Why is eBay charging customers for eBay Plus?

[springwoods-crafts]

I am very confused by the new eBay Plus eBay is charging customers an anual subscription for!!

They have asked all the Sellers to offer Free postage, Free returns, Same Day postage etc.... in return for getting a little badge next to their listing saying (eBay Plus)

SO, Sellers are having to pay all the postage out of their own pockets (No such thing as Free post) & busting our butts to give superfast service....  No discounts for the Sellers just extra costs for us so eBay can charge the Buyers for an extra service....$49 per year.

Am I missing something?

eBay are selling a subscription that is 100% funded and provided by the seller who already pays insane fees.  

Now the customers have to pay for a service that was free to them a few months ago as well!!??

So, if I am not missing something.....the Seller loses and the Buyer also loses....eBay WINS??  $$$

or will it backfire when sellers & buyers jump ship to Amazon?

I am completely baffled....10+ years on eBay and they still manage to shock me.  I can hear the clock ticking down....