To E or not to E
The time has come to face the monster. As a publication supporting antique shows, stores, dealers, and collectors we are often leery of mentioning eBay and other online marketplaces. We know that popularity of internet buying and selling, along with the sliding economy, have negatively affected traditional businesses, even forcing some to close.
There are those, however, who have evolved with the times, creating websites, blogs and online stores. In trying times, the key seems to be an integrated marketing plan, that includes all medias, and lets everyone know who you are, where you are, and what you can offer.
Recent changes at eBay are affecting both buyers and sellers. The company says its aim is to make "eBay easier and safer to shop." Listing costs have decreased, but commissions on sold items have gone up. They are also changing their feedback system, which may leave many sellers out in the cold, unable to leave negative ratings if a buyer backs out or fails to pay.
Today's Vintage would like to get feedback from the community on this E-debate, with the following questionnaire:
If you are a show producer, store owner, or dealer, tell us how the internet has affected you:
_____ the internet has not affected my business at all
_____ eBay and other online forums have had a negative impact on my business
_____ I currently have an online presence, which has helped my business
_____ I plan to start selling online in the future
_____ I do not, and will not buy/sell antiques on-line, only in person
If you are already an online buyer or seller, let us know how the new eBay changes will affect your on-line antique buying/selling:
____ I will continue to use eBay regularly, regardless of the changes
____ I will shop/sell on other sites before turning back to eBay
____ I will stop or reduce my activities with eBay, but probably won't go elsewhere
____ I use other on-line marketplaces, so will not be affected by the eBay changes
Print out or copy/paste and send your survey back by mail, fax or email:
P.O. Box 12589, El Cajon, CA 92022
Fax 619 441-7694
editor@todaysvintage.com
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