eCommerce Podcast (Matt Edmundson)

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson reunites with Amelia at Sub Summit in Dallas to discuss the evolution of marketing strategies. They explore the challenges and opportunities of old-school marketing channels like direct mail and podcast advertising in a digital age where traditional platforms like Facebook and Google are becoming saturated and less effective due to privacy regulations and rising costs.

Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Old-School Marketing Channels: With the increasing scrutiny on privacy regulations and the decline of traditional attribution methods, it's crucial for marketers to diversify their media mix. Exploring old-school channels like direct mail, billboards, and connected TV (CTV) can provide new opportunities for reaching and engaging with customers.
2. Importance of Podcast Advertising: Podcasting is highlighted as a powerful marketing channel due to its influencer-like impact and high engagement. Host-read ads on podcasts can provide third-party validation and reach a highly attentive audience, making it a valuable addition to any marketing strategy.
3. Adaptability and Measurement in a Cookieless World: The anticipated deprecation of cookies presents a significant opportunity for alternative marketing channels. Marketers need to focus on building direct relationships with customers, such as through email lists, and leverage advanced measurement technologies to track the effectiveness of their campaigns across various platforms.

Amelia's insights are valuable to anyone struggling with their marketing, encouraging the audience to think outside the box and look back at more classical forms of marketing to succeed in the current marketplace.

Are you struggling to find new and effective ways to grow your business? Look no further than email marketing! In this episode, our expert guest, Tom Kulzer, shares the most valuable email marketing strategies to help you attract new customers, engage with your audience, and drive growth for your business. Tune in and get ready to learn how to use email marketing to take your business to the next level!

ABOUT TOM

Tom Kulzer is the founder and CEO at AWeber, the leading email marketing and automation platform for small businesses, where he is actively involved in the company’s strategic direction, growth and evolution. Over the company’s 24-year history, Tom has nurtured AWeber from a small start-up to a robust organization, that has enabled over 1 million customers to grow their businesses, all without public or venture funding.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• AWeber is an email marketing platform that enables small businesses around the world to be able to send communications out to the people that requested them. They are the automation behind communicating with your subscribers.
• Email has remained one of the top investments for businesses from a return-on-investment standpoint through the years. When done right, it is highly profitable, allowing you to connect with your users in ways that you just can't do across social and other platforms.
• Another major benefit of email is that you own your audience. Email is more transferable, more ownable, has longer term economics and email subscribers are worth far more than Facebook or Twitter followers.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

The creator economy is booming, and there are plenty of opportunities for those who know how to join in. In this episode, Tomer Hen joins Matt to talk about the creator economy and the best practices for successfully launching a personal consumer brand. 

TOMER HEN

Tomer Hen is a serial entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the Digital Marketing industry. During this time, he founded the first mobile marketing school in Israel, created the first Israeli Mobile Marketing Summit, and has spearheaded notable campaigns with leading fortune 500 brands, including Amazon, Audible, and Mastercard. Backed by his expertise and a growing portfolio, Tomer was recognized as one of Forbes’s 30 promising entrepreneurs under 30. In 2011, Tomer founded MobCo Media, a user-acquisition and performance-driven intelligence company. With over 500 campaigns in more than 160 countries, MobCo has cemented its position as a front-runner in the ad tech space.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Today, the world is becoming more and more authentic, and people are looking for authenticity. We have an interesting mix of technology and the internet. And self-expression and authenticity are the keys to unlocking this Creator Economy. The most successful creators are those who are themselves.
• There’s a huge difference between selling a product and building a brand. People choose to go after a brand because they believe in what that brand stands for and that it serves them in a unique way and makes them feel special and cared for.
• Creator Economy is about finding a community you want to serve and building a brand around them and not vice versa. It is not about making money. People are very sensitive about why you do what you do. And when you realise it's all about who you serve, and not what you sell, then that's the main advantage for your brand.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

eCommerce is growing rapidly, but it's also one of the most challenging businesses to be in. In this episode Eric Youngstrom joins Matt to talk about why eCommerce is so challenging and how we can make it work for us.

ABOUT ERIC

Eric is the founder and CEO of Onramp Funds, a purpose-built financing platform for e-commerce brands. In less than two years, since its founding, Eric and the On-Ramp team have raised over $40 million in seed funding and have helped dozens of e-commerce SMBs get off the ground.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Every small business merchant is faced with a challenge when it comes to having the necessary capital to order that next round of inventory or their credit card has maxed out. They can't run an ad on Google to drive that next sale to their Shopify store. And just struggles to keep the wheels turning.
• E-commerce currently makes up 16-17% of retail and is expected to continue to grow. There is regional differentiation in e-commerce adoption, with the UK being 2-3 times that of the US. The key difference is geography - it is easier to ship within a smaller area. Omni-channel retailers are becoming more prevalent, but digital only retailers can still be successful.
• The golden rule of business is to treat the customer how you would want to be treated in that same situation. A lot of e-commerce businesses fail because they treat their customers like just another number rather than a real person. Instead focus on doing things that create loyalty from customers and builds your brand.
• eCommerce and mitigating inflation in the current economic environment.
• The importance of knowing the fundamentals of your business' finances.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Step into the world of eCommerce giants with Nirav Sheth of Anatta, unravel the common threads that weave through successful multi-million dollar brands and explore innovative strategies for eCommerce excellence. From groundbreaking strategies to the fine art of customer engagement, this episode is packed with invaluable insights. Get ready to unlock the potential of your eCommerce business with wisdom from the top!

Key Takeaways:

1. Focus on Customer Retention and Engagement: One of the key insights from Nirav Sheth emphasises the importance of customer retention alongside acquisition. Successful eCommerce brands view retention as a critical growth channel, not just a way to maintain steady revenue. Building a loyal customer base through exceptional service and understanding customer needs can lead to valuable insights for product development and marketing. Investing in customer relationships often results in higher lifetime value, increased referrals, and long-term loyalty.
2. Specialise in Select Marketing Channels Before Diversifying: Nirav highlighted that the fastest-growing brands often start by mastering one or two marketing channels rather than spreading their efforts too thinly across many. The effectiveness of a channel should be measured not just by its reach but also by how scalable it is and how well it resonates with your target audience. Once a brand has successfully harnessed the power of a couple of channels, it can then consider expanding its marketing strategies to include other platforms.
3. Innovative Use of Technology and Platforms: The conversation also underscored the significance of leveraging current eCommerce technologies and platforms, like Shopify Plus, to enhance the customer experience and operational efficiency. Staying abreast of new features and capabilities of these platforms can provide competitive advantages. For instance, the use of advanced segmentation, personalised marketing, and streamlined checkouts can significantly impact sales and customer satisfaction.

ABOUT NIRAV:

Meet Nirav, the CEO and mastermind behind Anatta, the go-to partner for skyrocketing eCommerce brands. He's the secret weapon for the big names in DTC like Rothy’s, Dollar Shave Club, Athletic Greens, Four Sigmatic, and Mack Weldon. Nirav has taken Anatta on a thrilling journey, propelling over 100 DTC brands to the stratosphere of revenue growth and conversion success. When it comes to turning promising brands into industry leaders, Nirav's got the Midas touch!

https://anatta.io

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this episode we’re going to talk about the importance of customer experience and how you can improve it before, during and after the sale.

Customers are more savvy than ever before and they know what they want. If you don't give them what they want, they'll go somewhere else.

Adam Pearce joins Matt to explore how to give our customers an amazing experience that will keep them coming back for more.

ABOUT ADAM

Adam is the co-founder and CEO of Blend Commerce, the eCommerce Customer Experience Agency. Adam and his team have worked with over 200 Shopify retailers to help them provide memorable customer experiences that drive growth in revenue and profit.  

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Customer Experience is the overall experience that a customer has with your brand even before they click on your website till the point where you make your very final sale. So, it’s not just their experience while making a purchase but before and after the purchase as well.
• A good Conversion Rate doesn’t necessarily mean good Customer Experience. It gives a very narrow view whereas what’s important is the Customer Lifetime Value. You can increase the lifetime value of a customer by avoiding gimmicks and increasing value additions by creating more touch points to understand the customer better and helping them understand you and your products better.
• Personalising your homepage, improving the navigations, and adding a great search feature are some effective ways to improve your customer experience. Being smart with your emails, conducting quizzes or surveys to help you understand your customer better and then offering services that’s tailored to their specific needs or interests goes a long way in ensuring customer loyalty and lifetime value.

Enjoying listening to our conversation about customer experience :-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Join host Matt Edmundson on the eCommerce Podcast as he discusses customer success roadmaps and monetising subscriber lists with Scott Overbeck from Seacoast Consulting Group. Discover how strategic alliances can boost your business growth and learn practical tips for leveraging your existing customer base.

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Key Takeaways:

1. Leverage Strategic Alliances: Scott emphasises the importance of forming strategic alliances between businesses with complementary resources. This involves creating mutually beneficial arrangements that can include products, services, operational assets, or customer databases. By doing so, businesses can tap into new revenue streams and enhance their offerings without the need for significant additional investment.

2. Understand the Customer Journey: Scott advises businesses to map out the customer journey to identify what customers want before, during, and after their purchase. By understanding this journey, businesses can offer additional products or services that align with their customers' needs, thereby increasing customer satisfaction and revenue through cross-selling and upselling.

3. Monetise Existing Assets: Scott highlights the value of a business's existing subscriber list as a significant asset. He suggests using this list to introduce complementary products and services through strategic alliances, thereby generating additional revenue. This approach capitalises on the trust already established with customers, making it a cost-effective way to increase profits.

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If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow!

Are you struggling to allocate your marketing budget effectively? Wondering how to maximise your return on investment? Join us on the "Mastering Marketing Spend: A Financial Perspective" episode of the eCommerce Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of ad budgets and uncover insights with Matt Putra to help you make informed decisions.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Matt Putra zeroes in on why vigilant monitoring and precision in measurement can make or break a business. Think you're on top of your financial data? Discover why it's non-negotiable for enduring success.
• A Cautionary Tale of a company's misadventure. They had the budget, but did they have the strategy? Discover the aftermath of overlooked optimisation and its impact on revenue.
• Ever thought about the art of communicating with marketing agencies? We unwrap the mystery of target contribution margins and introduce you to a vibrant colour-coded system. Green, yellow, or red - where does your agency stand?
• See the world of data through the lense of an e-commerce maestro! Perfection might be a myth, but is there beauty in imperfection? Learn how to harness 'imperfect' data to your advantage and discern the pulse of your business.
• From the importance of blended wires to the magic of target contribution margins, we navigate the lesser-known pathways of business metrics. Plus, get a fresh perspective on why adjusting your business sails monthly could be your ticket to the fast lane.
• There's e-commerce, and then there's experiencing e-commerce. Matt Putra spills the beans on why having a seasoned e-commerce guide is like striking gold in the digital marketplace.

ABOUT MATT:

Matt Putra, the CFO wizard behind scaling eCommerce brands from the UK to Canada and beyond! Whether it's boosting cash flow or cutting stress, he's your go-to. Plus, as a savvy eCommerce investor, he's got the magic touch to juggle risks and ramp up growth.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Growth driven advertising is a phrase we often hear but what exactly is it? How can it help your business? And more importantly, how do you get started? Ryan Flannagan joins Matt in this episode to show us how to use growth driven advertising on Amazon to grow our businesses.

ABOUT RYAN

Ryan Flannagan is the CEO at Nuanced Media. He has spent more than 15 years in eCommerce, multichannel digital marketing, and third party marketing places. He's worked with hundreds of companies to establish best practices, focusing on the 20% that produces 80% of the revenue, the Pareto principle.

Ryan is a passionate thought leader in the eCommerce industry. He has been interviewed and quoted by Buzz Feed, Modern Retail as well as many other news outlets. He is a professional speaker, blogger and has contributed articles to 20+ 3rd party publications.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Selling your product on Amazon is not what it used to be five years ago. It’s getting more and more competitive on a weekly basis. We're seeing more aggressive ad spend and a maturation of the market. Essentially the old method of just managing pay per click and not looking at data or segments etc. is just not enough anymore.
• The Pareto principle applies to Amazon as well. And sometimes it could be like 2% of your catalog is making 98% of your revenue. Therefore, it becomes essential to focus your efforts on those revenue making SKUs or ASINs so as not to lose the competitive advantage. If you have a product that's doing over $10,000 to $20,000 of sales for your website, it's probably time to really start looking at it.
• Nuanced Media is a boutique agency that won't work with you unless they can win for you. They are about more value driven based and helping people be successful on the Amazon platform. Ryan and his team use several different software suites to test, review, launch, build out, including keyword tracking and a variety of things to help you achieve growth driven advertising on Amazon.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

The merger and acquisition landscape is constantly evolving and it can be tough to keep up with all the changes.  Whether you're thinking of selling or buying a company, you need to pay attention to these changes because they could impact you in a big way.

Ben Leonard from Ecom Brokers joins Matt in this episode to talk about the big changes that have taken place in the M&A landscape and what business owners must do to build their brands. 

ABOUT BEN

Best known as the founder of Beast Gear, Ben Leonard is the classic millennial entrepreneur. He built a business on a laptop, in a cupboard, in his spare time. The difference? Ben grew an international 7-figure business and successfully exited after three years; the business holy grail!

Naturally, people started to ask him for help in selling their business and thus, Ecom Brokers was born. Ben has been a previous guest on the show talking about how to scale and sell your own Ecommerce business.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• 2022 has been a difficult year for small business owners. Costs have been rising and sales has been falling. More and more people are getting into entrepreneurship and it’s not just more competitors but the competition is better. So as a business owner, you have to think about the long-term and build more of a sustainable brand.
• The risk appetite of most buyers has dropped. So that means it's not a seller's market anymore. There have been fewer deals and the deals that have been done have been done at lower-than-expected prices compared to last year. The multiples have gone down. So, the value of businesses has dropped, particularly for a weak brand.
•  ECOM Brokers was founded to help E-commerce business owners plan and execute their exit and to improve not only the experience of the seller but the buyer as well. For some businesses, it means selling very soon and for others, it means working together for a year or two to get ready to sell their business for a deal that is appropriate for them and that matches their goals.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this episode of our eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson sits down with David Braithwaite, a strategic coach and entrepreneurial expert, to discuss the crucial aspects of successful ecommerce entrepreneurship. They delve into the art of mastering time, money, relationships, and purpose, offering a wealth of knowledge for both budding and experienced entrepreneurs.

Show Notes:

1.The Four Key Freedoms in Entrepreneurship:

• Time: Understanding the value of time management and achieving a work-life balance.
• Money: Strategies for financial prudence in business, including the philosophy of taking what you need and reinvesting the rest.
• Relationships: The importance of building and nurturing meaningful relationships within the business context.
• Purpose: Aligning your business goals with your personal 'why' for long-term success and fulfillment.

2. Entrepreneurial Challenges and Solutions:

• The problem-solving nature of entrepreneurs and the risk of non-stop work leading to potential burnout.
• The concept of 'going back to go forward' and the strategic necessity of downsizing for growth, especially in side hustles.

3. Practical Tips and Wisdom:

• David’s insights on maintaining control over business finances.
• The significance of surrounding oneself with the right people and maintaining focus on the core purpose of the business.

Listen now and transform your entrepreneurial experience! 🎧🚀

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In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast Host Matt Edmundson interviews Skip Wilson, founder of Draft Media Partners and host of the Advertising Podcast, and discusses the intricacies of modern digital marketing. Skip specialises in fixing broken ad campaigns and discusses in depth what makes an effective add campaign work. 

Key Takeaways: 

1. Fixing Broken Campaigns is a Process: Skip emphasises that advertising is a science, and campaigns need constant tweaking and optimisation. He compares it to fixing an engine—identifying where things break and making adjustments to improve performance, rather than accepting failure.
2. The Importance of Understanding Your Audience: Skip highlights the need to know if your audience is "problem aware" or "solution aware." If they don't know they have a problem, educating them through storytelling ads or lead magnets is crucial before attempting to sell them a product.
3. Skip’s Conversion Equation: Skip introduces his conversion formula, which balances urgency, desire, and trust against delay, cost, and effort. For a campaign to succeed, the first three factors must outweigh the latter, providing a structured way to assess and improve ad performance.

If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow!

Are influencers becoming the new storefronts of our digital age? Dive into a conversation that explores how trust, personalization, and the rise of direct-to-consumer shopping are reshaping the very fabric of e-commerce. Discover how a world once dominated by brands is now bending to the authenticity of influencer recommendations. The future of online shopping is here, and it's more personal and dynamic than ever before.

How do you know who the best influencers are for your business?

In today’s video you’re going to hear all about brand and influencer partnerships and how to find the perfect influencer for your company. Influencer marketing has become one of the most popular ways to market products on social media, but it's not always easy to find the right person or people for your brand. We're going to go over a few ways that can help make finding them easier so let me show you how it's done.

ABOUT DAVID

David Perry is the CEO of Carro, a new e-commerce partnership network. With over 30K Shopify brands using the service, Carro helps brands gain attention, sales, and new customers by partnering with other brands in the network. Sony PlayStation acquired Perry’s previous company Gaikai to establish leadership in the future of streaming video games from the cloud - a service called PlayStation Now.

Perry is no stranger to success; he has been one of the driving forces behind some of the most innovative gaming technology to date. His work on Gaikai has helped shape the future of gaming as we know it. We can't wait to see what he does next!

Here's what we cover in this episode:

• Influencers are often better at identifying which brands their followers will enjoy than the companies themselves. To get around this problem, Carro was developed to match influencer popularity with customer preference by analyzing large volumes of social media data .
• The platform, Carro was built to help influencers discover new brands and products they love through personalization. Brands are able reach out with their insights on different demographics in an authentic way that would make them feel special- which leads into one of today's top discussions: artificial intelligence (AI) versus human interaction!
• Influencer marketing is changing and now leaning towards social commerce as followers are becoming eager consumers who want access any given moment. Today many people may be able to get away with posting product selfies without being too pushy but this will eventually lead to a more diverse group of people interested in purchasing from an influencer because they get a a full view of the product by engaging with the content.

