Amazon will phase in its new payment time terms following a backlash from sellers that the move could put them out of business.
The online giant informed its UK and continental Europe marketplace sellers last week that it would no longer immediately credit their accounts once an online sale was made.
Instead, sellers would receive the money a week after the product had been delivered leaving thousands of firms worried about their futures.
Following pressure from businesses and ministers, Amazon said it was postponing the rule change for some sellers until January 31 next year.
The online giant said it was “extending the transition date for a small number of sellers who have contacted us and need support”, The Guardian reported.
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One seller told the newspaper that the etailer had released her funds and written to her in an email that said: “We understand that the transition to this policy on 3 August has caused a onetime cashflow issue for your business.
“To support you in preparing for the policy change, we have extended your policy transition until 31 January 2024.”
According to the publication, around 15%, or about 33,750, of Amazon’s small and medium sized businesses selling across Europe and the UK could be impacted by the change.
An Amazon spokesperson told The Guardian: “The policy to pay businesses seven days after delivery date was introduced in August 2016 for new selling partners, and already covers the vast majority of sellers.
“A small number of sellers transitioned to this policy last week, which ensures sufficient funds to cover product returns or customer claims, and many have access to funds from their sales made since.
“We are listening to sellers’ concerns and are in contact with those who have experienced a one-time cashflow disruption.”
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