Big Trouble in Big China w/ Expert Steven Simonson

Unless you have been living under a rock, you must have heard about the Amazon aggregators/acquirers' recent struggles and the bust of their business model. In fact, Thrasio, the biggest aggregator, recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

But even though the aggregators bit off more than they could chew and bought businesses at sky-high valuations, the market for product companies is still active.

In this episode, I have the cofounders of GW partners, Chris Shipferling and Jason Somerville, to talk about the market for product companies and how to maximize your business value all the way to exit. Their investment banking firm prepares product companies for optimal valuation and sale

Chris and Jason give an inside look at all the things buyers/acquirers are looking for in today’s market to prepare your product company for an optimal valuation and sale.

From focusing on certain sectors to understanding the pivotal shift from growth to profitability, we cover a lot of ground with all the steps you need to take to ensure a lucrative exit.

If you're aiming for that ultimate wealth-creation event through the sale of your company, don't miss out on this episode!

Key Takeaways

Intro (00:00)

Current market trends and active sectors (01:13)

Insights on M&A activities and market conditions (03:15)

Amazon-centric businesses and valuation changes (05:13)

GW Partners' unique approach to selling companies (10:04)

The transition from Amazon-only to multi-channel strategies (16:42)

What buyers look for in acquisition targets (23:01)

Ideal client profile for GW Partners (29:11)

Strategies for improving profitability (35:40)

Predictions on market rationality and future trends (38:44)

Additional Resources

Connect with Chris and Jason

- Website: Gw.partners

- Chris Shipferling: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisshipferling/

- Jason Somerville: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-somerville-7273b71a/

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- Schedule a FREE consultation with the Ave7 team

- Grab the FREE Amazon Seller Central Checklist

- Get the book “The Amazon Jungle” book by Jason Boyce

- Learn more about Avenue7Media

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Day 2 Podcast has a goal of helping Amazon sellers learn how to launch, grow and protect their brand on the world's largest online marketplace (and beyond).

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!

Did you know that the seeds of artificial intelligence were sown as far back as 1937, thanks to Alan Turing's groundbreaking work?

Today, we are joined by Dr. Richard Routh, a distinguished expert in the field with a Ph.D. in artificial intelligence, for a discussion on the fascinating history of artificial intelligence and its profound impact on businesses.

Dr. Routh brings a wealth of experience, having founded the US Army's Artificial Intelligence Training Center and served as the president of GINESYS, Inc., a leading company specializing in AI solutions for various industries. Currently, at the helm of Tri 7 Services, Dr. Routh leads the charge of providing cutting-edge AI solutions to corporate clients.

In this conversation, we delve into the extensive history of AI, dispelling the myth that it's a recent 21st-century innovation. Dr. Routh sheds light on the foundational concepts established by pioneers like Alan Turing in 1937, emphasizing that recent advancements are a result of improvements in computing power and data availability.

Stay tuned as we explore how businesses can leverage AI for enhanced efficiency and customer service, highlighting its pivotal role in shaping modern business strategies.

Don't miss a masterclass on the historical evolution and practical applications of AI for your business, particularly in eCommerce.

Key Takeaways

Intro (00:00)

Historical Context of AI (01:02)

Misconceptions about AI's novelty (05:38)

Generative AI's potential and risks (12:43)

AI's role in business innovation (27:07)

Ethical Considerations AI development (31:48)

Additional Resources

Connect with Dr. Richard Routh

- Website: https://www.tri7services.com/about/

- Email: rrouth@Trie7Services.com

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- Schedule a FREE consultation with the Ave7 team

- Grab the FREE Amazon Seller Central Checklist

- Get the book “The Amazon Jungle” book by Jason Boyce

- Learn more about Avenue7Media

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Day 2 Podcast has a goal of helping Amazon sellers learn how to launch, grow and protect their brand on the world's largest online marketplace (and beyond).

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!