Enjoying listening to our conversation about Influencer Marketing :-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Show sponsor: eCommerce Cohort - a lightweight membership group with guided monthly Sprints that cycles through all the key areas of eCommerce designed to help you deliver eCommerce WOW. More info at www.ecommercecohort.com

Join host Matt Edmundson on the Ecommerce Podcast as he delves into the world of SEO with Josh Piepmeier, founder of Meriwether. Discover insights on optimising your ecommerce strategy, the role of AI in content creation, and the importance of brand voice in SEO. Don't miss this engaging discussion on enhancing your online presence and driving revenue.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

5:00 Introduction to Josh Piepmeier

10:00 AI in SEO Copywriting

15:00 Brand Voice in SEO

20:00 Creating Collection Pages

25:00 SEO for Small Product Catalogues

30:00 Content at Scale

35:00 Choosing an SEO Agency

40:00 Measuring SEO Success

45:00 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

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Key Takeaways:

1. Human Touch in SEO Content: Josh emphasises the importance of incorporating a human element into SEO content. While AI can assist in generating basic content, he advises against relying solely on it for final outputs. Instead, he suggests that content should reflect the brand's unique voice and opinion, which can enhance engagement and conversion rates. This approach helps differentiate content from the generic outputs often produced by AI.

2. Strategic Use of Collection Pages: For ecommerce sites, Josh recommends focusing on creating specific collection pages that cater to various search terms related to the products. By understanding how customers use products and creating targeted collection pages, businesses can improve their SEO performance. This strategy involves using keyword research tools like Ahrefs to identify relevant terms and crafting content that aligns with customer needs and search behaviours.

3. Content Ecosystem for Smaller Catalogues: For businesses with a limited number of products, Josh suggests building a content ecosystem around those products. This involves writing blog posts that address common customer questions and concerns, thereby enhancing the authority and relevance of the site. By doing so, smaller brands can compete with larger competitors by leveraging content to boost their collections pages' rankings and overall site visibility.

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If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow!

Are you tired of poor delivery experiences on your e-commerce site? Most consumers have no idea when their products will actually arrive, but that needs to change.

In this episode, our special guest, Steve Orenstein talks about how his same-day delivery system for global e-commerce businesses - Zoom2u and Locate2u are creating a fantastic delivery experience, increasing repeat orders and driving volume like never before. And with a fleet of your drivers, you can save money by avoiding those pesky courier company fees. Tune in to learn how you can improve your delivery game today!

ABOUT STEVE:

Steve is a born entrepreneur who blazed his trail by ditching university at 19 to build his own business, Connect2Field. After successfully selling it to Fleetmatics (NYSE:FLTX), he set his sights on revolutionizing same-day delivery with the groundbreaking Zoom2u platform. With over 120,000 happy customers ranging from SMEs to corporate giants like DHL, Bunnings, and Nespresso, Steve is shaking up the delivery world one parcel at a time.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Steve dropped out of university to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams and eventually founded locate2u, which provides a live tracking and same day delivery experience for e-commerce and retail businesses. The company also offers route optimization and live tracking, with over 500 customers worldwide. Their goal is to improve the customer experience through real-time delivery updates.
• Same-day delivery makes sense for high-value items and products over $50 with enough volume, but it's important to restrict the delivery area and batch orders into time windows to make it cost-effective.
• Providing a great delivery experience for local customers can lead to repeat orders and drive volume for e-commerce businesses, and even 20-30 local orders a day within a 3.5-mile radius can make same-day delivery cost-effective when using one's own fleet of drivers.
• To find drivers, Steve recommends using Facebook groups and general recruitment sites. Same-day delivery does not require branded vans or drivers, but rather tapping into an existing network of drivers with cars and using technology like Locate2u to optimize routes and batch deliveries.
• Grouping deliveries together can create a more efficient and controlled delivery experience for customers. This approach may require additional effort and resources, but can result in better customer satisfaction and repeat business. The use of storage facilities and hiring drivers to do pick and pack is also a possible method of same-day delivery with a global potential.
• To offer same-day delivery, businesses need tech for route optimization and checkout process customization, which is not cost-prohibitive. Remunerating drivers involves calculating a cost per delivery, which can be fixed to the customer with a possibility of experimenting and tweaking the price. Thinking of it as a marketing expense can help gain more customers.
• Nespresso uses their retail stores as micro warehouses to offer same-day delivery within a certain radius to customers who enter their address information during checkout. This could potentially be replicated by other retail businesses. Delivery options and speed are becoming increasingly important for e-commerce businesses to distinguish themselves from competitors.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Did you know that the number one reason customers cancel subscriptions is because they get too much product?

Tune in to this week's episode of the eCommerce Podcast where Matt is joined by Ben Fisher from Rodeo to talk about how to make your subscriptions model stand out from the rest and give your customers the best experience while retaining them for a long time. We delve deep into the main problems associated with standard subscription models and how brands can address these concerns and improve the overall subscription experience. You do not want to miss this episode!

ABOUT BEN:

Ben started his entrepreneurial journey as a kid in Maine and later worked at a tech startup during the first Dot Com boom. He co-founded CartHook - a checkout optimization platform for DTC ecommerce brands that has processed over $1 billion on behalf of merchants. He now runs Rodeo, a platform that offers personalization features to maximize customer retention and lifetime value for 8-figure DTC brands that utilize subscription-based models.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Ben discusses the importance of a good customer experience, specifically with subscriptions. He emphasizes that brands should consider the nuances and individual consumption patterns of their customers, and offers a solution called "on-demand" reminders that give consumers more control and eliminate the concern of getting too much or running out of a product. 
• Convenience is key in consumer subscriptions and figuring out the most convenient method for each individual is important for maximizing customer lifetime value. Brands can offer questionnaires or check-ins to tailor the subscription to individual preferences rather than assuming everyone needs the same subscription model. Reminder emails or texts leading up to the desired replenishment period can also be helpful in simplifying the subscription process for customers.
• Ben discusses the different subscription options offered by the company, including a standard subscription, on-demand feature, and one-time purchase option. The on-demand feature allows for convenience and eliminates checkout friction while still allowing for upsells and cross sells. The segmenting of customers and addressing their reasons for canceling or skipping subscriptions also helps to retain customers and offer a better-suited program for their consumption style.
• If the customer wants to delay the next purchase, they can select the snooze feature which suggests pre-filled periods of three to five days, one week, and other options to remind users that they may be running out of the product soon and would they like to order some more? However, some users can explicitly choose a date and sometimes even up to three months in advance.
• Ben & Matt explore the perks of subscriptions and how to add value beyond just getting subscribers. They discuss the importance of thoughtfully designing membership programs, offering benefits like free shipping, members-only pricing, and individual subscriptions, and the risks of discounting subscriptions too much and attracting the wrong customers. The focus is on providing the best experience for each customer and creating a healthy, sustainable subscription model.
• Matt talks about a a subscription he signed up for which he had forgotten about and was charged $1000 without warning. Ben explains that if the company had been proactive with their onboarding process and personalized their messaging, they may have been able to retain him as a customer. A bad experience can leave a negative impression on a customer.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Are you struggling to increase sales and customer loyalty in your eCommerce business? What if we told you the secret lies not in what you're selling, but in how well you understand your customer's journey? In this episode, we explore the art of decoding customer behaviour, revealing strategies that transformed a simple online store into a thriving marketplace. Stay tuned as we unveil the power of qualitative and quantitative research, and learn how talking to just 20 customers can skyrocket your sales and create raving fans. Don't miss out – your eCommerce transformation begins now!

Here's a snapshot of the key insights shared:

1. Importance of Understanding the Customer Journey: The conversation emphasises the critical role of understanding the customer journey in eCommerce. From the first interaction with your brand to the post-purchase experience, every touchpoint shapes customer perception and decision-making. Recognising and optimising these moments can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
2. Engaging with Customers for Deeper Insights: One of the primary strategies discussed is directly engaging with customers through phone calls or surveys to understand their needs, preferences, and perceptions. This engagement is not just about gathering data, but about asking the right questions that reveal what customers truly value, their pain points, and what they are willing to pay more for. This can lead to better product offerings, pricing strategies, and overall customer experience.
3. Balancing Objectives with Potential Negative Outcomes (Anti-objectives): The concept of anti-objectives was introduced, highlighting the importance of considering potential negative outcomes while pursuing business objectives. For instance, while aiming for higher revenue or sustainability, one should also consider the impact on customer perception, operational stress, or brand image. Understanding and planning for these potential negatives can lead to more sustainable and long-term growth.

ABOUT PETER:

This dynamic entrepreneur took a leap into the South American business world, conquering the media landscape with notable achievements like working at CNN and hosting his very own TV show. Now, as a highly successful marketing consultant and podcast host, he brings his expertise to the forefront, shedding light on the captivating realm of the customer journey and the transformative power of qualitative and quantitative research.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Have you ever wondered why subscription businesses like HelloFresh and Netflix are so successful and why should you consider having a subscription model for your ecommerce business?

Tune in to this episode of the eCommerce Podcast as Chris George from Subsummit uncovers the secrets of businesses that have nailed customer satisfaction through subscription models and how you can use subscriptions to take your ecommerce business to the next level!

ABOUT CHRIS:

Chris George, the unstoppable serial entrepreneur who has successfully launched and managed seven businesses and sold two is the mastermind behind the wildly popular Gentleman's Box and hosts The Subscription Podcast - available on all podcasts channel. Chris regularly supports emerging brands by investing in and mentoring individuals and companies that lead with purpose over profit. Also the co-founder + CEO on Subsummit.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Subscriptions are becoming increasingly popular because they provide convenience and allow customers to use things as they want, which is what the next generation is looking for in a shopping experience. This trend is causing more and more e-commerce brands to adopt subscription models.
• To differentiate from companies like Amazon, e-commerce businesses should consider providing an exclusive product or building a relationship with the consumer through subscriptions that consistently provide value and result in predictable income and higher valuations.
• Subscriptions have a high upfront cost for customer acquisition, but the lifetime value of a subscriber can be significant if they stay on for an average amount of time. Brands with successful subscription models aim to build a habit within their consumer, and those that do can see customers staying on for years.
• Target the right customers and understand their profile to offer something of value in a crowded subscription market. Despite competition from big names like Netflix, marketers can provide more value by targeting individuals' passions and needs.
• Chris believes that a beauty company starting today should prioritize building a subscription model first as it offers a low-cost marketing tool and higher customer value compared to one-off purchases. Subscription can work alongside traditional e-commerce, but Chris recommends being subscription-only.
• Subsummit is the world's largest event for all consumer subscriptions, focusing on helping entrepreneurs and subscription-based businesses build better subscription-based companies, with a huge expo hall, multiple track rooms, and speakers ranging from NBA to Time Magazine. The event covers everything from how to start and grow a subscription business to retaining customers and international expansion.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Are you lagging behind in the world of generative AI tools? 

Join us on today's episode as we explore the complexities of generative content and copyright with a true data scientist - Matt Ranta from Nimble Gravity - who knows the power of experimentation and iteration! Learn how your business can accelerate growth and productivity by utilizing these tools. Don't let fear hold you back, instead learn how to use these tools to your advantage. 

ABOUT MATT:

Matt Ranta, a digital dynamo and Head of Practice at Nimble Gravity, revolutionizes Digital Transformation, E-Commerce, and Strategy for clients ranging from startups to billion-dollar giants. Tackling diverse industries like healthcare, DTC clothing, and endangered species protection, Matt's expertise propels businesses into the future with data science, digital strategy, and cutting-edge e-commerce solutions. With his team at Nimble Gravity, Matt redefines success by transforming the way organizations operate and excel.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Generative AI can be used to create massive amounts of SEO friendly content and accelerate growth for e-commerce businesses by generating articles, blogs, product photography, and more. Using a short prompt, the AI generates content in seconds, saving time and money while increasing productivity.
• Artificially generated content may be penalized by search engines like Google, so businesses need to find the right mix of using AI and human editing to create unique and factually accurate content.
• The use of generative AI for written content is currently the largest area of application, and it can replicate a brand's tone of voice and values. Nimble Gravity utilizes generative AI usage regularly for tasks such as content creation.
• They use data science to extract insights from an organization's data quickly and iteratively, combining industry expertise, technology, and mathematical algorithms to output models around customer interaction and foot traffic for marketing messaging and placement modification.
• Smaller eCommerce businesses can utilize productized data science platforms and conduct regression studies in Excel or Google Sheets, to understand their data and create hypotheses. Being a data scientist is more about being curious and willing to experiment with data.
• Matt says that the biggest opportunity that e-commerce entrepreneurs are not taking advantage of is AB testing, which can increase the outputs of their e-commerce operation. Even if their website doesn't have enough traffic, they can still do lo-fi testing and iterate to see if they can increase their conversions.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this episode of eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson engages in a rich dialogue with Ciara Stockeland, a serial entrepreneur and the author of 'Inventory Genius'. They get into the essentials of launching and running a successful ecommerce business, focusing on profitability from the outset.

Key Takeaways:

1. Paying yourself from the start in ecommerce is not just feasible but crucial for long-term success.
2. Streamlining SKUs and avoiding unnecessary debt are vital steps toward a sustainable ecommerce business.
3. Strategic financial planning, including a clear understanding of marketing costs, is essential for profitability.
4. Learning from seasoned entrepreneurs like Ciara Stockeland can provide invaluable guidance and inspiration.

Join us on this episode of the eCommerce Podcast to gain invaluable insights from Ciara Stockeland on how to launch and grow a profitable ecommerce business from the very beginning. Listen, learn, and be inspired to take your ecommerce venture to new heights!

Have you ever wondered why branding is so important for your eCommerce business and if your branding truly stands out?

In this thought-provoking episode of the eCommerce Podcast, Stæven Frey from Quantum Branding explores the concept of sensory assets and how they shape our memories of brands. Learn why having distinct and memorable elements is crucial for standing out in a crowded market. Discover the secret to creating a lasting impact. Tune in now to this eye-opening episode on the importance of branding for your eCommerce business.

ABOUT STÆVEN:

Staeven is the Founder and the Chief Brand Scientist at Quantum Branding. He helps brands become authentic and memorable category leaders through the power of BrandScience™ - the core of what fuels a successful brand's growth, sales and marketing. He's passionate about helping purpose-driven brands to get to the next level, disrupt their market and leverage the power of BrandScience to become an industry authority.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Stæven defines the role of a Chief Brand Scientist as someone who integrates marketing, strategy, research, and synthesis to advance a brand's message and effectiveness. Brand science is the study of how to make branding more distinct, memorable, and effective in driving profits and customer loyalty.
• The importance of branding for eCommerce businesses lies in creating highly distinct and famous brand assets that drive memories and connect to customers' motivations. It is crucial for businesses to invest in their brand and assess the number and quality of their brand assets to determine if they are effective in attracting customers.
• Stæven highlights the importance of creating distinctive brand assets and an awareness ecosystem in order to build a strong brand identity and increase sales. The distinction and memorability of brand assets play a crucial role in attracting and retaining customers in a competitive market.
• Branding helps create distinctive associations and memories with consumers, leading to increased recognition and preference for the brand. It is crucial to understand the pre-existing stories and associations in your industry or market and build on them to create a strong brand. Conducting research on competitors, trademarks, and trends can help determine what is distinct and avoid potential conflicts.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Join Matt Edmundson on the eCommerce Podcast as he delves into the world of online retail with Aman Amandeep Singh from Cronix, a full-service eCommerce agency. Discover insights on choosing the right eCommerce platform, from Shopify to BigCommerce, and learn about the latest trends in omnichannel strategies and content optimisation. Don't miss this engaging discussion on how to enhance your online store's performance and reach

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

9:17 Choosing the Right eCommerce Platform

10:39 BigCommerce's B2B Advancements

13:03 Shopify's Restrictions on High-Risk Products

17:56 Challenges with Wix for E-commerce

20:40 Shopline's Rise in the UK

25:18 Emerging Trends in eCommerce

27:12 Custom Content and Landing Pages

28:53 Enhancing Product Pages for Better Conversion

35:51 Evolving Omnichannel Strategies

41:57 Effective Website Migration Strategies

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Key Takeaways:

1. Choosing the Right eCommerce Platform: Amandeep highlights the importance of selecting an eCommerce platform based on specific business needs. For those starting out with straightforward requirements, platforms like Shopify are recommended for their ease of use and community support. However, for businesses with more complex needs, such as B2B functionalities or custom payment integrations, platforms like BigCommerce or self-hosted solutions like WooCommerce and Magento might be more suitable. This advice underscores the necessity of aligning platform capabilities with business objectives.

2. Enhancing Product Pages with Rich Content: Amandeep advises investing in rich content for product pages, especially for best-selling items. This includes detailed descriptions, use cases, benefits, FAQs, and high-quality images or videos. Such enhancements can improve customer understanding and potentially increase conversion rates. He also mentions the importance of maintaining unique and engaging content to stand out from competitors who might use generic manufacturer descriptions.

3. Omnichannel Strategy and Social Commerce: Amandeep discusses the growing importance of an omnichannel strategy, which involves selling across multiple platforms like Amazon, TikTok, and Walmart, in addition to one's own website. He notes the increasing trend of social commerce, particularly on platforms like TikTok, where users are more inclined to make purchases directly. This advice highlights the need for businesses to diversify their sales channels to reach a broader audience and adapt to changing consumer behaviours.

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If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow!

Dive into the world of email marketing as Laura Hanlon unravel the secrets of effective email flows and list building strategies. Discover how these powerful tools can transform your customer engagement and skyrocket your revenue. Don't just send emails, build relationships and drive growth!

Here's a summary of the great stuff we cover in this show:

Laura Hanlon discusses the common pitfalls in email marketing, such as poor design, lack of optimization, and the tendency to blast emails to everyone on the list. It emphasizes the importance of spending time on the content and copy of emails.

