Ebay has launched a new platform dedicated to physical media called “The Entertainment Shop”, selling music, books, films and video games.
The new hub will offer an “unrivalled” selection of both new and pre-owned items, but will emphasise new releases through lowering listing fees for sellers.
According to the online retail giant, publishers, producers, wholesalers and consumer-facing sellers will benefit from measures designed to support a weekly cycle of new releases. These include competitive marketplace fees, prime marketing, and advertising opportunities.
Deals have reportedly been established between Ebay and major studios to support retailers on the platform, while big name sellers like Music Magpie, Wordery and Entertainment Alliance will be enhancing their offering.
READ MORE: HMV overtake Amazon in physical music sales
This move comes as the resurgence in vinyl record sales boosted demand for both new and pre-owned items, with searches rising by eight million in the year to July 31.
Growth is sector-wide, with books, comics and magazine searches rising by 12 million in the same period, and nine video games and consoles being sold every minute.
Overall searches in physical media on Ebay shot up by 27 million last year, and sales in the sector were estimated to have been worth £3.8 billion.
“We want to be the destination for physical media in the UK driven by best value, unrivalled inventory and competitive seller fees,” Ebay vice president Rob Hattrell said.
“The first item ever sold on Ebay UK was a Scorpions CD in 1999 for £2.89 and now we are home to some of the world‘s largest suppliers of books, music, film and games.
“The launch of The Entertainment Shop is a natural progression for Ebay that will offer brands and sellers of all sizes the opportunity to capitalise on the UK‘s enduring appetite for physical media.”
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