Have you ever wondered how giants like Amazon continue to grow in the face of economic uncertainty? The answer lies not just in resilience but in strategic innovation and foresight.

The latest Amazon Q4 earnings call revealed more than just numbers; it disclosed Amazon's roadmap for 2024 with confidence and ambition.

I am joined by two special guests: Annie Palmer, a technology reporter for CNBC specializing in Amazon and e-commerce, and Rohit Kulkarni, a managing director and senior research analyst at Roth MKM Ventures covering internet and capital markets.

Together, we dissect the key takeaways from the earnings call, exploring the giant's strategies for overcoming past economic hurdles and its bullish outlook for 2024.

We also discuss Amazon's focus on AI, its impact on future revenues, the continued evolution of its advertising and fulfillment efficiencies, and its approach to addressing potential regulatory challenges.

Whether you're interested in eCommerce, technology, business strategy, or the future of retail, this episode is for you.

Tune in to discover the innovative steps Amazon is taking to maintain its market dominance, how they are using AI to stay ahead of the curve, and how they're adapting to economic headwinds and regulatory challenges.

Key Takeaways

Introduction and guest backgrounds (00:00)

Amazon's key messages from the Q4 earnings call (02:20)

Amazon Layoffs and Strategic Investments in AI (05:42)

Generative AI's impact on the Amazon workforce (10:48)

Breakdown of potential revenue from AI (15:34)

Amazon's growth strategies, including fresh food and grocery expansion (23:05)

Amazon's profitability and growth potential (30:06)

Amazon's international market potential (36:28)

Competition with TikTok and other marketplaces (41:13)

AI investments and future outlook (49:56)

Additional Resources

Connect with Rohit Kulkarni

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohitkulkarnilnkd/

- X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/chakkoomaster

- Website: https://www.roth.com

Connect with Annie Palmer

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annierpalmer/

- X/Twitter: https://x.com/annierpalmer?s=20

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- Schedule a FREE consultation with the Ave7 team

- Grab the FREE Amazon Seller Central Checklist

- Get the book “The Amazon Jungle” book by Jason Boyce

- Learn more about Avenue7Media

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Day 2 Podcast has a goal of helping Amazon sellers learn how to launch, grow and protect their brand on the world's largest online marketplace (and beyond).

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!

The eCommerce space has undergone significant changes in recent years, presenting both business challenges and opportunities.

Financial Models haven't changed, but the mood around which financial metrics matter most certainly has. Tyler Jefcoat, CEO of Seller Accountant and a seasoned entrepreneur, joins me to unpack what's changed for 2024.

He remains optimistic about the future of eCommerce, highlighting the valuable lessons businesses have learned from the challenges of the past years.

As the business landscape improves, companies are better equipped to manage their portfolios, control expenses, and measure return on investment.

With the expectation of normalized interest rates and improved cash flow, Tyler predicts a resurgence in brand exits and increased opportunities for growth.

It is evident that a combination of prudent financial management and innovative marketing strategies will be critical to sustained success in eCommerce in 2024.

Tune in to this episode for a detailed breakdown of evolving metrics, market dynamics, and strategic decision-making that will shape the outlook for eCommerce brands in 2024.

Key Takeaways 

Intro (00:00)

eCommerce shifts to expect in 2024 (01:01)

How to plan for the return of brand exits (05:27)

How to get capital for growth with increased interest rates (11:38)

Track these new KPIs for 2024 (16:21)

Leveraging Connected TV and TikTok influencing for growth (28:25)

Why you MUST be on Amazon even if other channels seem profitable (34:03)

Additional Resources:

Website: https://www.selleraccountant.com

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerjefcoat/

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/selleraccountan

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SellerAccountant

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- Schedule a FREE consultation with the Ave7 team

- Grab the FREE Amazon Seller Central Checklist

- Get the book “The Amazon Jungle” book by Jason Boyce

- Learn more about Avenue7Media

----

Day 2 Podcast has a goal of helping Amazon sellers learn how to launch, grow and protect their brand on the world's largest online marketplace (and beyond).

