Tell me about this program eBay is presenting in Atlanta!
"We have been testing the concept of partnering with manufacturers -- so far Disney, Enesco, Hummel and, this month, Fenton. These companies, through eBay, have offered limited edition exclusives to collectors. We also felt that it was important to layer in opportunities to also bring in the retail market into the mix. For instance with the Enesco Precious Moments an exclusive LE figurine was available only on eBay, but the rest of the series was available at local retailers."

"The exciting part of being here at Atlanta is more and more folks are waking up to eBay as a channel. In 2002 we were the fourth largest retailer in the world of table top items (2003 stats not yet available). There is a real 'aha' that comes when people realize that, as eBay is not on most folks radar screens."

Neary explained how the eBay relation with manufacturers has continued to morph.
"For instance it was a place for ESPN to use for liquidation of items, but eBay has also become a good place to produce and sell items. Disney has been historically offering limited edition pins in a variety of places, so they've gone up to the next level and are producing some pins available only for the Disney eBay channel."

Haven't they been producing and selling limited edition pins on eBay before this program?
"Often times we come across great new ideas, and we find ideas already being implemented, such as the Disney pins. For instance a few years ago someone on the eBay staff was looking for automobile related items on eBay and was surprised to find 'real' cars for sale. eBay Motors was born!"

"At eBay, we feel we have a vested interest to in helping retailers grow and thrive. We asked ourselves how do bring in new collectors and also provide excitement to collectors. That is where Enesco's Precious Moments 'Loving' comes in. 'Loving' was sold at a fixed price of $55., this particular piece is part of a three-piece series titled "Make Time for Loving, Caring and Sharing." 'Loving' was the only piece in the series offered online, the other two will be sold at retail stores (starting in April 2004). The entire eBay Limited Edition of 3500 sold in five days!"

The three-piece series interlocks to form a heart, has the Enesco Precious Moments backstamp and the eBay logo featured on the bottom of the piece and on the packaging. The buyers of Loving also received a $5. coupon that was redeemable at participating Precious Moments Authorized Retailers for any Precious Moments figurine.

"We feel the eBay base is all about the collector and we have tried to create a level field. For instance Enesco does not get a price break, they pay the same eBay fees as the individual seller."