What about eBay buyers who won't use paypal?Where will they turn?
Although it's evident we're evolving into a paperless society, eBay's announcement last week that sellers will no longer be permitted to offer payment by checks or money orders as an option on their listings still took some by surprise.
EBay sellers are reporting that up to 20% of their transactions these days are completed using these methods. This is especially true with older folks who may enjoy the convenience of online shopping but hesitate to rely on electronic payment options.
Will the paper-lovers conform or flee?
Shoppers will be left with few options but to utilize eBay-owned Paypal (in most cases) to send and receive payments online. It looks as though eBay is counting on that, as they stand to benefit from the extra income in Paypal fees.But what if most of those who currently take the time and extra effort required to purchase a money or write out a check, find an envelope and address it, apply postage and get it out to the post office actually don't want to do things an easier way?
Assuming they'll conform is certainly a risk. I'm guessing there’s a high probability many will simply shop elsewhere. There are some people who feel uneasy about putting their credit card or bank information on the Internet. If they should decide to abandon the eBay shopping cart, who stands to benefit?
Wouldn't it make more sense to allow sellers the flexibility to accept any payment method they're willing to handle? That would give sellers a way to appeal to a wider market and retain buyers who are stuck with old habits.
Viewpoints:
- Study finds marketing influences consumer adoption of electronic banking
- Is the digital divide between young and elderly people increasing?
- Click! Online banking usage soars
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