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!

Ever wondered what it takes to make a brand like OLLY shine on Amazon and other marketplaces? 

Buckle up because today we have the lady who makes the magic happen, the Amazon Manager at OLLY supplements, Summer Jubelirer.

From CommerceHub to Hydralyte, Summer's been a seasoned veteran in the eCommerce game long before joining OLLY. Now, she tackles the ever-evolving Amazon landscape with a smile and a strategy (and co-hosts a hilarious podcast called "Always Off Brand").

OLLY is one of the most successful and beautifully branded Amazon businesses globally, and Summer has played a role in this.

With a wealth of experience in the eCommerce realm, Summer takes us on a journey through her career and shares valuable insights into the challenges and surprises faced at OLLY, as well as predictions and thoughts regarding Amazon's push into Streaming TV in 2024, the Always of Brand podcast that Summer co-hosts as well as other marketplaces to pay attention to.

Summer provides a glimpse into where her team will be directing their attention, revealing potential marketplaces beyond Amazon that they are exploring and why these avenues are worth their consideration. 

Key Takeaways

Intro (00:00)

Summer Jubelirer’s eCommerce career path and brand management (01:16)

Brand-agency relationships and effective communication (06:19)

Agency-brand communication and collaboration  (09:47)

Amazon marketing strategies and tactics (14:20)

eCommerce attribution, fulfillment challenges, and inventory management (21:14)

Amazon vendor strategies and communication (28:09)

Amazon advertising and connected TV (35:56)

Additional Resources:

- Summer Jubelirer’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerjubelirer/

- Always Off Brand Podcast: https://alwaysoffbrand.libsyn.com/

---

- Schedule a FREE consultation with the Ave7 team

- Grab the FREE Amazon Seller Central Checklist

- Get the book “The Amazon Jungle” book by Jason Boyce

- Learn more about Avenue7Media

----

Day 2 Podcast has a goal of helping Amazon sellers learn how to launch, grow and protect their brand on the world's largest online marketplace (and beyond).

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!

2023 is coming to a close, and what a year it's been for Amazon sellers! From Andy Jassy's cost-cutting measures to the rise of TikTok Shop, there's been no shortage of change and disruption.

In this episode, Shannon and I discuss our January predictions of what would happen in 2023 and take scores based on what we got right and wrong.

You know, when I look back at this year, our crystal balls were a little foggy, but we gave it our best shot. Predicting the twists and turns of the eCommerce world is no easy feat. We did okay, though.

We both expected to see increased antitrust scrutiny of Amazon in 2023. This prediction also came true, with the FTC filing a lawsuit against Amazon in September. The outcome of this lawsuit is still uncertain, but it could have a major impact on Amazon's business in the years to come.

Tune in to this episode to hear how we did with our predictions and what we expect going into 2024!

Key Takeaways

Intro (00:00)

Amazon growth and profitability in 2023 (01:51)

Amazon acquisitions and antitrust concerns (06:50)

Advertising and influencer marketing (12:01)

Buy with Prime predictions (19:39)

Amazon treating sellers like true partners (25:11)

Amazon disruptors in 2023 - TikTok? (27:31)

Sourcing moving away from China (34:54)

Additional Resources:

- Schedule a FREE consultation with the Ave7 team

- Grab the FREE Amazon Seller Central Checklist

- Get the book “The Amazon Jungle” book by Jason Boyce

- Learn more about Avenue7Media

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Day 2 Podcast has a goal of helping Amazon sellers learn how to launch, grow and protect their brand on the world's largest online marketplace (and beyond).

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!

Today, we've got a heavyweight in the eCommerce industry - the legend himself, Kevin King.

Kevin's journey in the world of direct marketing and eCommerce dates all the way back to 1989. 

Yeah, you heard that right! He's been an integral part of the game since before it became the powerhouse it is today.

