Overview

Amazon has rolled out a new fee schedule that raises referral charges for several product categories, taking effect at the start of the next billing cycle. At the same time, the platform’s “Big Spring Sale” is live, giving sellers a short‑term boost in visibility for discounted items. Both changes demand immediate attention from vendors who need to protect margins while capitalizing on the seasonal traffic surge.

Key Points

• Referral fee hike announced — Amazon disclosed that the percentage taken from sales of categories such as home décor, kitchenware, and pet supplies will increase, meaning a larger slice of each transaction now goes to the marketplace.
• Effective date is the first day of the upcoming billing cycle — Sellers have only a few days to adjust pricing, cost structures, or promotional strategies before the higher rates are applied automatically.
• Big Spring Sale is active — The promotional event features banner placements, limited‑time lightning deals, and a dedicated storefront that can drive a noticeable lift in impressions for participating listings.
• Seller sentiment is mixed — While the fee increase squeezes profit margins, many vendors view the spring promotion as a chance to offset the added cost through higher sales volume and improved conversion rates.
• Performance metrics remain unchanged — Order defect rate, late‑shipment rate, and other compliance thresholds continue to apply throughout the sale, so sellers cannot rely on relaxed standards to mitigate the fee impact.
• Competition intensifies during the sale — Rival brands will also be running spring‑focused campaigns, so differentiating listings with compelling copy, high‑quality images, and strategic pricing becomes essential for capturing shopper attention.

How Amazon Fee Changes Work

1. Fee schedule update — Amazon revises either the percentage or flat‑rate charge applied to each qualifying sale; for example, a seller of ceramic vases that previously paid a 15 % referral fee may now see that rate rise to 17 %, reducing the net amount received per unit.