Guide to Building a B2B Marketplace

Introduction

Building a B2B marketplace can transform how businesses connect and trade. Imagine a digital platform where companies buy and sell goods or services directly from each other, streamlining everything from supply chains to partnerships. Unlike B2C marketplaces, which focus on individual consumers grabbing quick deals on everyday items, B2B ones cater to bulk orders, complex negotiations, and long-term relationships. Think of it this way: B2C is like shopping at a retail store for your personal needs, while B2B feels more like wholesalers teaming up behind the scenes to keep the economy humming.

The rise of online B2B transactions is exploding right now. Experts project the global B2B e-commerce market to hit around $18 trillion by 2025, driven by digital tools that make cross-border deals faster and cheaper. Why the boom? Businesses want efficiency in a world full of remote work and global supply issues. This opens huge opportunities for entrepreneurs—if you’re eyeing a successful online marketplace for business-to-business transactions, you’re tapping into a goldmine. Ever wondered how platforms like these cut out middlemen and boost profits? It’s all about smart tech meeting real business needs.

Why B2B Marketplaces Are a Smart Bet Today

To give you a quick sense of the landscape, here are key trends shaping B2B marketplaces:

Digital Adoption Surge: More companies are ditching old-school emails and phone calls for seamless online platforms.
Customization Demand: Buyers seek tailored catalogs and pricing, unlike the one-size-fits-all in B2C.
Sustainability Focus: Eco-friendly sourcing is becoming a must, influencing how marketplaces build features.

“In the B2B world, trust and efficiency aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re the foundation of every deal.”

This guide dives into the business models that power these platforms, the must-have features for smooth operations, and strategies to launch and scale yours. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining an idea, you’ll find practical steps to create a thriving B2B ecosystem. Let’s explore how to make it all click.

Understanding the Fundamentals of B2B Marketplaces

Ever wondered why building a B2B marketplace feels like a whole different game compared to everyday online shopping? If you’re diving into creating a successful online marketplace for business-to-business transactions, it starts with grasping the basics. B2B marketplaces connect companies looking to buy and sell in bulk, focusing on efficiency and long-term partnerships rather than quick consumer buys. I think getting these fundamentals right sets the foundation for a platform that truly thrives. Let’s break it down step by step, so you can see how these elements shape business models and key features.

What Makes B2B Transactions Unique Compared to B2C?

B2B transactions stand out because they’re all about scale and strategy, unlike the fast-paced world of B2C shopping. In B2C, you might grab a gadget on impulse with a low price tag and instant delivery—think clicking “buy now” during a late-night scroll. But B2B deals often involve higher order values, where a single purchase could run into thousands or more, and sales cycles stretch over weeks or months. Buyers aren’t individuals; they’re procurement teams weighing options, negotiating terms, and ensuring everything fits their operations.

This longer timeline means trust and customization are key. For instance, a manufacturing firm sourcing raw materials needs detailed specs, compliance checks, and reliable suppliers—none of which happen overnight. Building a B2B marketplace means designing for these dynamics, with features like advanced search filters and secure quoting tools. It’s a game-changer because it streamlines what used to be a drawn-out process, helping businesses focus on growth instead of paperwork.

Tackling Pain Points in Traditional B2B Procurement

Traditional B2B procurement can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded—time-consuming, fragmented, and full of hidden costs. Companies often rely on scattered suppliers, phone calls, emails, and outdated catalogs, leading to delays, errors, and missed opportunities. Ever dealt with chasing quotes from multiple vendors or verifying product quality through endless back-and-forth? That’s the reality for many, where inefficiencies eat into profits and slow down decision-making.

B2B marketplaces flip this script by centralizing everything in one digital hub. They cut down on manual work with automated matching, real-time inventory views, and integrated payments, solving those core pain points head-on. Research shows these platforms can boost procurement efficiency by streamlining supplier discovery and reducing search times dramatically. For example, instead of weeks spent sourcing parts, a business can find vetted options in hours, leading to faster operations and cost savings. When you’re building a B2B marketplace, prioritizing these solutions—like robust verification systems—directly addresses what frustrates users most.

“In a world of endless options, the real win is finding the right match without the hassle—that’s the magic of a well-built B2B platform.”

