Photo: jejim / iStock Editorial / Getty Images
eBay has announced the closure of its TCGplayer authentication center in Syracuse, resulting in the loss of 220 jobs. The company plans to move operations to a logistics center in Kentucky. The decision, revealed on Thursday (May 22), comes two and a half years after eBay acquired TCGplayer for $295 million. The move will not affect remote staff based in Syracuse.
According to Syracuse.com, eBay stated that the decision was part of an effort to consolidate operations and improve service. "This was a difficult decision," the company said, acknowledging the impact on employees and the local community. The closure is set for August 22.
The closure follows a contentious period between eBay and the TCGplayer workers, who voted to form eBay’s first labor union in March 2023. The Communications Workers of America (CWA) union has accused eBay of union-busting tactics, a claim the company denies. The union has filed an unfair labor practice charge, alleging that eBay is attempting to evade bargaining obligations.
Founded in 2008 by Syracuse native Chedy Hampson, TCGplayer operates an online marketplace for trading cards, including popular games like Pokemon and Magic: The Gathering. Hampson sold the company to eBay in 2022. State Senator Christopher Ryan expressed concern over the job losses, estimating that over 300 local jobs could be affected.
EBay has promised to support affected employees during the transition, but it remains unclear if relocation opportunities to Kentucky will be offered. As reported by LocalSYR, the company insists the closure is not a reflection of the team's work but a strategic move to enhance logistics and service capabilities.