Day 2

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

----

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

----

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

---

- 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

----

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 

---

- 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/

----

- 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/

----

- 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!

Amazon Accelerate 2023 recently concluded, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The annual conference brought together Amazon sellers, experts, and enthusiasts to discuss the latest updates, innovations, and opportunities in Amazon's eCommerce world.

The Avenue7Media team had a front-row seat at the event, and today, we're breaking down all the exciting news and insights from the conference.

I'm excited to introduce you to Liz LaVallee, our Director of Client Operations, Leoho'onani Texeira, our Director of Client Relations, and Malia Kim, our Director of Presence.

We also had the brilliant Shannon Roddy on stage for a branding panel, but we're letting him off the hook for this particular episode.

Amazon's commitment to improving its relationship with sellers was evident throughout the conference.

Our team members who attended were all impressed by the accessibility to Amazon employees who could provide answers and assistance, making it an invaluable experience for sellers.

The "Customer Obsession" theme extended to sellers, emphasizing their importance to Amazon's ecosystem.

Beyond the refreshing change of attitude by Amazon towards sellers, there were also some game-changing announcements.

Amazon's Supply Chain caught everyone's attention, promising more cost-effective and efficient shipping solutions. Amazon Shipping Services rollout promises lower costs and improved delivery experiences.

Stay tuned as we dive deep into our experiences and insights from this year's Amazon Accelerate event!

Key Takeaways

- Intro (00:00)

- Avenue7Media team impression of 2023 Amazon Accelerate (02:00)

- The biggest announcement from Accelerate (07:03)

- Amazon's new shipping services (13:47)

- Ship in Own Container (SIOC) pilot program (15:26)

- Generative AI tools for Amazon (20:09)

- New customer insights tools and dashboards (26:49)

- Amazon Emerald program to integrate 3rd party apps (40:41)

- Seller support improvements (43:23)

- Amazon's efforts to rebuild trust with sellers (45:12)

Additional Resources:

- Malia Kim’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maliakim/

- Liz LaVallee’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-lavallee/

- Leoho'onani Texeira’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leotex/

----

- 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!

Major eCommerce players Amazon and Shopify have recently struck a significant deal that's shaking up the industry.

This partnership involves the introduction of the "Buy with Prime" feature, among other exciting developments. Buy with Prime is a feature that has the potential to revolutionize the way shoppers on Shopify access Amazon Prime benefits.

BwP is a game-changer for sellers because it's the only way to tap into Amazon Prime's customer base.

While some sellers initially had concerns about sharing customer data with Amazon, BwP actually flips the script, enabling sellers to expand their customer database with Prime members.

For both Amazon and Shopify, this is a win-win partnership as they get to leverage each other's strengths.

In this episode, I am joined by James Kelly to dissect the key aspects of this game-changing collaboration and other noteworthy updates in the eCommerce marketplace.

Among these new developments are the clear signs that Amazon is shifting its approach to embracing a more supportive role as an eCommerce enabler rather than continuing as a monopolistic and anti-competitive actor in the space.

As we noticed at Amazon's Accelerate event, it's clear that the eCommerce giant is becoming more open than ever before. Amazon Emerald, an integration partnership offering SaaS tools directly within Seller Central, is a testament to this openness.

Don't miss out on these exciting developments and more in the eCommerce space. Tune in now!

Key Takeaways

- Intro (00:00)

- Buy with Prime conversation rates on DTC brands (02:10)

- Amazon's shift towards a more seller-friendly platform (06:34)

- Amazon-Shopify partnership and its implications (14:23

- Amazon and Shopify integration, traffic, and fulfillment (23:40)

- Amazon's vast fulfillment network (25:17)

- The aggregator model and debt situation (27:50)

- Achieving economies of scale with Amazon (36:08)

- Amazon’s investment in AI (40:30)

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!

In this episode, Jason Boyce chats with Scott Reid, President & CEO at Dormeo North America. Scott's career has been marked by his success in building $100 million brands both in the good ol' USA and all the way over in Japan using the power of Direct TV. 

