State launches online retail directory for small businesses | Business
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania — A new website launched last month aims to connect Pennsylvania small business owners to millions of online shoppers.
the CommonGoods The directory is home to thousands of stores and businesses with a Pennsylvania storefront or operation that also offer online sales. The directory is searchable by category, such as art, clothing, or pet products, and by location and diversity of ownership.
“The small, family-owned stores that line our main streets are part of Pennsylvania’s identity,” the website says. “But today, more of us want to shop online, and it can be difficult to find those local businesses that sell their products online. By compiling lists of businesses in Pennsylvania that sell products online – whether through their own site or third parties like Amazon, eBay or Etsy – CommonGoods makes it easy for us to show our PA pride and buy local when shopping online.”
Small businesses, which are defined as those with 500 or fewer employees, employ more than 2.5 million Pennsylvanians, nearly half of the state’s private workforce. They also represent 99% of businesses in the state, according to PA Business One-Stop-Shop, which created the directory.
The following products can be found on the website:
- Clothing, jewelry and accessories
- Appliances, housewares and furniture
- Art and Deco
- Art supplies, crafts or toys
- Automotive parts and accessories
- Bath and body products
- Books and stationery
- Music
- Electronic
- Gifts or antiques
- Hardware and craft supplies
- Health and wellness products
- Lawn and Garden
- Pet goods
- Sporting goods and equipment
- Retail food products
Commercial franchises, multi-level marketing companies or chains are not eligible for the directory. Purchases are not made through the CommonGoods website; instead, a link will direct consumers to the retailer’s online store.
For retailers who do not have an online store, but wish to create one, the One-Stop Business PA offers helpful e-commerce resources, tips, training, and more on its website.
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