In February, eBay welcomed 50 local entrepreneurs in Austin, Texas, to their Retail Revival program. Retail revival was launched in 2018 to help merchants and businesses grasp opportunity for successful growth by equipping them with the resources, training and tools needed to excel in ecommerce.
eBay are recognising the struggles small businesses are currently facing due to COVID-19 and are making a conscious effort to help those in need. Programs like Retail Revival are now needed more than ever to support those businesses. eBay have recently published details from some of the creatives in Austin, Texas on what inspired them to start their business as artisans and why they decided to start selling online.
The Retail Revival Austin Sellers
Lys Santamaria
Artist, Owner of Lys Santamaria, Art Shop
Lys Santamaria is a contemporary beadwork artist who uses tiny glass beads to create intricate works of art, gifts, and jewelry.
Lys pursued beadworking full-time so she could set her own schedule and make an independent income. She joined Austin’s Retail Revival program to help learn how she can grow and expand her business. Through Retail Revival, Lys has met other makers, artisans and crafters in the Austin area, which she says will help her grow as a business owner and artist.
“eBay is freedom for me,”
“It means the ability to sell to any customer worldwide and to be supported by a team here at eBay to know that I’m taken care of if I need any help.”
– Lys Santamaria
George Hernandez
Owner, The French & I
George Hernandez is the owner and operator of the French & I, a dog accessories brand inspired by his French Bulldog, Zeus. His store features a collection of dog leashes, collars and bandanas that are all handmade by George in his Austin workshop.
He started his business after he was unable to find accessories for Zeus that fit him well and were unique to his style.
George joined the Retail Revival program to expand his customer base for his growing business.
“I think this is a great program for anyone that’s a dreamer, right? And wants to make their dream a reality,”
– George Hernandez
Sean Gooden
Owner, GoodenSweet Cookies
Sean Gooden is the owner of GoodenSweet cookies, an all-natural gourmet cookie company with treats ranging from chocolate chip to oatmeal raisin to lemon cranberry.
Sean started his business in honor of his late older brother and best friend, Anthony, who also was a baker. He and Anthony talked about opening the business before Anthony’s accidental death in 2008.
“What’s kept me going when there’s been a hurdle or speed bump has definitely been my brother’s memory,”
– Sean Gooden
When his customers taste one of his cookies, Sean said he hopes that it’ll take them back to their childhood.
For Sean, the opportunity to sell on a global platform like eBay is something of dreams and he is excited to let everybody know he’s now selling on eBay.
