This Week In Ecommerce

This Week In Ecommerce

By Ecom NationBusiness
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This Week In Ecommerce episodes

  • Supermarket Supplier Switch, More Crisis at Booktopia and Geedup's Remarkable Launch

    In Episode 44 of This Week in Ecommerce, Mal and Paul cover a whirlwind of events in the world of online retail. From record-breaking product launches to the pitfalls of subscription models, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and a ethical discussion for retailers to consider. Tune in for a deep dive into the latest trends and challenges in the ecommerce landscape.

    • Geedup’s Record Drop: Geedup's phenomenal drop reaches unprecedented sales figures in just six minutes.
    • Subscription Struggles: Once all the rage, subscription-based businesses are dropping like the flies due to the difficulties of customer retention and economic pressures.
    • Booktopia’s Financial Woes: Amidst a trading halt and cash crisis, we look at the implications for ecommerce businesses and the importance of solid financial management.
    • Guzman y Gomez IPO: The fast food chain’s explosive IPO, exploring the hype and skepticism surrounding its valuation and future prospects.
    • Coles and Woolies Supplier Shake-Up: The ethical considerations and economic impacts of major retailers sourcing cheaper products overseas, and the government’s response with potential fines for mistreating suppliers.
    • Stay tuned for next week’s episode where they’ll delve deeper into the supermarket code of conduct and its implications for suppliers.

      Follow Mal

      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malchia/
      Website: malchia.com

      Follow Paul

      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulwaddyecommerce/
      Website: learnecommerce.com

      Follow Ecom Nation

      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecom-nation/
      Website: ecomnation.com.au
      Website: ecomnation.com.au

      28 min
    • EOFY Sales Madness and Apple's Bold AI Move

      Welcome to episode 43 of This Week in Ecommerce! Join Mal Chia and Paul Waddy as they navigate the latest trends and news shaking up the ecommerce world. This week, we explore the end-of-financial-year sales madness, Apple’s bold moves in AI, and the exciting developments from Meta’s Performance Summit. Here’s what you can expect:


      • End-of-Financial-Year Sales Strategies: We discuss the optimal strategies for clearing out seasonal stock and preparing for the new fiscal year.
      • Rescue Mission: The revival of Infamous Swim from administration by a diverse consortium of experts. Is this a new trend for struggling brands?
      • Apple's AI Announcement: Apple's new AI, designed to streamline user experience by summarising emails and messages, and the implications for email marketers. How will this reshape the landscape for promotional emails?
      • Meta Performance Summit Highlights: Meta’s new focus on optimising for profitability and third-party attribution. What does this mean for your advertising strategy, and how can you leverage these updates for better business outcomes?
      • Tune in for a jam-packed episode full of actionable insights and a few laughs along the way!


        Follow Mal
        LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malchia/
        Website: malchia.com

        Follow Paul
        LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulwaddyecommerce/
        Website: learnecommerce.com

        Follow Ecom Nation
        LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecom-nation/
        Website: ecomnation.com.au
        Website: ecomnation.com.au


        22 min
      • The Spending Paradox: High Ad Spend, Lower Returns, and Industry Shake-Ups

        In this special in-person recording of This Week in Ecommerce, episode 42, hosts Mal Chia and Paul Waddy navigate the latest ecommerce news with their signature blend of insight and humour. Recorded at the Work It Spaces studio in Alexandria, the duo dive into the complexities of online ad spending, the resilience of certain market sectors, and the latest on industry heavyweights.


        • Online Ad Spending vs. Revenue: Discover why businesses are spending more on ads but seeing less return and the critical need for efficiency in tough times.

        • Booktopia’s Turbulent Times: Uncover the challenges facing Booktopia as Tony Nash returns amidst mass layoffs and financial struggles.

        • Glossier's Australian Launch: Learn how Glossier's entry into Mecca stores can revolutionise their DTC strategy and what it means for the beauty industry.

        • South Australia's Stamp Duty Decision: Explore the potential unintended consequences of scrapping stamp duty for new home buyers and its broader economic impact.

        • Join Mal and Paul as they dissect these stories with the expertise and banter that make This Week in Ecommerce a must-listen for anyone in the retail and ecommerce space.


          Follow Mal

          LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malchia/
          Website: malchia.com


          Follow Paul

          LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulwaddyecommerce/
          Website: learnecommerce.com


          Follow Ecom Nation

          LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecom-nation/
          Website: ecomnation.com.au


          27 min
        • Discount Dilemmas and David Beckham's Unlikely Ambassadorship

          Welcome back to another exciting episode of "This Week in Ecommerce"! Join hosts Mal Chia and Paul Waddy as they dissect the latest trends and stories shaping the ecommerce landscape. This week, we tackle everything from the curious case of David Beckham's new partnership to the perennial debate over discounting strategies. Mal shares his recent retail observations while Paul provides his insights on maintaining brand integrity amidst competitive pressures.

