Podcasts about SKU

Double Your Apparel Brand's Revenue by Doing Half the Work | The Power of SKU Rationalization Are you burning out your team and draining your profits by offering too many products?  Did you know you can actually double your revenue by doing less? In this episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel explains the strategy of SKU rationalization, the proven process of reducing your product line to focus on what actually sells. Learn why trimming your assortment can double (or even triple) your revenue without piling on more work or marketing expense. We break down the step-by-step approach to identifying your losing SKUs, weeding out the waste in your inventory, and setting your business up for sustainable growth, even if you're a small startup. Plus, discover how a single decision took one brand from $25 million to $60 million in sales. Don't forget to register for our upcoming SKU Rationalization Workshop, taking place on Friday, July 25th at 1:30pm EST, where you'll learn how to implement this process inside your own brand. Sign up for the SKU Rationalization Workshop here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/sku In this episode, you'll hear: - What SKU rationalization is and why it matters - How to identify your winning and losing SKUs - The impact of too many products on your team and customers - The “weeding out the waste” analogy for product lines - Details of the upcoming SKU Rationalization Workshop   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion-Dollar Apparel Brands FREE Course here!   We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

If your product isn't converting, that doesn't mean it's a loser. It might just be misunderstood. In this episode of Built by Business, Andy Isom breaks down how to reposition existing products for new use cases, seasonal campaigns, or customer segments—without creating a single new SKU.   You'll learn 4 proven re-angling strategies that help brands drive fresh traffic, increase conversions, and stay relevant all year long.   Get a free brand audit here: www.weavos.io  

According to the State of Sales Enablement Report 2024, 31% of organizations are preparing to launch a new product or service as a key go-to-market initiative. So, how can you prepare your sellers to be ready for a successful product or service launch that drives business results? Riley Rogers: Hi, and welcome to the Win Win podcast. I’m your host, Riley Rogers. Join us as we dive into changing trends in the workplace and how to navigate them successfully. Here to discuss this topic is Kate Stringfield, senior manager of revenue enablement at Dialpad. Thank you so much for joining us, Kate. Before we get started, I’d love to learn a little bit more about yourself, your role, and your background. Kate Stringfield: Yeah, so I’m Kate Stringfield, as you called out. Was in sales prior to being in enablement, and I was in sales for about seven years, both in hospitality as well as SaaS. And then I made the jump into enablement around six years ago, and now I’m over at Dialpad. RR: Amazing. Thank you for sharing that. I feel like it’s always so helpful to get insight from people who make that transition and have experience on both sides of the playing field.We’re so excited to have you on the podcast for that reason. You have such extensive experience as both a sales and sales enablement leader. So can you maybe walk us through your journey into enablement, how you made that shift, and then maybe a little bit about how that sales background helps influence your enablement strategy? KS: Yeah, so I was in hotels, like I mentioned, for a number of years, and I found my passion helping other people as they started out in their new roles and getting them up to speed. And so when I made the move into SaaS, I learned about this cool role called enablement, and I was like, oh my gosh, I gotta—I gotta learn more and get into that.So since helping others be successful was a—or still is—a passion of mine, I made that jump. And once I landed in an enablement position, I was like, man, I found my place.So I spent a number of years doing enablement for the sellers that I was once a seller for—like, I was doing that role. And then I did another two and a half years in enablement at an enablement company, where I focused on role-specific enablement, as well as launching a sales methodology, three sales motion changes, and various other initiatives that I supported along the way.And then I moved over into Dialpad, where I’m now leading a team of six incredibly gifted, talented revenue enablers across sales, success, and partner enablement. RR: Wonderful. Thank you for walking us through that. It seems like it’s been quite the journey to get where you are today. I’m curious then—we’ve talked about how it informs your strategy—but maybe how does it inform action?So I kind of want to shift gears a little bit and maybe talk about a recent initiative that I know Dialpad has been running, which is that you rolled out a new SKU after an acquisition, and product launch has become a priority for you this year. So can you maybe talk to us a little bit about that initiative? KS: Yeah, absolutely. So making sure that our product is up to speed and ahead of the market is imperative. And so, gosh, around eight months ago, back in October, we acquired a WFM company—so workforce management—which is part of a solution of ours that we did not currently have. So we acquired a company in order to offer that as a complementary solution with what we already had.This was a completely new product line, and we had to figure out, okay, how could we enable our reps to be able to go ahead and sell this? And it’s a slightly different selling motion, so we had to talk through what is it, why does it matter, as well as how do they then position the value of it. And so in true SaaS fashion, we were also, in addition to launching this new SKU, we also had other product enhancements that we were sharing along the same time, as well as a rebranding and new marketing strategy and a new pitch deck.So there was a lot going on. So we had to make sure that we also landed this and landed it well. And so we did some pre-launch awareness where we equipped our sellers with content in the form of kits as well as micro-learnings and giving them the foundation to get them ready for that launch moment so they could start having introductory conversations with customers.So how do you first scope that? Then we did our launch moment and made our just-in-time much more robust and turned them into true sales plays where they learned how to really position this product in the right way and along the whole sales process. And with that, we also did additional learning moments, such as full-blown e-learnings and certifications for how to sell this.Then we really wanted to focus on reinforcement that stuck, and so we looked at, okay, how can we get our managers speaking about this product in team meetings? What kind of activities could we give to managers to run in team meetings, such as trainings in a box? And how can we continue to evolve the conversation and get our reps learning more?And so we focused on PEC talk as well as more thorough, in-depth enablement from a product standpoint, and then that later along the line sales motion and how to sell that. And overall, we saw around $500,000 of closed-won sales initially, and we built around $3 million in pipeline. And through that, we also looked at data with the kit and with the play that—you know, the kit that shifted into the play—and a lot of our reps were using it. There was high adoption of it. They were going back to it multiple times and spending about four minutes consuming the content.And so we were able to track, alright, they did the enablement, they were using the content and sharing it with customers, and then that translated to those closed-won numbers and that pipeline build that I discussed. RR: That sounds like such a thoughtful approach and also like quite a lot of work. I’m sure that was quite difficult to execute, but I love that you’re already seeing the results that you’re looking for. I’d like to maybe dig a little bit more into kind of the initial concept phases where you’re staring down the barrel of this initiative.What kind of challenges do you see reps tending to face when it comes to things like product launch, and what were your best practices for overcoming them as you were executing over the next few months? KS: Yeah, information overload is a big one. And it’s one that—you know, I mentioned we did this in conjunction with other product enhancements and a marketing branding shift in our messaging, as well as a pitch deck launch.So you know, besides that, reps are always being overloaded with information, and so that’s always something you have to contend with as a challenge. Also, when reps are learning about how to sell a new product, it’s something that’s outside of their existing knowledge and skill set a lot of the time or, you know, is just stretching them in a different way.And so you have to figure out how to use the foundation that they already had and build upon that. And then sometimes there’s additional complexities as well. And so when I think about those challenges and how to solve for them, I think about, you know, making sure that you’re taking a crawl-walk-run approach with those product launch moments and building upon what they already have to get them into that run state, but not expecting them to run right out of the gate—which a lot of times is an expectation that happens.So making sure that we’re setting them up for success in learning and building upon that learning, and then also creating resources that really meet them where they are in their tenure and their journey, and being able to translate complex information into simple information that they can digest, consume, put into practice, and then go and evangelize.And then also weaving in sales subject matter experts that really know how to sell your current product and what talking to your customers is like currently, and using them as subject matter experts to really inform that sales motion of that product launch. RR: Great. I think those are all wonderful strategies. And I know kind of a common one when it comes to product launch that you need to keep in mind is just how crucial cross-functional alignment is for the success of a launch. So can you talk to me a little bit about how you create and maybe maintain alignment as you’re building and executing your launch enablement strategy? KS: Yeah, it is so critical. And communication in general in all relationships is so important. And so this is one that really is the make-or-break fail point in a lot of companies. And so having regular touchpoints with subject matter experts across various teams such as—you know, as I called out, sales and success—but also product marketing and other marketing teams. Operations is another really key one.There are so many different teams, and if you’re lucky, you’ll have a business transformation team or a project management team that’s there to foster all of those cross-functional relationships and create that alignment.We work really closely with our product managers and our product teams. We meet with them regularly within our enablement role. In fact, we have somebody in enablement at Dialpad that’s focused on our product and pricing strategy, and so he has these deep relationships with these different teams and different individuals across the business.Additionally, we have a product launch playbook that we have socialized with these cross-functional partners so they know what that playbook looks like, how it can act modularly, and where they play in the process of the playbook—or where they fit into the process, so to speak.And so that really helps us create that alignment and speak the same language. Lastly, we focus on retrospectives—so making sure that we’re learning from each product launch or product release to the next, and by performing retrospectives and having that discussion over, hey, what worked really well, what maybe didn’t work as well, and what can we make better the next time? RR: I love those strategies. I think the Product Launch Playbook is such a clever idea to kind of get everybody on board and aligned with what you’re expected to accomplish. I also love the idea of coming back and reviewing. Sometimes the business runs so fast that you feel like you can’t, but that moment is just as essential—almost—as that next product launch. So I love to hear that.Thinking then of how you’re launching, I’d also like to know a little bit about once you’ve established alignment, how you’re then developing that launch strategy to start running with. Could you talk me through the components of your launch strategy and then maybe how you’re partnering with an enablement platform to support and scale it? KS: Yeah, so that product launch playbook is key. And making sure that it’s modular and nimble to work with various forms or shapes and sizes in which products or, you know, product launch moments happen.Highspot is truly the home—or I guess any platform that people might use—to host just-in-time resources. For us, it’s Highspot, and it truly is the home and where we expect reps to go to first. And so if we think about it in that way, we need to build around that concept.So having that host pre-launch and post-launch and launch materials, having it give guidelines on how to execute—whether it is, you know, as an SDR, BDR, ADR, picking up the phone, what to say, how sellers should be selling the product, how our Customer Success Managers should be reviewing adoption for the product—all needs to live there.We also focus on asynchronous learning, so making sure that we’re not pulling reps out of prime-time selling and giving them space and time to learn on their own, but also checking their knowledge through knowledge checks and certifications. And then all of this new information happening during a product launch needs to, in some way, shape, or form, be folded into onboarding.So thinking about how that comes back into onboarding so that reps who start tomorrow can benefit from that information and be able to hit the ground running. RR: Yeah, there are a lot of different lenses to look at it and areas in which it needs to be embedded, so that all makes sense. On the note of enablement platforms, I know that Dialpad had previously partnered with another enablement solution, so can you maybe share why Highspot was the better fit for your organization as well as how it supports your enablement strategy today? KS: Yeah, Highspot is integral.It’s integral in that it is where our reps start their day and where they end their day. It hosts all of our content, both internal-facing and external-facing. So Highspot is a game changer for us because within my team it’s easy for us to manage from an admin perspective and to practice governance across the various teams that are content creators or host content and manage it there.Our reps are familiar with using it. That’s another thing—you know, having a solution like Highspot is something that reps come to expect nowadays, and so they’re familiar with it, they know how to use it, and we’re constantly thinking about how they interact with it and how we can train them to interact with it better.Our Highspot team—so the team that helps us at Highspot—is a differentiator. So that is our CSM and our AM. So Jess, Emily, our Technical Account Manager Brian, and Matt Hunin, our Solutions Engineer, all help us be able to learn the latest and greatest, utilize what we already have, and maximize our value.And then potentially look at other things that might help us as we overall, as a company, shift to more of a just-in-time strategy. So moving away from live sessions that people are going to forget most of what you said, moving away from, you know, long e-learnings, and more of, okay, I’m in—you know, I have to prepare for this call in 15 minutes—where am I going to find that information?Surfacing it up in Highspot and making it easy to find has become a game changer in helping them—meeting them where they're at and giving them the information they need to be successful.And then we can use data from Highspot and correlate that to leading indicators on whether reps are doing the kind of behaviors we want to see and how that ties to business outcomes. And are the reps actually closing deals or protecting revenue as a result? RR: Well, that’s all great to hear, and I always love to hear a really positive experience. I’m so glad that your account team is there to support you through all of it.We have heard through the grapevine, actually, that you’re doing some really awesome work with the platform, and one area where you’ve seen a lot of success is actually through Digital Rooms—with over 342 Digital Rooms created in Highspot, as well as a 9% increase in external engagement, which is wonderful just to call that out.So what are some of your best practices for driving that adoption? KS: Yeah, yeah. We moved to Digital Rooms just last year, if you can believe it, from pitch templates. And one of the things we did first off was—there was a Highspot University course around Digital Rooms that we took, and we also used materials that we were able to find from Highspot so we could become proficient ourselves as the people that were enabling the reps.We then built a dedicated Digital Room kit to help reps get familiar with the why and the how of Digital Rooms and provided them with walkthroughs. And then we hosted sessions, we did asynchronous learning, we do one-on-one support for our reps on why it’s important, how to build, how to find engagement and analytics.And we regularly also work with reps to get feedback—so figure out what’s working, how do we build templates that make it really easy for them to add in what they want to add in, what information do they always add in so we can just add it into the template for them.Another thing that we thought about was—we use Consensus for demo videos, and so integrating Consensus into there, and how do we make that easy?We have also thought about Digital Rooms not just for sales. We’ve thought about it for our sales development reps and what are their use cases, and built templates for them, and done specific training for them, and gotten feedback from them.We’ve also thought about the post-sales journey a lot. So how do we get our client sales reps using it to position cross-sell and upsell? And then customer success—where do we feed in content for QBRs or other conversations that they’re having with customers and integrating in their feedback to make their templates better?So we’re always thinking about how to get our reps more and more proficient and making that a focal point month over month. And we’re really excited for some of the enhancements coming to Digital Rooms that we’re going to capitalize on moving forward and making sure our reps know how to use it. RR: Yeah. I love that you led with educating yourself first, because how can you enable on something that you haven’t been in those weeds with as well?Well, that’s one of the biggest things you can give your reps—is to build with them in mind. You know their work, you can build something for them, and then actually they’ll use it. It sounds simple, but it’s really hard to do.So I’d love to hear a little bit of a shift in focus, but I’m curious if you could walk me through how you measure the impact of—and maybe then begin to optimize—some of your enablement efforts? KS: Yeah, I think about measuring impact of enablement in three ways. So you have the first prong, which is your enablement effort in general. So how do you measure enablement through, like, what activities are you doing?So this is—you know, if you think about the Kirkpatrick model—this is Level 1 and Level 2: Was your training effective? Were you able to certify, you know, X number of reps? That sort of thing. Those are examples of that.Then I think about the second prong, which is leading indicators. And this is about behavior. Are the reps able to take what they have learned and apply it to their daily workflow?Maybe it looks like building pipeline, maybe it looks like having certain conversations with customers or sending information to customers. You know, it could be various things that are that kind of Level 3 of Kirkpatrick.And then the third prong is at Level 4—so thinking about those business outcomes that are the goals of why you are doing this whole enablement approach to begin with. What kind of revenue are you trying to impact? Are you trying to impact conversion rates, you know, average deal size? Are you trying to increase revenue? Are you trying to protect revenue—so reduce churn and downsell?Those are all things that, you know, are on my mind. And then the correlation between the three—the correlation between the enablement efforts, the behavior change that you’re seeing through leading indicators, and the business outcomes.And so when it comes to then, okay, we’ve launched something, we’ve measured it, and now we’re trying to optimize it—it is then looking at, alright, what are the different checkpoints along the way in which we can say, did we do our job? Or do we need to go back and do more?And so maybe it looks like, hey, are they actually reviewing the play or the kits? Are they sending the content to customers? If not, why? We can ask those questions, because we can see the data on whether or not they’re doing it. Are they saying it in customer conversations? That looks like utilizing a conversational intelligence tool to see if they’re actually using it in those conversations.We can start to dig into all the different pieces and figure out where we need to refine our enablement approach to fill that gap.And so we can utilize Highspot to do that, our data in Salesforce to do that, conversational intelligence data. There are many different ways, but just having that data to dig into it, and then asking questions to reps is so important. RR: Thanks so much for that really thoughtful step-by-step walkthrough. I think that’s really actionable, and I think our listeners will take a lot away from it. I know that measurement is always going to kind of be difficult for enablement teams, so I love just hearing how folks have developed real actionable strategies for making it happen.But on the subject of measurement, I’d love to know—since implementing Highspot, what business results have you achieved? Any wins that you could share or just anything that you’re proud of that you’ve accomplished over at Dialpad? KS: Yeah, I’m proud of so much. Our team has done a phenomenal job, and as you called out—you know, the successes with Digital Rooms and that new product that we launched, that new SKU—those are really huge.Additionally, we have utilized Highspot to realize over $16 million of influenced revenue in just 2024 alone within our revenue organization. That is such a testament to how much our reps have Highspot integrated into their day-to-day life, and then how they use that information to speak to customers, how they use their messaging, and then how that behavior results in those closed-won opportunities.Additionally, partner is such a huge focus of Dialpad—so our partnerships with our resellers, our partnership with our channel—and we have seen a high increase: 23% of our partner material being used and being viewed and then being leveraged, which is also something I’m very proud of.And then the project that I’m currently working on that I’m proud of—but, you know, time will tell on results—is I’m working on a robust governance strategy so we can really take Highspot to the next level and make our cross-functional partners more of the partners in how the content gets delivered to our reps.And so I’m really looking forward to rolling out our more robust governance strategy this year. RR: We’ll stay tuned on how it goes. I mean, those are already incredible results, so thank you so much for sharing.Just one last question for you before we close out—would love for you to share maybe what the biggest pieces of advice you’d give other enablement leaders to help them drive a successful product launch. KS: I think the modular Product Launch Playbook has been huge—so having a laid-out plan for how you would run a product launch from start to finish in enablement and making sure that it fits all sizes, shapes, and formations of what a product launch might look like.And then the other piece of advice I would give is having regular communication and good working relationships across multiple cross-functional partners so that siloed work becomes less of a thing you have to battle. Because that just means that, you know, working together, we all lift each other up.And so that’s something that then trickles down to our reps, but then also trickles out to our customers and makes them more willing to buy from us. So I think cross-functional relationships are just so key—and so keep on working on those relationships. RR: Those are both fantastic pieces of advice, so thank you for taking the time to come share these insights with us. I think I speak for myself and our listeners when I say that I learned a lot of valuable information and was taking notes for sure.To our audience, thank you so much for listening to this episode of the Win-Win podcast. Be sure to tune in next time for more insights on how you can maximize enablement success with Highspot.

