Online auction house eBay has acquired Certilogo, a provider of AI-powered apparel and fashion goods digital IDs and authentication.

Based in Milan, Certilogo uses digital technology to empower brands and designers to manage the lifecycle of their garments, while providing consumers a seamless way to engage with their favourite brands and fashion items, access reliable product information, confirm authenticity and activate circular services. Certilogo will continue to be led by founder and CEO Michele Casucci.

“The partnership between Certilogo and eBay will unlock opportunities for consumers and brands to connect, opening up new potential to activate and expand engagement with the circular economy,” said Casucci. “Our team is ready to get right to work incorporating our technology and infrastructure and ensuring a seamless transition for our customers, brand partners, and the entire eBay community towards a more sustainable, connected future.”

Charis Marquez, vice president of eBay, added: “We are excited to welcome the talented Certilogo team to eBay, as they bring their passion and cutting-edge technology to our community of fashion enthusiasts. Through this acquisition, eBay will be able to offer brands secure, connected products that are both flexible and compatible. Brands will also be able to protect their customers from counterfeits and engage in re-commerce through counterfeit-proof digital product passports.”

Details of the transaction were not disclosed.

EBay connects millions of buyers and sellers in more than 190 markets around the world. Founded in 1995 in San Jose, California, eBay is one of the world’s largest vibrant marketplaces. In 2022, it enabled nearly $74bn of gross merchandise volume.