Walt Kolenda, also known by the handle 'Auction Wally,' began selling antiques and collectibles on eBay 10 years ago.
But when Kolenda shops online, he goes to Amazon. Kolenda isn't one of those disaffected eBay sellers who are upset about recent changes in the online marketplace. He is just being practical.
'Almost without fail, the best price will come up on Amazon,' says the longtime antiques dealer and auctioneer, whose recent purchases range from office supplies to a bass guitar.
EBay sellers made headlines earlier this spring when they rebelled against policies put in place by eBay's new chief executive, John Donahoe. The griping continued this month, with the start of a new rule that prevents identical listings from overwhelming eBay browsers.
But the disenchantment of eBay sellers, vociferous as it has been, poses a much smaller threat to eBay than the draw of Amazon holds for buyers. Like Kolenda, these online shoppers are attracted by low prices and a less cluttered, more predictable shopping experience.
Once the undisputed leader in e-commerce, eBay is increasingly in danger of being eclipsed by its more nimble rival. Even while eBay tries to be more like Amazon