COVID-19 affects third-party commerce in Windsor

COVID-19 has affected third-party online shopping in Windsor.

Online third-party shopping is the practice of buying or selling from or as an informal vendor, rather than from or as an official retailer, through the internet. The benefits of such practices include lower prices and a shorter sale time when compared to official online retailers. However, with the ongoing pandemic and its subsequent lockdowns, such sales have been affected.

Kishwin Prasad is a third-party seller of products online who said things were easier before the pandemic.

“Before COVID-19, things were pretty normal,” said Prasad. “It was easy for me to sell things online and meet customers.”

Prasad also said the pandemic has changed his experiences as a seller.

“After COVID-19, things changed,” said Prasad. “People were not willing to buy any items because of the safety regulations. I couldn’t accept cash because of safety precautions. Bottom line is people were afraid to come outside and meet other people to get new items.”

Harshil Raval, a frequent buyer of third-party products online, said the pandemic has made interactions with sellers more challenging.

“Right now, it’s really difficult as sellers don’t wear masks and maintain social distancing,” said Raval. “Also, they don’t handle cash. Previously, they had handled cash so it’s a concern for me now.”

Raval also said the pandemic has made it difficult for him to get a closer look at what he is buying.

“When I shopped before COVID-19, I could touch the product and see it’s specifications,” said Raval. “Now they don’t let me get too close so I can’t inspect closely.”

As per the stay-at-home order announced by Ontario Premier Doug Ford on April 7, people cannot leave their homes if their trip is not considered essential.