C2C, or CtoC (“consumer to consumer” or “customer to customer”), is a business model that refers to all commercial activities conducted between consumers. This can involve the exchange of products, services, or information.
The internet has greatly facilitated this type of consumer interaction. Numerous platforms have emerged to make it easier for people to sell new or used products to one another.
Examples of such platforms include Craigslist, Vinted, and eBay. According to Statista, 40% of Americans view selling secondhand goods to other individuals on these kinds of platforms as an easy method for generating passive income.
The renting of homes between individuals also falls under C2C, thanks to platforms like Airbnb. The same applies to offers for private tutoring, gardening, DIY, pet sitting, and more.
C2C represents a significant shift in consumer power as individuals engage in commercial activities without intermediaries.
The growing popularity of this system among individuals is due to several notable advantages:
- lower prices resulting from the elimination of intermediaries and a wide range of used products;
- products accessible everywhere, without geographical limitations;
- rapid and constant renewal of available products and services;
- simple and secure payment methods; and
- the ability to avoid waste and consume more responsibly.
However, direct exchanges between consumers can pose risks not seen as frequently in, say, B2C transactions. The lack of control over product quality or payment guarantees can lead to conflicts or even scams.
To interact with one another, consumers often create groups on social media or dedicated networks for individual interactions. These networks are usually local but can also be launched at a national level.
C2C is a form of marketing and business that also interests professionals. Consumers typically need a dedicated platform to conduct their exchanges.
Online companies provide such platforms and make money through commissions on transactions, subscriptions, or fees to promote listings.
