In traditional manufacturing, known as M2C (Manufacturing to Consumer), brands typically create new products and designs, source them from factories—often in China—stock them in stores, and then consumers purchase them.

This model later evolved to become more customer-centric. Brands began using social media to understand consumer preferences and trends. However, despite this shift, the sourcing model remained the same, and consumers were still treated as the last step in the process.

More recently, the industry moved toward D2C (Direct-To-Consumer), where many private labels started selling products directly to consumers online.

Now, the focus is shifting to C2M (Consumer-To-Manufacturing). In this model, consumers and product designers are treated as equals. Social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok empower customers to tell brands what they want, instead of designers making those decisions alone.

With this new C2M platform, e-commerce players can connect directly with customers, designers, and factories. This allows them to quickly produce trending products while keeping up with market demand more efficiently—faster, better, and cheaper.