18. February 2026
Otto opens up to European sellers. But what can those expect of the German marketplace giant?
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If European B2C online marketplaces are part of your daily business, then the Marketplace Universe is the right place for you. Here, we create a unique community which connects brands, retailers, service providers and marketplaces. We educate, communicate, consult and connect all marketplace people. We provide you with exclusive insights, unforgettable industry events, new talents and job possibilities. We are the keymasters to the Marketplace Universe – may we open the doors for you?
Yours,
Ingrid and Valerie
Founders of Marketplace Universe
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16. February 2026
In 2025, TikTok Shop grew at a rapid pace. According to estimates, its GMV doubled year over year to reach $64 billion. After its home market China, the largest markets are the United States ($15 billion), Indonesia ($13 billion), and Thailand ($11.5 billion). In Europe, only the UK is currently significant, with a GMV of $2.4 billion.
Voices of the Marketplace Community
The marketplace business is changing at such a rapid pace that it’s almost impossible to keep up all by yourself. Luckily there are people like Ingrid & Valerie who make my life a little easier with their tireless searching (& finding) of the latest, hottest shit. But not only do I stay up-to-date with the help of the various formats of the Marketplace Universe, much more relevant for me are the personal contacts that have already been made. We are all never getting tired of saying “platform business is people business” and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Ingrid & Valerie once again for the connections they have made possible. Whether it’s at events, by email, in the podcast or via LinkedIn – these two absolute power women always have a listening ear and at least one good tip or anecdote at hand. I am more than excited to see what else they will come up with.
A big thank you to you, Ingrid, for the contribution you have made to my personal marketplace learning journey! From the inspiration at your Marketplace Conventions, to great contacts from the industry, to the continuous thirst for more knowledge and entertainment in the podcast together with Valerie. Thank you!
“Marketplace Universe” offers a platform to inform people interested in the marketplace world through podcasts and newsletters. The marketplace quadrants, which provide a comprehensive overview of the most important online marketplaces in Europe, are particularly valuable. The platform also promotes networking within the industry through webinars and live events. This mix of up-to-date information and networking opportunities makes “Marketplace Universe” an important resource for anyone working in the online marketplace sector.
What I appreciate about MU are the precise and substantial info drops such as the quadrant graphics on Linkedin or in the newsletter. I’m always up to date and don’t miss anything.
Marketplace Universe: THE voice for EVERYONE in the marketplace scene. Ingrid and Valerie bring the marketplace community together, provide them with facts and figures and help to create a sense of WE in the marketplace world – whether brand, retailer, platform or service provider – Marketplace Universe is the voice for all of us!
1. December 2025
Inka Buschmann has moved up the ranks in Ceceba’s E-Commerce team and is now Head of Online Wholesale and Marketplaces. Ludwig Schirmer, who led Devely’s Digital Unit up to last March, has returned to Europe after a few months in Dubai, and now joins DIY D2C brand Miss Pompadour as new Head of International Growth. Valentin Lennartz has left Kaufland...
8. November 2025
Patrick Bauernfeind became now officially the CEO & Managing Director of Nakoa Digital. Robin Prinsen formerly known as the CEO will stay as a partner. Valentin Lennartz has left Kaufland e-commerce to join UK-based marketplace OnBuy as Regional Manager DACH, supporting its expansion in the German-speaking region. Patrick Sedlmeier has left Kneipp GmbH and joined Douglas as Director Group Retail,...
8. October 2025
Rafe Colburn, already serving as Chief Technology Officer at Etsy, is expanding his role and will also take over as Chief Product Officer. The move comes as Etsy consolidates its leadership structure following the departure of the former CPO. Christian Lefken has made the move from MAX Trader to Christopeit Sport, where he’s now Head of Marketplaces. Caroline Offergelt, after...
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Ingrid Lommer and Valerie Dichtl