Exploring Types of B2B Marketplaces

Not all B2B marketplaces are created equal; they come in flavors tailored to specific needs, which helps when planning your business model. Vertical marketplaces focus on one industry, like construction or healthcare, offering specialized tools and connections for niche players. Imagine a platform where builders source tools, materials, and services all in one spot—deep expertise keeps it relevant and trusted.

Horizontal ones, on the other hand, span multiple industries with general offerings, such as office supplies or IT services. They’re broader, serving diverse businesses with everyday needs. Take a global sourcing site that links manufacturers worldwide; it thrives by volume and variety. Or consider industry directories that help engineers find components across sectors—these examples show how verticals build loyalty through depth, while horizontals scale through reach. Choosing the type depends on your vision for a successful online marketplace for business-to-business transactions.

Assessing If a B2B Marketplace Fits Your Niche

So, how do you know if building a B2B marketplace makes sense for your corner of the business world? Start by evaluating your niche’s dynamics—does it have enough buyers and sellers with recurring needs? High-value, fragmented markets like industrial supplies often shine here, but consumer-heavy areas might not.

Here are some actionable tips to assess the fit:

Map Your Audience: Identify potential users—ask if businesses in your niche struggle with procurement and would pay for a streamlined solution.
Analyze Competition: Look at existing platforms; if there’s a gap in features or coverage, that’s your entry point for differentiation.
Test Demand: Run surveys or pilot connections with a small group to gauge interest in key features like bulk ordering or analytics.
Weigh Economics: Consider order sizes and transaction fees—B2B’s higher values can support sustainable models, but ensure your niche supports volume.
Check Tech Readiness: Ensure suppliers in your space are digital-savvy enough to adopt the platform without major hurdles.

I find that niches with regulatory needs or supply chain complexities, like logistics, often benefit most. By running through these steps, you’ll get a clear sense of whether a B2B marketplace aligns with your goals, setting you up for a platform that delivers real value.

Exploring Business Models for B2B Marketplaces

When you’re building a B2B marketplace, picking the right business model can make or break your success. It’s all about how you bring buyers and suppliers together in an online marketplace for business-to-business transactions. I’ve seen platforms thrive by matching their model to the needs of their users, whether it’s through fees on deals or ongoing subscriptions. Let’s break it down step by step, so you can see what fits your vision.

Commission-Based Models in B2B Marketplaces

Commission-based models are a staple for many B2B marketplaces because they align everyone’s interests— you only earn when a deal happens. In this setup, you take a cut from each transaction, often ranging from 5-15% depending on the industry and deal size. It’s straightforward: suppliers list products or services for free, buyers browse and connect, and you pocket a percentage when the sale closes. Tiered structures add flexibility; for example, higher-volume sellers might pay lower rates, encouraging loyalty and bigger listings.

I like how this model scales naturally with your platform’s growth. If you’re targeting industries like manufacturing or wholesale goods, where deals can be hefty, even a modest percentage adds up fast. Just keep an eye on transparency—clearly explain fees upfront to build trust. Ever wondered why some platforms dominate? It’s often because they keep commissions competitive while offering value like secure payments.

“The beauty of commissions is that they grow with your users’ success—everyone wins when deals flow.”

One downside? It might slow early adoption if suppliers worry about fees without guaranteed sales. But with smart marketing, you can highlight success stories to draw them in.

Subscription and Freemium Models for Attracting Users

If commissions feel too transactional, consider subscription or freemium models to create steady revenue in your B2B marketplace. Subscriptions charge users a monthly or annual fee for premium access, like advanced analytics or priority listings. Freemium takes it further: basic features are free to hook suppliers and buyers, while upgrades unlock extras like unlimited inquiries or custom branding.

Pricing strategies here are key to attracting both sides. Start low for suppliers—maybe $20-50 a month for starters—to lower barriers, then tier up for enterprises with features like API integrations. For buyers, free basic searches keep them browsing, but charge for detailed supplier reports. I think balancing this mix prevents one side from feeling nickel-and-dimed; test prices with pilot users to see what sticks.

This approach shines in niches like professional services, where ongoing access beats one-off deals. It fosters long-term engagement, turning casual visitors into loyal members. Plus, predictable income helps with planning features for your online marketplace for business-to-business transactions.

