Montonio supports marketplace businesses, but due to the nature of how marketplaces operate, we apply a thorough review process before onboarding. This article explains what a marketplace is in our context, why additional requirements apply, and what you'll need to get started.
What counts as a marketplace?
A marketplace is a platform where multiple independent third-party sellers offer goods or services to buyers. Examples include platforms similar to Amazon, eBay, or niche B2B/B2C trading platforms.
If your platform allows other sellers to list and sell through it — even if you also sell your own products — it is considered a marketplace.
Why does Montonio have additional requirements for marketplaces?
Unlike standard e-commerce stores, marketplaces involve sellers that Montonio has no direct relationship with. This means the marketplace itself is responsible for verifying who sells on the platform and ensuring that no prohibited goods or services are offered.
Because of this, marketplaces are subject to a more detailed compliance review before we can proceed with onboarding.
What you'll need to apply
To be considered for onboarding, your marketplace must meet all of the following:
Established business — your marketplace has been actively operating for at least 2–3 years.
Prohibited products policy — you have a documented list of products and industries that are not permitted on your platform.
Seller due diligence — you perform identity verification (KYC) and fraud prevention checks on sellers before they can list on your platform.
Legal opinion or licence — you can provide a legal opinion on licensing from a reputable law firm, or hold a payment institution licence under PSD2. Licensing is required because marketplaces mediate third-party funds.
Clear business model — you can describe your marketplace's revenue model, expected transaction volumes, and the types of products or services sold.
If your marketplace does not yet meet these requirements, we recommend getting these in place before applying.
What happens if the requirements aren't met?
If your marketplace does not meet the conditions listed above, we are unfortunately unable to offer our payment services at this time. We recommend revisiting your application once the necessary compliance processes and documentation are in place.
Payment features and limitations
Marketplaces have access to Montonio's standard payment methods. Please note that the following are not available for marketplace merchants:
Refundable bank payments
Adyen card payments
Split payments and payouts
If your business model requires split payments or automated seller payouts, Montonio works closely with ComplyPay, who specialise in marketplace payment infrastructure. ComplyPay can provide an IBAN in your company's name and handle fund distribution to sellers. We're happy to refer you if your application is approved.
☝️ If you are using ComplyPay solution, it can exempt you from licensing requirements.
Have more questions? Reach out to our support team and we'll be happy to help.