eBay.co.uk will launch a new category called "Local Services" in mid July. Listings in the Local Services category will be available in the Classified Ad format only, with a 28-day listing duration. eBay is aiming the category at local service providers. eBay launched a similar category in Australia in April of this year (http://services.ebay.com.au).
The company has found success with classifieds internationally and expanded its Kijiji classified site to the US late last week. eBay has had a "Classified Ad" listing format, formerly called Ad Format, since early 2006. Classified Ad transactions are non-binding and appear alongside auctions and fixed-price listings in eBay search results.
eBay UK will make listing in the Local Services category free between July 16 and October 16, 2007. See website for details and restrictions.