Friday, June 22, 2012

One Thing

There is one key thing that would add enormous value to the Australian business landscape and give a much needed fillip to small business while helping to connect the regions and mitigate against the effects of the two speed economy.

What is it?

The introduction of  a real consumer to consumer and business to consumer online sales and transaction system.  One that is frictionless or close to it.  If you know why that is important then read on.

Because Australia doesn't currently have one that works.  We have tired old eBay and a bunch of local online marketplaces - but nothing that was built from the ground up to deliver the services that are needed in this market and region.

Except for one - and we won't be enjoying that anytime soon.

Trade Me is New Zealand's top commerce site.  It is fantastic.  I have written about it previously.  But it is owned and operated by Fairfax.

And that is a problem.  They recently sold their stake down to 51% - all to generate some cash while retaining control.  But their focus is elsewhere along with their leadership.  If they knew anything about the digital economy then they would bring Trade Me to Australia and fund and resource it properly.

Because if they did that they would *own* this market place - and we would be happy for them because of the value that was created.  It might even resurrect some Fairfax reputations ;-)

But they won't so lets talk about how to set up something similar here to deliver the goods.  Interested - then lets talk?

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