Would American Express entry into the commercial barter business be beneficial to the industry?
Bob Bagga, Chief Operating Officer at Ubarter.com: “I feel that they, along with other companies getting into our business, will only add credibility to our industry…as ‘rising tides lift all boats.’ They will bring brand, technology and, of course, the almighty dollars.” Robin Maini, Executive Director of the International Reciprocal Trade Association: “I think the entry of AMEX into the barter business will lend even more credibility to the industry as a whole. However, it is obvious that this will change the way barter companies do business…in order to stay competitive. It also means independent exchanges will yet have another reason to merge or consolidate, in order to compete with a large mega-corporation. “I don’t believe that any one company can ‘take over’ the industry. However, it could be a struggle for the smaller operations if they do not align themselves with other trading partners quickly. “If AMEX does decide to enter into the barter arena without intentions of partn
