Etsy wants to keep it real with new product policy

Etsy (NASDAQ:ETSY) is updating its seller policies to stamp-out generic and mass-produced goods, and, it is putting the emphasis back on original, handcrafted, artisan products.

It comes a week after the DIY e-commerce firm banned the sale of sex toys, vintage Playboy magazines and other ‘mature’ product categories.

The new changes are being rolled out by chief executive Josh Silverman as he seeks to once again differentiate Etsy from other e-commerce sites, especially amidst rising competition between Amazon and Chinese platforms Temu and Shein.

New guidelines will clarify what items can be sold on the platform, emphasizing the importance of handmade and unique products. The updated policies aim to make it clear to shoppers what products belong on Etsy.

Under the new rules, all items must incorporate a "human touch" and fall into one of four categories: handmade by a seller, designed by a seller, handpicked by a seller, or sourced by a seller.

Etsy is also introducing new labels on its website and app to show how each seller created a particular item.

Josh Silverman, in a statement, said: “For nearly two decades, Etsy has been the home for creativity and self-expression.

“Today, in a world with more automation and generic goods than ever, our mission to keep commerce human has never been more important.”

“We are, and will remain, the marketplace for original items from real people.”