Quick Summary
C2C enables individuals to trade products and services directly with each other through online platforms, eliminating traditional retailers.
C2C (Consumer to Consumer), also known as peer-to-peer (P2P) commerce, is a business model where individuals trade products, services, or information directly with each other, typically facilitated by an online platform that connects buyers and sellers.
Characteristics of C2C
- Individual Sellers: Anyone can become a seller
- Platform-Mediated: Third-party platforms facilitate transactions
- Used/Pre-owned Goods: Often involves second-hand items
- Lower Prices: Competitive pricing due to individual sellers
- Community Trust: Ratings and reviews system crucial
- Variable Quality: No standardization in products
Types of C2C Platforms
| Type | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Marketplaces | Buy/sell goods | eBay, OLX, Quikr |
| Ridesharing | Share rides | Uber, Lyft, BlaBlaCar |
| Accommodation | Rent homes/rooms | Airbnb, Couchsurfing |
| Freelancing | Services exchange | Fiverr, Upwork |
| Finance | P2P lending | LendingClub, Faircent |
Revenue Models for C2C Platforms
- Transaction Fees: Percentage of each sale
- Listing Fees: Charge for posting items
- Featured Listings: Paid promotion for visibility
- Advertising: Display ads on platform
- Subscription: Premium memberships
- Payment Processing: Fees on transactions
Challenges in C2C
- Trust Issues: Buyer-seller trust concerns
- Quality Control: No standard product quality
- Fraud Prevention: Scams and fake listings
- Payment Security: Secure transaction handling
- Dispute Resolution: Handling conflicts
C2C in India
Popular C2C platforms in India include:
- OLX India: Leading classifieds for used goods
- Quikr: Classifieds across multiple categories
- Airbnb India: Home rentals
- Carousell: Mobile-first marketplace
- P2P Lending: Faircent, Lendbox
Key Points
- Transactions between consumers
- Platform-facilitated commerce
- Often involves pre-owned goods
- Lower prices than retail
- Trust-based through ratings
- Includes marketplaces, ridesharing, rentals