Peer-to-peer online revolution

Peer-to-peer websites, like Gumtree and eBay are influencing eCommerce and shifting the ever-evolving online retail industry. People are now able to buy and sell new or used goods by leaving out the middleman and retail sites (peer-to-peer). It’s never been simpler to get rid of unwanted items and the best thing about sites like these, is that they cut down on waste and contribute to a harmonious sustainable environment.

It could very well be said that eCommerce is the most powerful tool to emerge from the internet. Corporations and retailers alike snapped up the opportunity to maximise their profits and minimise costs by using online trading (peer-to-peer) in some form or other. Consumers have not been left out of the equation thanks to peer-to-peer websites.

One of the most popular such sites is California based eBay, a multinational corporation and e-commerce company, providing consumer to consumer & business to consumer sales services via Internet. First established in 1995, it began as an auctioning site, allowing consumers to auction off their products. Now the multi-billion pound worth conglomerate has transitioned to include the ‘Buy It Now’ shopping service, online classifieds and other services.

It’s fairly easy to use. All consumers need to do is register, set up an account and presto… you’ll be part of the eCommerce world! Whether you’re downsizing and need to get rid of unwanted items, or if you want to set up an online selling business, eBay is the place for you. Many people use eBay as a platform for their eCommerce business, either selling original items or re-selling used goods. If researched and used to its full potential, sites like eBay can be a great place to make some serious money. Granted it’s not free to use, but you’ll only be invoiced a certain fee for a listed item or sale made.

Another online trading site to take eCommerce by storm is popular community platform Gumtree. You can list a classified ad for free, or at a cost, depending on the product market or geographical location. Gumtree has become one of the top websites in the UK and founded in the year 2000, it shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re looking for a place to live, a second hand dining table, or a job, Gumtree has a wide variety of classified ads, all posted by consumers like you. It’s also so simple to use and navigate.

However, these sites are not without their drawbacks. Gumtree has received some negative coverage, with the Guardian claiming flat hunters often fall victim to rent deposit scams through Gumtree, while the BBC Watchdog investigated the classified sharing site for being a medium of money transfer scam. In its defence Gumtree hit back saying these scams were industry-wide problems, which only affect a small number of their users. Remember to always read privacy agreements and don’t hand over any personal information or your banking details. A safe way to conduct online transactions is via paypal.

Gumtree did jump on the back of the controversial classified ad forerunner, Craigslist, which came under media fire over its adult services. After claims that Craigslist was being used to promote and foster prostitution as well as child sex trafficking, this advertisement section was closed for good in 2010.

So while it’s not all-good news for consumer-to-consumer sites, the premise behind eCommerce for consumers remains popular. It can help sellers earn some extra cash, while getting rid of unwanted items, and give buyers the opportunity to get a real bargain when they can’t afford something at the full retail price.

The bright minds who jumped on the peer-to-peer train since the start up of eCommerce have really seen the financial and sustainable business advtantages. Start-ups, established companies and consumers have all been given equal opportunity to reap the benefits of peer-to-peer sites. So don’t be left out of the loop. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, why not set up an account today and see how eCommerce can make your life easier!