Steven is the founder of My Amazon Guy, an agency that manages over $1.2 billion in annual sales across 400+ brands on Amazon. A best-selling author of "Amazon Selling Tips" and former TV reporter, Steven brings over a decade of eCommerce expertise. My Amazon Guy, with a team of 550+ employees, specializes in boosting traffic and sales for Amazon brands. Steven is also the owner of My Refund Guy and several Amazon brands, while his YouTube tutorials, viewed by millions, provide expert insights on navigating Amazon challenges.Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Evolving landscape of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and AI (Artificial Intelligence) on Amazon.Impact of Amazon's AI initiatives, particularly the introduction of "Rufus."Stability of foundational SEO practices despite new AI developments.Changes in Amazon's title requirements and their implications for SEO.Strategies for launching new products, including the use of long-tail keywords.Importance of high-quality visuals and main product images in driving sales.Regular audits of Seller Central settings for optimization.Key SEO factors influencing performance, such as click-through rates and organic sales.Collaboration and information sharing among Amazon sellers.Continuous innovation and product launches as essential for maintaining competitiveness.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley interviews Steven Pope, founder of My Amazon Guy, an agency managing over $12 billion in annual sales across 400+ brands on Amazon. The discussion focuses on the evolving landscape of SEO and AI within Amazon. Steven highlights Amazon's AI initiatives, particularly "Rufus," and their impact on SEO strategies. He emphasizes the enduring importance of foundational SEO practices, optimizing product listings, and the critical role of high-quality visuals. Steven also shares actionable insights on dynamic pricing, launching new products, and leveraging data analytics for continuous improvement.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Measure and Review Data: Regularly analyze SKU performance to identify trends and make informed decisions.Focus on Visual Content: Prioritize high-quality images and engaging product presentations to attract buyers.Implement Dynamic Pricing: Be flexible with pricing strategies to optimize sales and maintain competitiveness.Resources mentioned in this episode:Here are the mentions with timestamps arranged by topic:Ecomm BreakthroughJosh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough YouTubeeComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastEmail Josh Hadley: Josh@eCommBreakthrough.comAmazonMy Amazon GuyMy Refund GuyAmazon Seller CentralAmazon Brand AnalyticsSearch Query Performance ReportPickFuAmazon A/B TestingPerplexity AIHelium 10Amazon Selling Tips by Steven PopeTranscending the Levels of Consciousness: The Stairway to Enlightenment by David R. HawkinsPower vs. Force by David R. HawkinsDan KennedyJohn AspinallSpecial Mention(s):Adam “Heist” Runquist on LinkedInKevin King on LinkedInMichael E. Gerber on LinkedInRelated Episode(s):“Cracking the Amazon Code: Learn From Adam Heist's Brand Scaling Secrets” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Kevin King's Wicked-Smart Tips for Building an Audience of Raving Fans” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Unlocking Entrepreneurial Greatness | Insider Secrets With E-myth Author Michael Gerber” on the eComm Breakthrough PodcastEpisode SponsorThis episode is brought to you by eComm Breakthrough Consulting where I help seven-figure e-commerce owners grow to eight figures. I started Hadley Designs in 2015 and grew it to an eight-figure brand in seven years.I made mistakes along the way that made the path to eight figures longer. At times I doubted whether our business could even survive and become a real brand. I wish I would have had a guide to help me grow faster and avoid the stumbling blocks.If you've hit a plateau and want to know the next steps to take your business to the next level, then go to www.EcommBreakthrough.com (that's Ecomm with two M's) to learn more.Transcript AreaJosh Hadley 00:00:00  Welcome to the Ecomm Breakthrough podcast. I'm your host, Josh Hadley, where I interview the top business leaders in e-commerce. Past guests include Kevin King, Michael Gerber, author of The E-myth and Aaron Cordova's. Today we've got a special returning guest. He is Steven Pope from my Amazon guy, and today we are going to be talking all about SEO and AI, and how the world of Amazon and SEO is changing. Or rather, is it not changing on Amazon, and are the tactics of how we need to write our titles and our b...

