eBay emerging as ag equipment superstore

A growing number of farm owners and operators are flocking to online marketplace eBay to buy agricultural equipment - the agriculture category of the company's new eBay Business division is one of its fastest-growing, with transactions up 120% over last year.

Buyers of agricultural equipment, tools and supplies accounted for more than $20 million in sales in the first quarter of 2003. There are more than 7,000 new ag listings on eBay each week, from tractors and parts (the most popular items) to motors and vintage farm equipment. About 260 pieces of agricultural machinery and equipment are sold each day, eBay officials say. "Buying agricultural tools, equipment and supplies on eBay makes sense for cost-conscious growers," says Benjamin Hanna, senior manager of agriculture for eBay Business. "It's a very tangible way to preserve capital and cut costs, which in turn enables them to stay on budget."

The rapid growth of the ag category has prompted eBay to expand its ag division to 32 new sub-categories, which makes it even easier for buyers to find what they are looking for, Hanna adds.

To access eBay's agricultural listings, go to www.ebaybusiness.com.