Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) is a business model where brands manufacture, market, and sell their products directly to end consumers without relying on traditional retail intermediaries like department stores, wholesalers, or third-party marketplaces. This approach has been revolutionized by ecommerce platforms like Shopify, enabling brands to build their own online storefronts and control the entire customer experience.
DTC brands typically enjoy higher profit margins by eliminating middlemen, gain direct access to customer data and feedback, and can build stronger brand relationships through personalized experiences. Successful DTC brands like Warby Parker, Allbirds, and Glossier have demonstrated that this model can disrupt traditional retail industries.
The DTC model requires brands to handle all aspects of the business—from product development and marketing to fulfillment and customer service. While this demands more operational capability, it provides complete control over pricing strategy, brand messaging, and customer relationships, making it a powerful approach for building modern consumer brands.