Hybrid Models and Emerging Trends in B2B Marketplaces

Why stick to one model when hybrid ones combine the best of commissions, subscriptions, and more? A hybrid B2B marketplace might offer free listings with optional paid boosts, plus a small transaction fee. This way, you capture revenue from multiple streams without overwhelming users. It’s especially useful for diverse audiences, like small suppliers who prefer freemium and big buyers who value premium tools.

Emerging trends are shaking things up too. AI-driven matchmaking is a game-changer, using smart algorithms to pair buyers with ideal suppliers based on needs, past behavior, and market data. Platforms in regions like India have nailed this by integrating AI to suggest matches, cutting search time and boosting conversions. I see this trend growing as B2B transactions get more complex—think personalized recommendations that feel like a virtual advisor.

Other hybrids incorporate ads or lead generation fees, blending them seamlessly. The key? Stay agile; monitor user feedback to tweak as trends evolve. If you’re building a B2B marketplace, experimenting with AI could set you apart in crowded markets.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Choosing Your Business Model

Ready to pick a model for your B2B marketplace? Here’s a simple checklist to evaluate options based on your target audience. It helps ensure your choice supports smooth business-to-business transactions.

Define Your Audience: Who are your main users—small suppliers or enterprise buyers? Niche markets like tech parts might suit commissions, while broad services favor subscriptions.
Assess Revenue Needs: Need quick cash flow? Go commission-based. For steady income, lean toward freemium or hybrids. Calculate potential earnings with rough scenarios, like average deal sizes.
Analyze Competition: Look at similar online marketplaces for business-to-business transactions. What models do they use? Spot gaps, like underserved freemium options, to differentiate.
Test User Preferences: Run surveys or beta tests with potential suppliers and buyers. Ask about willingness to pay—does tiered pricing appeal, or do they want free entry with AI perks?
Plan for Scalability: Choose a model that grows with you. Hybrids often win here, allowing pivots like adding AI-driven features without overhauling everything.
Review Legal and Tech Fit: Ensure your model complies with industry regs, and check if your platform can handle features like secure payments or matchmaking tools.

By working through this, you’ll land on a business model that feels right. It’s not set in stone—many successful platforms evolve theirs over time. Think about starting small, launching with one core model, and iterating based on real data.

Essential Features and Technical Requirements

Building a B2B marketplace starts with the right features and tech setup to handle business-to-business transactions smoothly. You want a platform that connects buyers and sellers efficiently, making it easy for companies to find what they need without the usual headaches. In this section, we’ll break down the core and advanced features that make your online marketplace for business-to-business transactions stand out, plus the technical backbone to support it all. Think of it as the engine under the hood—get this right, and your B2B platform can scale from a simple idea to a thriving hub.

Core Functionalities Every B2B Marketplace Needs

At the heart of any successful online marketplace for business-to-business transactions are the basics that users rely on daily. User profiles come first—they let businesses create detailed accounts with info like company size, industry, and past deals. This builds trust right away, as sellers can see who’s browsing their listings and tailor offers accordingly.

Next up, powerful search and filter tools are a must. Imagine a procurement manager hunting for industrial parts; with advanced filters for price, location, or specs, they find matches in seconds instead of hours. Pair that with an RFQ system, where buyers post requests for quotes, and sellers respond directly. The integration benefits here are huge: it speeds up negotiations, cuts out endless emails, and fosters repeat business. For example, in a wholesale goods marketplace, an RFQ could connect a retailer with multiple suppliers overnight, streamlining what used to be a week-long process.

These core pieces aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re what turns casual visitors into loyal users in your B2B marketplace.

Advanced Features to Boost Efficiency and Security

Once the basics are solid, layering in advanced features takes your B2B platform to the next level. Secure payment gateways are non-negotiable for handling larger business-to-business transactions. They encrypt data and support methods like wire transfers or escrow, giving everyone peace of mind that funds are safe until deals close.

Inventory management tools keep things running like clockwork, letting sellers track stock in real-time and alert buyers to availability. Analytics dashboards add the smarts, showing trends like popular categories or peak buying times. This helps platform owners optimize listings and reduces transaction times by highlighting bottlenecks early. Ever wondered why some marketplaces feel so intuitive? It’s because these features work together, like analytics feeding into personalized recommendations that shave days off sourcing cycles.

