Platforms that support creatives and content producers have been integrating ways for users to sell branded merchandise right within the app. We’ve seen it across social media, video platforms, music streaming, and now the world of adult entertainment.
OnlyFans will start allowing content creators to sell branded merchandise to users through a partnership with the e-commerce platform Spring.
According to Business Insider, creators can link to online stores where they can sell custom-branded products like apparel, puzzles, stickers and water bottles. Spring will handle all of the packaging, storage and shipping of products. OnlyFans users can also add products they’ve created themselves to their store.
“Not only is selling custom merch a great way to earn money as a creator, but it’s perfect for spreading awareness of your brand,” OnlyFans wrote on its Spring announcement to creators. “Plus, your fans will appreciate the ability to represent you publicly.”
The Financial Times reported that OnlyFans creators have been asking the company about options to monetize their work through promotional merchandise. It makes sense, with YouTube, Spotify and Instagram being among other major platforms that have allowed creators to monetize through merchandise and branded stores.
It goes to show the power of branded merchandise, and the opportunities for integrating tangible goods with digital platforms. Adding options for branded items like drinkware and apparel is appealing to people who use an online service, and people want to show their fandom in the real world with promotional products.
If there is an online platform where people consume content from creators, whether it’s comedy, video game streaming or adult entertainment, there are opportunities for branded merchandise.
