The primary focus of this forum is for Transformers fans to interact with other fans about news and discussion topics. As such, Membership priority goes to Fans, not Dealers, who have shown a willingness to interact and help out other members (through sightings, posting of news, and offering answers to questions).

And to prevent someone from joining up and conning members into buying stuff that doesn't exist, Protoforms are prevented from accessing the Saleyard section.

From the User guide:
12b - Toy dealers and online-stores can advertise here, in moderation. Protoforms and Distant Sparks do not have access to the Saleyard section, to protect members from scammers who may join up, list something and take the money and run. Newly activated Members may have their sale posting closed down if they are still fairly new to this board (less than six months here or under 50 'quality' posts - but this is just a rough guide).
As such, if we see that a newbie appears to be here for the long-term, and/or demonstrates a selfless helping out and interaction with other fans, Membership status isn't far away.