posted on March 5, 2001 01:46:09 PM new
On packer's behest, I'm bringing this to the top of the board again, since it does clear up questions from some users (like me) who may not be aware of the current trend towards a seller-run co-op. There should be an answer to the previous posts however, and I'm curious as to why this post was abandoned. It raises some good points, and it would be nice to know how things are progressing. I have no problem with the monetary obligations, although it would be nice to have a contractual obligation if not just a receipt for the monies, since many people are naturally suspicious of "new money-making ideas", some may even call it a "protection racket".
The concept is good. An update as to who's involved and who's going to be involved. If there is anything that needs to be done, count me in. I have 20 years in managment and 24 in this industry of sales focusing on antiques and collectibles.
What is a co-op? Good question, there are many models that can be followed. Which one would we follow?
Who should join? Everyone. Wether it be the person who lists one item a month or 10,000. ALL get a fair shake.
Why should you join? Why not? Ebay is going downhill, there is virtually no competition, yahoo is charging fees, AW is charging fees, Paypal charges fees, the PO charges OUTRAGEOUS insurance fees....
What if nothing ever happens? Depends on how strongly you want it to fail. If you invested money, or will, then you may lose it. Better than buying stock in CMGI....all of business is a risk. How many of you out there have bought inventory that just didn't sell? You have paid listing fees probably more than you paid for the item. Do they total over $100? Quite possibly.
What if it's just another scam? Could be, I don't really know. IMHO, however, there are people that regularly post on these boards who have resources, have knowledge, and have earned repect and admiration. How much is that worth to someone? $100? $1M? More? Doubtful.
Is this all about one person being in control? I don't think so. Someone will have to be the figurehead, even if it's to settle down the committee in a meeting. Heck, we elected Bush didn't we?
How will it benefit me? GOOD QUESTION! You have another place to sell, run by people who HAVE BEEN BURNED AS WELL BY EBAY (oops..and other corporate entities online) You know who that is? It's ALL OF US. IF and when the model and bylaws come out, we all have a chance to give our 2c worth. I would expect most of what I have outlined in the sister post in this forum.
*low listing fees, if not 0 listing fees. The site would need to make money. I would agree to a percentage commission, put back in to the co-op. It's a wonderful thing. You don't sell, you don't pay. Even the local paper charges for things that don't sell, and if you own an antique mall or card shop, how much is just sitting around? More importantly, what does THAT cost?
*a network. Invaluable, and enuff said...
*a place to call home. Priceless
*being a member of a REAL community. Geez...should put that on a mastercard commercial...
*help and advice. Gotta be cheaper than college, you know?
Do I really need to go furthur? What have you got to lose? $100 if you are going to pay it?
All it takes is dedicated individuals who HAVE KNOWLEDGE AND WORK TOGETHER. I think it's off to a good start.
