sharing experiences can enrich our community and provide insights for improving our businesses.
If you found this breakdown helpful, feel free to engage. Your feedback helps shape future discussions, and if you’re looking for additional support in navigating the print-on-demand landscape, consider exploring resources and communities dedicated to helping entrepreneurs thrive. Here’s to a fruitful year ahead!
