Newegg, a computer and consumer-electronics ecommerce site, is preparing to enter general merchandise categories with the launch of a new marketplace. Newegg Mall will allow third-party merchants to sell on its site at NeweggMall.com with a "Cost-per-Order" model and no listing fees, though it appears there is a membership fee.

According to information on the NeweggMall.com website, its initial launch will include categories such as Accessories (Jewelry, Watches, Purses, Belts, Hats, etc.); Apparel; Auto & Hardware; Beauty; Health & Wellness; Home Living; Luggage & Bags; Outdoor & Garden; and Sports & Toys; and it will expand categories as it grows.

In order to sell on NeweggMall.com, merchants must have a physical address of operation (not a post office box), must have a published and active phone number and email address where customers can reach them, and must have the ability to send an XML/Flat File product data feed.

The Newegg Mall website does not describe whether the marketplace includes auctions, nor does it state to what degree it will get involved with transactions and payment-processing, or whether it will list inventory alongside listings from third-party merchants. Newegg Vice President Merchandising & Public Relations Bernard Luthi would not provide details, stating on Monday, "at this time we are not releasing any information."

A seller posting on an industry discussion board pegged the commission fees at 15 percent with a $29.99 monthly subscription fee, while another posted that the commission fee would vary by category, ranging from 6.5 - 15 percent (http://community.tuliptools.com/index.php?topic=16717.msg65802#msg65802).

http://www.neweggmall.com/partners/Welcome.html

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