One of the pioneers in the Amazon marketplace, Kevin's got a wealth of experience and a knack for staying ahead of the curve.

Kevin is not just a seller; he's an educator. He's the brains behind the Billion Dollar Sellers Newsletter, delivering insights that have propelled countless sellers to success. And also the mastermind behind the Billion Dollar Seller Summit.

And if that's not impressive enough, he's the man behind the number one course for Amazon sellers - Freedom Ticket. With over 160,000 students under his wing, it's safe to say he knows a thing or two about navigating the complexities of the eCommerce world.

In today's episode, we'll explore how he's seen the industry transform over the years and what he envisions for the future of eCommerce.

We'll unravel the secrets behind successful selling strategies and get a glimpse into the mind of a true industry innovator.

So, buckle up for an insightful ride with Kevin King. It's time to learn from the best and stay ahead of the curve. Stay tuned!

Key Takeaways 

- Intro (00:00)

- Kevin's entrepreneurial journey (02:45)

- First eCommerce ventures (15:44)

- Owning the customer and your own distribution channels (21:33)

- Getting started with Amazon (23:36)

- Advice for people getting into eCommerce (27:05)

- The key to maintaining a high margin (35:16)

- Best performing marketing tools (39:04)

- The power of a newsletter (42:46)

- Why we should pay attention to TikTok (51:03)

Additional Resources:

- Billion Dollar Sellers Newsletter: https://www.billiondollarsellers.com/

----

- Schedule a FREE consultation with the Ave7 team

- Grab the FREE Amazon Seller Central Checklist

- Get the book “The Amazon Jungle” book by Jason Boyce

- Learn more about Avenue7Media

----

Day 2 Podcast has a goal of helping Amazon sellers learn how to launch, grow, and protect their brand on the world's largest online marketplace (and beyond).

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!

In a previous episode, we advocated for a shift from a two-day Prime day to a more extended two-week campaign as an investment in your listing. Two and a half weeks post-event, we measured the Best Seller Rank (BSR) for clients who followed our extended campaign strategy.

The results were staggering. Those who participated in the two-week campaign witnessed a remarkable 240% improvement in BSR compared to clients who adhered to the conventional two-day approach.

With the Fall Prime Day Event setting the stage, we're now gearing up for the holiday season. Clients who participated in the fall event find themselves in an elevated position, gaining market share and improving their rank.

Liz LaVallee, Vice President of Client Growth here at Avenue7Media, highlights the essential post-Prime Day analysis and what sellers should learn from them.

Additionally, Calin and I just got back from Amazon Unboxed. Amazon is moving fast and making the case for Streaming TV Ads, among other exciting announcements.

The streaming TV landscape is in its early days, presenting a unique opportunity for forward-thinking brands to establish a foothold and set the stage for future success.

It's time to embrace the democratization of TV ads via Streaming TV before costs escalate in the coming years. The next billion-dollar brands will be built using this powerful medium.

Join Liz, Calin, and I in this fascinating discussion as we dive deep into these topics and much more!

Key Takeaways 

- Our results from Fall Prime Day (01:16)

- Building a full-funnel advertising strategy within Amazon (06:28)

- Twitch advertising for Amazon? (09:26)

- The promise of Amazon Marketing Cloud (14:48)

- Generating demand for your brand (22:16)

- Generative AI tools for advertising (24:04)

- Streaming TV ads vs Linear TV ads (25:52)

- Connecting content to commerce (31:18)

Additional Resources:

- Calin Ionescu’s LinkedIn

- Liz LaVallee’s  LinkedIn 

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- Schedule a FREE consultation with the Ave7 team

- Grab the FREE Amazon Seller Central Checklist

- Get the book “The Amazon Jungle” book by Jason Boyce

- Learn more about Avenue7Media

----

Day 2 Podcast has a goal of helping Amazon sellers learn how to launch, grow and protect their brand on the world's largest online marketplace (and beyond).

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!