欢迎收听雪球出品的财经有深度，雪球，国内领先的集投资交流交易一体的综合财富管理平台，聪明的投资者都在这里。今天分享的内容叫美团阿里开始豪赌未来，来自王智远同学。7月5号，阿里淘宝闪购突然发起一场名为“淮海战役”的补贴大战，目标很明确：每周六集中火力冲单量。阿里为什么要主动发起这样一场战役？战略意图是什么？01我觉得，阿里真正想赢的，是淘宝未来。为什么这么说？因为淘宝这套传统货架模式的增长已经接近天花板，年增长率不到10%，明显放缓；而另一边，即时零售——也就是外卖+快消品——仍在以超过20%的速度增长。这说明，人们越来越习惯“马上要、立刻有”的消费方式。阿里在思考：如果我能把用户从“一个月逛几次淘宝”，变成“一周点好几单外卖”，那不就等于给淘宝装上了一个新的发动机？而且，这个发动机很猛。外卖是高频行为，每天都要吃饭、喝咖啡、买零食。一旦用户习惯了通过淘宝闪购点外卖，就会开始顺手买点别的东西。比如：7月5日当天，淘宝闪购的粮油、母婴、家电等品类订单同比增长超100%。用户开始像“双11囤货”一样，囤起了即时消费品。再来看一组数据：截至7月5日22时54分，淘宝闪购非餐饮类订单已达1300万单，相比一年前翻了6倍；美团同期也有约2000万单是非餐饮交易。这说明，两个平台都在试图用外卖带动零售，谁先养成就用户习惯，谁就能赢得主动权。阿里还有一个别人难以复制的优势：流量太大。QuestMobile数据显示，2025年1至5月，淘宝App日活用户增长至4.1亿，美团外卖日均支付订单维持在9000万以上。7月5日那天阿里直接将所有App开屏广告全换成橙色促销，一下触达了几亿人；这种打法，美团根本接不住。更狠的是，阿里还把饿了么和支付宝深度绑定。你点个外卖，顺便就把支付宝用了；如果你是88VIP会员，还能直接送你一个饿了么会员。这种生态联动，让整个消费路径变得更顺畅，也更容易留住用户。当然，美团也不是没有反击能力。它同样能靠补贴冲单量，1亿单的规模随时可以做到；但问题在于，美团不像阿里那样拥有庞大的流量池，也没有那么多可补的零售品类支撑这场战争。还有一个关键时间窗口，阿里必须抢在前面出手。因为美团也在悄悄打造自己的“零售版淘宝”，它的闪购业务已占GMV的15%，涵盖超市、便利、数码家电等多个品类。换句话说，它不只是要做外卖，还想做更多。但目前，它的商品丰富度尚未完全上来，尤其在生鲜、母婴等高毛利品类上。这时，阿里突然出手，就像在美团盖楼之前，先把脚下的地基给挖松了。如果你仔细看淘宝闪购公布的数据，会发现一个有意思的细节：粮油米面、冷冻食品、家清、母婴、个护等品类的订单增速最快。这说明，阿里正在借助外卖打开用户的生活圈，所以回过头看这场战役，智远主观分析认为，阿里的战略目的有三：一，改造淘宝，用外卖的高频需求激活用户活跃度；二，拖住美团，逼它在补贴战中持续消耗现金流；三，抢占心智，让“30分钟送达”成为淘宝的新标签。换句话说，阿里想借外卖的风，把淘宝吹向一个新阶段。02不过，美团也不是没有反击能力。它只用12个小时，就把订单量从日常的9000万单提升到1.2亿单，直接冲上历史峰值。这波操作可以说是“闪电反击”，也再次展示了美团在外卖战场上的硬实力，它靠一套真刀真枪打磨出来的配送系统。它手里握着全国最大的即时配送网络，700万骑手中，日均活跃的有336万，占整个中国即时配送市场的60%以上。换句话说，全国每10个送外卖的人里，就有6个是美团的。除了自有运力，它还有麦芽田和青云两大聚合平台，这两个系统可以整合大量第三方配送公司，单日最高调度能力超过1000万单。更关键的是，它的动态定价机制。高峰期时，骑手每单奖励能飙到10元，但美团仍基本保证了餐品按时送达。听起来是不是很稳？但这场比赛也暴露了一个问题：系统虽然强大，也有自己的天花板。比如，7月5日晚高峰时，订单突然暴涨，导致美团旗下麦芽田服务器一度崩溃，部分订单延迟了1到2小时；这种事在日常可能还能扛得住，但在极限对战中，就容易出问题。而且别忘了，光为了维持这个系统的运转，美团每天就要烧掉两亿多的补贴成本。你说这能撑多久？再来看另一个角度：美团在非餐饮品类布局远超竞对。它有自己的前置仓体系，加上3万多加盟闪电仓，在北京望京区域，三公里范围内就能覆盖20万个SKU，而传统超市如沃尔玛，通常只有3万个左右。什么概念？它真的能做到“你要什么我都能送”，但背后的问题也很明显：模式太重，利润太薄。美团2024年全年经营利润为368亿元，其中外卖贡献约325亿元；但今年的补贴支出将在去年基础上新增至少100亿元，如果下半年竞争加剧，还可能增加150亿到200亿元。同时，美团闪购是重资产路线，毛利率仅为20%-25%，客单价65元，履约成本却高达8元，虽然这一差距相比外卖业务正在缩小，但整体压力依然不小。再加上3万多家加盟闪电仓和自营前置仓，每天的维护成本都超过千万。相比之下，阿里那500亿补贴分摊到12个月，平均每天不到1.4亿，和美团日常营销支出已相当接近。这就像一场耐力赛，看谁更能耗。最危险的信号出现在哪里？是美团开始发放“用户自提免单券”，这是它在用一种损害用户体验的方式去止损。已有用户反馈说“缺货”或“覆盖范围有限”，说明这套模式仍在探索阶段。你看，运力已经快到极限了，但它还不能停。所以回过头看这场“1.2亿单反击战”，你会发现：美团的护城河确实很深，短期内没人能轻易撼动；但它维护这座护城河的成本太高，就像一边建城墙，一边还要不停往里面灌水泥；它现在面对一个带着生态打法来的超级平台。03这场仗打得越狠，就越有人在替平台“买单”，真正承受代价的，还有商家、骑手，甚至整个行业的生态平衡。智远了解到，不少连锁品牌接到通知时已经是下午：“今天要冲单量，你们得配合。”听起来像是临时加戏，但对商家来说，这是一场突如其来的“硬仗”。人力成本飙升，他们不得不临时高薪请人打包，甚至找兼职帮忙。如果真爆单了还好，一旦没爆单，牛奶、水果等原料只能白白浪费。再来看平台这边。以美团1.2亿单为例：每天光是直接补贴就得花掉12亿元，还有大量隐性支出——服务器扩容、投诉赔偿、骑手保险……这些账单藏在后台，没人看见，却一样都不能少。换句话说，这是一次对整个运营系统的极限测试。再看一个容易被忽略的群体：小商户和区域品牌。在这场战斗中，受益最多的还是头部连锁品牌。像一些大型连锁奶茶店，接到通知后能立刻调动IT团队做系统调整，临时加派人手打包出餐，还能与平台谈判争取配送保底。他们不仅接得住这波流量，打完仗之后还可能获得平台的流量倾斜。可小商户呢？很多人连消息都没接到就被卷进去了。有的直到订单突然暴涨才发现系统根本扛不住，配送费涨了不敢拒绝，抽成也比平时高了不少，但又不得不接。最惨的是，因为履约慢，平台还可能降权，下一轮流量红利就彻底没他们的份了；所以，这场仗表面上是平台在烧钱，实际上压力最大的，是那些没有议价能力的小玩家。当然，也不能忘记消费者。“0元奶茶”让你高频打开App，提升日活；你授权了地理位置权限，平台借此掌握你的消费轨迹；你还慢慢接受了动态定价机制，一杯奶茶涨价几块钱，也开始觉得“好像也没那么离谱”。我自己就有体会：第一天喝肯悦咖啡才4块多，第二天涨到了6块多，到现在几乎恢复原价了。我还特意问了一个不太常点外卖的朋友，他的日常价也才6块多。所以，看似微不足道的变化，在悄悄改写你的消费习惯。而且历史经验告诉我们，低价红利一旦结束，用户流失速度也快得惊人；还记得网约车大战吗？当时订单量暴涨，但补贴一停，用户留存率不到很低。虽然我没有明确数据，说明外卖大战用户留存情况，但一个大家都默认的事实是：平台砸钱换来的增长，往往只是短暂的幻觉。因此，表面上看，这是阿里和美团之间的一场补贴大战；实际上，真正承受代价的，是商家、骑手、消费者，甚至是整个行业的生态平衡。04那么，这场“淮海战役”打到最后，即时零售行业会迎来新大陆吗？短期来看，未来6到12个月是一场拉锯战。阿里的打法很明确，每周末都来一次“7月5日”的翻版，目标是让“超级星期六”变成用户的生活习惯。听起来很美好，但也有风险：用户会不会慢慢疲了？淘宝流量转化率会不会递减？非餐饮品类如生鲜、母婴，履约成本更高，阿里能不能扛得住？美团当然不会坐以待毙。被迫跟进补贴，会不会玩得更精细，比如：在阿里重点城市上线“神枪手”低价专区；用闪电仓密集覆盖高潜力社区，降低最后一公里配送成本？所以，智远认为，双方现在就像两个赌徒，赌谁先停。中期来看，谁先撑不住，谁就出局，到了这个阶段，拼的就是谁能活得更久。这里有三个绕不过去的坎儿：第一个是毛利率陷阱。外卖业务本身毛利还能做到30%左右，但一旦涉及生鲜、冷链这些品类，毛利率直接掉到15%-20%，甚至更低。第二个是运力成本刚性，骑手每单的成本从原来的6-8元涨到了10-12元，而消费者实付却从9-11元降到了0-3元。这不是做生意。第三个是资本耐心见底，美团股价已经比高峰时跌了60%多，市场对亏损的容忍度越来越低；阿里虽然现金流充足，但电商主业也在承压，不可能无限输血。还有一个关键临界点：当单日订单常态化突破1.5亿单时，每增加1000万单，可能就意味着每天多亏2亿元，这已经不是增长，而是出血。那未来的终局是什么样？智远觉得有几个可能性：第一种：垂直分化，美团继续主导餐饮加便利店这类高频需求，阿里掌控生鲜、母婴等高毛利品类；京东聚焦3C数码等高客单价即时配送。第二种：资本合并，美团和阿里成立合资公司，各自划分区域运营；前提是反垄断政策松动，但现在看概率非常低。第三种就是生态重构了，黑天鹅事件，即时零售和社区团购融合，或者无人配送技术突破，直接降低60%的运力成本。所以，即时零售既是绞肉机，也是新大陆，只不过，要先流血，才能看到绿洲。短期内，阿里需要一场“斯大林格勒战役”式的胜利，美团则要避免被拖入消耗战；中期内，谁现金流更稳，谁就能活得更久。目前来看，阿里 账上6137 亿元，美团大概 2000 亿元储备，差距明显；长期来看，30分钟送达将成为像水电煤一样的基础设施，但赢家可能不超过两家。如果拼多多再进来呢？所以，别看现在打得热闹，真正的淘汰赛，才刚刚开始；也许再过一年，当我们站在新起点回看这一切时会发现：如今这场混战，不过是通往未来的第一站。

Explore our Business Central on-demand training courses at https://www.learndynamics.com/  Ready to simplify your supply chain and boost efficiency? Big things are coming in the 2025 Wave 1 Release of Business Central and they're designed to help you work smarter, not harder. In this episode, we break down practical upgrades like multi-user inventory posting, reversing production consumption, Excel journal edits, and reopening finished orders. You'll also discover smarter ways to handle non-inventory costs, SKU-based standard costing, and overpicking. These features cut the guesswork, reduce manual cleanup, and keep your operations running smoothly and accurately. Tune in now to

How a €1 B digital‑engineering firm uses generative AI and agent tech to reinvent retail supply chains and CX.18 000 engineers, €1 B revenue, 50+ patents—Nagarro's Global CTO Rahul Mahajan explains how generative AI, vector databases and knowledge graphs are reshaping demand planning and personalization at scale.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 Intro: product‑to‑service mind‑set 00:22 Meet Rahul Mahajan & Nagarro overview 01:17 Missed NRF meetings + digital engineering culture 02:35 Diversified industries & complex problem solving 03:35 Rahul's 50+ patents in retail AI 04:58 CPG use case: multi‑channel demand planning 06:49 SKU‑level AI forecasting & supply chain accuracy 07:32 “Humanizing personalization” patent explained 08:20 Ecosystem shift: partner products & services 09:29 Agent tech & zero‑downtime integration 10:16 From transactions to lifestyle services 12:08 Patenting novel data structures & AI models 13:19 Knowledge graphs + vectorized semantics 14:24 AI governance: tone, privacy, explainability 15:14 LLM interoperability (OpenAI, Anthropic, Gemini) 16:32 Why retailers must move before they're disrupted 17:13 Contact Rahul & closing