          • David Beckham and AliExpress: Exploring the surprising collaboration between a global icon and a discount-heavy platform. Does this partnership make sense for Beckham's brand?
          • Retail Landscape: Paul and Mal discuss the current state of retail, highlighting the pressures on brands and the rise in discount-driven sales tactics.
          • Discounting Debate: A deep dive into why ecommerce brands default to discounts and how this impacts long-term brand perception and customer loyalty.
          • Industry Insights: Comments from industry professionals, including thoughts on the ease of discounting, the influence of marketing agencies, and alternative discount strategies.
          • ACCC and Woolworths: An update on Woolworths' divestment of pet stock shares following regulatory pressures. What does this mean for market competition and consumer choices?
          • Tune in for an episode packed with expert analysis, witty banter, and actionable insights for anyone navigating the dynamic world of ecommerce.



            Follow Mal

            LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malchia/
            Website: malchia.com

            Follow Paul

            LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulwaddyecommerce/
            Website: learnecommerce.com

            Follow Ecom Nation

            LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecom-nation/
            Website: ecomnation.com.au

            30 min
          • Ep 40 This Week in Ecommerce: Victoria's Secret Comeback & Little Birdie Suspends Operations

            Welcome to This Week in Ecommerce, your go-to podcast for the latest news and insights in the online retail world.

            In our milestone 40th episode, Mal Chia and Paul Waddy explore some surprising trends and notable industry updates. Here’s what we cover:

            1. 90% of Australians Prefer In-Store Shopping: According to a recent survey by Shopfully, a whopping 90% of Australians still prefer to shop in-store.

            2. Little Birdie Suspends Operations: Despite significant initial hype and investment, Little Birdie has announced the suspension of its operations, promising a future pivot to AI.

            3. Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Returns: After a hiatus, the iconic Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is back. We discuss how this move could reignite interest and create "brand heat" for the struggling retailer, and the importance of brand identity in a competitive market.

            If you found this episode helpful, please engage by following our podcast, dropping a comment, or sharing it with a friend. Your support means the world to us!

            28 min
          • Ep 39 This Week in Ecommerce: $100 Million Digital Media Wastage & Federal Budget 2024

            Welcome to This Week in Ecommerce, your go-to podcast for the latest news and insights in the online retail world.

            In this episode, Mal Chia and Paul Waddy discuss the current state and future outlook of ecommerce covering groundbreaking news, strategic shifts, and policy impacts that every retailer should know about.

            1. Netflix House Opening in 2025:

            Netflix is set to revolutionise the retail and entertainment landscape with the opening of Netflix House in 2025. Mal and Paul discuss the importance of leveraging intellectual property (IP) to create immersive physical experiences, akin to Disney theme parks.

            2. A $100 Million Digital Media Wastage:

            Next&Co's recent report revealed staggering inefficiencies in digital media spend, with $100 million wasted in the last quarter alone. Astonishingly, 48% of this wastage was attributed to Meta platforms.

            3. Walmart's Move Away from Self-Checkout:

            In a surprising turn, Walmart has decided to remove self-checkout machines from some of its stores in the US, citing higher theft rates and customer frustration. Mal and Paul examine the impact of this decision on customer experience and discuss whether other retailers, including those in Australia, might follow suit.

            4. Federal Budget 2024:

            The federal budget was recently handed down, with mixed reactions from the retail sector. They discuss the key measures affecting retailers, from energy bill rebates to instant asset write-offs, and talk about whether these initiatives will truly benefit the industry amidst rising costs and lower consumer demand.

            If you found this episode helpful, please engage by following our podcast, dropping a comment, or sharing it with a friend. Your support means the world to us!

            19 min
          • Ep 38 This Week In Ecommerce: Moderna and OpenAI's Collaboration and Australia’s Most Loved Retailers Revealed

            Welcome to This Week in Ecommerce, your go-to podcast for the latest news and insights in the online retail world.

            In this episode, Mal Chia is flying solo to discuss some important headlines affecting the retail sector, focusing on both local challenges and emerging global trends.


            Seafolly Rescues Rival Tigerlily from Administration:

            The episode kicks off with Seafolly's recent acquisition of Tigerlily, which had entered voluntary administration for the second time.


            Mixed Financial Performance for Culture Kings' Parent Company AKA:

            Mal provides an analysis of AKA Brands, the parent company of Culture Kings, reporting mixed results in its recent financial quarter. With a notable decline in Australia and New Zealand offset by growth in the US, this segment examines the strategies behind Culture Kings' international expansion and its impact on the brand's global presence.