“Focus on features that solve real pain points—secure payments and smart analytics can cut deal times in half without fancy overhauls.”

In short, these enhancements make your online marketplace for business-to-business transactions not just functional, but a go-to resource.

Technical Considerations for a Robust B2B Platform

Building a B2B marketplace means thinking about the tech that powers it all. Platform architecture is key: cloud-based setups shine for scalability, letting you handle traffic spikes without crashing, while on-premise options suit industries with strict data controls, like manufacturing. I think cloud is the way to go for most startups—it’s flexible and costs less upfront.

API integrations tie everything together, connecting your marketplace to tools like CRM systems or shipping software. This lets data flow seamlessly, so a quote from your RFQ system can auto-update inventory elsewhere. Don’t forget mobile optimization; with execs checking deals on the go, responsive design and a clean app version ensure smooth access. Tips here include using lightweight code for faster loads and testing on various devices to avoid glitches.

Get these technical requirements right, and your B2B platform stays reliable as it grows.

Prioritizing Features for Your MVP Development Roadmap

When launching an MVP for your online marketplace for business-to-business transactions, don’t try to build everything at once—focus on what delivers quick value. Start with core functionalities to validate your idea, then add advanced ones based on user feedback. Here’s a simple bullet-point roadmap to guide you:

Week 1-4: Nail the Basics – Set up user profiles and basic search/filter tools. Test with a small group to ensure easy onboarding.
Week 5-8: Add RFQ and Payments – Integrate the RFQ system and a secure gateway. This gets transactions flowing without overcomplicating things.
Week 9-12: Layer in Analytics and Mobile – Build a simple dashboard and optimize for phones. Use APIs to connect essentials like inventory tracking.
Ongoing: Iterate with Tech Choices – Choose cloud architecture early for easy scaling, and monitor performance to prioritize fixes.

This approach keeps development lean while building toward a successful B2B marketplace. You’ll see real traction faster, and it gives you room to refine based on what users actually need.

Strategies for Launching and Scaling Your B2B Marketplace

Launching a B2B marketplace isn’t just about flipping a switch—it’s about creating a space where businesses connect seamlessly for those all-important transactions. If you’re building a B2B marketplace, you know the stakes are high: suppliers need reliable buyers, and vice versa, all while keeping things efficient and secure. In this section, we’ll break down practical strategies for getting your platform off the ground and growing it sustainably. Think of it as a roadmap to turn your idea into a thriving online marketplace for business-to-business deals. Let’s dive in and explore how to onboard users, market smartly, hack growth, and handle risks along the way.

Onboarding Suppliers and Buyers: Building Your Core Community

Getting suppliers and buyers on board is the foundation of any successful B2B marketplace. Start by offering incentives that make joining feel like a no-brainer, such as waived fees for the first few months or exclusive access to premium listings. Partnerships can supercharge this—team up with industry associations or complementary services to co-host webinars or provide referral bonuses. I always suggest personal outreach at first; a quick email or call explaining how your platform solves their pain points, like streamlining sourcing, goes a long way.

Ever wondered why some platforms struggle with early adoption? It’s often because they overlook tailored onboarding flows. Create simple guides or video tutorials that walk users through setup, and follow up with support chats to address hurdles right away. These tactics not only boost initial sign-ups but also improve retention—platforms that use incentives and personalized touches often see users sticking around longer because they feel valued from day one.

To make onboarding smoother, here’s a quick step-by-step approach:

Identify your ideal users: Target suppliers in high-demand niches like manufacturing or logistics who need better buyer connections.
Offer value upfront: Provide free audits of their current processes to show how your B2B marketplace can help.
Leverage partnerships: Collaborate with tools they already use, like inventory software, for seamless integrations.
Track and nurture: Send automated check-ins after signup to encourage their first transaction.

This hands-on method helps build a loyal base, setting the stage for organic growth in your business-to-business transactions.

Marketing and SEO: Attracting the Right B2B Audience

Once you’ve got a foothold, marketing becomes your engine for scaling a B2B marketplace. Focus on content strategies that position you as an expert—think blog posts answering questions like “How to choose suppliers for your supply chain?” or guides on optimizing B2B procurement. These not only drive traffic but also build trust. For SEO, weave in keywords like “building a B2B marketplace” or “best features for online B2B transactions” naturally, aiming for long-tail phrases that match what decision-makers search for, such as “strategies for launching a B2B platform.”