He is a master of Media Efficiency Ratios (MER), which Amazon sellers may recognize as TACoS.

Scott and his company's marketing strategy for success in the Japanese market involved identifying products that were already successful in North America and replicating them in Japan through the use of Direct Response TV.

So, what's the secret sauce for success in DRTV?

The success of DRTV campaigns relies on showcasing innovative, highly demonstrable products with clear Unique Selling Propositions (USPs), making them fun and easy to use, and ultimately delivering happiness to consumers.

But if you are going to spend massive amounts of marketing dollars on such campaigns, you've got to be ready to defend your products with patents to maintain a competitive edge in the market.

Despite the success of DRTV, Scott insists that being on Amazon is necessary for a brand's success, given its reach and the trust consumers have in the platform, and also for channel control.

There are many cool things that Amazon sellers can learn from Scott's successes when it comes to launching a product in a new market, building brand awareness, measuring the performance of your marketing campaigns, and defending your brand.

We cover these topics in detail in the episode, as well as other great insights. Tune in!

Key Takeaways

- Scott's journey into direct marketing (00:53)

- Translating successful products in the US to Japan (04:45)

- Categories of products that resonate across cultures (11:54)

- The secret to the success of DRTV (14:13)

- Defending your product with patents to build a brand (16:17)

- Why brands must be on Amazon even with DRTV (23:43)

- How to build a $100 million brand (31:04)

- Media Efficiency Rate (33:05)

- What's next for Scott and Dormeo (37:30)

Additional Resources

- Scott Reid’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-reid-b61a3a7/

- 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!

Within the Amazon marketplace, the difference between prosperity and obscurity often boils down to a single skill: Amazon listing optimization. This is one of the key elements that separates triumphant brands from struggling ones.

In this episode, Shannon Roddy is joined by Liz LaVallee, Director of Client Operations at Avenue7Media, to dive deep into the very effective strategies employed by 7 and 8-figure brand owners to master the art of listing optimization.

But before we even get to the strategies, it's important to underscore the significance of mindset.

While listing optimization may seem like a mere technical exercise, the right mindset to have is one that emphasizes setting clear goals, creating well-defined plans, establishing metrics for tracking progress, and consistently iterating and improving.

The three fundamental pillars or outcomes of listing optimization should be:

- Improve traffic to the listing

- Increase conversion rates

- Enhance customer experience through clarity and satisfaction

Tune in to this episode to learn of the tactics in each of these three pillars of listing optimization that successful 8 figure brands use to create listings that attract, convert, and delight customers.

Key Takeaways

- The mindset difference in listing optimization (01:48)

- The goal of listing optimization (02:53)

- Listing optimization to improve conversion rate (04:30)

- Listing optimization to increase traffic (15:41)

- Listing optimization to enhance customer experience (24:27)

- Metrics to gauge listing optimization progress (38:30)

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

----

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!

Amazon isn't just another sales channel; it's a diverse and intensely competitive eCommerce ecosystem.

A small percentage of sellers dominate the market and account for the majority of sales. The journey from an early-stage brand owner to a top Amazon seller requires more than just strategies and tactics.

Mindset is often the differentiating factor that propels certain sellers to the top of the Amazon marketplace.

While external resources like budget and product range do play a role, they can only take you so far. The internal factors, especially mindset, are what truly determine the trajectory of success.

Building a 7 or 8-figure brand demands a mindset that embraces change, values customer feedback, and focuses on long-term growth rather than short-term gains.

Applying traditional retail strategies won't suffice; even strategies that work on other eCommerce platforms won't work. Amazon requires dedicated expertise and an adaptable mindset to thrive in this ever-evolving landscape.

The journey to becoming a top Amazon seller begins with a mindset that aligns with the dynamic nature of the platform.

In this episode, Shannon and I delve into the mindset that sets apart the biggest sellers, highlighting the internal mindset factors that contribute to their success, including channel control, advertising, listings, product development, and more.

