This is all just so completely unnecessary, and really puts me out.

I have been considering WooCommerce for a unique application, as several of the plugins and integrations might save on coding time. But, with announcements like this I have significant concern about their management's focus.

WordPress is about being open. It's one of it's many appeals - perhaps its most appealing trait - as it infers fairness in standards and dealings. Forcing users to get a separate commercial account to use the plugin says a lot about the direction and ethics of the company.

I'll be looking elsewhere, I think. It wasn't going to save me that much effort.