FAQ's - Shop Local Alleghany

FAQ’s

If I don't have physical products can I still list my business on the site?

Yes! Our site is adaptable to all types of businesses. You can sell services, event tickets, instant downloads, and more. Additionally, because of our 'Send Inquiry' feature that replaces the 'Add to Cart' button on lead-generation products, businesses can take advantage of the feel of an e-commerce product, but instead get a lead sent directly to their email inquiring about their specific product or service. If you just want to list your business on the marketplace with no products or services listed, you can do that as well!

Do I have to have a brick and mortar location to sell on the site?

No. You can run a business out of your home or have only a virtual business. Part of our mission is to help bring light to all types of businesses that exist in a community and put them all on one website together.

How easy is the platform to use as a seller?

Your vendor store is easy to navigate. You have all your options easily accessible, right down a sidebar. Every field is labeled and self-explanatory. If you do run into trouble, we have easy to follow instructions. Also, never have to hesitate to contact us if need be. We're always available to help out.

Is the website mobile friendly?

Yes! Our website works just as well on a desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone. You can conduct all of your business on your phone, if desired.

How much of my time will the website take?

The initial setup of your store can be done in 15 minutes or less, which involves a few images, adding your social media accounts, business website (if you have one), connecting to a Stripe or PayPal account, setting up your policies, and a few other key pieces of info. Adding products really depends on the amount of items/services you have to list. Each product listing can be done in just a few minutes (possibly longer if you need to take photos or write product descriptions from scratch). However, once your store is set up and products are added, the website can really be used however you want for your specific business. Your business can utilize the site as their main website, listing new products weekly, fulfilling orders often, and updating your offerings. Another business may prefer to just list stagnant product offerings and/or services that you don't need to keep up, only visiting the site when you have an order or a new lead inquiry.

What benefit does the Shop Local Alleghany marketplace have for my business?

96% of Americans now shop online, and more money is spent online through marketplace websites than individual websites. Consumers like to shop and compare all on one website, and marketplaces allow them to compare and make decisions quicker. We're providing an additional channel to market and sell your products. You’ll be exposed to more customers that frequent the marketplace or came to visit other vendors on the site. Marketplaces are a prime spot for obtaining shoppers who don’t know about you yet. The platform offers reduced marketing costs compared to other sales channels. When the platform is marketed, your business is also marketed at the same time.

How is the site marketed to consumers?

This site works best when it is a team effort from Shop Local Alleghany, the chamber, and the businesses. By coordinating with the local Chamber, the site has credibility, influence, and reach within the community. Businesses should also recommend and promote their own shops on the site, sharing content, and local finds. Additionally, Shop Local Alleghany will promote the site through social media, press, and other outlets. We are also building email lists to send regular updates and special promotions to customers.