Statement from State Senator Christopher J. Ryan on eBay’s Closure of TCGplayer’s Syracuse Office

"I am deeply disheartened by eBay's decision to shut down TCGplayer's Syracuse office, resulting in the loss of over 300 local jobs. This move not only disrupts the lives of dedicated employees but also undermines the economic stability of our region.

TCGplayer has been a cornerstone of Syracuse's tech industry, and its acquisition by eBay in 2022 was seen as a promising development. However, the subsequent actions ranging from reported anti-union tactics to this abrupt closure reflect a disregard for the workforce that contributed to TCGplayer's success. It’s nothing more than a retaliatory move against the hardworking employees that contribute to the success and profit of eBay.

I know firsthand that TCGplayer’s employees merely stood up to ask for fair compensation and safe working conditions. They organized to form a union—the first at eBay—and they did so with courage, vision, and a commitment to fairness and equity. 

Central New York deserves better than a multinational corporation that moves in, acquires a successful start-up, and then moves out of state. I will always advocate for our local workforce and the economic well-being of our community."