PSFK recently caught up with Karen Bard, the Pop Culture Expert over at eBay. Her insights were a follow-up to our recent coverage on the creation of instant nostalgia.
Do you think the current economic climate is driving an increase in collectors, based on what you’ve seen on eBay/elsewhere?
In this case the industry’s supply and consumers’ demand helped create these collectors. Although the state of the industry has caused some publications to fold, consumers still have a want for the content publications like Domino provided them on a regular basis. eBay is among the only places where people can find those publications.
Are there any other times you’ve seen this type of instantaneous nostalgia created for dying brands/products?
That sense of nostalgia is really apparent in the popularity of limited edition and “vintage” remakes, as well as in products that are no longer being made. Iconic Barbie dolls, postage stamps and vintage records are a few great examples.
Is the relationship of eBay with its users changing as more people try to save a buck or two?
eBay has always been a destination for great deals, and our relationship with users constantly evolves alongside the consumer mindset. As people become more comfortable with increasing their spending, they will continue to embrace saving and smart shopping, and eBay will continue to grow as both a marketplace and a resource.
[image via TheSkorm]
Thank you to Karen Bard and Anna L. Fogleman for organizing the brief interview.
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