“The hardest part of robotics isn't actually doing robotics. It's providing a solution that solves a real customer problem.” Melonee Wise's quote from this episode is a good summary of what we talk about in this episode – practical, real-world applications of the technology we see hyped.Robotics, AMRs, humanoid robots, automation, AI – all of these things are hot topics in manufacturing. But the truth is that these solutions may not always result in the most exciting or sexiest applications. But when they're eliminating boring, laborious tasks, it's a huge opportunity across the industry.For part two of our Automate 2025 special episode, we hear from five incredible people, all from different areas of manufacturing, automation and robotics.We kick things off with Melonee Wise from Agility Robotics who you may have heard on the show before. She talks about the practical applications of using humanoid robots and where the industry is headed, while also talking through the biggest concern of adopting this new tech – safety.We kick things off with Melonee Wise from Agility Robotics who you may have heard on the show before. She talks about the practical applications of using humanoid robots and where the industry is headed, while also talking through the biggest concern of adopting this new tech – safety.Glen Guernsey from JR Automation talks about the biggest changes in warehouse automation today – including the ability to handle random SKU palletization. We chat with Zoie Rittling of OnLogic and Michael Maxey from ZEDEDA, about how right sizing AI at the edge is about eliminating boring work. And finally, Robert Ponsonby from Arduino talks about the interoperability and open-source solutions that drive innovation. All are slightly different takes on automation's new capabilities but offer truly great insights for anyone working in manufacturing thinking about the future. In this episode, find out:Melonee talks through Agility Robotics' humanoid demo and the practical applications of this techWhy Agility Robotics focused on bulk material handling at the beginning and takes a tiered approach to complexity Why robots performing individual tasks isn't what's important – it's how this connects to other systems and solves overall problemsWhere the humanoid market is likely headed compared to AMRsWhat the new safety standard means for humanoid implementation and how we could realistically see cooperatively safe humanoids working alongside humansGlen talks about the biggest changes we're seeing in warehouse automation, including the ability to handle random SKU palletizationWhy the labor shortage will need to be supplemented with automationPractical applications of AGVs and AMRs in warehouse operationsWhat the warehouse of the future will look likeZoie and Michael describe edge architecture and how it applies to managing applicationsHow the industry can right-size AI at the edge and how this will look different from using cloud applicationsWhy you need to prioritize integration when looking for the best AI partnersRobert defines interoperability and Arduino's approach to open-source softwareHow interoperability in open source allows for innovation, empowering teams, and rapid deploymentEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It's feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!Tweetable Quotes:"The most innovative thing that's out there has to do with random SKU palletization... up until recently with the advances in AI and advances in vision systems, this was not something that was easily done." – Glen Guernsey"We've seen on average for rollouts on projects,

This isn't just another swimwear startup - it's a $15K, single-SKU experiment that exploded into 300% annual growth. In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Londre Bodywear, a brand redefining fashion by embracing the philosophy of doing less, but doing it better. Here's how Ainsley Rose, co-founder and CEO of Londre Bodywear, turned plastic waste into cult classics and bootstrapped a climate-first brand consumers can't stop talking about.

What You'll Learn:Why supply chain must sit at the strategy table - not behind itHow SKU discipline drives faster growth and cleaner marginsWhat “AI as servant” really means in ops leadershipWhy executional control beats theoretical plans every timeWhat separates founders who scale from those who stallHow to balance autonomy and shared services in multi-brand orgsHow ops becomes the difference between brand hype and brand healthQuotes:[00:07:25] – “Everything is theoretical - until the customer doesn't get their order.” - JuE Wong[00:22:25] – “World domination with one SKU is better than SKU proliferation going nowhere.” - JuE Wong[00:30:59] – “AI is your servant, not your master.”  - JuE Wong[00:35:08] – “If you're not making money, it's a hobby.”  - JuE WongAbout the Guest:JuE Wong is CEO of PBG, a PE-backed portfolio of six brands and three manufacturers. A six-time CEO across public and private companies, she's known for scaling teams, transforming operations, and embedding supply chain as a core lever for growth, not just cost.Links Mentioned:JuE Wong on LinkedInPerformance Beauty Group Subscribe and Keep Learning!If you're a logistics leader looking to scale sustainably, don't miss out! Subscribe for more expert strategies on tackling modern supply chain challenges.Be sure to follow and tag the eCom Logistics Podcast on LinkedIn and YouTube

SKU Rationalization 101: Boost Profit & Cut Clutter in Your Apparel Line Are you drowning in too many SKUs? In this episode, Rachel breaks down SKU rationalization, a powerful but misunderstood tool that can completely transform your apparel business. Whether you're a solopreneur or scaling a million-dollar brand, you'll learn how to simplify your line, boost margins, and give your customers what they actually want. From clearing up backend data chaos to understanding the psychology of choice, this episode really covers how SKU rationalization helps you cut the noise, clarify your brand, and increase profit without overwhelming your customers, or your team. If you've ever been told to "start small" or felt paralyzed by product overwhelm, this is the missing explanation behind that advice you didn't know you needed to hear. In this episode, you'll hear: - What SKU rationalization actually is. - Why more SKUs don't always mean more sales. - The 80/20 rule and its real-world implications. - Customer psychology and product overwhelm. - How to simplify without sacrificing growth.   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion-Dollar Apparel Brands FREE Course here!   We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

DESCRIPTION The Category Disruptors Series continues!   It's time for Part 3 in our series spotlighting the female CEOs and founders behind some of the fastest-growing and most innovative brands in their categories.   In this episode, we spotlight Laurel Orley, co-founder and CEO of Daily Crunch—the sprouted nut snack brand shaking up what they call the “trusty but dusty” nut category.   It's a thoughtful conversation and another strong addition to the series—tune in for the full story.   "There's a lot of FOMO out there. You see unicorn brands doing amazing, and it's so easy to think: how did they make $1M in 5 minutes? Why not me? But you have to stay on your path." Laurel Orley   KEY TAKEAWAYS In this episode, Laurel, Julie, and Jordan discuss:  Laurel Orley's transition from a career at major brands like Unilever to founding Daily Crunch Snacks, inspired by her aunt's unique sprouted nut process. How Daily Crunch's sprouted, dehydrated nuts stand out for their crunch, health benefits, and clean label. The creative process behind their flavors, including collaborations with other brand and the upcycling of pickle ends for sustainability. Daily Crunch's commitment to women-owned certification and giving back through mental health initiatives Laurel shares how her corporate background provided valuable skills, but also discusses the steep learning curve and differences when moving to a founder role. The role of accelerators like SKU, mentorship, and the Vanderbilt intern pipeline in helping Daily Crunch grow and evolve. Hard-earned lessons in supply chain, pricing, product launches, and the realities of growing a snack brand during the pandemic. Exciting updates for 2025, including a new flavor and refreshed packaging highlighting nutritional benefits. The importance of staying focused on your own brand journey, leveraging available resources, and maintaining a mindset of continual learning.  

Michael Falls of Reveel & Jennifer Mitchell of GOAT Group talk about tariffs, network design, SKU analysis, carrier negotiation and decision intelligence.  IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:   [02.22] An introduction to Michael, his background, and what excites him about supply chain. “Work smarter, not harder – that's what I'm passionate about. There's great technology out there that shippers can leverage, but so many people are still working out of spreadsheets. That hasn't changed as rapidly in our industry as it has in others.” [03.49] An overview of Reveel, who they are, and what they do. “Our CEO always says that modeling is the hill we're going to die on. We have a lot of tools in our repertoire that are different to a lot of the other analytics tools on the market.” [04.36] An introduction to Jennifer, her background, and her company GOAT Group. [05.58] An overview of the current tariff landscape, and how businesses are approaching adaptability and cost impacts. “We're now in a period where shippers have a new normal, which is: we don't know what the future will hold, but we know we're going to have to adapt to change.” “Now there's a very public conversation around who absorbs the cost of tariffs. Tariffs are here to stay. The question is: are consumers going to pay for them, or are companies going to absorb the cost and use that as a competitive advantage?” [07.55] How tariffs have impacted GOAT Group, and why increased tariffs for China are driving up apparel costs and forcing companies to rethink their manufacturing locations. [09.07] From cost volatility to the impact of the unknown, the biggest negative impacts, driven by the current tariff landscape, for shippers. “It's ever-changing. The minute you make a decision to do something, it changes and you're back to square one.” [11.34] Network design and optimization, and why shippers need intelligence, agility, and a strategic command of their shipping network to manage current volatility. [14.28] How network design and optimization can help companies to design more efficient distribution strategies, what those strategies might look like, and the positive impact they can have for shippers. [15.16] How SKU profitability analysis can help businesses identify problem products and make more informed decisions on their portfolio. “There's much more that you can do with SKU level insights than just explore profitability.” [17.13] Why contract negotiations have changed, and how Reveel can help to simulate ‘what-if' scenarios and compare carrier performance so shippers can push for reductions or pivot. “You can't manage what you don't measure. So we empower our customers to measure all the KPIs that are going to impact their transportation spend.” “The duopoly is over!.. Carrier contract negotiation is becoming an ongoing activity.” [20.07] The importance of flexibility and expanding carrier options to reduce dependency, lower cost, and improve customer experience. “Flexibility is crucial… Customers expect more from delivery, they expect it faster, more personalized. The bigger carriers are very rigid in what they do and a lot of these emerging carriers have more flexibility, they're more customizable to your company.” [21.23] Why, when tariffs are out of our control, intelligence is the best defence, how companies can use intelligence to stay competitive, and why parcel spend management can be an organizations competitive advantage in an unpredictable global market. “There's so much noise. Carrier billing data has hundreds of elements, it's not normalized… Having a shipping intelligence platform helps arm you with the most important insights at a glance.” “A lot of shippers are just resigned to this belief that the carriers are going to do what the carriers are going to do, and we have to sit back and take it… But I would say that any shipper has between 5-30% of spend that's available to be eliminated.” [23.47] The ideal client for Reveel, and the types of clients they're currently onboarding most. [24.41] GOAT group's experience with onboarding and implementation with Reveel. [25.52] The biggest challenges GOAT Group were experiencing, why they chose to work with Reveel, and the benefits they see from their ongoing partnership. [27.38] In a constantly evolving market, what shippers might expect over the next few months. “The only thing we know for sure is that more change is coming!.. But the shippers that have the best data, the best data-driven insights, and the best technology are ultimately the ones that are going to come out ahead.” RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:   Head over to Reveel's website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Reveel and keep up to date with the latest over   on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter, or you can connect with Michael or Jennifer on LinkedIn. If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more from Reveel, check out 453: Driving Supply Chain Innovation with Reveel and Deposco or 357: Leverage the Power of Shipping Intelligence, with Reveel.

In this episode of More to Say, host Amber Venz Box sits down with Dani Austin — digital creator, community builder, and founder of Divi, the haircare brand that started with one scalp serum and grew into a multi-million-dollar line now sold at Ulta nationwide.Dani shares how she went from secretly filming “Things I Wish a Sister Taught Me” in her dorm to building an audience of 2.5M+ followers, opening up about the vulnerability that built her community, sharing hair loss struggles, and turning personal hardship into product innovation. She and Amber talk candidly about monetizing early, launching a hero product, turning “haters” into valuable feedback, balancing motherhood and business, and what's next for Divi.Whether you're a creator, entrepreneur, or just curious how a dorm-room vlog became an 8-figure brand — Dani's story is one you won't want to miss.WE DISCUSS:(00:16): Filming her first YouTube videos in secret.(01:39): How LTK gave her control and built audience trust.(04:20): Using vulnerability to deepen connections.(11:49): Creating Divi's first scalp serum from DIY to best-seller.(14:40): Saying no to bad deals early on.(15:39): Growing Divi from one SKU to a community-led brand.(18:51): Turning harsh reviews into product improvements.(34:21): Focusing on audience depth before virality.(36:00): Why LTK is still core to her business.(43:35): Putting “trashy” family moments before work.LTK for CreatorsLTK for BrandsLearn more about More To SayWatch on YouTubeFollow and shop Amber's LTKFollow Amber on InstagramConnect with Amber on LinkedInFollow and shop Dani's LTKFollow Dani on TikTokFollow Dani on InstagramConnect with Dani on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Mark Stiving for a unique dual-guest conversation with Jon Jennings, longtime Impact Pricing sponsor and successful pricing recruiter, and Ryan Walter, a pricing veteran with over 15 years of leadership experience who recently transitioned into recruiting. Together, they reveal the insider's view of private equity pricing transformations, from deal diligence to exit strategies. In this episode, they explore why private equity firms are investing heavily in pricing capabilities, how to determine the right level of pricing leadership for different situations, and the evolving landscape of pricing careers.  The conversation covers everything from pre-acquisition planning to AI's impact on pricing roles, offering valuable insights for both pricing professionals and business leaders.   Why you have to check out today's podcast: Learn the critical difference between hiring a pricing person and orchestrating a pricing transformation. Understand the decision framework for determining whether you need a manager, director, or VP-level pricing leader. Explore why portfolio companies often resist pricing initiatives and how to overcome that resistance.   “In the private equity space, part of the diligence is we think there's an opportunity of pricing improvement of some dollar amount to go get. In order to get that, you're going to need to transform the way things are working, which is building out a team.” – Ryan Walter   Topics Covered: 02:05 – Ryan's journey into pricing: From MBA analytics to solving 7-Eleven's cigarette pricing crisis in Florida 03:29 – Pricing transformation strategies: Why PE's 5-year timeline perfectly aligns with pricing capability building 07:49 – Pricing as a center of excellence: The evolution from analyst roles to VP-level positions and what's next 11:05 – Private equity hiring differences: Stakeholder dynamics, investment thesis pressure, and the "shorter leash" reality 14:30 – Pricing problems in portfolio companies: When port cos don't see the problem PE firms see and how to bridge that gap 17:37 – Pricing transformation explained: Why it's all-encompassing and requires strategy, finance, data, and leadership skills 20:48 – Transformational roles in organizations: The difference between backfilling and building, and why transformation always wins 23:41 – Hiring pricing professionals for PE: Building pricing advisor roles at the firm level and sharing resources across portcos 26:17 – AI's impact on pricing: Data foundation requirements and immediate use cases like rebate design and negotiation prep 29:13 – AI in pricing strategies: Competitive data matching, SKU comparison, and the 80% solution approach 32:06 – Promoting the pricing field: Building the next generation of talent and educating people into pricing careers   Key Takeaways: "In the private equity space, part of the diligence is we think there's an opportunity of pricing improvement of some dollar amount to go get. In order to get that, you're going to need to transform the way things are working, which is building out a team." – Ryan Walter "The reason I like that word [transformation] is it's all encompassing because it's not really one thing. It's not, oh, we need to get a director of FPA in here. We need to get somebody who understands strategy, who understands finance, who understands data and IT tools, and is a leader that can influence others." – Ryan Walter "If you're going to go for a pricing transformation, you have to dive in with both feet. Halfway doesn't typically work." – Jon Jennings   Resources and People Mentioned: 7-Eleven: https://www.7-eleven.com/   Connect with Jon Jennings & Ryan Walter: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonjennings/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-walter3141/   Connect with Mark Stiving: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stiving/ Email: mark@impactpricing.com  

To Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupThis episode dives deep into how a major global brand (Barilla) reimagined Back to Nature with a bold rebrand strategy anchored in nostalgia, joy, and simple ingredients. Hear why shifting from a plant‑based tagline to a "Better‑For‑You Remix of Classics" helped unlock broader consumer appeal, fortified by skinnier SKU range and sharp creative decisions.

In this episode of The DTC Insider podcast, host Brian Roisentul interviews Annette Furio, founder of Season Journals.Annette turned her background in graphic design and years in the wedding industry into a mission-driven business. Through thoughtful, heirloom-quality journals, Annette helps people document life's most meaningful moments, all while bootstrapping and steadily growing her collection.Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: How Season Journals supports couples during major life milestones through guided journalingThe influence of Annette Furio's design and stationery background on product developmentStarting customer acquisition through Google Ads and influencer marketingExpanding beyond a single SKU to meet diverse customer needsGifting as a major driver in the business modelThe importance of engaging with online communities for product insightsLeveraging the founder's personal presence to strengthen brand connectionThe impact of email marketing and valuable content on customer engagementJournaling as a tool for mindfulness and mental clarity in a tech-driven world--This episode is brought to you by BSR Digital.BSR Digital helps e-commerce brands that want to scale their business to the next level through paid ads & email marketing.To learn more about BSR Digital, visit their website or book a call here.

Drawing on her background in winemaking and Silicon Valley, Ashley Leonard, Founder and CEO of Innovint, has developed a modern platform that tracks everything from the vineyard to the bottle.  From getting granular with COGS to automating TTB compliance, Innovint gets the winery out of spreadsheets and into a modern, cloud-based, mobile-centric system. This system is designed to accomplish Innovint's mission: Helping wineries run better businesses. Detailed Show Notes: Innovint overview - mobile-driven winemaking platform, tracks and manages all winemaking options, and automates compliance>600 winery clients (~80% of wineries still using Excel)92% of clients in North America, 8% InternationalMission: helping wineries run better businessesTTB requires reporting for producers >500 cases4 productsGrow - vineyard tracking platform from the winemaker's lens; phenology dates, yield estimates, applications, harvest scheduling, historical trendsMake - winemaking from fruit reception to bottling; work enablement platform with digital work ordersFinance - tracks all costs associated with making wine, final COGS; the finance team applies overheadsSupply (2025 launch) - case goods management, inventory tracking, integrates with DTC platforms & distributors, has allocations as a planning toolHas open APIs; integrates with TankNet and VinWizard for winery automation, receives data back for actions taken; integrates with quality control labs (e.g., ETS) and can take action more quicklyCore benefitsKey differentiator: profitability per SKU and true COGS/product (w/o Innovint, calculated once per year)Efficiency, working smarter, better decision making, and more transparencyReporting to be able to manage qualitySome wineries use data to track carbon footprint (e.g., water use, weight of glass)Reduces the risk of an auditCompliance reporting (e.g., TTB 5120, export reports) - Gloria Ferrer went from 3 people over 2 days to 15 minutes for 1 personLarger wineries tend to have more tangible benefitsDomaine Chandon saved $75k annually by making the workflow paperlessPatz & Hall saving 40 hours/monthOnboarding5-step self-serve process (vineyard sources, lots, volume, vessels, current inventory) takes a couple of days for small wineriesPremium package for larger wineries includes team training, and full data migration takes 2-8 weeksPricing - SaaS modelScales based on size (production) and complexity (# of locations) of the wineryNot user or usage-basedImplementation ~$1-2kSubscription starts at $2,400/year for a boutique winery for MakeMarketing - “has tried it all”, tries to add value to the end userDoes a lot of speaking engagements/webinars on being a healthy wineryManages The Punchdown, a free digital community that is a peer-to-peer exchangeReferrals from clients are the most effective marketingLaunched the State of the Wine Business Health Report (2024) - surveyed with >500 participantsTo reach wineries that don't go to conferences - LinkedIn/social, co-marketing, financial webinarsPaid advertising sometimes works, but it's not a top lead generatorBarrier to purchase - resistance to change, case studies help overcome (e.g., Domaine Carneros saw what Chandon was doing and bought the product)The product roadmap includes Supply module, AI applications, and embedded tools Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we dive into Meta ad performance, Shopify's latest AI features (including Sidekick), and we answer your DTC marketing questions from our MOps Hotline.We start with unpacking how Meta is performing for us right now - why it's still the most powerful channel in the stack, but also less forgiving than it used to be. Cody shares the thinking behind his recent tweet on Meta volatility and how we're adapting creative and media buying to respond.Next, we discuss to Shopify's latest AI announcements and tools - from Sidekick to generative features inside the Shopify platform. We discuss whether these updates are useful for ecommerce operators, or just more hype.Ad finally, we get into a round of your questions from our MOps Hotline, covering email vs SMS strategy, SKU-level segmentation, channel prioritization, and more.Want to submit your own DTC or ecommerce marketing question? Click here.00:00 Introduction 04:34 Leveraging AI in Marketing07:05 The New Metric: Cost Per 1000 Accounts Reached19:26 Optimizing Meta Advertising Strategies27:38 AI Innovations in Shopify37:34 The Future of E-commerce with AI44:12 Incrementality Testing for Ad Spend51:41 Effective Marketing Measurement and Reporting01:02:54 Pricing Strategies and Conversion RatesMehtab's X Thread:https://x.com/mehtabkarta/status/1924547703373189179?s=46Powered by:Motion.⁠⁠⁠https://motionapp.com/pricing?utm_source=marketing-operators-podcast&utm_medium=paidsponsor&utm_campaign=march-2024-ad-reads⁠⁠⁠https://motionapp.com/creative-trendsPrescient AI.⁠⁠⁠https://www.prescientai.com/operatorsRichpanel.⁠⁠⁠https://www.richpanel.com/?utm_source=MO&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ytdescAftersell.https://www.aftersell.com/operatorsHaus.http://Haus.io/operatorsSubscribe to the 9 Operators Podcast here:https://www.youtube.com/@Operators9Subscribe to the Finance Operators Podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/@FinanceOperatorsFOPSSign up to the 9 Operators newsletter here: https://9operators.com/

La Presidenta Sheinbaum responde con firmeza a las redadas de Trump en EE.UU., defendiendo a los migrantes mexicanos. Mientras, Washington lanza una nueva ofensiva contra Los Chapitos con sanciones y recompensas millonarias. La tensión en Los Ángeles explota: Trump ordena el despliegue de 700 Marines para sofocar protestas. En México, Michelin anuncia el cierre de su planta en Querétaro. Grandes movimientos corporativos: Warner Bros. Discovery se divide en dos y Apple abre su inteligencia artificial a desarrolladores. EVA Demand Planning es la inteligencia artificial diseñada para que tomes decisiones de compra con certeza y operes tu cadena de suministro con precisión. Centraliza toda tu información —históricos de ventas, comportamiento del cliente, campañas y estacionalidades— y genera pronósticos confiables por SKU, cliente y ubicación. Agenda un demo con nosotros haciendo click aquí.Recibe gratis nuestro newsletter con las noticias más importantes del día.Si te interesa una mención en El Brieff, escríbenos a arturo@brieffy.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on the podcast we talk loyalty programs, memberships and recurring revenue strategies with Ross Stensrud from Tapwyse.Tapwyse creates custom apps to create predictable and repeating income for your brewery business. Need a solution for slow seasonal business cycles? Tapwyse can help. Key PointsHow to use the $1 beer to get a 17x return on investmentFlash rewards: How to use push notifications to instantly reward customers and get them coming back more oftenWant to sell more to-go beer? Learn how this brewery used Tapwyse to sell out of one SKU and bring in an additional $1k in the processHow to create sticky, trackable, and profitable marketing campaignsResourcesConnect with Ross to learn more about Tapwyse: Ross@tapwyse.com, or by cell, 760-209-6048Get the FREE financial training newsletter for breweries

