Supply Chain Rick Watson Supply Chain Rick Watson

Is Shop Promise a Broken Promise Based on a Flawed Premise?

This article explores the challenges facing Shopify's "Shop Promise" after the company's decision to sell Deliverr to Flexport. It delves into how Shopify's estimated delivery date system is struggling, the implications of recent layoffs at Flexport, and why Shopify may need to rethink its logistics strategy by outsourcing to specialized third-party providers.

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Marketplaces Rick Watson Marketplaces Rick Watson

Marketplaces Fees Dropping Like It’s Hot - Is It Enough for eBay?

This article explores eBay's recent move to lower seller fees in the UK, comparing it to competitors like Facebook Marketplace and Amazon. It raises critical questions about whether fee reductions alone can attract more sellers and buyers, and highlights eBay's latest AI innovation, "Magic Bulk Listing," aimed at simplifying the listing process. With increasing competition, the article examines whether these changes are enough to reverse eBay's decade-long stagnation.

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eCommerce Rick Watson eCommerce Rick Watson

Shopify Summer Editions: Raising the Water Level

Explore how Shopify's Summer Editions release goes beyond unification, raising the water level with more defaults, competitive checks, and enhanced convenience. Discover key updates like unified inventory, advanced analytics, and improved POS integration. This comprehensive review highlights Shopify's strategic moves to close gaps with competitors and elevate merchant and buyer experiences.

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Retail Rick Watson Retail Rick Watson

Walmart Earnings: Tem-who? Amaz-who? Get Behind the Retail Leader

Explore Walmart's impressive Q1 FY2025 earnings, with key highlights including 3.8% comparable store sales growth, a 12.9% rise in operating income, and a 22% surge in eCommerce. Learn how new business ventures like ads, memberships, and data contributed significantly to their success. Discover strategic lessons for investing in higher margin activities and understanding true growth metrics.

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eCommerce Rick Watson eCommerce Rick Watson

The End of The Free Shipping Era Greatly Exaggerated

Explore the shifting dynamics of free shipping in the retail industry with our insightful article. Delve into the findings of a recent survey by PYMNTS and Adobe, revealing the crucial role of free shipping in customer loyalty, even as margins tighten. Discover strategies for retailers to subsidize free shipping and drive growth, drawing from innovations in loyalty programs by giants like Walmart and Target. Uncover fascinating insights into generational shopping preferences, the evolution from eBay to Amazon, and the enduring power of competitive pricing and wide selection.

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