The effective ways e-commerce companies can grow their email list, such as having a pop-up on the website, running competitions, and using paid traffic.

The importance of telling a compelling story through email flows, rather than just offering discounts. It suggests that the email flow should provide more reasons for the customer to buy, such as sharing more about the brand, its ethical manufacturing processes, and the founders' story.

Laura shares examples of successful non-discount strategies, like offering free samples or advice, or providing a PDF guide on the latest trends. It emphasizes the importance of understanding what the customer wants.

About Laura

Laura Hanlon, a former Facebook advertising expert turned agency owner with a passion for helping businesses thrive. Her agency, Pink Leopard, offers a multi-service approach to marketing, with experts in each field. Laura believes in the power of an omnichannel approach, emphasizing the importance of email marketing for both customer acquisition and retention in conjunction with other channels like social media and Google.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast host Matt Edmundson sits down with Jaryd Krause, founder of Buying Online Businesses, to discuss his experience in buying and selling online businesses. Jaryd shares his journey from plumbing to becoming a successful online business owner hoping to help others do just the same. 

Key Takeaways: 

1. Acquiring Established Businesses: Jaryd Krause emphasises the benefits of buying established online businesses rather than starting from scratch. This approach allows for immediate cash flow and reduces the risks associated with the high failure rate of startups
2. Importance of Organic Traffic: Jaryd highlights the value of organic traffic for long-term business success, noting that businesses with a high percentage of organic traffic are more attractive to potential buyers and are better positioned for sustainable growth.
3. Risk Mitigation: A significant part of the discussion revolves around strategies to minimise business risks, such as diversifying revenue streams, reducing dependency on single suppliers or traffic sources, and ensuring a business is not overly reliant on one key person or platform.

If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow!

Step into the e-commerce growth with guest, Ian Hammersley and host, Matt Edmundson as they dissect the numbers that power successful online businesses. In this insightful episode they reveal the seven unexpected KPIs that could catapult your e-commerce store beyond the £10 million mark. Forget surface-level strategies; it's what lies beneath that counts. Tune in to master the art of scaling in the relentless digital marketplace, and turn your e-commerce venture into a towering success.

Here's a snapshot of the key insights shared:

• The critical role of mathematics in e-commerce scalability, highlighting how margins, average order value, and lifetime customer value are vital indicators of a brand's potential to scale.
• The importance of knowing and monitoring unexpected yet logical Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that can dramatically influence e-commerce growth
• The vast potential of the American market, where even niche products like hosepipe ends can generate multimillion-dollar revenues, vastly outstripping similar markets in the UK.
• Ian and Matt Edmundson, share anecdotes about the unique challenges and opportunities in smaller markets like New Zealand, where lower competition can be both a blessing and a curse due to the limited consumer base.

ABOUT IAN:

Ian Hammersley is a standout entrepreneur, celebrated as a finalist for the Great British Entrepreneur Awards in 2014. With a knack for ecommerce, he enthralls global directors of mammoth online businesses through lively keynote speeches, while his bestselling book, 'Ultimate Guide To E-commerce Growth,' showcases his seasoned strategies. Beyond print, Ian co-hosts the buzzing Hammersley Brothers Ecommerce Podcast, sharing ecommerce gold with thousands worldwide every week.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

A lot of people think that they need to massively increase the price of their product in order to make it more valuable, but that's not always true. There are a lot of ways that you can manipulate the perception of your product to make it more appealing and increase sales.

Norm Farrar, the host of the popular Amazon podcast, Lunch with Norm, joins Matt in this episode to unpack whether perceived value can really be increased significantly or is it just an American Hype?

ABOUT NORM

Entrepreneur and businessman Norman “The Beard Guy” Farrar stands at the forefront of the economic mega-machine known as Amazon Marketplace. As a leading expert with over 25 years of product sourcing, development, and branding expertise, Norm is an advisor to many and is the host of the podcast Lunch With Norm, a Live Interactive Podcast For All Entrepreneurs

Throughout his career, Norm has sold over 100 million dollars in sales between his own products and services and the opportunities he has brokered for clients. Today, in addition to running a diverse catalog of companies including AMZ Club and PRReach (The world’s first video press release company), and he focuses on guiding individual sellers, brands, and manufacturers to worldwide dominance on Amazon, Amazon Podcast, and top-earning sales sites.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Perceived Value is the customers' evaluation of the merits of a product or service, and its ability to meet their needs and expectations, especially in comparison with its peers. It is the overall customer experience from the second that they're typing what they're looking for into a search field.
• With any business venture, you need to have the resilience and become the authority figure to really succeed and grow. But you also need to build your brand’s perceived value so that people want to keep coming back to your brand and your products.
• It begins with competitor research and finding out what you can do to make your product stand out and what makes your product more value adding for the customer every single time and just doing it consistently.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

If you're like most business owners, you know that customer retention is key to your success.

In this episode, Daniel Budai joins Matt to talk about the secrets to email marketing that will keep your customers coming back for more.

ABOUT DANIEL

Daniel always had a knack for business, but it wasn't until he started learning about marketing and e-commerce that he truly found his calling. As a former geology student, he never would have guessed that he would end up owning a 7 figure marketing agency, Budai Media. But Daniel realized early on that most eCommerce business professionals lacked the skills to implement emails professionally. And that's why he founded Budai Media with the sole purpose of helping eCommerce brands build strong relationships with their customers.

These days, Daniel spends most of his time drinking Americano and running Budai Media and , but when he's not working you can find him playing basketball or spending time with his wife and two kids. He loves Americano and travelling around the globe. 

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• The Budai Media helps eCommerce businesses with direct response marketing such as Email, SMS, and Messenger marketing and loyalty programs focusing on customer retention.
• If you're in a business that thrives on repeat customers, then tracking metrics such as average days between transactions is quite important. If you are a big brand with a big list of subscribers, tracking metrics such as RFM can give you valuable insights and help you segment your customers into various categories. Tools such as Reveal or Metrilo can help you with that.
• Building a solid Email flow and introducing your brand to your customers is a great way to increase Customer Retention. Also, don’t just offer discounts, but come up with creative ideas such as offering a sample product, hosting a Facebook Live, running a great customer loyalty program, or even providing live consultations to your top customers.

Enjoying listening to our conversation about email marketing :-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this enlightening episode of the eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson sits down with Zohar Hod, a visionary at the forefront of ethical data practices and the push towards a cookieless future in eCommerce. As we get into the intricacies of privacy, trust, and the evolving digital landscape, Zohar shares invaluable insights that are set to redefine how eCommercers connect with their audience.

In this episode, we cover:

1. The End of the Cookie Era: Explore how the digital marketing landscape is undergoing a seismic shift from reliance on cookies to more ethical and consumer-friendly practices.
2. The Impact of Changing Laws: Understand the implications of new regulations and how companies like Apple and Google are leading the charge towards enhancing consumer privacy.
3. Preparing for a Cookie-less Future: Gain actionable insights on how to adapt your eCommerce strategies in anticipation of a future without cookies.
4. The Pillars of Trust: Discover the critical importance of Control, Clarity, and Comfort in building trust with your audience in a digital age.
5. Personalisation in eCommerce: Learn how ethical personalisation can be achieved without compromising consumer privacy.

Takeaways:

• Embracing a cookie-less future requires a shift towards more ethical data practices and a focus on building genuine trust with consumers.
• Legislation and changing company policies are prompting a move away from traditional cookie-based tracking to more transparent engagement strategies.
• Trust is foundational to successful personalisation in eCommerce, necessitating a balance between Control, Clarity, and Comfort.
• Businesses must prepare for the implications of a cookie-less environment by innovating and adopting privacy-centric approaches to consumer engagement.

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About Our Guest: Zohar Hod is a serial entrepreneur and a leading figure in the realms of financial technology and data analytics. With a rich history of innovation, Zohar now focuses on empowering businesses to foster deeper, more meaningful connections with their customers through privacy-centric technologies.

Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation on "Navigating eCommerce in the Cookie-less Landscape." Whether you're a seasoned eCommercer or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights that will help you thrive in the evolving digital marketplace.

In this episode of eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson sits down with Sarah Williams, the Founder of Launch Your Box, to discuss key strategies for growing an online business. Sarah's innovative approach to eCommerce, which combines entertainment with engagement, offers a fresh perspective on audience growth and customer experience.

Here are the highlights and key takeaways from their conversation:

Entertainment as a Key Sales Strategy:

• Moving beyond traditional selling to create an entertaining and engaging customer experience.
• Personal anecdotes and real-life examples as tools for audience engagement.

Growing Your Audience by Serving Them:

• The importance of building a loyal audience by providing value before selling.
• Strategies for understanding and catering to the specific needs of your target audience.

Creating an Exceptional Customer Experience:

• The significance of customer experience in the e-commerce landscape.
• Tips on personalising the customer experience to stand out in a crowded market.

Leveraging Facebook for Audience Growth:

• Debunking the myth that Facebook is no longer relevant for e-commerce.
• How consistent engagement and genuine content can grow your audience on Facebook.

The Power of Personalisation in eCommerce:

• Sarah's journey with personalised products and how it led to business success.
• The impact of customisation on customer loyalty and business growth.

This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for anyone looking to expand their e-commerce business. Sarah’s expertise in subscription services and her innovative approach to customer engagement make this a must-listen for aspiring and established online entrepreneurs alike. Tune into this episode of eCommerce Podcast for an in-depth look at how to effectively grow your online business through engagement, personalisation, and innovative marketing strategies.

Stay connected for more insights and discussions on e-commerce strategies and trends. Follow our journey as we explore the ever-evolving world of digital commerce and uncover the secrets to successful online entrepreneurship. 🚀

Welcome to our Podcast episode with Ben Leonard, the visionary behind the fab eCommerce book "Quit Stalling and Build Your Brand." In this episode as we explore Ben's journey from ideation to a successful exit, accumulating a wealth of knowledge and actionable insights along the way.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

1. The Pitfalls of Fake Gurus: Understand why real-world experience trumps theoretical knowledge in the eCommerce landscape.
2. The Art of Building a Brand vs. Selling Products: Ben Leonard dissects the crucial differences and why focusing on brand building can be a game-changer for your business.
3. A Simplified Definition of Brand: Ben shares a compelling definition that cuts through the complexity to highlight what truly matters in branding.
4. The Role of Emotions in Branding: Discover the importance of making your customers feel a certain way about your brand and the lasting impact it can create.
5. Practical Advice from Ben’s Journey: Ben doesn’t just share theory; he gives practical advice from his own experiences in building and selling Beast Gear, including achieving $6 million in annual revenue and a mid-seven-figure exit.

My Thoughts about Ben's Book:

• A firsthand account of why "Quit Stalling and Build Your eCommerce Brand" is a must-read for anyone serious about making their mark in the eCommerce world.
• Why this book stands out in a sea of generic advice and how it can serve as a roadmap for both budding entrepreneurs and established business owners.

Join us in this episode as Ben Leonard unravels the essence of what it takes to build a brand that resonates deeply with your target audience, transcending mere transactions to create a legacy in the eCommerce space.

Are you stuck in the past with your website design, or ready to leap into the future? Discover the untapped strategies that could redefine online shopping, boost your leads, and bring an entirely new dimension to your customer experience.

Are you ready to take your eCommerce ads to the next level? In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, Matt Edmundson sits down with Nikki Lindgren, the savvy marketer turned agency founder, to discuss advanced video hooks and strategies that can skyrocket your ROAS by up to 27%!

Discover:

1. The power of outcome hooks like before-and-after videos and how to navigate Meta's ad policies
2. Why frequently asked questions (FAQs) make fantastic video content
3. The importance of telling the truth attractively in your ads
4. How to create a funnel that lives entirely on social media
5. The impact of pointing your ads to TikTok Shop or Meta Shops instead of your own eCommerce store

But that's not all! Nikki also shares her insights on:

• Optimising your category pages for SEO with meta tags that matter
• The evolution of user-generated content (UGC) and how to leverage it effectively
• Crafting compelling ads using "Us vs Them" comparisons
• The role of AI in the creative process and which tools are worth exploring

If you're an eCommerce entrepreneur or manager looking to elevate your paid media game, this episode is a must-listen!

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson explores the world of data-driven eCommerce with Jo Davis, Chief Operating Officer at Sweet Analytics. Jo has over 20 years of expertise in retail strategy, product, and marketing, she shares invaluable insights on how data can transform your eCommerce business.

Key Takeaways: 

1. Set Clear Growth Goals: Jo emphasises the importance of having specific growth targets for your eCommerce business. By understanding your customer base, retention rates, and average order values, you can build a growth model that identifies the number of new customers needed to achieve your goals. This approach transforms abstract goals into actionable, data-driven strategies.
2. Use AI for Data Analysis and Personalisation: The integration of AI in data analytics is revolutionising how businesses understand and interact with their customers. Jo discusses how AI can help automate data insights, making it easier to identify trends and areas for improvement. Additionally, AI can personalise customer experiences on your website, tailoring product recommendations and marketing messages to individual preferences.
3. Embrace Data to Drive Informed Decision-Making: For Jo one of the biggest mistakes businesses make is not utilising the data they have. She highlights the necessity of regularly reviewing key metrics like traffic, conversion rates, and customer acquisition costs. By consistently engaging with this data, businesses can make informed decisions that enhance marketing effectiveness, optimise product offerings, and ultimately drive growth.

This episode is a must watch for all in the eCommerce space. Don't miss out on Jo's excellent advice based on years of industry experience - take note and boost your business success with advanced data analytics today! 

Visit this link today to get an exclusive 80% discount on your first month with Sweet Analytics https://lp.sweetanalytics.com/...

Looking for a winning product idea? You're in luck! 

In this episode, Tim Jordan joins Matt Edmundson on the eCommerce Podcast to share foolproof tips for choosing a product that will make you money. So whether you're just starting out or you've been in the game for a while, these tips will help you find a winner every time.

ABOUT TIM

Tim Jordan is the Founder of Private Label Legion, a community of sellers and entrepreneurs who come together to share ideas, impart knowledge, and create a solid network. He is a well-known Amazon seller, host of the AM/PM Podcast, and Chief Growth Officer at SellersFunding.

Tim sells on both Amazon and Shopify and is currently working on a crowdfunding project which he is documenting to share his path to success with other entrepreneurs.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Finding the right product to sell is crucial to ensuring a profitable online business. Earlier, it was believed that the way you sell a product on Amazon is to go and see what everybody else is selling well and replicate it. But that approach has problems.
• The smarter way to go about it is to start looking at Keyword Search Volumes and to realise that it’s not products that sell on a marketplace, its keywords. There's inspiration everywhere, online and offline places that you can go to for product ideas and look for the trending items. You take the product idea, find the keyword that relates to it, check keyword demand, or keyword search volume versus competitive product demand. And then you start to find those products that people are looking for.
• Software tools such as Seller.tools, Marmalead etc. can help you with product research and finding keyword search volumes of different products. You can also check out Private Label Legion, which is a community of sellers and entrepreneurs who come together to share ideas, impart knowledge, and create a solid network.

Enjoying listening to our conversation about winning product ideas :-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Venture into the future of eCommerce with AI, as we explore its transformative potential and philosophical implications.

Max Sinclair opens up the conversation about the role of AI in eCommerce, the potential of AI-driven startups, and the philosophical aspects of AI. This episode takes you on a journey through a future where AI is an essential part of every eCommerce strategy.

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast Host Matt Edmundson sits down with Qi Cao from ChargeBlast, to explore the dreaded, complex issue of chargebacks - a first on the eCommerce Podcast. Qi shares how chargebacks can often be caused by product and delivery issues or, as he calls it, friendly fraud, and how this can impact the financial health of your business. Matt and Qi suggest many different methods by which these risks can be mitigated including using ChargeBlasts own post-transaction solution that preemptively addresses chargebacks before they reach payment processors.

Key Takeaways:

1. Chargebacks Are Inevitable but Manageable: Chargebacks, whether due to legitimate reasons or friendly fraud, are a common challenge in eCommerce. However, they can be effectively managed by understanding industry-specific chargeback rates and employing strategies like ChargeBlast to reduce their impact on your business.
2. Proactive Communication is Crucial: Clear and proactive communication with customers can significantly reduce chargebacks. By being transparent about pricing, delivery times, and addressing any issues promptly, businesses can prevent customer dissatisfaction from escalating to chargebacks.
3. Invest in Customer Service: High-quality customer service, including offering 24/7 support or making it easy for customers to manage their subscriptions, can help reduce the likelihood of chargebacks. Satisfied customers are less likely to dispute charges.

If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow! 

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson sits down with Ileen Richardson, the dynamic CEO and founder of Imaginary Content. Ileen shares her secrets to producing top-notch eCommerce content that drives sales and engages customers, all while keeping costs under control.

Discover how to elevate your eCommerce content strategy and take your online store to the next level with Ileen's proven tactics and insights, including:

1. The crucial role of content in your overall marketing plan and how to ensure cohesive branding across all touchpoints
2. Proven strategies for communicating key product benefits and features through your content to boost consumer confidence and sales
3. The surprising impact of incorporating video content on your product pages to improve search rankings and customer engagement
4. Her top tips for creating effective eCommerce content on a budget by leveraging in-house resources and staying agile in the creative process
5. The costly content mistakes that many eCommerce brands make and how to avoid them
6. How to inspire customers and build brand loyalty through aspirational content and storytelling that goes beyond just product details
7. The importance of regularly refreshing your content to maintain search algorithm rankings and capture seasonal opportunities

Whether you're a small business owner or a seasoned eCommerce professional, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples to help you create killer content that converts.

Don't miss Ileen's game-changing approach to eCommerce content creation that prioritizes quality and results without sacrificing your budget. Tune in now and learn how to take your online store's content to the next level!

Do you want to create a magical customer service experience for your clients? In this episode, Vance Morris joins Matt to share his seven keys to turning your customer service into an amazing experience for your customers.

