In the latest episode of The Global eCommerce Leaders Podcast, co-hosts Michael LeBlanc and Jim Okamura return to the mic to tackle one of the most pressing issues in international retail: uncertainty in global commerce. From the shifting dynamics of tariffs and the elimination of de minimis thresholds to the resilience of brands doubling down on cross-border strategies, this conversation is essential listening for executives navigating today’s volatile environment.

Jim reflects on a busy summer spent speaking at industry events, including Shoptalk, the Parcel Forum, and gatherings hosted by international trade groups. Across these forums, the message was consistent: brands and retailers need a dedicated community to share strategies, find new growth opportunities, and adapt to disruptive policy shifts. This insight has energized the GELF team to reimagine the role of the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum (GELF) in 2026 and beyond.

The episode revisits GELF’s origins over a decade ago, when it first brought together a niche group of international retail leaders in a whiskey bar to discuss global expansion. Since then, GELF has grown into the only U.S.-based conference and community fully dedicated to international retail growth, serving as the go-to destination for executives seeking best practices in eCommerce, wholesale, licensing, and franchising. Today, GELF is widening its lens beyond eCommerce alone to focus on the broader landscape of global commerce strategies, from DTC and marketplaces to partnerships and distribution.

The conversation dives into the financial impact of policy changes on major brands like Lululemon and Coach (Tapestry Group), who are navigating steep tariff hits and recalibrating inbound and outbound supply chains. Yet despite these headwinds, international VPs remain resolute: global expansion is still a top strategic priority. As Jim notes, companies are treating tariffs and policy shifts not as reasons to retreat but as problems to solve on the road to growth.

Looking forward, Michael and Jim unveil plans for a Global Experts Workshop in early 2026, designed to serve advanced global brands with deep-dive sessions on issues such as brand integrity, pricing architecture, and international organizational design. But before that, GELF is reactivating the community with a private executive dinner in New York City on October 22, 2025, co-hosted with Channel Engine and Livingston International. This intimate gathering will set the stage for GELF’s 2026 agenda and reconnect leaders in a collaborative environment.

Ultimately, this episode captures the spirit of GELF’s mission: providing a trusted platform where global retail executives can share experiences, address challenges, and build the strategies that will define the future of global commerce.

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