It's one thing to sell snacks or sneakers online. It's another to sell dumpster lids and hydraulic cylinders.This week we're joined by Kevin Creese, Director of Ecommerce at Wastequip, where he's leading the charge to modernize how waste handling parts are discovered, bought, and supported online.Dave and Kevin dig into the heavy-duty realities of B2B ecommerce—where the SKU count is high, the data is messy, and the buying process is anything but simple. They cover how to make ecommerce work in a category where most customers don't even know the part numbers they need—and why success here requires patience, creativity, and a solid plan (plus a few incentives for your warehouse team).Whether you're wrestling with your own product data, or just curious how industrial brands are tackling digital transformation, this one's worth a listen.Key Takeaways & Episode HighlightsWhy “starting with the part number” won't work—and how Wastequip built a taxonomy based on what customers are actually searching forHow to collect product data and images at scale (including the creative incentive program they used with their team)The reality of managing 60,000 SKUs and why you can only eat the elephant one bite at a timeHow AI is helping Wastequip tag images, generate marketing copy, and structure product dataThe critical role of iteration and continuous improvement in B2B ecommerce—because the data is never really “done”Rapid Rundown QuestionsFavorite digital project: The rebuild of wastebuilt.com, and the partnership with AmericanEagle.comMost surprising fact about the waste industry: There's very little good product data behind most partsB2B brand that nails the digital experience: JetWindTrivia: How many pounds of waste does the average American generate per day? Nearly 5lbs!Hobbies and reset button: Golf, walking the dog, time with the granddaughter, and family adventures in the NorthwestConnect with Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevincreese/Get the It'sRapid Creative Automation Playbook: https://itsrapid.ai/creative-workflow-automation-playbook/Take It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI survey: https://www.proprofs.com/survey/t/?title=ffgvdEmail us at sales@rapidads.io with code “BEYOND2025” to find out how you can save more than $1,000 on our Digital Sell Sheets and Retail Media Automation solutionsTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupToday we're joined by Charlotte Trecartin, the founder of Char Charms, a brand creating customizable accessories for drinkware. Charlotte's journey from handmade prototypes in her college dorm room to nationwide deals with Target and Dick's Sporting Goods offers a masterclass in category creation and scaling.In this episode, we dive into:Why starting scrappy can be your biggest asset in product development.How TikTok virality and LinkedIn cold outreach helped Char Charms secure major retail deals.Strategies for differentiating product lines between DTC and retail to maximize growth.The challenge of scaling production from handmade to mass manufacturing.Future plans including collaborations with major brands like Hello Kitty.Whether you're a founder, marketer, or entrepreneur, this episode offers practical takeaways you can implement today.Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Sign up for a quick demo today to get 50% off and unlock a guaranteed 4x+ ROI: instant.one/dtc Timestamps00:00 - Launching Char Charms and early prototypes02:00 - How Charlotte connected with retailers like Target and Dick's04:00 - TikTok as a growth engine and content strategy06:00 - Insights from Charlotte's door-to-door sales background08:00 - Leveraging LinkedIn to secure retail partnerships10:00 - Target nationwide launch and SKU expansion12:00 - Challenges of launching into retail and margin management14:00 - Vision boards and goal-setting approach16:00 - The role of mentors in Charlotte's journey18:00 - Future plans: Collaborations with big brands and DTC focus20:00 - Key advice for entrepreneurs and TikTok consistencyHashtags#DTC #ecommerce #startupstories #retailstrategy #tiktokmarketing #entrepreneurship #hydrationaccessories #mentorship #growthmindset #brandcollaborations Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupAdvertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertiseWork with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouseFollow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletterWatch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Big ideas, bold flavors, and unfiltered insights—welcome to Austin, where the future of CPG is being written in real time. At Taste Radio's Austin Meetup, we sat down with trailblazers and trendsetters redefining how brands are built and scaled. From Better Sour co-founder Bella Hughes to Torchy's Tacos founder Mike Rypka and Snaxshot's Andrea Hernández, these conversations explore what it really takes to innovate, connect with consumers, and lead with authenticity in a rapidly evolving industry. Show notes: 0:45: Buyers As Far As The Eye Can See. NNE FTW. Boiler Room. Caffeine, Protein & Pole-Caught Tuna. With BevNET Live just two weeks away, excitement is building as Casey's joins a strong lineup of participating retailers, including Stop & Shop, Whole Foods Market, Circle K, H-E-B, The Goods Mart, and Top Ten Liquors. John and Ray recap the recent Naturally New England Naturally Rising event, which spotlighted standout emerging brands, including Singing Pastures and Farmer Foodie. Mike and John revisit their tour of Athletic Brewing's HQ in Milford, CT, before the hosts riffed on consumer interest in dual-functionality products and a canned tuna brand grounded in sourcing transparency. 19:23: Interviews from Taste Radio's Austin Meetup – Mike Rypka, the visionary founder of Torchy's Tacos, shared his journey from launching a food trailer to building a nationally recognized franchise. Steven Santangelo of Matriarch Wealth Management discussed how his firm helps CPG founders navigate the complexities of financial planning, particularly during critical growth and exit stages. Bella Hughes, co-founder of Better Sour, reflected on building a culturally inspired candy brand and the challenges of innovation in a legacy category. Andrea Hernández, the sharp mind behind Snaxshot, delivered an unfiltered perspective on food and beverage trends, highlighting the importance of authenticity and emotional resonance in brand storytelling. And Michelle Breyer, CMO of the Texas-based accelerator SKU, shed light on how the organization nurtures early-stage consumer brands, emphasizing the pivotal role of founder mindset and market fit in driving long-term success. Brands in this episode: Better Sour, Torchy's Tacos, Farmer Foodie, Monsoon Kitchens, Inc., Granny Squibb's, TITIN, Fancypants Baking Co., Singing Pastures, Athletic Brewing, Lucky Saint, 5-hour Energy, Ascent, Pole & Line, Fly By Jing, Siete, Wildwonder, Bachan's, Daily Crunch, Leisure Hydration, BodyArmor, Vitaminwater, NoBull

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot welcomes Emily Gittins, Co-founder and CEO of Archive — a technology company transforming fashion's relationship with resale. With a deep background in mathematics, environmental science, and business, Emily takes us through her journey from Cambridge to BCG to Google X, and eventually to co-founding Archive with a bold vision: enable brands to profit from resale and reduce fashion waste at scale.Emily unpacks how Archive partners with top brands like The North Face, Oscar de la Renta, and New Balance to integrate branded resale into their business models — creating new revenue streams while advancing sustainability. Discover how her team is changing industry perceptions, scaling globally, and pioneering circular solutions in new verticals like home goods and electronics.Whether you're a fashion exec, sustainability advocate, or retail tech enthusiast, this episode offers a masterclass in turning purpose into profit.Show Notes:

Times of chaos and uncertainty do have an uncomfortable but necessary side effect of focusing one's mind both on what is important and what is within one's control. This is certainly true in the zoom rooms and boardrooms of any company in commerce. For our guest Colin Kaster, President of Strategy, Digital Advertising, and Operations at Equity Commerce, an e-commerce agency optimizing Amazon and omnichannel sales, much of the answers lie in understanding the real unit economics of every SKU you sell and then optimizing your business around where the opportunities for maximum profitability lie.

Norėdami matyti visą podkastą spauskite čia: https://contribee.com/krepsinisnet 00:00 – laimėkite LeBrono knygą 02:43 – Šaro džiaugsmo ašaros 21:17 – sudegusi OLY 28:00 – PAO fiasko 34:45 – nauja užduoti Šarui 36:35 – „Žalgirio“ jaunimo triumfas 44:58 – M.Wrightas į Kauną 52:32 – prastas lankomumas ketvirtfinalių starte 58:36 – Vilniuje laimėjusi „CBet“ 1:03:10 – G.Maldūno šou ir Ž.Skučo išvarymas 1:08:52 – LKL sezono MVP Rėmėjų dalyje aptartos šios temos: 1:11:33 – žaidimas rėmėjams 1:13:30 – ar tęsis „Wolves“ projektas 1:15:12 – liekantis M.Blaževičius 1:17:43 – nepatobulėjęs G.Brooksas 1:20:17 – vertas likti R.Miniotas ir klausimas dėl A.Kulbokos 1:26:12 – nustebinęs J.Tayloro sezonas 1:28:24 – ko vertas T.Thurmanas 1:32:10 – didesnio vaidmens vertas M.Jogėla 1:34:16 – 11–12 žaidėjų klausimai 1:36:29 – Eurolygos klubus dominantis A.Cowanas 1:39:46 – klausimų sukėlęs A.Andrewsas 1:43:40 – traumų kamuojamas V.Kariniauskas 1:47:15 – blankus K.Žemaičio sezonas 1:51:45 – kas galėtų papildyti sudėtį ir kuo keičiam A.Magro

Most Amazon brand owners blame ads for shrinking profits—but the real killer might be hiding in your inventory.   In this episode, I break down the silent profit leaks that sneak past your ad dashboard but impact your P&L: slow sell-through, poor inventory utilization, over-ordering, and mounting FBA storage fees. I'll give you a practical checklist to audit your inventory strategy, including how to catch flat TACoS with falling profit, calculate SKU-level break-even sell-through rates, and stop reordering out of fear.   Plus, I kick things off with: Two Amazon Seller Central News updates you may have missed this week. A quick look inside some creative projects I'm working on for agency clients.   If you're ready to plug holes in your Amazon Inventory Boat, this one's for you. ⛵️   Get your free Amazon Brand Audit at www.weavos.io

On the Glossy Podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and international reporter Zofia Zwieglinska break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we discuss the state of the luxury business through the lens of three major luxury companies that reported earnings this week. Richemont's reliance on jewelry has put the company in a good position as the jewelry sector, despite headwinds, has managed to stay afloat. Meanwhile, Mytheresa, having completed its acquisition of Yoox Net-a-Porter, now has a much larger portfolio of retail companies to manage. So far, the company has been handling it well — CEO Michael Kliger said Mytheresa's positive earnings results made it an outlier in luxury. On the flipside, Chanel has seen a downturn for the first time in a long time. Chanel has over 38,000 employees, 10,000 of whom were hired in the last three years alone. But with profits plummeting 30% last year, Chanel has had layoffs and now a hiring freeze reflecting its slumping sales. Later in the episode, we lay out the tariff playbook, a collection of strategies and methods we've heard from fashion brands about how they're navigating tariff volatility. We lumped these strategies into three broad categories: raising prices, altering the supply chain, and shifting focus to other markets outside of the U.S. We've heard from dozens of brands about all the ways they're approaching these three tactics, including sharing cost increases with manufacturers, using bonded storage to avoid paying harsh duties, lowering SKU counts, moving production to new countries and pausing U.S. orders.

This is episode one of our "Four Pillars of Amazon" Mini-Series, hosted by Destaney Wishon and Gabi Viljoen, MBA.A main topic throughout this episode is Amazon's growth from “The Everything Store” to “The Everyday Store”. With both of them having long term experience working with Amazon, they discuss the multiple shifts that shaped Amazon's commitment to better consumer experiences, the impact of post-COVID shopping behaviors, the importance of optimizing your digital shelf and leveraging reviews, and what strategies are the most effective for managing assortment, pricing, and SKU differentiation. Focus of This Episode:Amazon's shift towards targeted, everyday consumer experiencesImpact of post-COVID consumer shopping behaviors on online retailImportance of optimizing your digital shelf and leveraging reviewsEffective strategies for managing assortment, pricing, and SKU differentiationConnect with Destaney on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/destaney-wishon/ Connect with Gabi on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriellaviljoen/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special Tier 11 lab episode, Ralph Burns and John Moran pull back the curtain on a powerful new Meta ad tactic: the CAPI import strategy. Learn how to eliminate costly data duplication, master new customer acquisition cost (NCAC) tracking by individual SKU, and scale your Advantage+ campaigns using a two-ad-set system that blends testing and scaling. If you're running Meta or Google Ads and want accurate reporting, optimized spend, and smarter campaign architecture, this is the episode to study.Whether you're a CMO managing complex eComm portfolios or a media buyer navigating messy data, this one's packed with Tier 11's real-time breakthroughs—tested with their own money before hitting client campaigns.Chapters:00:00:00 - Dive Into the Latest from Perpetual Traffic00:01:06 - Meet John Moran & the Game-Changing CAPI Import Shift00:02:19 - Killing Duplicate Data: The Key to Smarter Ad Spend00:04:09 - How Advantage+ and NAC Unlock Scalable Profits00:07:11 - Inside the Lab: Strategy Shakeups and Bold Rebrands00:09:22 - Real Ad Results: Behind-the-Scenes of a Meta Campaign Makeover00:22:04 - Breaking Down Meta's New Campaign Framework00:34:19 - Creative Testing: What's Actually Working Right Now00:34:57 - Perry Belcher's Email Playbook That Still Prints Money00:35:39 - The Secret Sauce: Layering Strategies for Maximum Impact00:36:00 - Your Weekly Traffic Fix + Hot Seat Q&A Begins00:37:30 - How to Capture Distressed Seller Leads (The Smart Way)00:41:54 - Unlocking the Power of the Feeder Strategy00:43:35 - Winning in High CPC Markets Without Burning Cash00:46:16 - How Small Brands Can Dominate with Feeder & Meta00:49:58 - YouTube Meets Demand Gen: The Feeder Funnel 2.000:58:51 - Cracking the Code on Standard Shopping Optimization01:02:18 - Wrap-Up: Big Takeaways & What's Coming NextLINKS AND RESOURCES:About deduplication for Meta Pixel and Conversions API eventsMatt Apps - Executive ProducerThe MAJOR Meta Advantage+ Changes You Must KnowThe Billionaires ClubTier 11 JobsPerpetual Traffic on YouTubeTiereleven.comMongoose MediaPerpetual Traffic SurveyPerpetual Traffic WebsiteFollow Perpetual Traffic on TwitterConnect with Lauren on Instagram and Connect with Ralph on LinkedInThanks so much for joining us...

