Finding Profitable Niches: Using Tools to Identify Opportunities on Amazon

Jesse Carmichael

• 4 min read
Finding Profitable Niches: Using Tools to Identify Opportunities on Amazon
Photo by Diego PH / Unsplash

In the constantly evolving online marketplace of Amazon, success hinges on identifying hidden and profitable niches. For those dabbling in liquidation, resale, Amazon FBA, or even dealing with customer returns and excess inventory, the hunt for these valuable niches can be a game-changer. This in-depth guide will explore several tools, strategies, and specific examples to unveil profitable opportunities on Amazon, catering to both seasoned sellers and those looking to enter the world of online retail.

Leveraging Amazon's Own Tools: Amazon Brand Analytics and Subcategory Explorer

Amazon Brand Analytics

Amazon Brand Analytics, accessible to brand owners, provides valuable insights into customer search behavior. Utilizing this tool can unearth what customers are looking for, using specific examples like:

  • Search Terms: Find which long-tail keywords related to liquidation products are trending. For instance, "refurbished kitchen appliances" might be an emerging search trend.
  • Item Comparison and Alternate Purchase Behavior: Understand what products are often compared or bought instead of others, offering insight into potential niches such as eco-friendly baby products or specialty fitness equipment.

How to use Amazon Brand Analytics

Identify Trending Search Terms

  • Login: Go to Amazon Seller Central and access Brand Analytics.
  • Analyze Search Terms: Type "refurbished" to explore niches like "refurbished gaming consoles." Check historical trends and competition.
  • Target Keywords: Based on data, select long-tail keywords to target in your listing.

Item Comparison and Alternate Purchase Behavior

  • Track Comparisons: Find items frequently compared to yours. For "refurbished laptops," you might discover related accessories.
  • Adapt Strategy: Bundle items or create new listings based on findings.

Amazon Subcategory Explorer

Dig into Amazon's subcategories to discover less-competitive niches with high potential. A practical example could be exploring the "Green Living" subcategory to identify unique products like biodegradable kitchen utensils.

How to use Amazon Subcategory Explorer

  1. Explore Subcategories: Navigate to 'Shop by Category' on Amazon.
  2. Find Niches: In 'Green Living,' discover products like "organic cotton reusable bags."
  3. Evaluate Profitability: Check average price, competition, and customer reviews.
  4. Create Listing: If data aligns with your business model, create a targeted listing.

Harnessing Third-Party Tools for Data-Driven Insights

Jungle Scout

Jungle Scout offers detailed insights into sales data, competition, and profitability. For instance, it can help you identify:

  • High-Demand Low-Competition Products: By focusing on specific filters like sales rank below 1,000 and fewer than 50 reviews, you may discover products like collapsible silicone water bottles as an emerging niche.
  • Seasonal Trends: Identify products that shine in particular seasons. Beach accessories in summer or specialized snow equipment in winter are classic examples.

How to use Jungle Scout

  1. Access Jungle Scout: Subscribe and login.
  2. Use Product Database: Set filters for sales rank below 1,000 and reviews under 50.
  3. Identify Products: Discover niches like "portable solar chargers."
  4. Verify with Amazon Best Sellers: Cross-reference with Amazon’s best-selling items.
  5. Launch Product: Follow guidelines for creating a profitable listing.

Helium 10

Helium 10's suite of tools supports sellers in finding profitable niches by:

  • Black Box Tool: Uncover hidden gems like "bamboo sustainable toothbrushes" by combining filters for categories, price range, review count, and more.
  • Magnet Keyword Research Tool: Analyze specific long-tail keywords for liquidation and resale businesses to gauge demand and competition. Example: "refurbished vintage watches" might reveal an untapped market.

How to use Helium 10

  1. Start with Black Box Tool: Set filters for "home décor" and price range $10-$50.
  2. Identify Products: Find opportunities like "handmade clay pots."
  3. Use Magnet Keyword Research Tool: Analyze keywords for competition.
  4. Implement Strategy: Create Amazon FBA listings with optimized keywords.

Applying Manual Research and Combining Tools

Sometimes, a hybrid approach using both manual research and tool-assisted insights can lead to the best results. Here's a methodical approach:

  1. Start with Amazon Best Sellers: Identify general categories that resonate with your liquidation business, like "Home Improvement."
  2. Use Tools Like Helium 10: Drill down into subcategories, such as "renewable energy products," to spot specific products with potential.
  3. Cross-Verify with Google Trends: Analyze trends over time to gauge sustainability and potential growth, like confirming a steady interest in solar-powered home gadgets.

Putting it all together

  1. Start with Amazon Best Sellers: Choose "Sports & Outdoors."
  2. Use Helium 10 for Subcategories: Drill down into "camping equipment."
  3. Identify Specific Products: Uncover "compact camping stoves."
  4. Cross-Verify with Google Trends: Confirm growing interest over 5 years.
  5. Build Strategy: Offer bundles or create content around this niche.

Tapping into Liquidation Opportunities - A Blueprint for Bluelots Users

  1. Utilize Bluelots Liquidation Inventory: Access truckloads of customer returns.
  2. Identify Products: Through Helium 10, find niche products like "fitness trackers."
  3. Evaluate Market on Amazon: Use Amazon Brand Analytics to gauge demand.
  4. Create Unique Listings: Offer "refurbished fitness trackers" with detailed descriptions and competitive pricing.
  5. Monitor Performance: Use Amazon's Performance Dashboard to track sales and adapt strategy.

Conclusion – Tailored Strategy for Success on Amazon

The intricate world of online retail necessitates a tailored strategy that aligns with the unique attributes of liquidation and excess inventory sales. By leveraging Amazon's own tools and the power of third-party platforms like Jungle Scout and Helium 10, sellers can navigate the dynamic landscape to uncover niche opportunities.

This isn't a one-size-fits-all process. Consistent experimentation, rigorous research, and a keen understanding of market dynamics will fuel success. Bluelots' users, especially those engaged in liquidation and resale, may find these insights and specific examples instrumental in crafting a winning Amazon strategy.

Remember, the Amazon marketplace's complexity is not a barrier but an opportunity to thrive. Identifying profitable niches may seem like finding a needle in a haystack, but with the right tools and methodical approach, the pathway to success is right within reach.