Running a product-based business in today’s digital world comes with a lot of choices—and a lot of challenges. Like many others, I started my journey on big e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Meesho, thinking they would be the best avenues for growth. But what began as an exciting venture soon turned into a stressful and low-margin game of survival.
That’s when I decided to shift my entire business focus to Instagram, and honestly, it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
📦 My E-commerce Platform Experience
While platforms like Amazon and Meesho offer great visibility, they come with several hidden downsides—especially for small business owners like me.
1. Meesho – High Returns, Low Support
My worst experience was with Meesho. The customer return rate was alarmingly high. What was more frustrating was that many returned products were completely different items, and we had no control over it.
Even though there was a system to raise disputes for wrong returns, most of our claims were rejected with vague or irrelevant reasons. We lost genuine products, time, and money—all while dealing with automated replies and zero accountability.
2. Amazon – High Competition, Low Margins
Amazon offered a better structure but was flooded with sellers. To stay visible, we had to invest heavily in ads and reduce our prices. Margins were razor-thin. Despite consistent sales, the profits were hardly enough to make it feel worthwhile.
💡 The Instagram Shift – A Game Changer
Frustrated and exhausted, I decided to explore Instagram—not just as a social platform but as a direct sales channel. That one decision changed the entire trajectory of my business.
✅ Direct Interaction = Trust & Conversion
On Instagram, I started interacting directly with customers through DMs, reels, and stories. That personal connection created trust, and trust led to sales. I wasn’t just another listing; I became a brand people could talk to and rely on.
💰 From Retail to Bulk Orders
Earlier, I was mostly focused on small retail orders. But on Instagram, my visibility among boutique owners, resellers, and bulk buyers increased. One bulk order on Instagram now often earns me the same profit I used to make in a month on e-commerce platforms.
📈 Growth Metrics That Matter
- In just 8 months, I’ve grown to 11,000+ followers
- I now earn a consistent 5-figure monthly profit
- No commission cuts, no complex return policies—just me and my customers
🏭 Instagram Works Best for Manufacturing-Based Models
If you’re a manufacturer or someone with in-house production, platforms like Instagram give you full control over pricing, branding, and customer service. You control your image, your profit margins, and your customer relationships. You’re not bound by someone else’s algorithm or policies.
🎯 My Advice to Small Business Owners
If you’re stuck in the cycle of high returns, low margins, and limited control on e-commerce platforms—give Instagram a serious try. Build a page, show your process, connect with your audience, and watch how people respond.
Instagram isn’t just a social media app—it’s a powerful business tool that gives control back to the seller.
