EBay's Transformation from "Mom & Pop" to Wall Street Giant

Several years ago, I heard an ad on the radio about a new company called eBay. The ad highlighted some of the advantages, and I decided to check it out. I was relatively new to the internet, but it sounded like a potential gold mine. There were several "junk" stores in the area, plus all the useless stuff I had accumulated, so I gave it a try.

It was wonderful. The fees were reasonable and it was great for a small "mom and pop" operation. I began listing on eBay and selling began right away. I had to get help to package, sort and mail the items I had piled up in the den.

I was fortunate enough to find an attics worth of pristine newspapers and opera flyers from the 19^th century at a local junk store, which I bought for about $60.00. The return from eBay was tremendous and I was sold on the company right away.

I began shopping for items I could sell on eBay rather than shopping for myself; but, as time went on, the fees began increasing. I had also discovered Paypal, which was a great and safe way to get paid, and they also had reasonable fees.

Sadly, my ability to make a profit on eBay dwindled even though I could make a dollar or so on an item where I was used to making 5 to 60 dollars per item. eBay bought Paypal and their fees increased also.

As a seller I was faced with eBay fees per item; Paypal fees per item; the original price I paid for the item and postage. I had to incorporate a handling fee to offset some of the fees I was being charged, much to the chagrin of my customers.

As time went by, I noticed "power sellers" appearing on eBay. I had no idea how they procured their items, but they easily beat my price. Many of my listings would not sell and though repeat listings were free if the item sold, I would have to take a loss just to get the item out of my way.

More and more "power sellers" appeared and they made it clear that they had order pullers and warehouses of items. They had web sites on eBay where you didn't have to bid; you just paid a straight price. I became very disappointed because eBay, which started for everyone, was now catering to power sellers and they still are. I sold a few items about a month ago and I either made 2 or 3 dollars or lost money. I was afraid to check.

I noticed now these big sellers are protesting eBay by boycotting them from Feb. 19^th through the 24^th due to listing rate increase that is occurring on the 20^th of February. I find this quite humorous. I miss the days when I could list and sell and make a few bucks. I might not sell everything, but I made a profit. I still wonder where and how these power sellers get their merchandise.