The global landscape is rapidly changing, and businesses must adapt to survive and thrive. Supply chain diversification, manufacturing alternatives, and careful consideration of geopolitical risks are essential in navigating this uncertain terrain.

China, the world's factory, is faced with a myriad of problems ranging from economic instability, debt, political tensions, crumbling infrastructure, and a fast-declining manufacturing industry.

Small businesses and sellers should be taking proactive steps to secure their future and diversify their supply chains before they get disrupted.

In this episode, I sat down with Steve Simonson, a Global Entrepreneur and Founder of the e-commerce association Empowery.com.

Our discussion centered around the rapidly changing global landscape, with a particular focus on the challenges and opportunities facing product brands and small businesses amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

Steve Simonson predicts that these tensions may lead to more kinetic actions, including wars, which could disrupt global trade and geopolitics.

So, what does all this mean for small businesses and sellers?

It's time to look at alternative supply chain options seriously. Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, the E.U., Turkey, and India are all viable options. But they possess different strengths and challenges.

But there is also a possible U.S. onshore manufacturing renaissance, coupled with a strategic North American alliance, that seems to be on the cards.

Tune in to gain valuable insights and expert advice to help you navigate the complex world of global business and supply chains.

Key Takeaways

- Intro (00:00)

- The Global Chaos Curve and its implication for sellers (01:44)

- China's economic stability and manufacturing decline (10:09)

- Supply chain alternatives to China (19:59)

- Diversifying to ASEAN countries (27:33)

- Always get on TERMS when buying from China (29:36)

- Manufacturing renaissance in U.S. and North America (37:43)

- E.U. supply chains (40:32)

- Onshoring back manufacturing to North America (43:56)

Additional Resources:

Connect with Steve Simonson

- Website and podcast platform: https://www.awesomers.com/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevesimonson/

- Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevesimonson

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steve.simonson1/

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- Schedule a FREE consultation with the Ave7 team

- Grab the FREE Amazon Seller Central Checklist

- Get the book “The Amazon Jungle” book by Jason Boyce

- Learn more about Avenue7Media

----

Day 2 Podcast has a goal of helping Amazon sellers learn how to launch, grow and protect their brand on the world's largest online marketplace (and beyond).

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, I am joined by Scott Ohsman, a seasoned veteran of Amazon Vendor Central and an expert in the world of eCommerce.

He is also the VP of Digital Commerce at Quickfire, LLC, Speaker, Brand Strategist, and co-host of the "Always Off Brand" podcast.

Scott Ohsman's journey in the retail industry began long before eCommerce took center stage. He has seen the industry undergo significant shifts, from brick-and-mortar dominance to the rise of online marketplaces.

With over 28 years of experience in retail and eCommerce, Scott has not only launched over 200 brands on Amazon but also witnessed the platform's transformation from its early days to the present.

In this insightful conversation, we delve into the changing landscape of Amazon, the evolution of 1P (Vendor Central) and 3P (Third-Party Sellers) dynamics, Amazon's streamlined logistics, Amazon's response to antitrust concerns, and more.

Key Takeaways

- Meet Scott Ohsman (01:15)

- The importance of sales training (06:57)

- Vendor Central (1P) evolution (09:05)

- The big purge of Vendor Central in 2018 (17:01)

- The major changes in 1P (19:22)

- Strategic Vendor Services (21:08)

- Some Amazon news (25:08)

- Concerns with Amazon's streamlined logistics plan (30:26)

- FTC lawsuit against Amazon (34:02)

Additional Resources:

- Always Off Brand Podcast by Scott Ohsman: https://alwaysoffbrand.libsyn.com/

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- Schedule a FREE consultation with the Ave7 team

- Grab the FREE Amazon Seller Central Checklist

- Get the book “The Amazon Jungle” book by Jason Boyce

- Learn more about Avenue7Media

----

Day 2 Podcast has a goal of helping Amazon sellers learn how to launch, grow and protect their brand on the world's largest online marketplace (and beyond).

Follow us on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!