This week we announced the launch of Authentication for all sneakers $100+ in the U.S. The news comes on the heels of September’s introduction of Authentication for watches $2000+. Moves like this in two key collectibles categories reflect how serious we are about unlocking the amazing potential of eBay. Those of you who don’t sell sneakers or watches might ask “how’s this apply to me?” so keep reading to learn more about our plan to rebuild and refresh the platform, one category at a time.
With Authentication, we are systematically improving the entire eBay experience and making good on eBay’s promise to be the best platform for buyers AND sellers. We’re eager to expand Authentication wherever it makes sense, but we’re also going to be thoughtful. Each application will help us learn and grow - increasing trust in transactions, and tackling the big problems head on.
Why now? Authentication is one of our most requested and important consumer offerings, and it drives the collectibles market, where limited releases and unique finds mean big business. If we want to drive more buyers to your stores, we need to listen to their feedback and deliver the type of experience they expect. It’s equally about protecting you — with solutions like intermediation — to squash issues like ‘rocks in a box’ and more.
So first watches, and now we’ve moved into sneakers. The reason is pretty simple: sneakers is an amazing collectibles category that’s growing quickly and driving younger shoppers to the marketplace. We’re seeing a whole new generation of buyers actively expand their searches and purchases to other categories. This makes a stronger eBay for everyone.
You can read the announcement details here. As you do, here are a few more takeaways:
- We listened to what our shoppers — and people who hadn’t previously considered shopping eBay — told us and delivered on what they want.
- On an accelerated timeline, we met our goal to deliver a more trusted and protective marketplace for both sellers and shoppers.
- And finally, as you’ll see in the graphics below, I’m not the only one excited about this news - in fact, the press has declared this move an industry game-changer.
And to answer the obvious question for our sneaker sellers, we have no plans to bring back Final Value Fees for sneakers. We love the customer growth that we’re seeing and want sellers to keep bringing all the amazing supply they can.
So, for the second time in as many months, we’ve made significant changes to how people will shop in a specific category. We’ve set our sights on ‘ownable spaces,’ placed some big bets, and prioritized work where a reset can deliver the most immediate and meaningful impact for eBay as a whole.
And while this week’s headlines are focused on Authentication, there’s much more happening. We’re creating new channels for watch and sneaker enthusiasts, expanded our TikTok presence, and recently launched social campaigns to hype our Sneaker Day promos. I’d need a separate post to share everything underway to engage new and existing customers, but most importantly we’re driving awareness of a stronger eBay shopping experience ahead of the important Holiday season.
This is only the beginning and I’ll continue to keep you updated along the way. As always, thank you for selling on eBay, and stay tuned for more good news.
- Jordan
