Etc....
Okay, I believe I understand the reasons for this whole change, the new store, etc. I do think it raises some questions that should be considered. By stating them, I rather expect to get flamed. So be it.
Does the store use server space/bandwith that people helped pay for through donations in the last server drive?
If yes, then you are setting up a commercial enterprise in direct competition with some of the people that actually donated money to you for that server/bandwith. I realize the plan is to avoid having such drives in the future, but success is not guaranteed.
ENWorld has said that the ENpublishing books couldn't be entered in the Ennies. What about publishers that now have commercial interest in the new store? Ideally they should be allowed to enter, of course, but companies that decide not to release their electronic or other products through your storefront can have a legitimate concern about fair treatment. Before getting all heated about this, remember that even the APPEARANCE of impropriety can end careers as well as "awards."
When you first started the ENPublishing (er, or whatever the name is now, sorry) I recall that people said it would be "unfair" for the staff reviewers to review those products. I am not surprised that ENPub products receive more reviews from your staff reviewers as well as fan reviews than most other pdf products. Are you going to have more reviews of products released in the ENShop than of other .pdf products? If I were a publisher releasing .pdfs through the shop I would insist on reviews as part of the service you provide. This means that your review site is no longer unbiased and must, by design, lean towards products released through your store.
I understand the planned upside to this, but I see significant downsides as well. Yes, you provide publishers and fans with a great service. It does need to be payed for somehow. I understand that.
Well, I had a few others but it is time to go coach soccer. I'll try to stop by later for more.
Patrick