eBay Strike?!
Apparently, a few eBay sellers are holding a strike between the 18th of Feb to the 25th of Feb 2008. This is in protest of some changes that eBay are implementing, such as: new fees, inability of sellers to leave negative comments for buyers, and changing the way listings come up (smaller sellers get less chance to be seen in search).
Here’s an “eBay Revolution” video from folks who wish to stage the eBay strike:
As a former eBay seller, I think I can understand where these sellers are coming from. It really makes eBay a tough place for smaller, independent sellers to rise the search listings. Thus, making it more difficult for new folks to make money from eBay. Plus, this change makes sellers vulnerable to buyers who are malicious.
However, will it really make a difference if a few folks ban eBay? Most likely, the majority will continue with their businesses.
Anyway, it looks like a few sellers already moved on. CNN Money does a small feature on some former eBay sellers and where they’re now selling.
Tags: ban, eBay, issues, revolution, sellers, strikeRelated Stories
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3 opinions for eBay Strike?!
Missy
Feb 21, 2008 at 8:01 am
eBay is definitely the biggest fish in town, when it comes to online marketplaces. But there are a few smaller other options that are gaining ground each day. (and with less fees)
Such as Etsy, a handmade sellers marketplace. I’ve seen a lot of eBay migration to this site.
Then there is LiveDeal, Amazon, and a few others. With the tremendous growth eBay is and has experienced in the last 10 years, it is no wonder they keep raising fees. But it does stick it to the little guy.
LawnBott
Feb 21, 2008 at 8:40 pm
It is not so much a flood that is leaving EBay, it is more like a constant trickle.
As fees go increasingly higher, the fewer sellers have to raise prices.
What EBay is trying to do with the new feedback is increase buyers. It will also increase risk to the sellers.
Higher fees plus increased risk means much higher prices.
Shai Coggins
Feb 23, 2008 at 7:25 pm
Missy: Etsy is definitely capturing the handmade marketplace. And, I think that’s great. It gives more room for ‘the little folks’. And those who just want to make some extra money from selling their goods. eBay can be a bit overwhelming - and mixed with too many items from all over the place. But yeah, even though there’s some competition going around, eBay is still THE online marketplace. So, folks still go there as buyers and sellers. No matter how many times eBay changes policies and increases fees.
LawnBott: Absolutely. And, yes, I think even though a few folks have left eBay, majority of online trading still happens there. Hopefully, one day, there will be a more decent competition. A proper competitor in the online marketplace will definitely help folks (both buyers and sellers) a lot more.
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