ABOUT VANCE

Vance Morris is the Service & Marketing Strategist at Deliver Service Now Institute. He is a former Birth Control Factory Security Guard turned Disney Leader, turned Bankrupt Out of Work Executive, turned Carpet Cleaner, turned Successful Entrepreneur.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Deliver ServiceNow Institute is all about creating experiences for clients. They use the term “Disnify”, which is creating experiences out of the mundane. Every business has tons of things that are mundane that they need to do day in and day out to keep the business running. Disney has just created experiences out of each one of those touchpoints and so can you!
• Vance has come up with 7 Magic Keys to Disnifying your customer service. They are namely, creating the wow experience, focussing on the details, the employee experience, your service standards, the environment that you have your employees working in, the process and the magic of bringing it all together.
• Vance believes that with a little bit of care and thought, any business can create Wow experiences for their clients. Taking inspiration from some of the principles he learnt from his time at Disney, like anticipatory service, linertainment etc. he developed his 7 keys to Disnify your Customer Service. He says, if he can implement Disney style service in a carpet cleaning service, anyone can!

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Are you ready to discover the incredible power of augmented reality marketing for ecommerce? The future is here – find out the amazing benefits of utilizing AR technology for your business today with guest Rich Watson.

ABOUT RICH

Rich Watson is a strong force in Augmented Reality Marketing and one of the leading voices behind it. He has spoken all over the world about the future of eCommerce and how it will be brought into Web 3.0.

Rich has over 8 years of Facebook ad media buying experience, and he is an avid believer in the potential of Non-Fungible Tokens (not pictures of monkeys but the technology behind it) and the metaverse.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Augmented Reality (AR) can be defined as upgrading your immediate surroundings with digital assets. AR is something that comes in front of you overlaying the environment that you’re already in. Whereas, virtual reality (VR) is essentially an entire environment that you're stepping into.
• The importance of understanding the connection between AR and what the technology is key to businesses build a relationship with their customers, retain them and attain a better marketing performance.
•  Augmented Hype helps brands and agencies leverage AR for their marketing by focusing on what their main bottlenecks are, and then creating a bespoke AR experience to harness their goals and objectives.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Turn your best-selling products into compelling email campaigns that drive customer engagement and boost sales.

Daniel Budai shares insightful strategies on effective email marketing, shedding light on the crucial role of best-selling products, SMS, and customer account emails. Discover why what sells online sells in your emails too.

Looking to expand your business into the EU? In this episode, Andy Hooper joins Matt to discuss how to make the most of your expansion strategy and tips for succeeding in new markets.

ABOUT ANDY

Andy is the CEO of Global E-Commerce Experts, has been successfully expanding e-commerce brands into new markets for over 15 years. An accomplished specialist in e-commerce, Andy now works with companies around the world providing comprehensive gateways and solutions to new markets, especially US-based organizations transitioning into Europe. Starting from the ground up, Andy has carved out a niche inspired by his own experience and success of growing an organization’s profits through e-commerce. With an infectious energy for success, Andy leads a team of professionals in all aspects of e-commerce. With fulfillment centers in the UK & EU, the Global E-Commerce team provides hassle-free end-to-end solutions that have helped 1000’s of sellers capitalize on the multi-billion dollar UK & EU markets. When not working, Andy can often be found enjoying sailing, cycling, and kayaking with his friends and family on England’s south coast.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Global E-Commerce Experts essentially started by solving the problem for overseas sellers expanding into Europe. They worked with around 2000 clients that they’ve expanded, and doing that across lots of different services, be it compliance, or logistics or account management, they came up with a pathway looking at what successful clients were doing and what the data was telling them, bridging that gap to make it easy.
• Andy has developed seven basic steps for a success pathway to expand into Europe - market research, compliance, marketplace, 3PL, promote products, website and growth.
• Market research is all about understanding the size of the market, and that your products are relevant to be sold in those areas and product sourcing. Compliance comprises of product and business compliance aspects. Marketplace is about identifying what's the best marketplace for you to launch on. 3PL or a third-party logistics operation is required to store, fulfil, rework, or return your goods. To promote your products, you need to have a great marketing strategy that generates traffic. If you get switched off from a marketplace, you need to be able to sell your products somewhere and so it’s essential to build your own website, which would allow you not just to sell in your own country but anywhere. Finally, growth or scale is about identifying what additional marketplaces you can sell on to capitalise on everything you're doing to take it to the next level.

Enjoying listening to our conversation about EU expansion:-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this episode, Christian Simovic joins Matt to show you how to create a frothing at the mouth email using nothing but plain-text emails. A lot of people think that you need fancy software or HTML coding skills to create an effective email campaign, but that's not true. You can get great results with simple text-based emails if you know what you're doing.

ABOUT CHRISTIAN

Christian Simovic is a plain-text email marketing specialist. He prescribes daily emails for his clients, and sends out daily email marketing tips via his email list. His clients have ranged from small organic skincare brands to reality TV stars.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Copywriting is applying the fundamentals of salesmanship and understanding the psychology of why we buy and then applying that to the written word. From a psychological point of view, a plain text email is a much better approach because it helps build a personal one on one connection. Also, from an email deliverability standpoint, if you have images and newsletter kind of themes, they are likely to end up in the promotions tab, or worse the spam tab.
•  When writing daily emails, you can't just be pure sales. If you're writing fun, informational, and more importantly, entertaining content that segue into a product, you really can't go wrong with daily emailing. Just plain text emails, they could be various lengths - short question, 300 to 500, some 500 to1000 words depending on the kind of content you're sending out, that resonates with your audience and engages them.
•  The PAS (Problem, Agitate, Solution) approach is great for writing plain text long form marketing emails. If you spend all of your time knowing everything about your market, the problems, their pains, what they want, their slang, their little jokes, then writing daily emails or just writing emails in general becomes very easy because you understand your audience and what they want to talk about.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Join host Matt Edmundson on the eCommerce Podcast as he chats with Jason Greenwood, an expert in B2B ecommerce, about the evolution of online shopping and the impact of digital transformation on businesses. Discover insights into the challenges and opportunities within the B2B sector, and learn how companies can adapt to the changing landscape.

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Timestamps:

00:00:05 Introduction and welcome to the eCommerce Podcast

00:02:15 Introduction of guest Jason Greenwood and his background

00:03:08 Jason's relocation to Mexico and reasons for the move

00:07:33 Jason's journey into ecommerce and early experiences

00:13:34 Growth and success of Jason's ecommerce business

00:19:20 Impact of Covid on B2B ecommerce and Jason's consulting career

00:25:23 Discussion on D2C as a channel versus a business model

00:33:45 Matt's supplement company and exploring B2B opportunities

00:39:56 B2B marketing strategies and challenges

00:46:54 Jason's question for Matt about AI's impact on ecommerce

00:48:01 How to connect with Jason and his content platforms

00:49:24 Closing remarks and gratitude to Jason

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Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Digital Transformation in B2B: Jason highlights the importance of B2B businesses adopting digital strategies to remain competitive. He notes that many B2B companies are significantly behind in digital adoption compared to B2C and D2C sectors. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the necessity for digital routes to market, as traditional sales methods were disrupted. Businesses should focus on integrating digital solutions to enhance their operations and customer interactions.

2. Understand the Importance of Ungating Catalogues: Jason advises B2B companies to make their product catalogues accessible online without requiring a login. This approach increases visibility to potential buyers and search engines, facilitating easier discovery by new customers. While pricing and inventory details can remain private, showcasing the product range is crucial for attracting new business clients.

3. Diversify Sales Channels: Jason discusses the risks associated with relying solely on direct-to-consumer (D2C) models. He suggests that businesses should consider establishing wholesale channels to mitigate channel risk and expand their market reach. By doing so, companies can leverage the strengths of both D2C and B2B models, potentially achieving better net margins and reducing dependency on a single sales channel.

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If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow!

Revolutionise Your eCommerce Game: Master Delivery & Returns Like a Pro! Join us on this enlightening journey with Matt Edmundson and special guest Dana von der Heide from Parcel Perform, as we delve into the crucial world of eCommerce delivery and returns. In this must-watch episode, discover how you can save thousands by fine-tuning your approach to shipping, handle returns with ease, and ultimately protect both your business and the environment. Whether you're a budding online retailer or looking to scale up, gain insider insights into making your post-purchase experience a key driver of customer retention and satisfaction. Don't miss out on practical advice and innovative solutions.

Key Takeaways:

1. Optimise the Post-Purchase Experience: Enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty by ensuring a seamless post-purchase experience. This includes transparent and timely communication about shipping, easy tracking, and a hassle-free returns process. Investing in a smooth post-purchase journey not only boosts customer retention but also differentiates your brand in a crowded marketplace.
2. Leverage Data for Better Decision Making: Utilise data analytics to monitor and evaluate the performance of your shipping carriers, understand customer preferences, and tailor your delivery options accordingly. Data-driven insights allow you to optimise shipping routes, reduce costs, and improve delivery times, enhancing the overall customer experience and operational efficiency.
3. Sustainability as a Competitive Advantage: With growing consumer awareness and concern for environmental impact, integrating sustainable practices into your eCommerce operations can serve as a significant differentiator. From eco-friendly packaging and green shipping options to encouraging mindful consumer behaviour, such as reducing returns through better product descriptions and size guides, sustainability can not only reduce your carbon footprint but also attract a loyal customer base.

ABOUT DANA:

Meet Dana, the mastermind behind Parcel Perform, a world-class platform tracking packages from over 950 logistics carriers. As the Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, she's the globe-trotting trailblazer steering the company's growth and devising commercial strategies, making sure your parcel is never MIA again!

http://www.parcelperform.com

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In a world where people are increasingly conscientious of the environment, it is important to be aware of the impact your product has. 

In this week’s podcast, Austin Simms joins Matt to help us explore the different ways our products can reduce our environmental impact and make an effort to become more sustainable.

ABOUT AUSTIN

Austin is the co-founder of Dayrize.

After 20+ years spent working in senior positions at major corporations like Nike, Philips and Brooks Running, Austin had a desire to use his skills to address climate change. With a strong commercial background, he believed that putting the power in consumers hands was important to make real change. He recognized that the first thing that consumers needed to make positive change was access to information to make better decisions, which is why he started Dayrize to make impact assessment transparent for business and consumers.  

Enjoying listening to our conversation about the environmental impact of your products :-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Is your business struggling to keep up with the ever-evolving landscape of content creation and growth techniques?

In this episode, we dive deep into the secrets of skyrocketing business success with Leo Castillo, an expert marketer and growth strategist. Get ready to unleash your business's full potential as Leo shares invaluable insights on mastering content creation, overcoming growth challenges, and unlocking the power of frequent product launches. Don't miss out on this opportunity to level up your game and discover the strategies that will set you apart from the competition!

ABOUT STEVE:

Meet Leo, an entrepreneurial dynamo who's propelled over 50 companies to new heights. As a partner at Jump Ventures, he's mastered the art of scaling Direct-to-Consumer businesses from modest 6-figure enterprises to booming 8-figure powerhouses. Driven by a single mission – to elevate founders and their companies – Leo has become a leading light in the world of business growth. Let's delve into Jump Venture's Playbook and unearth his secret strategies for success!

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Leo and Matt discuss the importance of content creation for business growth, emphasizing the need for a content mindset and experimentation with different angles: scientific, creative, and desire-based.
• Leo believes that mastering content creation is crucial for businesses, suggesting internalizing this skill rather than relying solely on external parties. Understanding customer experience and needs helps create effective content.
• Leo highlights the challenges of managing rapid growth, including addressing production constraints, effective customer support, and securing sufficient financing. He offers guidance on optimizing supply chain operations and negotiating better payment terms.
• Matt suggests preparing for a tenfold increase in sales as a valuable exercise for e-commerce entrepreneurs. Leo recommends a product launch calendar with frequent releases and communication with suppliers to overcome constraints.
• Leo emphasizes the significance of the content game, advocating for experimentation, creating desire, and distinguishing between demand generation and demand capture.
• Leo advises analyzing TikTok trends as a starting point for learning content creation and stresses the importance of frequent product launches as a growth hack.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, Matt Edmundson is joined by Steven Schneider, the maestro of Trio SEO, to discuss the importance of blogging for eCommerce sites and share practical strategies for creating content that converts.

Discover:

1. Why blogging is still a must for eCommerce sites in 2024
2. How to approach blogging from a customer's perspective
3. The power of focusing on bottom-of-funnel content
4. Strategies for creating a cohesive internal linking structure
5. Tips for optimising your product pages for SEO success

Key Takeaways:

• Blogging helps Google understand and rank your eCommerce site by providing context and topical authority
• Focus on creating bottom-of-funnel content that targets customers who are ready to buy
• Use a "reverse funnel" approach, starting with bottom-of-funnel content and working up to top-of-funnel topics
• Aim for 1,500 to 2,000 words per blog post, but prioritise providing value over hitting a specific word count
• Incorporate video content and embed it in your blog posts to increase engagement and provide additional value
• Implement a strategic internal linking structure to help Google crawl your site more efficiently and help readers navigate your content
• Optimise your product pages with relevant FAQs, shipping information, and other details that help customers make informed decisions
• Steven emphasises the importance of investing in blogging for the long-term success of your eCommerce site, comparing it to saving for retirement – the earlier you start, the better off you'll be.

Whether you're just starting out with blogging or looking to take your content strategy to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable insights and proven strategies for eCommerce success.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the experts and start harnessing the power of blogging for your eCommerce site today!

If you're like most business owners, you know that digital marketing is important. But working with a digital marketing agency can be tricky- especially if you're not sure what to expect. 

In today’s show Robert Giovannini joins Matt to talk about digital marketing agencies and how businesses can get the most out of their relationship with them. 

ABOUT ROBERT

Robert is the CEO of Ironplane, a full-service eCommerce agency specialising in platform design, development, and digital marketing. He brings 20+ years of eCommerce, website development, and team leadership experience to his role at Ironplane. Robert is passionate about helping companies sell online. 

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• There comes a point in your eCommerce business where its grown big enough, or you want a level of complexity to your site, or you want it to be bespoke, and you want to develop beyond the boundaries of your current platform. So, when you're getting into platforms, and if you have any level of complexity, you want an agency that has chosen a few things to get really good at.
• Ironplane have made their mark when it comes to dealing with clients that have more complex needs, whether its integration or branding. They’re a Magento and Big commerce shop, and they also do custom for clients that don't fit into either of those categories.
• When working with an agency, mismanaged expectations can lead to a lot of problems. Clear & timely communication is the way to make it work as well as knowing your business goals, what you’re trying to accomplish and who your stakeholders are. That way you can find the agency that best works for you and caters to your specific goals.

Enjoying listening to our conversation about marketing agencies:-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson interviews Laura Richard from Level 5 Strategy about the importance of customer experience and how it can drive business success.

1. Create emotional connections: Laura emphasises that emotions account for 50% of consumer behaviour, although customers may not always express these feelings explicitly. Understanding the emotional benefits customers derive from products or services can help businesses craft experiences and messages that resonate on a deeper level, leading to stronger customer loyalty and satisfaction. 
2. Engage everyone in strategy development: A major reason why strategies fail is the lack of involvement from the team and customers during the development process. Laura highlights the importance of engaging stakeholders, including employees and customers, early and often in strategy formation. Businesses can leverage customer panels and feedback loops to ensure that strategies align with customer needs and expectations. 
3. Create authenticity in the customer experience: To stand out against competitors, particularly large players like Amazon, eCommerce businesses need to focus on authenticity and unique customer experiences. This includes creating personalised experiences on websites and aligning with causes that reflect the brand’s values. Differentiation can also come from addressing specific unmet needs within a niche market, which helps build stronger connections with customers.

If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow! 

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, Matt Edmundson discusses the complexities and opportunities of a cookie-less digital marketing landscape with Jeff Greenfield from Provolytics. Jeff shares his unique journey from biochemist to chiropractor to tech entrepreneur and magician, explaining how his diverse background influences his approach to marketing and problem-solving. Throughout the episode Matt and Jeff explore the implications of major tech companies like Apple and Google phasing out third-party cookies and what this means for marketers and businesses of all sizes.

Three Key Takeaways:

1. Shift to Awareness Marketing: Jeff Greenfield emphasizes the importance of moving away from the traditional focus on user-level data and click-based advertising. Instead, marketers should prioritize building brand awareness through impression-based strategies, much like the methods used before the digital era. This shift is essential in adapting to a cookie-less world and maintaining effective marketing campaigns.
2. Leveraging First-Party Data: As third-party cookies are phased out, businesses must pivot to collecting and utilizing first-party data. This involves developing direct relationships with customers through various channels, such as email newsletters and social media interactions. By focusing on first-party data, businesses can better understand their audience and create more personalized and effective marketing strategies.
3. Adapting to Platform-Specific Funnels: With the changes in data privacy and tracking, marketers need to adapt their strategies to fit within the constraints of individual platforms. For instance, extending the customer journey within platforms like Facebook before directing them to external websites can improve conversion rates and reduce acquisition costs. This approach requires creativity and a deep understanding of each platform's capabilities and limitations.

This is episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in eCommerce, an in depth look at the changing world of cookies and digital marketing from one of eCommerce's experts on the topic. Be sure to subscribe to the eCommerce Podcast on your preferred platform to catch more expert conversations and actionable insights.

Are you struggling to grow your e-commerce business?

Oliver Spark, a growth expert, shares his invaluable insights. From understanding your target Return on Ad Spend (ROAS) to the importance of offering customers more channels, Oliver dives deep into the strategies that can propel your business growth. He shares his unique experiences from the White Company, discussing how product strategy can increase the average order value and why focusing too much on retention can be a pitfall. Don't miss out on these game-changing insights that can help you navigate the complex world of e-commerce growth!

Here's a summary of the things we talked about:

• Oliver discusses his experience with the White Company, a UK-based retailer, where he was involved in the early stages of their online presence and store expansion. He talks about the importance of understanding the different levers for business growth. 
• He emphasizes the importance of product selection in influencing average order value and customer return rate. He shares his experience of introducing new products at the White Company to change these metrics.
• Oliver highlights the importance of understanding your metrics and having a theory about how you're going to move them. He talks about the need for a customer forecast model. 
• Oliver shares his thoughts on the importance of balancing acquisition and retention in business growth. He warns against focusing too much on retention at the expense of acquisition. 

