A TWELVE MONTH OLD London based web company that is taking the international market for antique arms and armour by storm is the latest investment for 8-WA.com, a private investment firm with a reputation for backing profitable online ventures.
WARSTUFF hich offers a destination for militaria dealers and collectors globally to buy and sell online, is capitalizing on the opportunity to offer a viable alternative to eBay who have in recent times come under fire for their poorly enforced policies on the sales of military antiques. Only last month, the BBC News channel reported on the removal of a fully decommissioned Royal Air Force Harrier Jump-jet Fighter plane from sale saying it contravened eBay’s “weapons, knives and ammunition policy”. The decommissioned jet was subsequently listed for sale on WARSTUFF.
The startup offers similar facilities to buy and sell offered by eBay, but with a level of understanding and appreciation of military antiques that larger sites cannot offer, allied with low fees. It’s like eBay, but just for war stuff.
“It’s all about tiny teams taking on the market leaders and offering services and experiences the big guys can’t immediately compete with. It’s like having the best war relic store on your street,” Paul McCabe, WARSTUFF’s founder said in a release. “We’re gratified that such an influential investment company recognizes the value of what WARSTUFF is creating and we look forward to working with them to make the brand massive.”
“The Internet has changed the way we buy and sell, and for antique arms and armor Warstuff.com is that game-changing platform,” Michael Widjaja, CEO of 8-WA.com said. “Over the last 12 months this website has built an established brand becoming the innovative platform in its niche market with regular visits from more than 140 countries. Warstuff.com has high growth potential worldwide and we will invest in the continuation of strengthening its competitive edge in the market.“
In 2010, the market value of militaria sales on eBay in the US alone is estimated to be around $11m presenting a compelling investment opportunity. The initial terms of the initial round of financing are confidential.