Let's dive right in!

Key Takeaways

- How much success on Amazon is dependent on mindset? (03:19)

- Success is more about mindset than resources (08:16)

- Why is channel control so important (10:42)

- How do big sellers think about listings compared to smaller sellers (18:30)

- Advertising mindset that differentiates 8-figure brands from the rest (26:12)

- Key mindset differentiators in regard to product development (34:58)

- How big brands stay ahead of the competition on Amazon (43:01)

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!

Amazon's Q2 earnings call marked a significant shift in the company's trajectory under the leadership of CEO Andy Jassy.

The earnings call not only showcased a remarkable turnaround in financial performance but also shed light on Amazon's shift toward regionalized fulfillment networks and a strategic focus on AI-driven initiatives to shape the future of AWS.

In a noticeable departure from recent earnings calls, the 2023 Q2 call exuded an air of confidence and optimism.

Andy Jassy's cost-cutting efforts appear to have been effective, leading to a substantial improvement in earnings compared to the same period last year. Investors were pleased to witness an 11% year-over-year revenue growth, indicating a positive shift from several quarters of single-digit growth.

In this episode, I am joined by two esteemed experts, Annie Palmer of CNBC and Rohit Kulkarni of Roth MKM Ventures to break down the Q2 earnings call.  Every quarterly earnings call, Amazon does two press conferences, one for the news media and one for the analysts.

Annie and Rohit offer unique insights into Amazon's Q2 earnings call, highlighting key takeaways, shifts in focus, and implications for the future.

Key Takeaways

- Change in tone around the Q2 earnings call (03:36)

- Are Andy Jassy’s cost-cutting measures paying off? (04:31)

- Amazon plans for AI in the cloud (05:54)

- Third-party seller services vs. AWS (10:11)

- Shifts toward regionalized fulfillment networks (17:37)

- Secret info Amazon sellers are buying on Telegram channels (20:51)

- Andy Jassy’s moment in the sun (32:36)

- Grading Amazon Q2 earnings (35:26)

- Amazon plans for their physical retail stores (42:28)

- Unpacking Q2 revenue numbers (49:46)

- The AWS story and AI revolution in the cloud (56:42)

- Looking ahead to Q3 (01:01:34)

Additional Resources:

- Connect with Annie Palmer https://twitter.com/annierpalmer or email her at: anne.palmer@nbcuni.com

- Connect with Rohit Kulkarni at: rkulkarni@roth.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

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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!

Prime Day, Amazon's highly anticipated annual sales event, evokes mixed feelings among sellers and brands.

Some are skeptical about its profitability due to heavy discounts, while others see it as an opportunity to boost search rankings and Best Seller Rank (BSR).

In this episode, I am joined by my friend Liz LaVallee. Liz grew an enormous digital business over 16 years for Vermont Teddy Bear and PajamaGram, and Avenue7Media is honored to have her as our Director of Operations.

We delve into the anonymized results from Avenue7Media's client base, discussing the outcomes for those who participated and those who refrained from joining Prime Day.

Additionally, Liz reveals a winning strategy to leverage Prime Early Access in October for a sustained halo effect on rankings and sales.

Tune in!

Key Takeaways

- To participate or not participate in Prime Day (02:17)

- How to go all in on Prime Day (04:19)

- 2023 Prime Day statistics (10:13)

- The Prime Day Halo effect (16:48)

- The best strategy to prepare for the next Prime event (20:22)

- Should you send your list to send traffic to Amazon on Prime Day? (26:46)

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!

As an Amazon seller, the ultimate goal is to have your products rank at the top of organic search results, attracting more potential customers and boosting profitable revenue.

In the fiercely competitive world of Amazon, mastering advanced SEO strategies can make all the difference between a product that languishes in obscurity and one that soars to the top of search results.

One key aspect of these strategies is the synergy between advertising and organic ranking through effective keyword identification and optimization. 

