niche

niche definition - business

niche

A specialty in which a person or business operates. For example, an individual bookseller might be able to earn a living by dealing only in a specialty, or “niche," area of books that consumers are unable to find elsewhere. Niche markets provide opportunities for small businesses, as they do not have to compete against large corporations, which find the markets too small to enter.

I'm interested in starting my own business. Can you suggest some market or product niches that I should investigate?

Niches occur in a market when there are unmet needs. You may be able to supply a product or service that is currently unavailable in a geographic area. You may find smaller groups within an established market that have unique needs that you can address. Because of the commitment (both financial and personal) required in a successful small business, it is important that you are ready to immerse yourself in filling these unmet needs. Therefore, your interests and passions are at least as important as the availability of a niche.

Phyllis G. Holland, PhD, Professor and Head, Department of Management, Langdale College of Business, Valdosta State University, Valdosta, GA

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Business Terms Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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