Global commerce platform eBay has formed a partnership in China with Xiu.com, an online fashion and luxury retailer.

Together, eBay and Xiu.com are launching a new and fully localised online shopping experience, called eBay Style.

The site – at ebay.xiu.com – will connect Chinese online consumers to global products and brands currently being sold on eBay.com. Through the partnership, Chinese consumers can access eBay’s global selection, with Xiu.com being responsible for handling all sales, logistics and customer service.

eBay Style will include up to 5000 brands in apparel, handbags and shoes, accessories, health and beauty and other lifestyle categories. All products will be new and available from eBay’s sellers.

“Today, Chinese consumers are increasingly coming to eBay and we have seen a 40 per cent year on year increase of goods bought by Chinese consumers navigating eBay.com in English,” said eBay VP Melanie Tan.

“By partnering with Xiu.com we are able to (supply) our best inventory to Chinese consumers, while providing a simple and easy shopping experience,” she added.

As well as providing the platform for eBay Style, Xiu.com will be responsible for curating and translating the inventory from eBay with a product search and browsing experience suited to Chinese consumers. Xiu.com will also provide local returns and Chinese language customer service.

“Our mission is to bring the best of the World to China, so eBay, with its global access, is an ideal partner for us. Through our curation efforts, we also hope to introduce a new, more inspiring buying experience to Chinese consumers,” said Xiu CEO George Ji.

eBay will support the launch of eBay Style in China with a brand marketing, public relations and social media campaign as well as new smartphone and tablet applications.

GB