Rick Probstein Launches BYD: A New Chapter in Live Selling

Rick Probstein @IMBd

In a bold move that is set to reshape the landscape of live selling, Rick Probstein, eBay’s largest sports card seller, has announced the launch of his new platform, BYD. This initiative comes on the heels of a remarkable career that has seen Probstein accumulate over $850 million in lifetime sales on eBay. As the trading card market continues to evolve, so too do the platforms through which collectors engage.

Probstein's journey has been profound, extending over 20 years. He has become a household name in the collectibles community. In a recent conversation, he shared his motivations for creating BYD, emphasizing the need for a more dynamic and engaging experience for sellers and buyers alike.

The concept behind BYD is to curate focused live selling opportunities that make shopping an experience. With features such as themed live shows—like “Wemby Wednesdays” and “T206 Tuesdays”—the platform aims to bring a sense of excitement and anticipation that’s often lacking in current offerings. “One of the problems with existing platforms like eBay Live and Whatnot is that users have no solid sense of what to expect during a live stream,” he stated. BYD will provide previews of items weeks in advance, enhancing consumer engagement.

Rick didn't shy away from discussing his ongoing partnership with eBay, which continues through 2025. He noted, “It has been a great relationship, and they know all of this is happening.” However, his vision for BYD reflects a desire to innovate beyond what is currently available, creating a marketplace that prioritizes not just transactions but also relationships and community.

With his extensive experience utilizing eBay’s live commerce features, Probstein identified key areas for improvement. “We decided that we were going to build a better mouse trap,” he said, indicating a commitment to enhancing the user experience. This includes a streamlined logistics framework, allowing sellers to send their items to BYD for fulfillment, ultimately reducing shipping costs and increasing efficiency.

The entertainment aspect of live selling has also been a significant focus. “You’re never going to see just hands and a voice on our platform,” he emphasized. Probstein believes that everyone involved in live shows will need a dedicated studio setup to enhance the viewing experience, underscoring the importance of creating an engaging atmosphere for collectors and casual fans alike.

As collectors gear up for what BYD has to offer, it's clear that Probstein is not only enhancing the marketplace but is also on a quest to redefine how we engage with trading cards. This new venture is more than just a business; it’s a platform committed to fostering community, creativity, and connection among collectors.

As he looks toward the future, Rick Probstein is keen on onboarding other significant sellers from the live commerce space, promising a robust environment that values both sellers and buyers. “This is just the beginning,” he said, a sentiment that captures the spirit of innovation and excitement buzzing throughout the trading card community.

In a rapidly evolving market, the launch of BYD represents a significant chapter in the narrative of collectibles, one that blends the passion of the community with a fresh, engaging approach to card selling. Disclosure: If you make a purchase through advertisements and affiliate links, we may earn a small percentage, which helps us maintain and improve our site. Thank you for your support!