ABOUT OLIVER

Oliver Spark, the retail whizz who turned tech wunderkind. His entrepreneurial journey started in the world of linens and lamps, where he spearheaded The White Company's meteoric rise from a modest £6m venture to a whopping £50m empire. But Oliver didn't stop there. Swapping cashmere throws for code, he harnessed his retail savvy to create Sweet Analytics. Now, he's on a mission to empower SMEs, demystifying the world of data and turning it into a powerful tool for success. As the architect behind the platform he wished he had as a retailer, Oliver is your go-to guru for converting numbers into victories. Get ready to dive into his world, where data reigns supreme and every figure tells a story!

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson sits down with Leandro D'Elias from EightX, offering a deep dive into the intersection of numbers and strategy in driving eCommerce success. Whether you're just starting out or plotting a profitable exit, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Key Discussion Points:

1. The Illusion of High Turnover: Understanding why chasing big sales numbers might not always equate to business health and longevity.
2. Strategic Salary for Founders: Leandro advises on compensating yourself in a way that fuels growth rather than draining resources.
3. Exit Strategy Optimisation: How maximising your profits not only increases your tax but significantly boosts the value of your business upon sale.
4. The Secret to Sustainable Growth: Unveiling "Smart Growth Secrets" that focus on long-term success over short-term gains.

Takeaways:

• Emphasise profitability to ensure the sustainable growth of your eCommerce venture.
• Draw only what you need for living expenses in the early stages, reinvesting the remainder to promote business growth.
• Enhance your EBITDA for a more lucrative business sale, accepting higher tax liabilities as a trade-off for greater overall value.
• Understanding the opportunity cost of every dollar and investing in areas with the highest return potential.

About Leandro D'Elias:

Leandro is a seasoned finance professional with a deep understanding of how to bridge the gap between numbers and strategy to foster eCommerce success. His expertise spans multinational corporations to innovative startups, guiding them toward creating legacy-building revenue through precision budgeting and strategic financial planning.

Episode Resources:

• EightX: Dive deeper into the financial strategies that can catapult your eCommerce business into profitability.
• LinkedIn: Connect with Leandro D'Elias for more insights into financial planning and eCommerce strategy.

Don’t miss out on future episodes packed with expert insights to take your eCommerce venture to the next level. We love to hear your thoughts. Drop us a comment or reach out directly to discuss any questions or feedback. Tune in to "From Startup to Profit: Smart Money Strategies for Growth" for a masterclass in navigating the financial complexities of eCommerce, ensuring your venture not only survives but thrives in today's competitive market.

Unravel the complex world of ecommerce regulations with Paul Rafelson, a seasoned lawyer who's on a mission to help online businesses navigate through the labyrinth of sales tax issues and intellectual property disputes.

Here's a summary of the great stuff we cover in this show:

• Paul shares his views on the importance of understanding tax obligations and legalities for e-commerce businesses. He emphasizes the importance of legal protection for online businesses through legal entities like LLCs or corporations.
• Conversation about the legal complexities of selling on Amazon and the importance of understanding Amazon's Terms of Service.
• Paul discusses the pitfalls of Amazon's suspension system for sellers and the importance of legal representation.
• He explains the common mistakes sellers make when selling their e-commerce businesses, like not understanding what they are selling and the implications of warranties and indemnities.
• Paul offers tips on how to navigate the sale of an e-commerce business, stressing the need for good legal counsel.
• Matt asks Paul about the common traits of businesses that sell well. Paul emphasizes that it's more about the value of the product than the specific niche. Paul mentions the categories that are riskier to get into, such as kids' toys, supplements, and gun accessories, due to their regulations. He talks about the changing trends in the e-commerce market, such as the COVID-19 impact and the subsequent market adjustment.

About Paul

Paul Rafelson, a seasoned attorney, has spent over a decade and a half untangling complex Corporate, Tax Intellectual Property, and M&A matters. A recognized authority in the e-commerce sphere, he's often featured in the news sharing insights on Amazon and e-commerce issues. Moreover, his expertise shone when he became the most frequently cited source during the US government's probe into Amazon's business practices related to third-party merchants.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Black Friday is coming up and a lot of people are wondering what the best way to take advantage of the sales is. This bonus episode is going to answer all your questions about Black Friday so you can be fully prepared.

ABOUT CHLOE

Chloë Thomas is a globally recognised eCommerce marketing problem solver. Author of several bestselling books, keynote speaker, and host of both the award-winning eCommerce MasterPlan Podcast, AND Keep Optimising Podcast.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• There's a movement against the big blanket discounts that only last for 24 hours and things like this. Everyone now feels like they have permission to create the promotion that works for them. And then the second side of it is, as an industry we have got much savvier at organizing the operations side of it - changing the postage methods, changing the messaging on speed of delivery, working with our couriers, our 3PLs, our own inhouse warehouses - to be ready and to manage that bump when it comes.
• Black Friday doesn't have to be for everyone. If you've got good reason not to do it, don't do it. A good reason could be that it doesn't fit with your brand or it doesn't fit with your sales model or that you only have limited stock. There is a big customer intention to spend money on that day, whether you run an offer or not. So you will probably see a sales uplift even if you don't do anything.
• Use social proof to build and retain customer loyalty. Social proof comes in so many different flavors. You've got the overall score of the site; you've got actual quotes from actual customers to put in places. You can also take some control over what appears on the homepage and what is on your emails by including place that you've been featured or where you've been quotes. Tell your story too - how long you've been around, how many orders you've shipped, how many happy customers you've had. Reveal the humanity behind the business.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Dive into the future of eCommerce in the pharmacy industry with AJ Asgari, a trailblazing entrepreneur who's redefining how pharmacies operate online. Discover how he's turning challenges into innovative solutions, even from Oklahoma!

In this episode, we sit down with AJ Asgari from Drugstore to Door, exploring his pioneering journey in transforming the pharmacy sector through eCommerce. From overcoming regulatory hurdles to implementing cutting-edge technology, AJ's story is a masterclass in innovation and adaptation. Join us as we uncover the strategies driving the future of pharmacy retail.

Key Takeaways:

1. AJ's Entrepreneurial Journey: Starting from his experience at CVS to owning independent pharmacies, AJ Asgari shares his transition towards recognizing the crucial need for a strong online presence in the pharmacy sector. Despite being in Oklahoma, not a typical tech hub, AJ's story is a testament to breaking industry boundaries through perseverance and vision.
2. Custom Technology for Pharmacies: AJ discusses the unique challenges of integrating eCommerce into the pharmacy industry, like dealing with prescriptions and offering services such as immunizations. His approach? Developing custom technology tailored to these specific needs, leading to a platform that benefits not just his business but the entire industry.
3. The Future of Pharmacy and Retail: The conversation goes beyond just overcoming current challenges, delving into the future of the pharmacy sector. AJ and Matt Edmundson discuss emerging technologies like AI and augmented reality, and their potential to revolutionize customer service and operational efficiency in pharmacies, setting the stage for an exciting, tech-driven future.

Are we witnessing the death of traditional email marketing? Dive in as Damon reveals how AI might be the game-changer we never knew we needed, especially in the fever pitch of Black Friday.

Ever wondered how the big players in eCommerce like Instacart and DoorDash solved the classic 'chicken and egg' dilemma? Join us as we dive into the world of online marketplaces with Shirish Nadkarni, a mastermind behind successful startups, and unravel the secrets to thriving in a world dominated by digital giants.

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Shirish Nadkarni, the brain behind LiveMocha and a key figure in BlackBerry's internet email development. We delve into the intricacies of marketplace success, from overcoming initial hurdles faced by giants like Instacart to tackling the monopolistic tendencies of platforms like Amazon. Shirish sheds light on the evolution of managed marketplaces, the potential in B2B sectors, and strategies for eCommerce businesses to flourish outside the shadow of Amazon. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or just curious about the eCommerce world, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to help you navigate the competitive digital landscape.

Key Takeaways:

1. Marketplace Dynamics: Shirish highlights the innovative strategies used by Instacart and DoorDash to attract both suppliers and consumers, addressing the initial 'chicken and egg' problem faced by new marketplaces. He also discusses the evolution towards 'managed marketplaces' like Opendoor, which simplify transactions, showcasing the continuous transformation in the eCommerce sector.
2. Beyond Amazon: For eCommerce businesses, Shirish advises exploring avenues beyond Amazon, given its high commission rates. He emphasises direct consumer selling and the need to balance customer lifetime value with acquisition costs. He also discusses the potential of B2B marketplaces, citing Convoy as a prime example of connecting trucking services with freight suppliers.
3. Monopoly Risks and Niche Opportunities: The episode touches on the risks of successful marketplaces turning into monopolies, as seen with Amazon. Shirish encourages entrepreneurs to focus on niche categories or emerging markets to avoid direct competition with giants. He also suggests creative solutions for dealing with supplier resistance, like forming partnerships or exploring alternative channels.

Tune in to explore how the magic of Disney's 'linertainment' concept can revolutionize your eCommerce customer experience.

In this episode, we draw on Vance Morris's experience at Disney to examine how linertainment can reshape eCommerce customer journeys, reducing friction and amplifying engagement. Discover how a clear USP and the power of micro-influencers can elevate your business strategy.

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast Host Matt Edmundson again connects with a business founder interviewing Nick Radcliffe, founder of The Christian Poster Company, about his journey from medical doctor to full time entrepreneur. Nick discusses his passion for design, the genesis of his business during the 2020 pandemic and how he transitioned from selling on etsy to running his own successful Shopify site. 

Key Takeaways: 

1. Follow Your Passion to Combat Burnout: Nick’s journey from being a doctor to running a creative business highlights how following a passion project can provide a much-needed escape from burnout and lead to new career opportunities.
2. Leverage Organic Growth on Social Media: Nick's success in growing his business largely came from building an engaged community on Instagram. He emphasised the value of using organic reach and visuals to connect with customers, which has been more effective for him than email marketing.
3. Scale with Strategy and Tools: Managing growth while working from home presented space challenges for Nick. He explored using third-party logistics (3PL) as a solution to scaling, while maintaining his brand’s personal touch in packaging and customer service.

If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow!

Join host Matt Edmundson on the Ecommerce Podcast as he chats with Phil Carr from Upzelo about revolutionising ecommerce through innovative referral strategies and customer retention. Discover how Upzelo is transforming the way businesses engage with customers using cutting-edge technology.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

1:27 Phil Carr's Background

3:25 Sub Summit Experience

5:08 Introduction to Upzelo

9:17 Naming Challenges and Solutions

13:31 Referrals and Retention Strategies

19:42 Improving User Experience in Referrals

25:05 Wallet Pass Technology

31:29 User Journey with Wallet Pass

39:58 Strategic Use of Wallet Pass

47:19 Behaviour and Lifestyle Loyalty

54:08 Future of Retention and Loyalty

55:12 Matt's Question for Social Media

56:14 Connecting with Phil Carr

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Key Takeaways:

1. Simplify the Referral Process: Phil highlights the importance of making the referral process seamless and frictionless. By integrating referral systems into smartphone wallet passes, businesses can enhance user experience and increase referral rates. This approach eliminates the cumbersome steps of traditional referral methods, making it easier for customers to share and for businesses to track referrals.

2. Leverage Technology for Customer Engagement: Phil discusses the potential of using wallet passes not just for referrals but as a dynamic marketing channel. By sending push notifications and updating pass details, businesses can maintain ongoing engagement with customers. This strategy allows for personalised marketing, such as exclusive offers or reminders, directly on the customer's device, enhancing customer loyalty and retention.

3. Innovative Loyalty Programs: Phil suggests moving beyond traditional points-based loyalty systems to more creative and meaningful customer engagement strategies. By rewarding customers for eco-friendly choices or lifestyle activities, businesses can align their brand with customer values and encourage positive behaviours. This approach not only strengthens customer loyalty but also enhances the brand's image and social responsibility.

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If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow!

Eric Melchor from Optimonk joins Matt Edmundson in this episode to share his insights on website personalization and how to make the most of it to improve customer experience and increase sales!

ABOUT ERIC

Eric Melchor is a personalization geek, mediocre tennis player, and Texas expat living in Romania. His background is in identifying ways to increase customer lifetime value through video and web personalization as well as partnership marketing. In addition to being the personalization ambassador for OptiMonk, he also hosts a podcast called Innovators Can Laugh where he learns from innovative startups in the European tech scene.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Eric started out with Bonjoro, a company that segmented videos into industry categories. With Optimonk, he created a system that personalized the experience for each user thus improving the overall experience for global visitors.
• Personalization can be a powerful tool for website owners, increasing conversion rates and engagement. One way to personalize the user experience is to use a conversational pop-up that asks questions about the visitor's preferences. This allows you to segment your visitors and serve them content that they are interested in, which can lead to increased sales.
• Optimonk seeks to create micro engagements on websites in order to increase customer value optimization. These micro engagements can take the form of providing relevant content based on a user's individual behavior or preferences, or simply engaging with them in a friendly way.
• If you are running a small e-commerce store, try to save abandoned carts and offer discounts to encourage people to return. Using a nano bar at the bottom of your website to collect emails and tying the headline on your landing page to the ad copy of your Facebook ads and Google paid media ads are some great strategies to increase sales.
• Other quick wins for personalization include messages for returning visitors and images of a visitor's home country flag with a welcome message.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Step into the realm where creativity meets strategy in 'Mastering Multi-Channel Marketing in the Family and Women's Wear Sectors'. In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, discover how to brilliantly navigate the multi-faceted world of digital marketing, specifically tailored for family-oriented audiences. Learn from Anna's expert insights on leveraging platforms like Facebook and Google Ads, and find strategies that will elevate your brand's online presence.

Key Takeaways:

1. Strategic Customer Engagement: Focusing on the unique aspects of engaging parents and families, Anna shares insights on the importance of timing and content diversity in campaigns. She emphasises the power of retargeting and utilising customer life experiences to enhance ad relevance, thereby increasing engagement and conversions.
2. Creative Content and Platform Synergy: The discussion highlights the necessity of maintaining a diverse and dynamic content strategy across different platforms. Anna stresses the importance of creating content that resonates with varied customer segments, using an array of creative tools like static images, videos, and user-generated content to keep the audience engaged and connected to the brand.
3. Analytics and Adaptation in Digital Marketing: Anna underlines the importance of analytics in understanding and improving marketing strategies. She advises on regularly analysing campaign data to adapt and evolve strategies, ensuring they align with customer needs and market trends. This approach is key to staying competitive and relevant in the fast-paced world of e-commerce.

ABOUT ANNA:

Marketing maestro with a knack for making e-commerce brands shine, especially in the family and womenswear realms – and no, she absolutely refuses to believe that over 25 years have zipped by in her marketing adventures. She's a digital wizard at conjuring up growth spells through the mystical arts of paid traffic and email marketing. Her secret power? Making brands go from unnoticed to unmissable!

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

You've seen those websites that offer monthly subscriptions and thought "Hey, I could do that too!". But what's the secret to getting people to keep paying every single month?

In this episode with Evan Padgett you’re gonna learn everything you need to know about subscription eCommerce. How it works, why it's important, what tools are out there- all of that good stuff. If you're looking for some way to make money with your marketing skills then this is a great place to start!

ABOUT EVAN

Evan Padgett is a 20-year ecommerce veteran with experience in subscription commerce. As the COO of Stealth Venture Labs, an ecommerce marketing firm, he works with brands like Crocs, HelloFresh, Factor 75, and MUD\WTR. 

When he’s not taking over the world with subscription eCommerce, you’ll find him hanging out with his kids or playing video games. But his true love is American football - he’s a diehard Denver Broncos fan!

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Subscription commerce or Recurring Revenue Models guarantee you downstream revenue from your consumers, at the expense of either product or service. So, anything that provides recurring revenue, where customers are basically engaged in a relationship with you, opt in or opt out, that creates a predictable, forward looking revenue model. It doesn't matter what you sell, with a little bit of thinking, there is always something that you can do to create a recurring revenue model out of it. But it cannot be lopsided, it must be a win-win for both the business and the customer.
• Some of the great ways to do that is to engage with your customer through non-sales communications, talking about your company, talking about the brand you're building, the impact you're trying to make in the world. So have engaging, non-sales driven content, organic Emails, SMS, and curate the whole experience for the customer, making it something that feels special.
• Stealth Venture Labs is a performance marketing agency that work with clients ranging from the Crocs, Hello Fresh, Factor 75 to small brands just trying to venture out into advertising, on any platform that can be managed behind the screens, such as META, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat etc.

Enjoying listening to our conversation about subscription eCommerce :-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Are you a content creator or a business owner looking for ways to connect with your audience? 

John Roman from BattlBox joins Matt in this episode of the eCommerce Podcast to share valuable insights from the tremendous success of his own business and on creating & testing content that resonates with your audience that you won't want to miss. Tune in now to discover the power of content in building strong, engaged communities.

