With the growth of Facebook Marketplace, analysts are sounding a warning to Kiwi online marketplace pioneer TradeMe, over prices.
The company, now owned by private equity firm Apax, just reported revenue of $370 million for the year to June - slightly up on last year.
Net profit had nearly doubled to 9.1 million.
But, over the years the price of listings has increased, with recent commentary highlighting the cost of listing jobs and property now around ten times what it was when Trade Me launched.
The price of listing cars for sale has also increased. Success fees on general items are 7.9 percent of the sale price, up to a maximum of $499.
But many are reporting frustrations with TradeMe's listing prices, at a time when people can list on Facebook Marketplace for free.
Peter Griffin is a regular technology commentator on the show. Jessica Walker acting head of research and advocacy at Consumer NZ.
Another group reporting frustration is the imported car sales industry - the chief executive of the Vehicle Industry Association, Greig Epps, explains some of the changes to listing prices this year.
310114. Photo Diego Opatowski / RNZ. Trade Me site Photo:
TradeMe's head of consumer and marketplace Lisa Stewart says the company is proud to be Kiwi-founded and employs hundreds of New Zealanders in offices in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
She says the company invests in reducing scams and protecting buyers and sellers - in ways not offered on unregulated marketplaces.
There is a 'nominal' fee for selling on the website, she adds, but that helps to keep it a safe and trusted experience for members.
