Best Buy has launched its third-party marketplace on its website and app, adding more brands and items to its offerings. The move aims to boost sales, drive higher profits, and attract advertising dollars as the consumer electronics retailer faces challenges such as higher tariffs and sluggish housing markets.
Starting Tuesday, shoppers can find products and brands that weren’t available at Best Buy before, including tech-related accessories like custom video game controllers and seasonal decor. The platform relies on third-party sellers to stock, sell, and ship inventory, with Best Buy taking a commission on their sales.
According to Chief Customer, Product, and Fulfillment Officer Jason Bonfig, the new platform addresses gaps in Best Buy’s assortment, such as batteries for older cameras or cases for older smartphones. It also enables smaller vendors to sell on Best Buy’s website when they’re not yet large enough to make or distribute volume for its stores.
The launch comes at a time when Best Buy’s business is struggling. Its annual sales have declined over the past three years, and it expects full-year revenue to range from $41.1 billion to $41.9 billion. The company has also cut its sales outlook in May and said it will share its most recent earnings results and sales forecast on August 28.
Retail analysts say Best Buy’s third-party marketplace is a strategic move to reverse slower sales and attract customers who are doing more consumer electronics transactions through marketplaces. However, the business model comes with risks, such as inconsistent seller standards and overwhelming customers with too many options.
Best Buy has vetted its initial 500 sellers to ensure they can provide a high-quality customer experience. Customers can return purchases either directly to the seller or to Best Buy stores. The platform supports the company’s growing advertising business, allowing sellers to buy ads for their products.
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/19/best-buy-launches-third-party-marketplace.html