ABOUT JOHN:

Meet John Roman - the CEO and Co-Founder of the electrifying BattlBox Group, home to three explosive brands: BattlBox, Carnivore Club, and Wanlow. With a whopping $30M eCommerce subscription portfolio, this group is all about building strong content and community - so much so that they've even landed their own Netflix show! The excitement doesn't end there, as The BattlBox Group was recently acquired in October 2021.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• John discusses his involvement in the creation and development of BattlBox, a subscription box service for outdoor and survival gear. He initially became involved as an investor with the intention of providing business advice, but his involvement quickly grew until he eventually joined the company full-time.
• BattlBox initially used YouTube influencers to build their brand on the platform, but later discovered a paying customer with a successful YouTube channel who became their full-time content creator and helped them build a community of like-minded individuals who loved their product.
• The Battlbox YouTube channel and subscription box business focuses on creating content that connects with consumers by educating and entertaining them about the outdoor adventure lifestyle, fostering a community through a Facebook group exclusive to active subscribers, and emphasizing the importance of brand connection. 
• John suggests consistently posting short-form content and testing different types of content to find what resonates with your audience. When you find that one video or type of content that gets more views, double down on it and create variations to continue testing. Don't give up and believe in your content, even if it takes time to see success.
• Content marketing is effective for top of funnel engagement but does not convert at the same rate as paid targeted traffic. However, it still provides value and allows for remarketing and segmenting to convert highly engaged fits into customers through traditional e-commerce methods. Additionally, content marketing can lead to search engine optimization through proper descriptions and hashtags on platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
• John explains how their team is constantly working to keep their content fresh and meet rising expectations. They have found a helpful tool in chat GPT, which has given them ideas and even helped them come up with better questions for their content. Chat GPT is being used to leverage faster and stronger content creation, saving them hours in the process.
• The key takeaway from the conversation is to diversify lead sources and not rely on a single platform or area for customers, while also doubling down on successful campaigns and overselling to capitalize on victories.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

🎯 Have you ever wondered why your online ads hit the mark sometimes and miss by miles at others? The answer lies in the volatile world of data targeting. Tune into our electrifying episode "Unpacking the Volatility of Data Targeting in Social Media and AdTech" and unravel the mystery. From new frontiers of data specificity to precision targeting of audiences smaller than a closet space, get ready for a wild ride through the heart of modern marketing!

🎯 Key Insights:

• Strategic Marketing Touchdowns

Kickoff with host Matt Edmundson, who merges the strategy and spectacle of Kansas City Chiefs football with savvy e-commerce marketing tactics – all about finding and scoring with the right audience, both on the field and online.

• Specificity Inc. Uncovered

Dive into Specificity Inc.'s approach post-AI firm acquisition and the critical debate: Is the future of marketing AI-driven or will human intuition hold the field?

• Data Modeling vs. Platform Dependence

Spotlight the shift from broad CPM models to data modeling precision, addressing the marketing industry’s overreliance on platforms and the need for a strategic return to analytics-driven insights.

• The Contextual Data Game

Explore the power move of contextual data layering, as targeting requires more than a user's superficial interests—it’s about understanding the story behind the data.

• Analytics: The True Conversion Play

Unpack the pitfalls of big data infatuation leading to "sloppy audiences" and the crucial role of real-time analytics in driving conversions with laser-focused targeting strategies.

• Pickpocket Precision

Discover the innovative 'Pickpocket' tool, which targets potential customers with the precision of a 3-foot radius, showcasing the shift to hyper-targeted advertising.

ABOUT JASON:

Jason A. Wood, the digital marketing maestro who doesn't just think outside the box — he vaporizes it! As the trailblazing CEO of Specificity, Jason is reimagining the marketing game with jaw-dropping tech like 'Pickpocket.' From leading start-ups to winning awards, he's the guy who's turning heads and rewriting rulebooks.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Shopping used to be about finding what you wanted at a price that suited your budget. But with AI-powered product recommendations, the process has become much simpler and more enjoyable!

In this episode we chat with Oliver Edholm who tells us how this technology is changing both consumers' shopping experiences as well as businesses'.

ABOUT OLIVER

Oliver Edholm is the Co-founder and CEO of Depict.ai. 

At 15, Oliver dropped out of high school. At 16, he moved across the world and hustled his way into an ML research position at the National University of Singapore. At 17, he founded Depict and joined Y Combinator to revolutionise the way we discover products online. Now at 19, Oliver leads a team of 35 employees at one of the most cutting-edge Ecommerce startups in Europe.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• If you want to get started out with AI, your traffic and the number of SKUs that you have must be at a reasonable level before AI makes sense for you. Several 100 SKUs and probably a couple of 1000 people at least visiting your website. The more the data, the better the AI tends to be the rule of thumb.
• Depict can work with more sparse data sets, which have less data. Product information is incredibly useful when recommending a product like going to a physical retail store and asking the salesperson for advice. Almost all existing recommender systems ignore that. Depict can apply incredibly smart image recognition algorithms, understanding subtle patterns, which was impossible a few years ago, but is now possible. When combined with the user data, it can generate really good results.
• There are a lot of buzzwords around AI and many people exploit that fact. The way to avoid gimmicks then is to become really good at asking yourself, what problems do I need to solve and does the solution actually solve this problem? And then don't care if it uses AI or not. Simple solutions tend to work surprisingly well, a lot of times.

Enjoying listening to our conversation about AI product recommendations :-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Welcome to this episode of the eCommerce Podcast where we explore omnichannel success looks like with special guest Vikram Saxena of Better Commerce. Our conversation navigates how technology, innovation, and customer-focused strategies win in eCommerce, as well as how the Fragrance Shop turned challenges into opportunities, revolutionising the way we think about retail and customer engagement.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

• The Power of Mini Warehouses: Discover how the Fragrance Shop transformed each of its stores into mini warehouses during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring business continuity and growth.
• Membership Models for Customer Retention: Uncover the strategic implementation of membership models that not only foster customer loyalty but also introduce a new revenue stream. See how making customers feel exclusive and valued can drive retention.
• Balancing Personalisation: Vikram Saxena shares insights on achieving the right balance in personalisation efforts—engaging customers without overstepping boundaries. Learn how to use data wisely for a customised shopping experience.
• Omnichannel Strategies for Success: Dive into the essentials of omnichannel marketing, ensuring seamless customer experiences across all platforms. Understand why it's crucial to treat customer journeys as a web of interactions rather than a linear path.
• Leveraging Technology and Innovation: From headless commerce to innovative business models, explore how technology serves as the backbone of omnichannel success, enabling flexibility and scalability in eCommerce operations.

Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on the latest trends and strategies in eCommerce. Connect with us in the comments or on social media to share your thoughts and experiences.

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson interviews Alex Back, CEO and founder of Couch.com, about his eCommerce journey and the transition from his previous venture, Apartment 2B, to his new project: Couch.com. 

1. Moving Away from Traditional eCommerce: After exiting Apartment 2B, Alex founded Couch.com with a new approach. Instead of directly selling products, Couch.com focuses on providing valuable content and education to consumers about buying couches. This includes brand reviews and guides to help users make informed decisions. This strategic shift aims to create a scalable platform that benefits both consumers and retailers.
2. Importance of Quality Over Quantity in SEO: Alex emphasises the significance of focusing on high-quality content rather than producing a large volume of articles. He believes that having the best, most informative articles on specific topics (e.g., how to clean a couch) is more effective for SEO than a scattergun approach. This quality-first strategy helps Couch.com rank well on Google and attract organic traffic.
3. Iterative Approach and Flexibility in Business: Alex highlights the importance of being flexible and iterative in business. He acknowledges that initial plans often need adjustments and that being open to pivoting is crucial for success. For example, Couch.com is currently focusing on brand reviews as the quickest path to monetization, even though the ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive marketplace for couches. This adaptability allows the business to respond to market needs and opportunities effectively.

Delve into a riveting discussion with Amelia Coomber, where the unexpected facets of e-commerce emerge, challenging our conventional thinking. Are you ready to uncover the secrets behind mastering the digital marketplace?

Want to cash out your Shopify store in weeks instead of months? That's the promise today's guest on the eCommerce Podcast is making.

Tune in to this week's episode where Matt is joined by Fabio Savi from Everstores - the one-stop-shop for acquiring and operating Shopify businesses. Fabio shares the secrets to their bold promise and the art and science behind it all. You wouldn't want to miss out on this conversation!

About FABIO:

Fabio is the rockstar ex-banker who's now leading the acquisitions team at Everstores! With lightning-fast turnaround times, Fabio and his team can snag Shopify stores in just a few weeks! And with a data-driven approach to every aspect of the process, from acquisition to due diligence to operation, there's no doubt that Fabio and his team are the true rockstars of the industry. Plus, with some of the smartest data scientists and machine learning engineers in the game, the process is guaranteed to be both smooth and transparent.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Everstores is a technology company that uses its tech stack to acquire and integrate Shopify stores and provide a unified dashboard for merchants to manage their operations.
• They prefer certain verticals such as pets, mother and baby, and mental health, but consider investing in any store if there is a promising investment case thesis. However, certain categories pose operational and legal challenges that may make it difficult to advertise and internationalize.
• Fabio discusses their inside-out valuation methodology in acquiring Shopify businesses, which includes the use of two models: customer behavior and customer acquisition cost. They focus on businesses with a high customer retention rate and profitability on a base level before factoring in other costs. They prioritize finding a business with a great product-market fit and community.
• When acquiring e-commerce businesses, Everstores focuses on maintaining the original brand voice and running the business in the same way as the owner did. They do not tie the owner into the business post-acquisition and do not require them to stay on as consultants or restrict them from starting a similar business in a different space.
• The common mistakes that business owners make when selling their business are not running the business while focusing on the exit and focusing too much on crafting a story around what the buyer can do with the business.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this special Spotlight Episode, we take a break from the usual deep dive into specific e-commerce topics, and instead, shine a light on "Mason", a company that's making waves and doing some pretty impressive work in the world of eCommerce and AI.

Kaus Manjita, the founder of Mason joins Matt to talk about how the company that was launched amidst the pandemic in 2020 has been growing steadily for the past three years and how they leverage powerful systems and technology to help smaller brands succeed!

ABOUT KAUS:

Kausambi is an award-winning founder and serial product builder with 16+ years of building products for commerce enablement. She’s also a passionate customer evangelist who strives to make tech simple for everyone to get benefitted from. In her personal life, you'll always find her in the midst of people - entrepreneurs, developers, marketers, brand makers, designers... over coffee, on zoom, on Instagram, or via podcasts. Earlier in her career, Kaus has worked at IBM Commerce, Myntra, Paytm across Atlanta, SFO & India. She now splits her time between Toronto and Bangalore, and leads a global team of makers at Mason.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Mason was created to simplify the powerful systems used by large corporations and make them accessible to solo-preneurs, brands, and entrepreneurs to empower their sales and revenue goals using technology.
• It is an online commerce platform that aims to eliminate the middleman and connect brands directly with consumers through discovery and engagement, helping consumers find what they love at the right price and time and assisting sellers in selling better.
• Mason uses AI to simplify and optimize decision-making processes to help connect shoppers with the right sellers and products at the right time while taking into account various data signals.
• Mason's technology has helped small e-commerce businesses increase sales and improve customer engagement through personalized and non-intrusive reminders and discounts.
• No-code is a movement that simplifies complex technology, giving subject matter experts the power to create apps and run their businesses on their own terms, making it easier and faster to test new ideas and strategies.
• Kaus says that future of shopping lies in personalized experiences for consumers, enabled by technology like generative AI and no code, with an emphasis on understanding the shopper on the other side.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Join host Matt Edmundson in a fascinating discussion with Campbell Paton, co-founder and CEO of StoreLab, as they explore the burgeoning world of AppCommerce and its transformative impact on eCommerce. In this episode, we delve into how mobile apps can revolutionise your online business, boost sales, and enhance customer engagement.

Episode Highlights:

1. 📈 The Incredible Power of Push Notifications: Discover how push notifications outperform traditional marketing channels like email and SMS, boasting a conversion rate 15 times higher than email.
2. ⚡ Speed and User Experience: Learn why mobile apps, being three times faster than mobile web, significantly boost customer experience and sales conversions.
3. 🔑 Accessing Restricted Features: Understand how mobile apps leverage features that are off-limits to web browsers, enhancing the overall user experience.
4. 🔄 Tripling Customer Retention: Insights into how exclusive app features and discounts can dramatically increase customer retention rates.
5. 💡 No-Code Solutions and Accessibility: Discussion on how advancements in technology have made it easier and more affordable for businesses to develop their own apps without the need for extensive coding.
6. 🌟 Case Studies and Success Stories: Real-world examples of businesses that have successfully implemented AppCommerce strategies and seen substantial growth in sales and customer engagement.
7. 🤔 Challenges and Considerations: Addressing common concerns and misconceptions about AppCommerce, including its suitability for different types of businesses.

Connect with Campbell Paton:

• LinkedIn: [Campbell Paton]
• Website: [StoreLab.app]

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Don't miss out on the valuable insights shared in this episode. Tune in to learn how AppCommerce could be the key to unlocking a new level of success for your eCommerce business. Ready to explore AppCommerce? Click to listen now and step into a world of enhanced eCommerce opportunities! For more engaging discussions and insights on eCommerce, follow the eCommerce Podcast on your preferred platform. Stay tuned for more episodes that bring you closer to eCommerce excellence.

#AppCommerce #BusinessGrowth #eCommercePodcast #StoreLab #CampbellPaton

Join host Matt Edmundson on the Ecommerce Podcast as he chats with Dan Brownsher from Channel Key, a leading Amazon agency. Discover insights into Amazon retail strategies, brand building, and the complexities of selling on the platform.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

3:18 Dan's Journey to Amazon

5:36 Complexity of Selling on Amazon

8:40 Starting on Amazon Today

12:57 Challenges of Selling on Amazon

16:50 Product Selection for Amazon

20:20 Supplements as a Lucrative Category

23:37 Building a Brand on Amazon

29:15 Strategies for Brand Building

34:55 Using Amazon as a Customer Acquisition Channel

40:28 Channel Strategy and Brand Quality

46:45 Review Numbers and Sales Correlation

48:52 Connecting with Dan and Channel Key

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Key Takeaways:

1. Diversify Sales Channels: Dan emphasises the importance of not relying solely on Amazon as a sales channel. He suggests using Amazon as a testing ground and data aggregation channel but stresses the need to build a brand outside of Amazon through platforms like Shopify or social media channels. This approach helps in creating brand equity and avoiding the pitfalls of commoditisation.

2. Invest in Brand Building: To maintain a competitive edge, Dan advises building a strong brand presence. This involves creating a brand story and engaging with consumers through various channels, including social media and traditional advertising. A well-established brand can command loyalty and potentially higher prices, protecting against market saturation and competition.

3. Understand the Cost of Entry: Dan highlights that entering the Amazon marketplace today requires significant resources. He advises new sellers to be prepared to invest in advertising and potentially operate at a loss initially to gain traction. This understanding is crucial for realistic planning and long-term success on the platform.

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If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow!

Amazon is always changing and evolving their platform, so it can be hard to keep up with what's going on. But don't worry because we have you covered!

Jon Tilley from ZonGuru joins Matt Edmundson in this episode to talk all about what Amazon is doing and what Amazon sellers need to know.

ABOUT JON

Jon Tilley is a successful entrepreneur & Amazon thought leader. After 15 years working as an account director & strategist for some of the top global digital agencies, Jon started his Amazon journey in 2014 launching multiple successful private label brands, and soon after launching ZonGuru, an all-in-one software toolset for Amazon Private Label Sellers.

ZonGuru continues to launch tools ahead of the market, and use data driven techniques to help its customers create and run successful Private Label businesses on Amazon.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• ZonGuru has evolved to cater to new customer types, including enterprise brands and agencies that manage Amazon brands for their clients. It is focused on efficiency, quality, and scalability, which resonates with experts in the field. The company is doing more outbound marketing and sitting down for demos with potential customers. Private label sellers are still a massive part of their audience.
• Jon believes that there are still amazing opportunities for small-scale businesses on Amazon, both in the US and internationally. To be successful, entrepreneurs need to be dialed-in to data and understand how to use it properly. They also need a good launch strategy and processes in place to prevent them from going out of stock. It is important to note that competition from bigger brands with deep pockets is fierce, so choosing the right market is key.
• Jon talks about their Global Niche Analysis Report, which helps to assess a niche market. He says that it is possible to look at successful markets in the US and bring them to international markets. It is also possible to look at saturated markets in the US and see if there are opportunities there.
• Most brands now have an Amazon division focused on pushing their products out onto the e-commerce platform. Google is favored by Amazon because they understand that there is money to be made off of sponsored ads. However, smaller players can still compete by driving traffic from other platforms to their storefronts.
• Matt and Jon discuss the opportunity for Shopify agencies to become Amazon specialists. While there is potential in this area, businesses need to be careful not to spread themselves too thin. Jon has created an accreditation course for agencies which covers operational aspects of running an Amazon business.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this enlightening episode of the eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson sits down with John Kyle Beaton, co-founder of a product sourcing agency with extensive experience in China. The conversation dives deep into the intricacies of sourcing products from China and explores the viability and ethics of this approach in the current global market.

Key Takeaways:

1. Building Direct Relationships with Factories is Crucial:  One of the most important strategies for successful sourcing from China is to establish direct relationships with factories rather than working through trade companies. This ensures consistent product quality, better communication, and transparency in manufacturing practices. Conducting factory audits and visiting factories in person can significantly mitigate risks and build stronger partnerships.
2. Safeguard Intellectual Property with Strategic Measures: Protecting intellectual property (IP) is a common concern when sourcing from China. JK Beaton advises implementing strategies like drip-feeding product designs to potential manufacturers and having them sign Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) and Non-Compete clauses. Although legal enforcement can be challenging, setting clear expectations and maintaining continuous communication about IP protection can reduce the risk of imitation and unauthorized distribution.
3. Ethical Manufacturing and Quality Control: Ensuring ethical manufacturing practices and maintaining high product quality are essential. JK suggests looking for ISO certifications and conducting factory audits to verify ethical practices and quality standards. He also emphasises the importance of having a refund policy for defective goods, which not only protects your brand but also fosters an ongoing dialogue about quality with your manufacturing partners. This approach helps in maintaining ethical standards and ensuring customer satisfaction.

If you're wondering how you to market your business with Google and YouTube Ads and start generating some leads and sales for your business, you don't want to miss this episode.

Brett Curry from OMG Commerce joins Matt in this episode to talk about some of the latest trends in Google and YouTube Advertising so you can get the most out of your campaigns.

