Trade Me

Trade Me is New Zealand's largest online auction and classifieds website. Launched in 1999 by Sam Morgan, it has become the dominant platform for buying and selling goods and services within New Zealand. The site operates as a general marketplace, encompassing a wide range of categories including general items (like electronics, clothing, and household goods), vehicles, real estate, and jobs.

Trade Me's core functionality revolves around an auction system, allowing sellers to list items for auction with a starting price and a reserve price (if desired). Bidders compete to win the item by placing higher bids. Items can also be listed with a "Buy Now" option, allowing buyers to purchase the item immediately at a fixed price.

Beyond auctions, Trade Me hosts a significant classifieds section where users can list items for sale or offer services with a set price and contact details. This section is heavily used for real estate listings, job advertisements, and services like tradespeople or tutoring.

Trade Me generates revenue primarily through listing fees, success fees charged to sellers when items are sold, and advertising revenue. It plays a significant role in the New Zealand economy, facilitating commerce and providing a platform for small businesses and individuals to connect with buyers.

The company was acquired by Fairfax Media (now Stuff Ltd) in 2006, and later spun off as a separate listed company before being acquired by Apax Partners in 2019. Trade Me continues to be a significant online presence in New Zealand.