eBay is violating their own search & browse manipulation policy both in practice and intent by allowing sellers to pay extra money to sponsor their listings which puts them at the top of the list, even when sorting the listings. The following are the rules eBay requires. They should read and follow their own rules.
The references are as follows:
under Search and browse manipulation policy overview
3rd paragraph first sentence. "It's against our policies to do anything that manipulates the search or browse experience. "
Under Why does eBay have this policy?
sentence #3 "When a listing or product has information that could mislead people or gives one seller an unfair advantage over another, we do take action. "
These sponsored listing should only be put in the advertising main pages instead of ahead all other sellers. I realize I could pay more money to put my listing ahead of others but this is a matter of principle then anything else. I talked to 2 supervisors who agreed and said they will send it to the rules division but I'm not going to hold my breath. If you agree, please let eBay know. Power in numbers. eBay just needs to end this practice of sponsored/promoted listings. If you have a good product at a fair price, it will eventually sell. You're thoughts?
