There’s no getting around it: September sales trends were not what we would ever have predicted six months ago. Of course, 2020 has been nothing but unpredictable - to say the least - and I want to be sure to regularly share what we’re seeing.
There continue to be record-setting jumps in items like canning supplies, glue guns and jigsaw puzzles — and with cooler weather on the horizon, we’re seeing spikes around hot tubs and spas. While many of us are still perfecting our DIY skills, there was also a considerable amount of ‘nesting’ and transforming our living spaces. Additionally, collectibles are on the rise — the emotional attachment that card collecting provides fans seems to be compounded by the continuing lack of physical events. All sports are different, but even in hockey, with the NHL playoffs just wrapped up (congratulations to the Tampa Bay Lightning) we’re seeing hockey card sales up +99%.
This data shows an astonishing amount of change — but it’s exciting how you’ve been able to adapt to meet the new consumer demands. There’s no store like ours on the planet, and you keep bringing people what they love most exactly when they need it most.
As we look forward to October, it will probably be just as unpredictable as the past few months — but here is what you should be thinking about: With the weather cooling off, seeds are still sought-after but outdoor gardening in most parts of the country will come indoors with grow lights and hydroponics. While pool toy sales have subsided, we expect hot tub sales to stay strong. And while Halloween will happen, who knows what it will look like? We’re planning to share spooky home decor, treat bags and popular costume trends in the weeks ahead. And of course, don’t forget about all of the hot new tech releases coming… There’s already scarcity in new Microsoft and Sony game stations, VR continues to grow (I expect the launch of the Oculus Quest 2 will build on that) and with a new season of Apple products always comes a surge in pre-owned inventory.
So check out what September looked like on eBay, and you can expect to receive this type of information each month. And for a big picture, look at how eBay has changed over the past 25 years, here’s a fun timeline video that you might enjoy: https://vimeo.com/461529277 .
Be safe, stay well and as always, thank you for selling on eBay.
- Jordan Sweetnam
