eBay reports small business surge as UK entrepreneurs opt for flexibility and freedom

Online marketplace eBay has seen a huge surge in UK seller sign-ups over the past year, with almost 37,000 new sellers joining in 2018. This represents the biggest year of growth on the marketplace since 2015.A desire for greater flexibility, independence and empowerment is fuelling the small business boom, according to eBay’s research. eBay’s Small Business Barometer reveals that the power to choose working hours (33%) and make their own decisions (30%) are the top motivations for UK entrepreneurs. The future feels bright for start-ups who take the plunge, according to eBay’s research: 43% of UK small businesses feel positive about their growth prospects in 2019, compared to just 22% who are pessimistic, a margin of two to one.