Agoras Marketplace Policy Update: Seller Protections & Fee Changes

Today we announce important changes to Agoras.shop seller policies designed to increase trust, reduce disputes, and support long-term maker sustainability. These changes respond to seller feedback, industry best practices, and our commitment to balanced marketplace economics.

Key policy updates

1. Enhanced dispute resolution

We are introducing a three-tiered dispute process: informal mediation, platform-supported arbitration, and appeals. Sellers will be able to submit production evidence, and buyers will provide photos or videos of issues. Agoras will mediate and facilitate partial refunds or replacements where appropriate.

2. Fee structure adjustment

Effective June 1, 2026, platform fees will change from a flat 8% to a tiered model:

• 6% for items under $50
• 7% for items $50$250
• 8.5% for items over $250

The goal is to lower friction for entry-level makers while balancing operational costs for higher-ticket support services like insured fulfillment and international VAT handling.

3. Fee credits for verified sustainable practices

Sellers who complete our sustainability verification process receive a 1% fee credit. Verification requires documentation of material sourcing, waste management practices, and worker care metrics. The verification toolkit will be available in the seller dashboard starting May 1.

4. Extended preview period for returns

Buyers will now have 30 days to preview and request returns for most categories, aligning with common retail standards. Some fragile or made-to-order items remain final sale as indicated on the product page.

Why these changes?

Feedback from our seller advisory council emphasized the need for more nuanced fees and stronger dispute protections. The new tiered model recognizes the different margin realities across product categories while the verification credit rewards responsible practices.

How to prepare

1. Review your current pricing and see how the new tiers affect net revenue.
2. Start the sustainability verification checklist if your practice already documents materials and processes.
3. Familiarize yourself with the new dispute flow and required documentation standards.

Open office hours

We will host three live office hours sessions for sellers to walk through the updates and ask questions. Dates and registration links are in the seller dashboard.

Final note

These updates aim to create a fairer marketplace where makers can thrive while buyers gain confidence in their purchases. We will monitor the impact of these changes and continue to iterate based on community feedback.

"Our marketplace grows healthiest when makers feel protected and buyers feel confident."