ABOUT BRETT

Brett is a seasoned entrepreneur, digital marketer and podcast host. He leads an 8-Figure ad agency of Google, YouTube and Amazon marketing rockstars. Brett is also the father of 8 children, and a basketball coach.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• YouTube has 2 billion active monthly users, making it a great platform for e-commerce entrepreneurs. There is a perceived barrier to entry when it comes to testing on YouTube, as people don't know how to go about doing so.
• Creative is important on YouTube, as the video needs to be interesting enough to get someone to click.
• YouTube is a good platform for both demand generation and capture. Remarketing to already existing customers is also an effective strategy on YouTube.
• On YouTube, videos as short as 30 seconds can be used for awareness, while longer form videos such as one to three minutes are better for conversions.
• Videos over 3 minutes long may incur a cost from YouTube, yet they could still be effective if they convert well.
• When it comes to ROAS, Google is typically higher due to being closer to the purchase than YouTube. However, it's important to remember that YouTube feeds other campaigns and its role should not be overlooked.
• Once a user clicks on your ad and is taken to your landing page, they need to feel like they are in the right place, with a headline that is congruent to what was seen in the video.
• Additionally, there should be more selling on the landing page, outlining benefits and features as well as video and social proof.
• Brett recommends building out a strong bottom of the funnel with search, shopping, and remarketing on the Google side first.
• Start testing a lander with Facebook before moving to YouTube with a minimum budget of $5-10K per month. A customer acquisition cost of $50-100 should be anticipated for direct conversions.
• Google Performance Max is a single campaign channel that encompasses all Google channels such as search, shopping, display, discovery, YouTube, and Maps. It replaces Smart Shopping for eCommerce brands and encourages advertisers to focus more on creative like images, product listings, and optimized videos.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

With so much information easily accessible, it can be tough to decipher what will help you improve your eCommerce Business. When first starting out in eCommerce, it's not easy to determine where to begin with everything that's available; as a result, many entrepreneurs never get their business off the ground.

And if you're like me and have been at this for a while, we run the risk of using methods from last year that are now outdated while our competition grows utilising new innovations.

💡 - enter eCommerce cycles

eCommerce Cycles are a way of looking at eCommerce that takes into account the ever-changing nature of the industry.

By understanding the different stages that eCommerce goes through, you can better adapt your business to suit the current trends and stay ahead of the competition.

Join me in this Live Event training to learn how you can use eCommerce cycles to propel your business growth in this rapidly changing industry.

During the webinar, we’ll cover:

⚡️ What are eCommerce cycles

⚡️ How they can help your business to GROW by adapting your business to suit the current trends.

⚡️ How to understand what YOUR customers want and need

⚡️ How to use eCommerce cycles to DELIVER what matters most to your customers

⚡️ How to get ahead of your competition by using tried and tested techniques

Expect lots of takeaway tips and tricks that are easy to implement and can achieve the best results.

Links from the event:

Matt Edmundson - www.mattedmundson.com

Aurion Digital - www.aurion.digital

ecommerce Cohort - www.ecommercecohort.com

AI is changing the world as we know it and generative AI is leading the change. Max Sinclair from Ecomtent joins Matt in today's episode to talk about the amazing possibilities of Generative AI and sheds light on the most popular Generative AI system right now, ChatGPT.

ABOUT MAX

Max is CEO and Founder of Ecomtent, who are revolutionising how E-commerce sellers create content with Generative AI. Prior to founding Ecomtent, Max spent 6 years at Amazon. Here he worked on the launch of Amazon Business in the UK, the country launch of Ecomtent in Singapore, and the launch of Amazon Grocery across the EU. Throughout this time, Max worked directly with 100s of sellers of all sizes across many categories, and saw the pain of creating content for Ecommerce first hand.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Generative AI is a new wave of Artificial Intelligence that can produce entirely new content such as images, videos, texts and code. It differs from deterministic AI which uses data sets to answer questions or classify objects. Max started Ecomtent to use this technology for e-commerce sellers in order to help them create content more efficiently.
• ChatGPT uses something called Generative Adversarial Network which consists of two networks: a generator and discriminator. Although useful, Chat GPT should be used cautiously as it only generates text sounding correct but not necessarily accurate.
• Matt and Max discuss the implications of AI on creation. They explore how chat GPT can be used to write a book with a single prompt, as well as its potential applications in other industries such as law. Max stated that while it is terrifying, technological advances have been beneficial for humanity throughout history and should not be feared.
• Ecomtent is creating product images and lifestyle images using generative AI. The ambition is to create optimized descriptions, bullet points and A+ content as well as lifestyle imagery that would not be generated again exactly the same if given the same prompt multiple times over.
• Max explained their vision statement, which is "unimaginable creativity" with limitless personalization. He added that generative AI can create code as well, which will lead to a future where people just have to say “build me a website” and the AI will do so smartly with all permutations taken into account.
• Max suggests that new e-commerce persons use chat GPT to analyze reviews on competitors and understand customer preferences. Secondly, Max suggests generating a list of 100 search phrases/keywords related to the product as well as optimizing bids on Amazon or Google based on that list.
• Max has used Chat GPT to discover a unique writing style. He recommends using this technique when creating blog posts, making them more entertaining and engaging. Natural language translation is another application of Chat GPT as it understands the key themes and concepts in order to create new phrases and synonyms for other languages.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Are you struggling to make your Facebook Ads work for your business? Tune in to today's episode of the eCommerce Podcast where Marin Ištvanić from Inspire Agency joins Matt to talk about all things Facebook Ads. 

In the last 12 months, Marin has spent over $30 Million on Facebook ads, and today he’s going to share some of his go-to Facebook ads strategies and learnings as well as some additional tips and tricks to help you do the same. You don't want to miss out on this one!

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BOUT MARIN:

In the past 7 years, Marin has gone from freelancer contractor to head of performance at Inspire agency. He leads a boutique agency working with a handful of selected clients while providing service for paid social. Besides the agency, he’s a partner at a few in-house brands he helped scale and exit. He’s also 2x GeekOut speaker and 1x Affiliate World Asia speaker.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• The biggest misconception when using Facebook ads for e-commerce stores is thinking that optimizing for add-to-cart or traffic will lead to sales; the optimal conversion goal is always sales. Additionally, in order to effectively use ads, a well-established product market fit and proven offer and funnel are necessary.
• Maximizing the efficiency of Facebook ads for your e-commerce store comes down to focusing on a proven market with a good offer, using psychological and marketing tricks in your advertising, and prioritizing your creative, messaging, and targeting based on different levels of sophistication and awareness in your funnel.
• A unique identifier in Facebook ads creative needs to provide tangible benefits such as saving time, money, or improving effectiveness compared to competitors. 
• To find people who could create user-generated content (UGC) for your business's Facebook ads, you can reach out to creative agencies or search for UGC creators on Instagram or Twitter. The cost of UGC creation ranges from gifting a free product to $5k per video, but it depends on your strategy for using the content in your ads.
• According to Marin, the best way to stay up to date with the latest trends in Facebook advertising for e-commerce and media buying in the D2C space is to join the Twitter D2C community where people are constantly sharing and providing value. He highly recommends being on Twitter for those seeking to grow their store and connect with other professionals.
• Choosing a Facebook ads agency requires looking for proof of competence, specific deliverables, communication, and a good bedding in period of a few weeks. It's also important for the client to have a pro market fit and spend at least 1K per day on Facebook ads. Transparency and a comprehensive plan are crucial for success.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Many are turning to Amazon as a way to start and grow their business because (when done correctly) it can be a really lucrative set up. But is Amazon the right platform for your business? Adam Shaffer breaks it down to help you make the decision.

ABOUT ADAM

Adam Shaffer is a technology pioneer. He has found success helping Amazon sellers through his company’s proprietary technology, services, and distribution platform. Ultimately, this has helped clients navigate the most complex waters of the largest E-commerce site in the world. Adam is also a pioneer in direct marketing and digital ecommerce of technology products and solutions to both consumer and commercial markets.

When he’s not working, you’ll find him spending time with his wife and daughters.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Amazon is by far the biggest marketplace with $620 billion of merchandise getting sold in the US per year. For brands, in many cases, it's by far their number one channel. It's evolved quickly over the years and continues to. And so, you need to be really good at everything on Amazon, if you want to succeed, because the rules do change from time to time.
• Another key aspect to success on Amazon is Inventory Management. You need to always be shifting product up to Amazon and don't run out of stock. You definitely don't want to be overstocked. Nobody wants to have too much inventory and not turning it enough. But if you work your heart out with competitors to get somewhere on the ranking, you don't want to be out of stock on your product and all of a sudden lose all that ground.
• Phelps United is a third-party seller and an eCommerce brand accelerator. They help brands navigate and grow on the very complicated, but potentially lucrative channel, which is the Amazon channel and other marketplaces. They help brands with their Amazon strategy by doing a quick analysis of the marketplace and work on making sure that the content is just awesome and tells a great story.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Unveil the power of well-crafted marketing personas and discover how they can make or break your marketing strategy.

Neil Hoyne introduces the concept of marketing personas, highlighting potential pitfalls and the essence of accurate attribution. Learn how to avoid sabotaging your own marketing efforts by understanding and correctly utilizing personas.

Is selling on multiple online marketplaces the right strategy for your business?

These days, it seems like everyone is selling their products on multiple online marketplaces. But is that really the best strategy for your business? In this episode, Jesse breaks down the pros and cons of selling on multiple online marketplaces and understand what it takes to successfully sell on multiple marketplaces.  

ABOUT JESSE

Jesse is Co-Founder & Managing Director at eCommeleon. He helps online retailers and D2C brands to navigate the eCommerce jungle. With a particular focus on marketplaces and international expansion, Jesse helps online sellers to determine which marketplaces in which countries offer the best opportunities for expansion.

With the help of the eCommeleon software and team, Jesse uses his expertise to help implement scalable marketplace expansion plans, for experienced and novice sellers alike. Jesse's mission is to make it as easy as possible for online sellers to expand their businesses into new markets - because when businesses grow, everyone benefits.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• The advantages and disadvantages of selling on multiple online marketplaces which include a variety of different platforms on the plus side but equally it can be difficult to keep track of inventory and sales across all the platforms.
• If you are looking to reach a wider customer base and streamline your operations, then selling on multiple marketplaces may be right for you. But if you are looking to focus on a single channel, or to expand your operations into other countries or regions, then you may be better off focusing on just one marketplace.
• As with any business decision, it is important to carefully consider the pros and cons of selling on multiple online marketplaces and make the choice that best aligns with your individual goals and needs.

Enjoying listening to our conversation about Multiple Online Marketplaces :-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Show sponsor: eCommerce Cohort - a lightweight membership group with guided monthly Sprints that cycles through all the key areas of eCommerce designed to help you deliver eCommerce WOW. More info at www.ecommercecohort.com

Welcome to another engaging episode of our eCommerce Podcast, where we had the pleasure of hosting Staeven Frey, a renowned expert in branding and marketing. In this episode, we delve deep into the concept of being distinctive in business, not just different.

Here are the detailed show notes to guide you through our conversation:

1. Introduction:

• Welcoming Staeven Frey, a branding and marketing expert.

2. Overview of the episode's focus:

• Understanding the difference between being distinctive and merely different in business.

3. The Baseball Uniform Analogy:

• Staeven explains the importance of understanding industry norms and adding unique flair.
• The analogy of showing up to a baseball game in soccer gear to illustrate the difference between being distinctive and different.

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Key Insights:

1. Being Distinctive vs. Being Different:

• The necessity of fitting into your industry while standing out.
• How being merely different can be counterproductive.

2. Functionality & Uniqueness:

• The balance between unique design and practical functionality, illustrated through the example of a distinctive fox-shaped cup.

3. Consumer Behaviour:

• Insights into how people are not always rational and are easily distracted.
• The importance of creating branding that is both eye-catching and thought-provoking.

4. Branding as a Mnemonic Device:

• Discussion on how effective branding helps in creating lasting memories and repeat customers.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, host Matt Edmundson interviews business journalist Elaine Pofeldt, discussing her books Tiny Business, Big Money and The Million-Dollar One-Person Business. Elaine shares insights into the growing trend of million-dollar businesses run by small teams or solo entrepreneurs, exploring how increasing relevance of professional services and eCommerce businesses reaching seven figures, touching on the evolving digital landscape, including the rise of AI, and how entrepreneurs can thrive by going "rogue" and embracing innovation. 

Key Takeaways

1. Rise of Million-Dollar One-Person Businesses: The number of solo entrepreneurs or small teams generating over a million dollars in revenue is steadily increasing. This trend reflects the growing opportunities for individuals to create successful, scalable businesses without the need for large teams or significant upfront investment.
2. Importance of Going Rogue and Innovation: Elaine emphasises the value of going "rogue," meaning that entrepreneurs should be willing to step away from traditional methods, adopt new technologies (like AI), and embrace innovation. Early adopters who are willing to experiment and take calculated risks often see the most success.
3. Self-Employment as a Path to Financial Freedom: Self-employment offers a way to build personal wealth and gain control over one’s career, especially in a shifting job market. Elaine points out that starting a business, even as a side hustle, can be a powerful way to future-proof your income and career in an unpredictable economic landscape.

If this episode of the eCommerce Podcast piqued your interest make sure to check out everything that gets done over here on the eCommerce Podcast, a space dedicated to eCommerce Wow!

What if you could reduce shopping cart abandonment and increase sales? Learn the secrets of AI and consumer behavior to boost your online sales in this new episode with our guest Valon Xhafa on How AI and Consumer Behavior Can Reduce Shopping Cart Abandonment!

ABOUT VALON

Valon previously worked as an AI scientist at Google and at other research institutes, developing sophisticated AI techniques and algorithms. Valon is always looking for innovative methods to use artificial intelligence to improve the online shopping experience at Behamics.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Shopping cart abandonment is when a consumer visits your shop, adds products to the cart but leaves without purchasing the products. This is a major concern for eCommerce business owners because statistically 70% of consumers who added something to the cart, abandon it.
• There are several external and internal factors to cart abandonments. At Behamics, Valon and his team mainly focus on internal factors because these are factors that one can actually impact and improve to prevent cart abandonments. Internal factors comprise of Behavioral & Technical issues.
• AI not only predicts whether the consumer will abandon the cart but can explain why they choose to abandon the cart.
• If a consumer leaves the website without making a purchase, it will cost the business more money to try and bring them back through emails etc. It is far more cost-effective to interact with the consumer while they are on the site and to be able to intervene and prevent things before they happen.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Jump into the world of pay-per-click advertising with PPC expert Phil Byrne as he unravels the complexities of Google Ads, e-commerce strategies, and the power of data analytics. Whether you're a startup or an established brand, get ready for a wealth of actionable insights.This is a must-listen for anyone looking to sharpen their PPC skills in the dynamic world of e-commerce.

Key Takeaways:

1. E-commerce PPC Strategies: Phil Byrne highlights the importance of Google Shopping and remarketing in e-commerce, emphasising the use of YouTube and Meta for effective lead generation. He shares insights on adapting PPC strategies for digital products, focusing on search-driven campaigns and utilising educational content to solve consumer problems.

2. Tailored Advice for Different Business Stages: For startups, Phil suggests starting with standard shopping or search campaigns and considering agency assistance as sales grow. He advises established brands to focus on differentiating their products, especially on competitive platforms like Amazon, highlighting the need for a unique approach in each business phase.

3. The Power of Data in PPC: Emphasising the significance of understanding data and analytics, Phil recommends acquiring Google Ads and Google Analytics certifications. This knowledge is crucial for efficiently managing PPC campaigns and making informed decisions, reinforcing the idea that data is a key player in the success of any PPC strategy.

ABOUT PHIL:

Diving into the digital realm since '99 with a melody in his step, he pioneered one of the world's unique commission-based PPC agencies in 2008. This vintage digital aficionado has collaborated with top-notch entrepreneurs and propelled numerous projects to the skies. He's got a treasure trove of secrets and tales from his adventures to unveil!

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Are you an entrepreneur looking to expand your business and find new suppliers? 

In this episode, Sebastian Herz from Zignify joins Matt to talk all things product sourcing. Tune in to discover how to source products for your website, common mistakes to avoid while sourcing products globally and save millions of dollars on your product purchasing cost. Whether you're just starting out in eCommerce or have a business already, you won't want to miss this episode of the eCommerce Podcast .

ABOUT SEBASTIAN:

Sebastian Herz is an eCommerce expert with a wealth of experience dating back to 2014. He has successfully launched two brands that are now available in popular retail outlets such as Kaufland, Globus, Rewe and Saturn, and has sold over 500,000 products across various platforms including Amazon, Shopify and Retail. Sebastian not only helps other sellers source high-quality products, but also guides them through the process of reaching wider audiences, including TV shopping and Big Box Retail.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Sebastian started his career in industrial automation and decided to start his own business after 12 years of working. He started sourcing his own products in China and eventually began helping other brands with their sourcing needs through word of mouth. Zignify Global Product Sourcing has now helped thousands of sellers get their brands ready for sale.
• If you are a new in ecommerce, before sourcing products for your online business, you need to decide whether you want to focus on making a profit or building a brand from the heart. You should also figure out where you want to source products from and decide whether you want to learn the process yourself or outsource it.
• Sebastian explains that the bigger the niche, the more competitors you will have, while digging deeper into a smaller niche can result in higher prices but require more certifications. Finding the right place to sell your product is key, just having a website is not enough, and knowing how to attract customers is crucial.
• For existing brands, Zignify helps find additional products that can be sourced, potentially from outside of China, to improve sales and reduce costs, particularly for top selling products, which can result in significant savings for a business. The focus is on quality while also increasing revenue and bottom line savings.
• When sourcing products globally, it's important to contact multiple producers, compare prices, and do quality control on your samples and mass production. It's also crucial to check the background of the suppliers to ensure they are legitimate producers and not trading companies, as well as speak the local language for effective communication.
• When sourcing products, common mistakes include not getting enough proposals, not checking quality control enough, and not having enough patience when sourcing outside of China where there is no Alibaba. It may take multiple attempts to contact potential suppliers, and smaller potential customers may be overlooked by suppliers who prioritize larger customers.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Are you unknowingly slowing down your Shopify store with unused apps? 

