Sellers boycott Etsy over hike in sales income held back on reserve

Changes at online craft marketplace prompt anger among vendors as some report up to 75% of takings kept for at least 45 days

Etsy sellers have boycotted the online craft marketplace after it stepped up the amount of sales income it holds back from some vendors to ensure items are delivered as promised.

The UK's small business commissioner, Liz Barclay, said she had contacted the site about a fortnight ago after a surge in complaints by sellers who had suddenly seen as much as 75% of their takings held back on reserve for at least 45 days.