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Hey everyone, Brent Peterson here from Talk Commerce. In this blog post, I’m sharing key takeaways from a fantastic conversation I had with Sarah Engel, President of January Digital, at Shoptoberfest. Sarah, a seasoned e-commerce expert and TED Talk speaker, offered invaluable insights into the current challenges and innovative solutions shaping the retail landscape. Let’s dive into the highlights!

The Lingering Impact of COVID-19

Sarah recounted the chaotic period of November 2020, when the pandemic upended supply chains. She emphasized the initial feeling of isolation many executives experienced, believing they were alone in facing these unprecedented challenges. This resonated deeply with me; it highlights how crucial open communication and industry collaboration are in navigating crises. Sarah’s point about everyone facing similar challenges, regardless of size or industry, is a powerful reminder that we’re all in this together.

The Spoiled Consumer: Rethinking Promotions

One of the most compelling discussions revolved around the “spoiled consumer.” Sarah and I explored how years of aggressive promotions have trained customers to expect discounts, significantly impacting brand margins. My own experience confirms this—many brands struggle to break free from this cycle. Sarah’s advice? A strategic, 18-month plan focusing on customer understanding, rather than relying on the “lazy lever” of constant discounting. This involves deep analysis of what customers truly value – maybe it’s loyalty programs, early access, or exclusive experiences, not just price cuts.

Rising Costs and Creative Solutions

Sarah aptly pointed out the impact of rising business costs – inflation, wages, etc. – impacting everyone. She saw a silver lining, though: increased creativity. Brands are innovating with new products, categories, and collaborations (think Taco Bell Crocs!), demonstrating resilience and adaptability in a challenging environment. I concur; this pressure-cooker environment is fostering ingenuity we haven’t seen before.

Navigating Shifting Customer Demands and Competitive Landscape

The conversation touched upon how consumer expectations – particularly regarding shipping – have changed dramatically. The Amazon effect has set the bar high, creating pressure on brands of all sizes to offer fast and free shipping. Sarah mentioned Gen Z’s willingness to shop based on value alignment rather than price alone – a significant shift in consumer behavior. This aligns with my observations: brands that connect authentically with their audience on a values level are better positioned for long-term success.

The Power of Retail Media and Authentic Advertising

We also discussed the booming retail media landscape, particularly Amazon’s dominance. Sarah highlighted how Gen Z values authenticity, responding positively to organic content and influencer marketing. This reflects my own experience in working with various brands; genuine connections resonate more deeply with today’s consumers than intrusive ads.

January Digital: A Strategic Approach to E-Commerce Mastery

Finally, Sarah shared insights into January Digital, her agency. They offer full-funnel marketing and consulting services, focusing on deep business understanding and strategic partnerships with their clients. I found this approach particularly refreshing, prioritizing collaboration and holistic solutions over quick fixes.

Sarah Engel’s insights were both insightful and practical, offering a refreshing perspective on navigating the complexities of the modern e-commerce world. From dealing with the lasting effects of the pandemic to the changing dynamics of consumer behavior and the importance of authentic connections, this conversation touched on some of the most critical issues facing businesses today. I highly recommend listening to the full podcast episode for an even deeper dive into these crucial topics!

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

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As the Talk Commerce podcast host, I’ve had the privilege of engaging with some of the most insightful minds in the e-commerce industry. In a recent episode, I sat down with Ben Riggle, the Managing Director for Channable, to discuss the dynamic world of online marketplaces and the strategies businesses can employ to thrive in this competitive space. In this blog post, I’ll share the key insights and lessons from our conversation, offering a comprehensive guide to expanding your online presence and optimizing your e-commerce strategy.

The Imperative of Diversification in E-Commerce

Ben Riggle opened our discussion with a critical look at the North American market, where Amazon has long been the dominant force. However, he stressed the importance of not putting all your eggs in one basket. Diversifying sales channels is not just a strategy; it’s a necessity for survival and growth in the current e-commerce climate. With Channable’s feed management platform, businesses can scale their presence not only in the US but globally, tapping into a multitude of marketplaces that offer unique growth opportunities.

Overcoming Marketplace Challenges

One of the most pressing challenges for sellers is managing product listings and campaigns across various marketplaces. This is particularly true in categories like fashion and jewelry, where the complexity of variants and platform-specific requirements can be overwhelming. Ben emphasized the need for a strategic marketplace match, ensuring that your brand and product category align with the platform’s audience and advertising opportunities.

The Rise of Retail Media and Platform Competition

The concept of retail media is reshaping the e-commerce landscape, with platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and even TikTok Shops vying for sellers’ attention. Ben highlighted the importance of considering factors such as distribution relationships, category competitiveness, and profitability when choosing which channels to prioritize. It’s a delicate balance between seizing advertising opportunities and maintaining a profitable distribution model.

Leveraging Insights and Automation with Channable

Channable is revolutionizing the way businesses approach marketplace selling with its insights tools. These tools help clients monitor and optimize product performance, providing scoring for listings and utilizing AI to automate categorization. This level of analysis and automation empowers businesses to make data-driven decisions about where to list and sell their products, maximizing their online potential.

Streamlining Advertising Campaigns

When it comes to advertising, managing both organic and paid campaigns can be a daunting task. Ben discussed how Channable simplifies this process, offering an end-to-end solution that streamlines campaign management. By reducing the time spent on manual tasks and enhancing control over advertising spend, businesses can more effectively optimize their campaigns for better results.

The Global E-Commerce Opportunity

Our conversation also touched on the push for North American clients to expand internationally, particularly into Canada and Mexico. Ben underscored the potential for businesses to tap into new markets, highlighting the advantages of trade agreements and the need to navigate compliance and paperwork challenges. Cross-border expansion is not just an option; it’s a gateway to the vast potential of the global e-commerce market.

Ben Riggle shared his insights on the evolving role of social media in e-commerce. Platforms like TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest are not only driving traffic but also generating significant revenue for businesses. He also pointed to the potential resurgence of Twitter and the impact of data and AI in shaping the future of online selling. For B2B businesses, social media presents an untapped avenue for distribution and marketing, one that is ripe for exploration.

Supporting Causes Through Collaboration

Lastly, Ben took a moment to highlight a cause close to his heart. He spoke about Knockaround sunglasses and their collaboration with the Trevor Project, an initiative supporting young men grappling with issues related to sexuality. This partnership exemplifies how businesses can leverage their platform for social good, aligning their brand with meaningful causes.

Conclusion

The e-commerce landscape is in a constant state of flux, with new challenges and opportunities emerging at every turn. My conversation with Ben Riggle provided a wealth of insights into how businesses can navigate this complex environment. By diversifying sales channels, optimizing listings, embracing retail media, and considering global expansion, companies can position themselves for success in the ever-evolving world of online marketplaces. Whether you’re a seasoned e-commerce veteran or just starting, the strategies discussed in this episode of Talk Commerce are invaluable for anyone looking to make their mark in the digital marketplace.

retail media