In today's episode of the eCommerce Podcast, we dive into the often overlooked issue of background requests and injection scripts from unused apps, and how they can drag down your page speed and bottom line. Join us as we explore the subtle but crucial impact of page speed on user experience, SEO ranking, ad buying quality score, and even the subconscious decision-making process of your customers. Discover the delicate balance between performance and elegance, and learn how to optimize your store for a seamless, satisfying, and profitable customer journey.

ABOUT WILLIAM:

Meet William Belk, a software developer and SEO expert with 20+ years of experience. He's the creator of five popular Shopify apps and the founder of Page Doctor, a free tool for testing page speed and optimizing performance. Join us to learn how William's expertise can help you boost your Shopify success.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Shopify store owners have control over page speed, but relying solely on one-click solutions and installing too many third-party apps can lead to poor rendering performance and slow down loading times. App evaluations and fixing fundamental coding problems can lead to significant improvements in page speed.
• Page speed optimization is important because it reduces bounce rates, increases conversion rates, and improves SEO and ad quality score. It improves the overall user experience creating a more enjoyable shopping experience.
• In eCommerce, page speed optimization is complex and there is no one ideal load time. It's more important to focus on reducing the number of assets and optimizing fundamentals like reducing JavaScript errors, blocking script tags, and reducing unnecessary CSS and images. Building relationships with trusted developers is key to achieving optimal website performance.
• Page speed optimization is crucial in improving engagement and lowering bounce rates, especially for customers who have no existing relationship with the brand. It can affect the subconscious of visitors, including essential information such as star ratings and product reviews, which can ultimately impact the success of ads and return on ad spend.
• William uses the analogy of a race car, where compromise is necessary to achieve both performance and elegance. He says that the fear of loss is a common obstacle for marketers in making changes that benefit page speed.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Join host Matt Edmundson in this insightful episode of the eCommerce Podcast as he sits down with returning guest Valon Xhafa from Bahamics to dive deep into the disruptive power of AI in the world of eCommerce.

Key Takeaways:

1. AI's Role in Automating eCommerce Tasks: Valon Xhafa explains how AI is revolutionising the eCommerce industry by automating repetitive tasks, thereby allowing businesses to focus more on strategic and creative aspects. This includes optimiswing organic traffic, reducing cart abandonment, and enhancing SEO efforts.
2. The Importance of Relevance in SEO: A significant insight shared by Valon is the critical role of relevance in SEO. He highlights that measuring and maintaining content relevance is crucial for ranking higher on search engines. This goes beyond traditional metrics like domain authority, emphasising the need for accurate, contextually relevant content to achieve better SEO results.
3. Future Trends in AI for eCommerce: Valon predicts that the next phase of AI development will focus on improving language models to enhance accuracy and cost-efficiency. As AI continues to evolve, businesses will see more advanced, faster, and cost-effective AI solutions that will drive innovation and efficiency in the eCommerce space.

This weeks insights are vital for anyone trying to keep up with the changing world of eCommerce. Make sure to listen every week so you can stay ahead of the eCommerce game.

In this insightful episode, our host Matt Edmundson is joined by Jordan West, a trailblazer in the eCommerce and marketing world, to discuss the transformative power of TikTok Shops and their impact on the eCommerce landscape during the challenging times Jordan describes as the 'eCommerce winter'. This engaging conversation explores how TikTok Shops could signal a shift towards a more aligned, effective, and warmer future for online retail.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding Misaligned Incentives: Jordan sheds light on the often-misaligned incentives between agencies and eCommerce businesses, highlighting how this discord can hamper growth and success in the digital commerce space.
2. Navigating the eCommerce Winter: The discussion delves into the concept of the 'eCommerce winter', a period marked by stagnation and challenges in the eCommerce industry, exacerbated by traditional marketing strategies and the high costs associated with maintaining online visibility.
3. The Revolutionary Promise of TikTok Shops: The episode focuses on TikTok Shops as a beacon of hope and innovation, offering a platform where incentives between influencers and brands are realigned through a performance-based model. This shift not only promises to thaw the frost of the eCommerce winter but also introduces a new era of online shopping.
4. The Next Era of eCommerce: With TikTok Shops at the forefront, Jordan and Matt discuss the potential for this platform to redefine how products are marketed and sold online, setting the stage for a broader adoption of similar models across other social media giants.

About the Guest:

Jordan West, a seasoned entrepreneur and marketing expert, shares his journey from operating a Taco Del Mar restaurant to becoming a paramedic, and eventually, a leading figure in the eCommerce marketing space. His insights into the evolution of online retail and marketing strategies offer invaluable lessons for businesses looking to navigate the complexities of the digital world.

Join Us:

Tune in to this enlightening conversation to discover how TikTok Shops might just be the warm front needed to navigate through the eCommerce winter. Whether you're an established online retailer or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights and forward-thinking perspectives on the future of eCommerce. Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on the latest trends and strategies in digital commerce, and learn how to make the most of the opportunities in this ever-evolving industry.

Wanna learn how to take your product and turn it into a successful direct marketing campaign? This episode is for you!

A lot of people think that direct marketing is only for big businesses, but that's simply not true. You can use these techniques with any size business. So whether you're just starting out or you've been in business for years, listen to this episode and start generating more sales using direct marketing.

Cody Bramlett joins Matt on the eCommerce Podcast to discuss how any business (no matter its size) can take a product into direct marketing. Cody talks in depth about what this process looks like for eCommerce businesses. 

ABOUT CODY

Cody Bramlett is the founder of a multimillion-dollar nutritional supplement empire. After years of struggling as a personal trainer and gym owner, Cody's life changed when he solved his father's chronic inflammation problem with his own custom-formulated products. 

This empowered Cody to start growing his company, Science Natural Supplements, to help other people get pain-free, lose weight, and overall just feel great about themselves! As a result of starting and scaling Science Naturals, Cody now also teaches other driven entrepreneurs how to profitably start, scale, and sell their own nutritional supplement brands through his coaching and mastermind called, Supplement Millionaire.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• If you have a great product, you can start generating more sales by using long form sales pages, which can either be text or video, that’s telling a compelling story of how your product has transformed people’s lives. And the way to you can drive traffic to this page is using affiliates. Joining different community groups and coaching programmes can help you find the right affiliates that work for you.
• You will need quality writers to make your content stand out and to do that you must find out what you want and why. Once you have your product, you can then look at pages that are doing well and reverse engineer them. The people who visit your site do not know you or your product. So you want to build friendship and give them a great deal to build their trust and confidence in you.
• Cody has built a programme called Supplement Millionaire and teaches people how to launch and build a direct marketing, affiliate-based supplement brand or health brand in that space. He helps a huge plethora of people from diverse spaces start and build a health or supplement business online.

Enjoying listening to our conversation about direct marketing :-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

This episode is all about learning how to use acquisition as a growth strategy for your business.

A lot of people think that the only way to grow a business is through organic growth - but that's not true. You can also grow your business by using acquisition as a growth strategy for your business and there are a lot of different ways that you can do this. 

In this video, Matt is joined by Stephen Speer and together they explore the topic of business growth through acquisition. They discuss what it means for a company to grow by acquisition and some of the key benefits and considerations involved in this type of growth.

ABOUT STEPHEN

Stephen Speer is the founder and CEO of Ecommerce Lending. He has over three decades of lending experience, and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs achieve business success through acquisition. Stephen is an ecommerce leader, guest speaker, and M&A instructor. With his firm, he has funded over 350 transactions totaling over $400 million- making them the top lender in the country in this very specialized niche.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• If you have an eCommerce business, you should definitely think of growth by acquisition. When you buy a business, it’s already been brought to a certain level and with the right business acumen you can really catapult the business and continue to grow. And if you're able to grow a portfolio of similar businesses, running them the same way, ultimately it can be a great way to grow and succeed.
• Usually, sticking to your lane and buying businesses you’re familiar with and running it roughly the same way is a great way to ensure success. Through leverage financing, smaller businesses can even acquire larger ones, as long as the buyer has the right business acumen.
• As much as acquiring an eCommerce business is a great idea, it is not really a straightforward process because there are a lot of moving pieces. At Ecommerce Lending, Stephen and his team help build a team around their clients to ensure they do have post acquisition success. They’re not just a lender, but offer a lot of ancillary services to help their clients succeed post acquisition.

Enjoying listening to our conversation about growth through acquisition :-)

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this insightful episode of our podcast, we explore the realms of eCommerce SEO and visual marketing with Eagan Heath, the brains behind Caravan Digital. Here are the key highlights and strategies from our discussion:

Key Highlights:

1. Eagan Heath's Background & Expertise:

• Founder of Caravan Digital and the innovator behind the unique pet portrait business, Splendid Beast.
• A digital marketing guru with a passion for turning online traffic into treasure since 2016.

2. Revolutionising Website Imagery:

• Transition from standard product images to narrative-rich visuals.
• How context and storytelling in imagery can significantly enhance customer engagement and website appeal.

3. Mastering SEO for eCommerce:

• Beyond keywords: Creating content that resonates with customer queries and needs.
• Strategies for anticipating and meeting customer search intentions to improve online presence and visibility.

4. Engagement Through Giveaways & GWPs:

• The strategic use of giveaways and gifts with purchases to engage customers and generate user-generated content.
• How this approach adds authenticity and drives customer connection.

5. The Art of eCommerce Storytelling:

• The power of authentic storytelling in engaging customers.
• Techniques for crafting memorable narratives that connect with audiences on a deeper level.

For more in-depth insights and innovative tactics from Eagan Heath, tune into the full episode. His expertise and unique approach to combining SEO mastery with visual creativity offer invaluable lessons for anyone looking to enhance their online store's presence and success.

Offering productized services is a great way to make money while keeping your clients happy. 

In this episode, Rick West joins Matt and explains what productized services are and why you should offer them to your clients. You'll learn how productized services can help you streamline your business, provide better customer service, and make more money.

ABOUT RICK

Rick West is the CEO and Founder of Field Agent. Field Agent connects brands, retailers, and agencies with customers across the country and around the world to help you win at retail. His platform harnesses smartphones across the country, bridging the gap between you and your customers.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• If you're a B2B provider of services, there's no way that you can put your services on Amazon or Shopify. So, Rick and his team developed Plum, the first B2B marketplace with a cart where you can click, answer a couple of questions and go to a cart and check out with a cart just like you would Amazon or any type of retail, B2B engagement and buy their services.
• The barriers to any B2B services provider in productizing their services are usually time and tech resources. Rick’s team comes alongside and helps them by doing the tech lifting and concept lifting to create products and gives them a place to place these products, which is plum shop.
• A checklist is a great tool to productize something even without the technology and what marks the difference between a great and mediocre sales call.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Do you feel like your online shopping experience is lacking? Are you tired of being recommended the same products over and over again?

Tune in to today's episode of eCommerce Podcast where our special guest Alan Gormley from Shopbox shares the secrets for your retail business to achieve success through the power of AI. In this episode, we explore how AI is revolutionizing the e-commerce game and creating personalized experiences for customers. From curating products to understanding price elasticity, discover how AI can change the way your customers shop online and help your business win big!

ABOUT ALAN:

Meet Alan Gormley, the mastermind behind Shopbox AI! With a superhero's cape made from 25 years of AI and retail wisdom, Alan swooped into the eCommerce arena to level the playing field. His mission? To arm David-sized retailers with Goliath-beating AI tools, opening a world where every retailer gets a shot at the big league!

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Shopbox AI creates a unique store for each customer that comes onto a website, aiming to level the playing field for all retailers and put the store back at the center of e-commerce. The AI helps retailers by understanding a customer early and building a path for them to feel serviced, get suggestions, stumble across stuff, and naturally buy more items at times even more expensive.
• Alan advises that e-commerce retailers start selling through service and create a unique store per customer rather than managing their store like they manage a shelf. By introducing AI technology such as a curated homepage and creating a personal shopping space for each customer, retailers could make everything about the customer and ensure they don't go back to a generic store competitor.
• The strategy is to constantly draw customers deeper into the website in order to increase conversion rates, similar to how shop assistants guide customers in physical stores. The focus is on inspiring customers and suggesting better products to create value, rather than just providing easy access to products with lower prices.
• Alan also discusses strategies to improve the customer experience in e-commerce, including the use of an AI shop assistant to help customers quickly find interesting products, curation of a variety of products with context, and a fuzzier approach to cross-selling by showing related items earlier in the shopping process rather than at the end. These strategies aim to create a better overall experience for the customer and ultimately lead to increased sales.
• AI can help eCommerce websites combat the long tail problem by showing customers products from their favorite brand that they may not have considered before. He emphasizes that AI can enhance the customer experience without requiring website changes, as AI can dynamically suggest products based on merchandisers' inputs. Additionally, he warns against vendors who claim to offer automated AI solutions, as AI still requires human input and intelligent data analysis.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Are you struggling to connect with the elusive Gen Z audience on TikTok and Snapchat? Look no further!

In this episode of our eCommerce Podcast, we delve deep into the world of Gen Z and uncover the insider tips and tricks to dominate these popular platforms. From unleashing your creativity without a film crew or high-end camera to understanding the power of short-form content and swipe culture, our expert guests share invaluable insights that will revolutionize your approach to social media marketing.

Introduction to Nikita Vakhrushev and Aspekt:

• Discover Nikita’s journey from a 19-year-old entrepreneur to a digital marketing expert.
• Insights into Aspekt’s role in elevating over 100 D2C brands.

The Untapped Potential of SMS Marketing:

• Uncover why many businesses overlook collecting phone numbers for SMS.
• Integration of SMS with platforms like Klaviyo and OmniSend.
• The cost-effectiveness and direct customer reach of SMS marketing.

Educational Content in Emails:

• The shift from sales-driven to educational emails.
• Building customer relationships through informative content.
• A case study on a men’s hair care brand leveraging educational emails.

Email Forward-ability: A Hidden Gem:

• Nikita's perspective on crafting emails that encourage forwarding.
• Harry's brand strategy as an exemplary model of email forward-ability.

Revenue Boost from Email and SMS:

• The significant contribution of emails to overall turnover.
• How SMS marketing can further enhance revenue by 10%.

Global Messaging Preferences:

• Discussion on the varying popularity of platforms like WhatsApp.
• Adapting strategies to local communication preferences.

Enhancing Engagement with SMS and Email:

• Effective SMS capture strategies for deeper customer engagement.
• The impact of incorporating MMS in SMS marketing.

Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace the often-overlooked potential of SMS in your marketing strategy.
2. Stay adaptable and evolve your digital marketing approaches for maximum impact.

🎧 Want to dive deeper into these innovative marketing strategies? Listen to the full episode of the eCommerce Podcast for comprehensive insights from Nikita Vakhrushev. Discover how to revolutionise your approach to email and SMS marketing for your e-commerce business.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

Attention all business owners! Are you looking to increase customer retention? Look no further because we've got the ultimate guide to help you unlock the potential of your business. Learn how to maximize customer satisfaction and get the most out of your customer relationships with Brandon Amoroso!

ABOUT BRANDON

Brandon is the founder and CEO of Electriq, a DRINKS company that scales brands with profitable e-commerce models built from innovative proprietary methods. Powered by the freedom and individuality of the Gen Z mindset, Electriq has fueled over 35 in-house specialists in a range of growth-focused strategies, including email/SMS marketing, SEO/content marketing, paid acquisition, and web design/development.

Here’s a summary of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Having sold his ecommerce agency to drinks.com, Brandon shares his experience of transitioning from CEO to working within a larger organization. What started as an accidental involvement in customer retention turned into a focus for the entire company; they stopped doing anything related to paid acquisition in 2021.
• Brands need to start with the basics when building a retention program and not try to do everything all at once. Brandon talks about how Klaviyo can help brands segment their data more granularly.
• Ecommerce entrepreneurs should focus on customer retention by utilizing email and SMS flows. Subscription programs can be beneficial for long-term customers, but it is important to offer a try-before-you-subscribe option.
• SMS marketing is a different and more personal communication channel than email and even has an outsized return compared to email. To get started, brands can create a segment of their best customers in Klaviyo and invite them to a VIP SMS subscriber list. Text messages that work well are authentic, fun, cheeky, and have personality from the brand.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.ecommerce-podcast.com.

In this episode of the eCommerce Podcast, and the first in a new series focused on business founders, host Matt Edmundson interviews Ana Estrougo, founder of the Octopus Club, a secondhand marketplace for maternity, baby, and kids' items. They discuss Ana's journey from conceptualising the Octopus Club to its current success, her determination and bravery as a founder, and the challenges and triumphs she has faced along the way.

1. Determination and Bravery are Crucial for Entrepreneurs: Ana emphasizes the importance of determination and bravery in starting and running a business. Despite the challenges of being a new mother and an entrepreneur, her drive to create a solution for a common problem led her to successfully launch the Octopus Club. She highlights that being brave and taking steps, even if they are imperfect, is vital in the entrepreneurial journey.
2. Creating a Unique and Community-Focused Marketplace: The Octopus Club differentiates itself from larger competitors like eBay and Facebook Marketplace by offering personalised services, excellent customer support, and unique features such as Octodrops and a reseller scheme. Ana’s focus on community engagement and listening to user feedback has been pivotal in shaping the platform and providing value beyond just buying and selling items.
3. Balancing Personal Life and Business is Essential: Ana shares her struggles with balancing motherhood and running a startup, acknowledging periods of burnout and the need for better time management. She underscores the importance of being present in both roles and learning to prioritise tasks effectively. Her experience highlights the significance of self-care and seeking support to maintain a healthy balance between personal life and business responsibilities.

If you're looking to revolutionise your eCommerce strategy or simply want to stay ahead of industry trends, don't miss out on the invaluable insights shared by founders like Ana Estrougo. Subscribe to the eCommerce Podcast today and get ready to transform your business with actionable tips and strategies — take the first step towards eCommerce success now!