In this exclusive episode of The Voice of Retail podcast, host Michael LeBlanc interviews Karl Haller, Partner at IBM Consulting and leader of their retail and consumer products center of competency, ahead of his highly anticipated keynote presentation at Retail Council of Canada's STORE2025 conference on June 3rd.With nearly 30 years of retail experience at brands including Brooks Brothers, Tommy Hilfiger, and Karl Lagerfeld, Haller brings unique insights at the intersection of retail business and technology to one of Canada's premier retail events.Haller, who will take the main stage following fellow keynote speaker Ira Kalish, positions AI as "the biggest transformation that any of us have seen in our careers," comparing its significance to the advent of computing in the 1970s. While acknowledging the hype surrounding AI, he maintains that we're in the early stages of a fundamental shift in how retail operates—a message he'll expand upon at the STORE2025 conference.When discussing strategy during uncertain times, Haller advises retailers to focus on action rather than extensive planning: "If you've got a million dollars to spend, spend a million dollars on 100 MVPs. Don't spend a million dollars on an AI strategy project because it's going to be out of date by the time you've done it." He recommends scenario planning with clear indicators that can guide decision-making in unpredictable environments.Looking at retail formats, Haller notes that success isn't determined by format alone but by how retailers innovate within their sector. He highlights Walmart's nimble approach to technology implementation, PepsiCo's management of their extensive logistics network, and innovative approaches from companies like Unilever and Kroger.The conversation culminates with Haller identifying four under-appreciated retail technology trends:Expanding AI beyond words, pictures, and code to work with numerical data like SKU forecasting, potentially reducing forecast error rates to low single digitsIntegrating AI with other technologies like computer vision, IoT devices, robotics, biometrics, electronic shelf labels, and retail mediaDeveloping an "operating system for AI" to manage the projected billion new applications by 2028Most critically, bringing people along on the technology journey through comprehensive training and continuous learningAttendees of STORE2025 can expect Haller to dive deeper into these insights during his keynote presentation, providing retail leaders with actionable strategies for navigating technological transformation while balancing innovation with practical implementatio Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.

This week, join us to pull back the curtain on the challenges indie retailers face when working with brands. From MAP policy nightmares to SKU overload, we're laying it all out there - but don't worry, we've got solutions too! Join us as we give brands a peek behind the scenes and show them how to better support the lifeblood of the pet industry. Connect with the Pet Shop Girls! Find us everywhere: https://linktr.ee/petshopgirls Connect with Carly (House of Paws): https://www.instagram.com/houseofpawsboutique https://www.tiktok.com/@houseofpawsboutique https://www.facebook.com/houseofpawsboutique Connect with Sherry (Odyssey Pets): https://www.facebook.com/odysseypets https://www.instagram.com/odysseypets https://linktr.ee/odysseypetsdallas Connect with Pet Product News: https://www.petproductnews.com/ https://www.facebook.com/PetProductNews

As the second fastest growing category within the entire grocery store surpasses 50% household penetration…have attractive fragmentation opportunities now been unlocked within RTD protein beverages? BellRing Brands (NYSE: BRBR) is a portfolio that owns a collection of convenient nutrition brands like Premier Protein and Dymatize Nutrition, which was previously wholly-owned by Post Holdings. A fast-paced and busy lifestyle is pushing consumers to switch to quick and healthy meal options. This has resulted in above average categorical growth rates and increased household penetration of RTD protein shakes that promote active lifestyles. Additionally, powders are becoming more mainstream, and category proliferation has created an environment where more consumers are purchasing both every day and performance nutrition positioned protein products at grocery stores and mass retailers. Bellring Brands had a strong 2025 Q2 with net sales reaching $588 million, which was up 18.9% YoY. Premier Protein (~90% of BellRing Brands total revenue) grew 22% YoY, which came from mostly volume increases. Dymatize Nutrition was up 3% YoY, stemming from volume increases within international markets and new product introductions. In response to these elevated sports nutrition competitive threats, BellRing Brands has attempted to invest further into Dymatize brand marketing and restarting product innovation. Though, I'd say neither effort has resulted in meaningful success yet. Moreover, I provide three deep dives into the functional CPG portfolio's "hero SKU families" of Premier Protein RTD protein shakes and Premier Protein and Dymatize protein powders. But my latest first principles thinking content will examine two emerging product innovation concepts that are becoming more popular (both in terms of product launches and customer demand). The first is around a richer and creamier RTD protein beverage…Premier Protein is calling its version “Indulgence” and BellRing Brands leadership noted on the earnings call that this new subline has demonstrated impressive incrementality, bringing in a considerable number of consumers new to the brand and category. Similarly, Quest Nutrition is also recently launched its “more indulgent” RTD protein beverages subline…calling it “Protein Milkshake.” But what you'll also notice about the Quest Protein Milkshake is that the protein content is much higher than the “unwritten 30 grams of protein rule.” So, now you're seeing competitors, that have brand equity will outside the performance nutrition buyer segment, start to push the upper limits of protein content. And finally, on the flipside…competitors are also testing the lower limits and seeking to attach protein with other beverage categories like carbonated soft drinks and water. So, what does this all mean? And I think there's still A LOT of opportunity to innovate within RTD protein beverages market, which will open up the category to more buyers, different use occasions, and more day parts. Doss is the first Adaptive Resource Platform (ARP). Book a live demo here.

Send us a textYou're scaling on TikTok Shop... GMV looks amazing... But somehow your profits are disappearing.In this episode, Jordan breaks down why TikTok Shop sellers are quietly bleeding cash—and how to plug the holes before it's too late. We walk through the real math behind a $100 order, the creator commission trap, fulfillment pitfalls, and platform fees that sneak up on even the most seasoned operators.This isn't just about sales volume. It's about contribution margin—the number that actually keeps the lights on.If you're on TikTok Shop or planning to scale, you can't afford to miss this one.

In just five years, The Finnish Long Drink has grown from a quirky imported concept to one of the fastest-scaling RTD brands in the U.S.—crossing 2.7 million 9L cases in 2024, up from just 33,000 cases in 2019.In this episode, Evan Burns, co-founder and CEO, shares the story of how he and three Finnish co-founders turned a legacy Finnish beverage — originally invented for the 1952 Helsinki Olympics — into a U.S. juggernaut. With 52,000 retail doors across 46 states, investors like Jay-Z's Marcy Ventures, and a growing fanbase that spans demographics, Long Drink has become one of the biggest breakout hits in spirits-based RTDs.In this episode, Evan shares:How The Finnish Long Drink grew 50%+ year-over-year through focused execution and simple, consistent brandingWhy “availability and awareness” are the two metrics that drive every business decision — and how the team measures cold box placement, displays, and social tags dailyWhy Long Drink keeps it SKU set small — and why Evan believes "flavor isn't innovation"The origin and impact of viral marketing moments — like the #PantsDrunk campaign during COVID and $5 Venmo bar activationsHow organic celebrity interest from actor Miles Teller, DJ Kygo, and golfer Ricky Fowler led to authentic, long-term brand ambassadorshipWhy Long Drink turned down multiple VC offers and focused on velocity-driven growth with strategic capital partnersHow the team grew to 110 employees, prioritizing on-the-ground brand ambassadors and salespeople over corporate hiresThe real reason Evan says they'll never make a pumpkin spice Long DrinkLast Call: This week, we explore the overlooked (and often underestimated) world of fruit wines — and why smart wineries should be paying close attention. States like Michigan, New York, Virginia, and North Carolina are growing incredible fruit beyond grapes, and making some pretty compelling fruit wines. Should they lean into it? We discuss.Don't miss our next episode, dropping on May 7.For the latest updates, follow us:Business of Drinks:LinkedInInstagram @bizofdrinksErica Duecy, co-host: Erica Duecy is founder and co-host of Business of Drinks and one of the drinks industry's most accomplished digital and content strategists. She runs the consultancy and advisory arm of Business of Drinks and has built publishing and marketing programs for Drizly, VinePair, SevenFifty, and other hospitality and drinks tech companies.LinkedInInstagram @ericaduecyScott Rosenbaum, co-host: Scott Rosenbaum is co-host of Business of Drinks and a veteran strategist and analyst with deep experience building drinks portfolios. He currently serves as Head of Search at Distill Ventures. He was formerly the Vice President of T. Edward Wines & Spirits, a New York-based importer and distributor.LinkedInCaroline Lamb, contributor: Caroline is a producer and on-air contributor at Business of Drinks and a key account sales and marketing specialist at AHD Vintners, a Michigan-based importer and distributor.LinkedInInstagram @borkalineSPONSOR: SWIG Partners is exclusively offering $100 off their supplier-distributor matchmaking fee when you mention the Business of Drinks podcast, or inquire via this link: ⁠https://www.swigpartners.com/businessofdrinksIf you enjoyed today's conversation, follow Business of Drinks wherever you're listening, and don't forget to rate and review us. Your support helps us reach new listeners passionate about the drinks industry. Thank you!

Charlie Hoch is a former pro snowboarder turned cannabis entrepreneur, which makes him the perfect guest for 420 week. When I say pro snowboarder, while Charlie competed amongst the likes of Travis Rice and was on the podium at some big events, his snowboard career won't be what defines his existence; his success in the cannabis world will be. From developing the original ice bong to building his 100+ SKU empire today, Charlie could use snowboarding instead of having it the other way around, and on the podcast, we talk snowboarding, weed, and more.  Charlie Hoch Show Notes: 4:00:  His 420 plans, Wolf Creek, how smoking a bowl in the backcountry changed his life, going from handrails on his skateboard to big mountain lines 14:00:  Fort Lewis, focusing on his sticker business and becoming a pro snowboarder, 20:00:   Stanley:  The brand that invented the category! Only the best for Powell Movement listeners.  Check out Stanley1913.com   Best Day Brewing:  All of the flavor of your favorite IPA or Kolsch, without the alcohol, the calories or sugar. 22:00:  Close calls, sponsorship, money, making a name for himself at comps, making it work with nothing, photo/video, contests, Alaska, and how does snowboarding end 37:00:   Elan Skis:  Over 75 years of innovation that makes you better. Outdoor Research:  Click here for 25% off Outdoor Research products (not valid on sale items or pro products) 39:30:  Founding the Eyce Brand, the weed business, selling his company and buying it back, the products and brands he's involved in, and who he's smoked weed with 51:00:  Inappropriate Questions  

Jared Smith is the CEO of PriceSmith, a consulting firm specializing in pricing strategies for distributors and light manufacturers. With a background in pricing systems from Vendavo and experience as an adjunct professor at Oklahoma State, Jared brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He is passionate about helping companies optimize their pricing strategies to capture more value. In this episode, Jared shares his journey from Frito-Lay to leading pricing innovation in the B2B distribution space. Together, they explore the key distinctions between B2B and B2C pricing models, especially the negotiation-heavy and data-rich nature of distribution.   Why you have to check out today's podcast: Learn about the differences between B2B and B2C pricing strategies. Understand the role of pricing systems in managing large SKU portfolios in distributorship. Discover how to effectively segment customers for better pricing strategies.   “Invest in your master data and keep chipping away at it. Start with 80/20 of your products and get that right.”  – Jared Smith   Topics Covered: 01:42 - Jared shares how he got into pricing after his MBA and experiences at Frito-Lay and in B2B distribution. 02:57 - Discussion on the differences between B2C and B2B pricing, including transparency and data access. 06:06 - Challenges in understanding why customers buy and the limitations of data analytics. 12:55 - Jared explains his focus on distribution and the unique challenges it presents. 14:40 - Discussion on the relevance and limitations of cost-plus pricing in distribution. 19:17 - Exploration of how to implement good, better, best pricing in distribution. 25:28 - Discussion on whether distributors publish prices or rely on quotes for transactions. 26:33 - Jared shares insights from Uber experiences and how they relate to distribution pricing. 31:27 - The impact of customer loyalty on pricing strategies and potential risks. 32:55 - Jared's key piece of advice on investing in master data for better pricing strategies. 33:58 - Connect with Jared.   Key Takeaways: “Distribution is an amazing thing. Obviously, it's worldwide. And the simple fact of it, it has two very unique aspects. The first one, a lot of SKUs. And then, the second one is that you have a lot of customers.” – Jared Smith   People/Resources Mentioned: PriceSmith: https://www.pricesmith.com/ Vendavo: https://www.vendavo.com/ Oklahoma State University: https://www.okstate.edu/ Pepsi: https://www.pepsi.com/ Frito-Lay: https://www.fritolay.com/ Coca-Cola: https://www.coca-cola.com/ Apple: https://www.apple.com/ LG: https://www.lg.com/ Uber: https://www.uber.com/ Lyft: https://www.lyft.com/   Connect with Jared Smith: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredpaulsmith/ Email: jared@pricesmith.com   Connect with Mark Stiving: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stiving/ Email: mark@impactpricing.com  

In this episode, I sit down with Jason Bronstad, CEO of Malk Organics, and talk about the journey of not just leading a clean-label brand but rebuilding it from the inside out.   Jason shares how a deeply personal career pivot led him to a mission-driven company that's transforming the plant-based milk category, one clean ingredient at a time. We get into the weeds from SKU rationalization and shelf life extension to the emotional lessons of transparent leadership and brand stewardship. What happens when your consumers call you out on social media? You listen, and you learn, and Jason shares exactly how his team responded and evolved.