Don’t sleep on PPC ads tailored for B2B; target LinkedIn or Google with ads highlighting quick wins, like reduced sourcing time. Email automation shines here too—set up sequences that nurture leads with case studies or tips on successful business-to-business transactions. I recommend starting with a content calendar: publish weekly pieces optimized for keywords, then promote them via email lists segmented by user type, like suppliers versus buyers. This combo can help you rank higher and convert visitors into active users without breaking the bank.

“In B2B, it’s not about flashy ads—it’s about solving real problems with content that speaks directly to their daily challenges.”

By blending SEO best practices with targeted outreach, you’ll attract qualified traffic that sticks, fueling steady growth for your online marketplace.

Growth Hacking: Measuring and Accelerating Expansion

Growth hacking in a B2B marketplace means getting clever with metrics to spot what works. Keep an eye on key ones like Gross Merchandise Value (GMV), which tracks total transaction volume, and User Acquisition Cost (UAC), to ensure you’re not spending more to gain users than they’re worth. Other essentials include retention rates and monthly active users—these tell you if your platform is becoming a go-to for business-to-business needs. Tools like analytics dashboards make this easy; set up alerts for dips in engagement so you can tweak fast.

Look at platforms that nailed this: one niche sourcing site grew by offering referral programs that rewarded users for bringing in partners, spiking their GMV through network effects. Another manufacturing connector used A/B testing on email campaigns to cut UAC in half by refining messaging around pain points like supply delays. You can replicate this by running small experiments, like testing new features on a subset of users and scaling what boosts metrics. It’s all about iterating quickly to turn early traction into scalable success.

Mitigating Risks: Navigating Legal and Scaling Hurdles

Building a B2B marketplace comes with risks, but smart planning keeps them in check. Legal and compliance issues top the list—think data privacy rules that protect buyer and supplier info during transactions. Start by consulting experts to bake in GDPR-like standards from the get-go, using secure encryption and clear privacy policies to build trust. Scaling challenges, like handling traffic spikes, can overwhelm if you’re not ready, so opt for phased expansion: launch in one region or niche first, gather feedback, then roll out broader.

I think the key is staying proactive. Conduct regular audits for compliance and use cloud services that scale automatically to avoid downtime. For instance, if your platform hits a growth wall, introduce waitlists for new features to manage load while keeping users excited. By addressing these head-on with a step-by-step expansion plan—test, secure, iterate—you’ll create a resilient B2B marketplace that grows without unnecessary pitfalls.

These strategies aren’t one-size-fits-all, but adapting them to your vision can make all the difference. Start with onboarding tweaks this week, and watch how they ripple into stronger marketing and sustainable scaling.

Overcoming Challenges and Measuring Success

Building a B2B marketplace isn’t all smooth sailing—plenty of hurdles can trip you up along the way. You’ve got to tackle things like getting enough buyers and sellers on board, earning their trust, and standing out in a crowded field. I remember chatting with a founder who launched one; they said the early days felt like pushing a boulder uphill. But with smart strategies, you can turn these roadblocks into stepping stones for a thriving online marketplace for business-to-business transactions. Let’s break it down, starting with the big challenges and how to measure if you’re on the right track.

Common Obstacles in Building a B2B Marketplace

Ever wondered why so many B2B platforms fizzle out? One major issue is low liquidity, where you don’t have enough users on both sides to keep transactions flowing. Without buyers, sellers lose interest, and vice versa—it’s a vicious cycle. Then there’s trust issues; businesses hesitate to share sensitive info or commit to deals without knowing the other party is legit. Competition adds another layer, as established players dominate search results and user habits.

Stats back this up: for instance, around 70% of marketplaces fail due to poor network effects, where the platform doesn’t grow its user base fast enough to create value. In B2B, this hits harder because deals are bigger and decisions take longer. Picture a small supplier signing up, only to find no buyers—frustrating, right? These obstacles can stall your successful B2B marketplace before it gains momentum, but recognizing them early lets you plan ahead.

Solutions and Best Practices for Overcoming Hurdles

The good news? You can build trust and boost liquidity with practical steps that feel natural, not forced. For trust, start with user reviews and certifications—think verified badges for suppliers who’ve passed background checks. This reassures buyers they’re dealing with reliable partners in business-to-business transactions. I’ve seen platforms thrive by showcasing real testimonials, like a logistics firm praising quick sourcing times.