By identifying high-converting keywords through advertising and strategically optimizing product listings, you can enhance organic visibility, attract potential customers, and ultimately increase sales and profitability. 

Leveraging the power of SEO enables you to position your products in front of potential customers effectively, making it one of the most potent tools for brand owners looking to increase sales.

By understanding the nuances of Amazon's algorithm and tailoring your SEO approach accordingly, you can achieve higher sales ranks, increased visibility, and, ultimately, greater profitability for your brand.

In this episode, Shannon and I dive into advanced SEO strategies that can help you achieve just that.

Let's explore the world of Amazon SEO and how it can revolutionize your sales performance.

Key Takeaways

- Why Amazon SEO is so important (01:46)

- Common misconceptions around Amazon SEO (06:40)

- Step #1 of the Amazon SEO process (13:40)

- The advanced Amazon SEO funnel (16:42)

- The role of advertising in organic ranking on Amazon (28:30)

- Identifying converting keywords through advertising (33:57)

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!

In our visually-driven society, a picture speaks volumes, and this is especially true in the world of online shopping.

On Amazon, product images are not just eye-catching visuals; they are critical drivers of click-through rates, sales, and overall customer satisfaction.

With millions of products available, customers often rely on these visuals as their first point of contact with a product. A compelling image can pique their interest, encourage them to click on a listing, and eventually lead to a sale.

Beyond click-through rates and sales, product images also play a key role in overall customer satisfaction. When customers receive a product that aligns with their expectations based on the images they saw, they are more likely to be satisfied with their purchase. 

On the other hand, misleading or unclear images can lead to disappointment, returns, and negative reviews, impacting a brand's reputation.

Amazon recognizes the importance of product images and encourages sellers to present their products in the best possible light. They provide guidelines and requirements to ensure images are of high quality, relevant, and informative.

Gone are the days of basic product images. High-quality 3D renderings have become the gold standard for showcasing products. These lifelike renderings provide customers with a clearer understanding of the product's features and benefits, increasing their trust in the brand.

In today's episode, Shannon and I uncover the top Amazon product image strategies used by successful 7 and 8-figure brands to stand out in the competitive marketplace.

Let's dive in!

Key Takeaways 

- Amazon Accelerate Conference update (00:38)

- Use High-Quality 3D Product Renderings (09:49)

- Position Everything for Your Customer's Avatar (12:21)

- Focus on Your Primary Image (19:11)

- Give Them a Feeling (22:28)

- Show Them How It Works (24:42)

- Provide Vital Info about the Product in the image (27:28)

- Make It Mobile Friendly (29:15)

- Share Your Brand Story, Values, and Commitments (30:35)

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!

The world is brimming with creative individuals who constantly generate brilliant ideas for new and innovative products. 

Transformative innovation that offers unique solutions and aligns with cultural values holds tremendous potential for success.

Launching these innovative products requires careful planning, market research, and an understanding of customer needs. 

Meanwhile, Amazon continues to dominate the e-commerce market as the largest platform, capturing over half of all e-commerce market share. It has become a crucial starting point for entrepreneurs, but how do you launch a brand-new innovative product on the platform?

Utilizing platforms like Amazon, along with strategic external traffic sources, can amplify visibility and generate valuable customer feedback.

By continuously improving and refining products based on customer insights, entrepreneurs can create truly transformative brands that stand out in the market.

Remember, getting started is often the hardest part, and perfection should not be the enemy of progress. Embrace the journey, iterate, and watch your innovative product thrive.

In this episode, Shannon and I delve into the essential steps required to successfully launch and continually improve innovative products.

So, let's dive in and explore how to create and market truly unique and innovative products that meet current cultural values.

Key Takeaways

- Innovators vs imitators (02:04)

- How innovative products are created (05:46)

- Proof of concept (10:43)

- Launching a new product in the market (13:39)

- The most effective way to launch on Amazon (20:02)

- How to drive SEO traffic for innovative products (26:52)

- Get in front of the right audience

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!