In this episode of Omni Talk's Ask an Expert series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga talk with Stipe Galic, VP of Business Development & Marketing at TGW, to demystify the complexities of returns in today's omnichannel retail world. From cost savings to faster reshelving, Stipe walks us through how automation, flexible software, and a unified DC setup are transforming how retailers like Urban Outfitters manage inventory and returns. Key Moments: 1:05 – Stipe's journey from mechanical engineer to automation leader at TGW 4:59 – Why returns are such a thorn in omnichannel fulfillment 7:00 – Real-time processing of returns with mixed-SKU totes 10:00 – How software decides between single-SKU and return stock 14:36 – Case study: High-end fashion retailer consolidating DC operations 19:56 – Cutting return costs nearly in half through automation 22:00 – “Bridge vs. Ferry” analogy on warehouse responsiveness 24:35 – Seamless integration > cutting-edge tech: the new mindset Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content*

In this episode of Business of Drinks, we sit down with Harmon Skurnik, president of Skurnik Wines & Spirits, one of the most influential importers and distributors in the U.S. With more than $200 million in annual revenue, a wholesale presence in nine states, and import reach across the nation, Skurnik has grown into a powerhouse while holding tight to its roots as a family-run, quality-first business.Unlike many peers, the Skurnik team has never chased scale for scale's sake. Instead, their approach has been defined by thoughtful, organic growth — expanding only when the opportunity was right. From rescuing a struggling Ohio distributor to launching what would become their top-selling brand, The Pinot Project, Harmon shares how Skurnik's strategy has delivered both scale and staying power. In fact, Skurnik's sales were up in 2024, while much of the wine industry contracted — a testament to their effective operations and strategic growth path.In this episode, Harmon shares:How Skurnik Wines & Spirits grew from a two-man operation in NYC to a national player with 270+ employeesWhy they still personally taste every wine and interview every employee — even with operations in nine statesThe story behind The Pinot Project, now their #1 SKU, selling 65,000 cases and $6 million annuallyHow the team turned around a failing Ohio distributor into a thriving business in Ohio, Kentucky, and IndianaWhy the company avoids expansion for expansion's sake, and only grows where it can add true valueHow Skurnik positions itself as a marketing partner, not just a logistics provider, for its suppliersWhat makes a good distributor in today's market — and why asking "how many reps do you have?" misses the pointLast Call: We dig into a provocative piece by cocktail historian and author David Wondrich: “Why Is My Drink So Damn Weird?” (via Punch). Erica, Scott, and Caroline debate:

Hola, yo soy Arturo Salazar y esto es El Brieff, el podcast en el que te cuento lo más importante del mundo para que tomes mejores decisiones. Hoy vamos a hablar sobre la creciente tensión entre México y Estados Unidos por el agua, el jitomate y los autos. También nos vamos a asomar al frente comercial con China, la crisis en Ucrania, ataques en prisiones francesas, y un nuevo campeón del lujo.Este episodio es presentado por EVA Demand Planning de STRTGY. ¿Todavía haces tu planeación de demanda con hojas de cálculo y suposiciones? EVA es la analista virtual que transforma tus datos en decisiones confiables, usando inteligencia artificial para predecir con precisión qué, cuánto y cuándo vender. Pronósticos a nivel de SKU, cliente y ubicación, todo en un solo sistema. Menos quiebres de stock, más control. Conoce EVA en www.strtgy.ai. Suscríbete a Brieffy para acceder a estos y más contenidos de alto valor en un solo lugar. Si quieres hacerlo y recibir todos los beneficios de Brieffy, visita brieffy.comRecibe gratis nuestro newsletter con las noticias más importantes del día.Si te interesa una mención en El Brieff, escríbenos a arturo@brieffy.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if your last Amazon purchase could be your next income stream? Most people use Amazon to buy. Neil Twa teaches how to use it to sell—and not as a hobby, but as a serious, profitable business. In this episode, he outlines how e-commerce, particularly using Amazon's FBA system, can become a long-term asset, not just side income. Neil explains how to think like a seller instead of a consumer, identifies key product opportunities hidden in everyday buying habits, and shares how his clients have built passive income and multimillion-dollar exits from simple product-based businesses. Whether you're new to e-commerce or looking to grow beyond the basics, this episode breaks down what it really takes to build a cash-flowing online business from scratch.   [00:01 - 05:00] E-commerce is Not a Hobby What makes e-commerce a sustainable business model in today's economy Why Amazon's infrastructure helps new sellers scale without massive overhead The importance of treating e-commerce as a real business, not just a side hustle   [05:01 - 10:57] What the Hell Do I Sell? How to identify product opportunities by studying your own buying habits What questions to ask about buyer behavior before launching a product The importance of shifting from consumer thinking to seller strategy   [10:58 - 15:35] The $500 Toothache Rule Why people pay more for speed and ease, and how to serve that customer How to create products that solve urgent problems at higher price points The importance of targeting buyers who value quality over price   [15:36 - 29:14] Profit Per Unit Over Volume How to earn more by selling fewer, higher-margin products Why expanding your SKU count is more effective than chasing volume The importance of understanding unit economics and realistic growth   [29:15 - 27:04] Similarity + Familiarity = Trust How to leverage Amazon's brand trust to grow an unknown brand Why innovation matters more than invention in product development The importance of being similar to what's already selling—but slightly better   Connect with Neil: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neiltwa/   Key Quotes:   “Revenue is vanity. Profit is sanity. Cash flow is king.” - Neil Twa   “You're already sitting on the products you could be selling—you just don't see them yet.” - Neil Twa   Visit sponsorcloud.io/contact today and unlock $2,000 of free services exclusively for REI Rocks community members! Get automated syndication and investor relationship management tools to save time and money. Mention your part of the REI Rocks community for exclusive offers. Help make affordable, low-cost education summits possible. Check out Sponsor Cloud today!   LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone who wants to explode their business growth by sharing this episode.   Are you confused about where to start? Join our community and learn more about real estate investing. 

Andrew leads Jay through the surprisingly complicated world of modular pistols—and what it can teach us about running a lean, efficient shop. What starts as a chat about concealed carry and SIG's infamous P365 series turns into a full-blown deep dive into systems thinking, SKU overload, and why bad product naming can crush your workflow.Andrew unpacks how chaos in the holster industry mirrors challenges in manufacturing. He also shares how his team is using AI and smart documentation to streamline customer service and reduce confusion—something every shop owner can learn from.

On this episode, we're joined by Carolyn Gahn who is the Senior Director of Mission & Advocacy at Applegate.   Applegate has just announced that they've achieved their ambitious goal to source 100% of the beef in their beef hot dogs from certified regenerative grasslands. By implementing this change, Applegate is helping to transition 10.8 million acres of grasslands to certified regenerative.   Carolyn leads Applegate's regenerative agriculture initiatives, and she joins us to share how the brand has gone from a single experimental product to transforming its entire hot dog portfolio to be certified regenerative.   We explore what made Applegate double down on regen even when consumers didn't fully understand it, and how this shift reflects the brand's long-standing mission of “changing the meat we eat.” Carolyn gives us a transparent look at the supply chain complexity, the multiple certifications chosen, and how Applegate's position within Hormel is actually helping move regen efforts forward at scale.   We also dig into Applegate's nutrient density testing and human health trials, their efforts to create true market signals for farmers, and how storytelling is evolving to make regen accessible and meaningful for everyday consumers.   Episode Highlights:  

Get ready for a jam-packed episode of the Meatgistics podcast! Jon and Austin dive into the colorful world of food dyes and their impact on our meals. They also explore the fascinating technology behind AI aging filters and how they can transform our photos. The team tastes and reviews delicious chicken brats, discusses the importance of SKU numbers for product tracking, and shares some cringe-worthy stories about finding hair in food. Plus, they uncover the thrilling news that dire wolves are no longer extinct and rank their favorite meats. Tune in for an episode full of surprises, tasty treats, and intriguing discussions!

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupIn this episode of the DTC Podcast, we sit down with Andy Hoang, the founder of Aviron, a connected fitness company merging casual gaming with home exercise equipment. From bootstrapping with home equity lines to pivoting from B2B to DTC during COVID, Andy's journey is a case study in high-consideration product growth, investor navigation, and multi-channel marketing.Key Highlights:Why hardware/software hybrid brands require longer go-to-market timelinesThe real story behind getting into Y Combinator after years of rejectionWhy attribution doesn't work for $2K+ purchases—and what doesScaling creative production for UGC, influencer, and AppLovin performanceHow Aviron uses direct mail to connect with 45+ customersWhy expanding SKU options drives down CACIf you're scaling a complex DTC product or navigating the tricky world of funding, this episode is a goldmine of tactical lessons.Timestamps:00:00 – How Andy Hoang bootstrapped Aviron's early days02:45 – Pivoting from B2B to DTC during the pandemic05:10 – Getting into Y Combinator and what changed08:00 – Marketing a $2,000 fitness machine with no clear attribution10:30 – Why Aviron doubled down on gamified fitness13:00 – Competing with Peloton and building defensible software15:25 – Exploring direct mail, influencer, and app-based advertising18:00 – Aviron's 2025 roadmap: New products and price points20:30 – Real talk: Andy's advice for ambitious foundersHashtags:#DTCpodcast#AvironFitness#YCombinator#FounderStory#Bootstrapping#DirectToConsumer#FitnessTech#GamifiedFitness#EcommerceGrowth#StartupLife#PelotonCompetitor#MarketingStrategy#ConnectedFitness#SubscriptionBusiness#VentureCapital Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupAdvertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertiseWork with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouseFollow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletterWatch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Amazon ads are getting more expensive, more competitive—and way more confusing. In this episode of Lunch With Norm, PPC strategist Elizabeth Greene breaks down what's really happening inside Amazon's ad console in 2024 and what you need to do to scale profitably in 2025. From catchall campaigns and B2B optimization to fractional DSP access and Amazon's new AI tools, Elizabeth shares advanced strategies that are working now. She also explains why most sellers are mismanaging ad spend, how to evaluate performance across massive catalogs, and why the key to growth isn't more money—it's smarter strategy. Whether you're a beginner or running a complex multi-SKU operation, this episode is your crash course in Amazon advertising that actually works.   Want to know the EXACT ACoS to hit your profit goal? - https://junglr.com/growthbalanceequation/ 

Welcome to The Ecommerce Braintrust podcast, brought to you by Julie Spear, Head of Retail Marketplace Services, and Jordan Ripley, Director of Retail Operations. Today, we're excited to welcome back a familiar voice on the show—operations expert Armin Alispahic. Armin is here to bring us up to speed on a recent phenomenon in the Vendor space — the availability of true channel P&L analysis. We'll explore why this trend is only showing up now and what it means for how brands assess their business with Amazon.   KEY TAKEAWAYS In this episode, Julie, Jordan, and Armin discuss: Understanding Vendor Profitability on Amazon: Two main metrics: Net PPM (Net Pure Profit Margin) and Internal Brand P&L. The hidden third factor—Amazon's internal costs (fulfillment, packaging, and shipping expenses). Why Profitability Analysis Is Becoming Crucial: Amazon is tightening vendor margins, requiring brands to have a clear view of their own and Amazon's profitability. Increase in CRaP (Can't Realize a Profit) items, making it essential to assess profitability at the SKU level. Technology Driving P&L Insights for Vendors: Amazon's 2023 API improvements have enabled better data access for vendor P&L analysis. New tools now provide automated, SKU-level profitability reports. Key Factors That Influence Vendor Profitability: Fixed Costs: Vendor terms (co-op, damage allowances, freight). Variable Costs: Chargebacks, shortages, advertising, and promotional spend. Operational Efficiency: Packaging, fulfillment optimization, and inventory management. How Brands Can Leverage P&L Insights: Smarter Assortment Decisions: Identifying SKUs that drive profitability vs. those that hurt margins. Optimizing Advertising Spend: Allocating budget toward high-margin products rather than just high-volume ones. Better Negotiations with Amazon: Using data to drive conversations in annual vendor negotiations (AVNs). Cross-Team Collaboration: Breaking down silos between marketing, finance, and operations.