To foster network effects, roll out incentives that draw in users from both sides. Offer free listings for the first few months or matching credits for early transactions. Here’s a quick list of best practices to get you started:

Seed the platform: Partner with a handful of trusted suppliers and buyers to kick off activity—it’s like priming the pump.
Gamify engagement: Reward referrals with discounts or priority listings to encourage sharing within professional networks.
Host virtual events: Run webinars on industry trends to connect users organically, building community without heavy spending.

These moves help create that flywheel effect, where more users lead to more value, turning your B2B marketplace into a go-to spot.

“The key to a successful B2B marketplace? Treat every challenge as a chance to prove your platform’s worth—users stick around when they see real results.”

Measuring Success with KPIs and Analytics in Your B2B Marketplace

How do you know if your efforts are paying off? Tracking the right KPIs keeps you grounded and guides tweaks for better results. Focus on user engagement first—metrics like monthly active users or time spent on the platform show if people are actually interacting. For ROI, look at transaction volume and average deal size; in B2B, even a few high-value deals can make a big difference.

Tools like Google Analytics or platform-specific dashboards make this easy. Set up funnels to see where users drop off, then iterate—maybe A/B test a new search filter to cut sourcing time. We all know data doesn’t lie; one platform I followed doubled retention by analyzing why buyers weren’t completing profiles. Aim for weekly check-ins: review engagement scores, calculate customer acquisition costs, and adjust incentives based on what works. This ongoing loop ensures your online marketplace for business-to-business transactions stays healthy and scales smartly.

Future-Proofing Your Successful B2B Marketplace

Looking ahead, trends like blockchain integration can supercharge trust in B2B deals by enabling secure, transparent tracking of transactions—imagine smart contracts that automate payments without middlemen. Sustainability features are gaining traction too; add filters for eco-friendly suppliers to appeal to green-focused businesses. To stay ahead, weave these in gradually: start with pilot programs, like blockchain for high-value trades, and gather feedback.

Forward-thinking tips? Keep an eye on AI for personalized matching, which could predict buyer needs based on past behavior. Regularly audit your platform for emerging regs, like data privacy in cross-border deals. By embracing these shifts, you’ll build a resilient B2B marketplace that not only overcomes today’s challenges but thrives tomorrow. It’s all about staying adaptable—test one new feature this quarter and see how it sparks growth.

Conclusion

Building a B2B marketplace isn’t just about tech—it’s about creating a space where businesses connect seamlessly for those all-important business-to-business transactions. We’ve covered the core business models like commission-based setups, subscriptions, and hybrids that mix them for steady revenue. Key features such as secure payments, smart search tools, and analytics dashboards make operations smooth and trustworthy. And don’t forget the strategies for launching with targeted marketing and scaling through user feedback—these elements turn a good idea into a successful online marketplace.

Your Starter Checklist for Implementation

Ready to put this into action? Start small to build momentum without overwhelm. Here’s a simple checklist to kick off your B2B marketplace journey:

Define your niche: Pick a specific industry, like logistics or manufacturing, where pain points like supply chain delays are ripe for solving.
Choose a core model: Go with a hybrid approach—free basic access plus fees for premium features—to attract early users.
Build essential features: Prioritize user verification, inventory management, and basic personalization to foster trust and repeat visits.
Test with a beta group: Invite a small set of buyers and suppliers to refine based on real feedback before a full launch.
Plan for growth: Set up metrics like transaction volume to track success and adjust strategies as you scale.

I think following these steps keeps things practical and exciting. You don’t need a massive budget; just focus on value that solves real problems for businesses.

“The best marketplaces evolve with their users—stay flexible, and you’ll lead the pack.”

Looking ahead, B2B e-commerce is evolving fast, with AI-driven matching and global integrations set to redefine how companies trade. Imagine platforms that predict needs before they’re voiced, cutting out the guesswork in business-to-business transactions. As regulations tighten and sustainability matters more, your successful online marketplace can lead by building inclusive, efficient ecosystems. It’s an opportunity to shape the future—dive in, iterate, and watch your platform thrive.

A Guide to Building a B2B Marketplace