Tradus Snapshot
Tradus hopes to be Europe's answer to eBay. A leading European online auctioneer, Tradus provides consumer-to-consumer and business-to-consumer auctions in a dozen countries. The company, formerly known as QXL ricardo, phased out its practice of buying merchandise from manufacturers to sell to consumers. The auctions offer items such as art and collectibles, books, cars, music, and travel. Its QXL Live service allows customers to participate in auctions online and in real time. Tradus launched its service in the UK, and Poland is now its primary market. Its Allegro brand is marketed in Eastern Europe, while its Ricardo brand focuses on Western Europe. The firm was acquired by Naspers in March 2008.