Name of your website?Watches Shop
Your name?
Andy Fletcher
Your Location (city, etc)
London
When did you start your website and why?
Launched this month because we have a warehouse literally bulging with designer watches - top names such as Emporio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Lacoste and Maurice Lacroix. They're all the genuine article supplied with full original manufacturer packaging, warranty information and instructions. We're also stocking the J-Springs (a new brand produced by Seiko) collection which boasts some wonderful chronograph, sports and automatic watches. Recently added Sector (well known in Italy, but less famous elsewhere). More brands are coming soon!
Please give us a short summary of your website, business model, etc
Designed to be quick to use. We've opted for PayPal Pro as our payment processor because it has such great brand recognition for security, and they already have such a large userbase. The business model is simple. We buy the watches in bulk and are able to pass most of the saving onto the customer. Some of our models are discounted by 75% or more against the high street price.
What has been the most difficult part of creating and running your website?
Integrating PayPal Pro! We think it's worth it though. the checkout process is fast and secure.
What has been the easist part of operating your website?
Processing orders - we do it fast, and we ship fast. Unlike most of the watch sites you'll find on the net we are actually selling our own stock - not dropshipping from some remote distributors' warehouse and hoping they do the job right for us.
What was your biggest mistake?
Not launching the site 15 years ago. Not sure how we can fix that one though!
Who maintains your website and why?
We do. We wanted to have total control over the design, product database, everything. We do this because we don't want customer data on some third party system that we do not control. We opted for PayPal as a payment processor so we don't have a need to store any customer financial data.
Tell us how your business has benefitted from your website?
Greater reach to customers worldwide. We do free delivery to UK customers, but we can ship anywhere other than some of the fraud hotspots such as some African and Far East locations.
What are your views on ecommerce and the future of the internet?
The bubble has not burst yet and growth is still very much achievable.
What are your views on Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?
SEO is a long term operation for those with the patience and perseverence to undertake it. The days of making a "quick buck" on the net are rapidly (and rightfully so) drawing to a close. Just like the real world, making a success of an online business requires hard work, dedication and steadfast commitment to treat your customers with the respect they deserve.
What are your views on Search Engines? Have they helped or hindered your website?
The top source of traffic without doubt, but NOT the only one. We are not blinkered into thinking Google will bring customers to us. Unfortnately the search landscape has shifted so far towrds Google that the other engines appear insignificant. I would hope this will eventually change.
What method has been most successful for promoting your website?
I'll tell you next year ;)
What method has been least successful for promoting your website?
Not opening it sooner.
What would you like to see change with respect to the internet?
Less SPAM - both websites and e-mail.
Where can I buy a genuine Dolce & Gabbana watch for half the price it is in the shops?
http://www.watchesshop.com
There are other places on the net you can do this of course. They are slightly more expensive, ship slower and may not even have the stock ;)
What is your website address?
Watches Shop
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