Seattle Startup Bonanzle Takes on eBay
In June of 2008, Seattle programmer Bill Harding launched an online marketplace called Bonanzle. The site, a completely grassroots efforts with zero VC or angel funding, is in many ways the anti-eBay. Instead of focusing solely on the goods being sold, Bonanzle is attempting to build a marketplace where the people are relevant, too. On Bonanzle, buyers can chat with sellers in real-time or over instant messaging, an experience that delivers a more social experience to the online shopping process. These interactions have allowed Bonanzle to build a strong community, but will that be enough to take on eBay?
Bonanzle is one of many online marketplaces that have emerged to serve former eBay sellers unhappy with the changes made over the years - changes that some feel serve the larger wholesellers instead of individual sellers. As with any new entry to this market, Bonanzle doesn't isn't just competing with eBay, but also with online giants like Amazon and Craigslist as well niche sites like Etsy and Worthpoint. To differentiate themselves from the pack, Bonanzle's angle is to re-create the social deal-making experience of a garage sale.
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