            Australia’s Most Loved Retailers Revealed:

            This segment delves into a recent report on Australia's most loved retail brands, with a special focus on The Iconic, which scored high across various demographics. Mal discusses the importance of customer experience and how it influences consumer loyalty and brand perception, providing valuable insights for SMBs looking to enhance their customer relations.


            Moderna and OpenAI's Collaboration:

            Finally, Mal explores the groundbreaking partnership between Moderna and OpenAI, illustrating how AI technologies are being leveraged beyond healthcare into retail product development and trend forecasting. He encourages retailers to consider how AI can be integrated into their business strategies to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.


            If you found this episode helpful, please engage by following our podcast, dropping a comment, or sharing it with a friend. Your support means the world to us!

            16 min
          • Ep 37 This Week in Ecommerce: The Third Cookie Delay: Google Pushes Back Until 2025 & March Retail Meltdown

            Welcome to This Week in Ecommerce, your go-to podcast for the latest news and insights in the online retail world.

            In this episode, Mal Chia and Paul Waddy discuss the current state and future outlook of ecommerce including the pressing issues and strategies impacting retailers today.


            The Third Cookie Delay: Google Pushes Back Until 2025:

            The hosts explore Google's recent decision to delay the deprecation of third-party cookies until 2025. What does this mean for online retailers and their advertising strategies? Mal and Paul break down the implications and offer insights into navigating this extended timeline.


            March Retail Meltdown: The Worst Record to Date:

            Analysing the concerning dip in retail sales reported for March, with a historic 0.4% decline, the discussion turns to the potential causes and effects on the market. They reflect on the broader economic indicators and what retailers can do to mitigate these challenges.


            Surviving Broken Business Models in Ecommerce:

            The conversation gets real as they address the stark realities of ineffective business models plaguing some ecommerce players. From profitability issues to strategic missteps, Mal and Paul discuss how businesses can revitalise their operations and focus on sustainable growth.


            If you found this episode helpful, please engage by following our podcast, dropping a comment, or sharing it with a friend. Your support means the world to us!

            22 min
          • Ep 36 This Week in Ecommerce: Hot Take on Adore Beauty's CEO Stepping Down, Kogan's Profit Grows But Market Groans

            Welcome to This Week in Ecommerce, your go-to podcast for the latest news and insights in the online retail world.

            Join Mal Chia on another compelling episode of "This Week in Ecommerce," where we explore key strategies for revolutionising your ecommerce business.


            Kogan's Improves Profit:

            We explore why even while significantly improving profitability, the market penalised Kogan. And is Kogan Travel a bridge too far?


            Adore Beauty's CEO Steps Down:

            Less than 12 months in, CEO Tamalin Morton has announced she will be leaving in September. While performance has undoubtedly improved in her tenure, could this be more trouble for Adore after a takeover attempt in 2023.


            Like what you hear? Leave a comment, or share with a friend or colleague!

            19 min
          • Ep 35 This Week in Ecommerce: The US TikTok Ban gets closer, what the Woolies and Coles bosses had to say & Nicki Minaj's latest venture

            Welcome to This Week in Ecommerce, your go-to podcast for the latest news and insights in the online retail world.


            Join Mal Chia and special guest Arabella Clare in a compelling episode of "This Week in Ecommerce," where we explore key strategies for revolutionising your ecommerce business.


            TikTok and the Shifting Sands of Social Commerce:

            Explore the significant legislative challenges facing TikTok in the US and what the potential forced divestiture could mean for social commerce platforms globally. Understand the broader implications for ecommerce businesses relying on TikTok for customer engagement and acquisition.

            Supermarket Giants on the Hot Seat: Insights from the Senate Inquiry:

            Dive into the recent Senate inquiry where leaders from Coles and Woolworths discussed their dominant market positions. This examines the consequences of their market strategies on suppliers and consumers, and what future competition might look like in the Australian grocery sector.

            Celebrity Impact on Ecommerce: Nicki Minaj's Venture into Sustainable Fashion:

            Analyse how Nicki Minaj's investment into Lochi aligns with the growing trend of celebrities not just endorsing but actively participating in the brands they promote, focusing on sustainability and ethical production.

            If you found this episode helpful, please engage by following our podcast, dropping a comment, or sharing it with a friend.

            Your support means the world to us!


            29 min

          About This Week In Ecommerce

          From the publisher's feed

          🎙️ This Week in Ecommerce is your weekly download on the headlines shaping Australian retail. Hosted by industry legend Mal Chia and rising star Alex Ross, each episode dives into the biggest stories—from billion-dollar deals to platform updates, policy shifts, and consumer trends. Sharp insights, no fluff, and plenty of honest takes. New episodes every Wednesday.