eCom@One with Richard Hill

AI, Amazon & the future of eCommerce The buzz around AI isn’t slowing down—and for good reason. It’s not just another shiny tool. It’s changing how businesses work, grow, and compete. This week, Richard sits down with JJo Lambadjieva, CEO and founder of Amazing Wave, to break down what AI really means for Amazon sellers and eCommerce brands. Jo’s been in the game for 14+ years—running performance marketing for D2C and retail, supporting Amazon vendors through his boutique agency, and later leading strategy and operations at a major aggregator. When ChatGPT dropped in 2022, he saw what was coming and started building AI into everyday workflows. In this episode, Joe and Richard cut through the hype and share real strategies: How AI uncovers hidden inefficiencies in your businessWhy even solo operators can scale productivity with the right toolsWhat evolving search and customer behavior means for the future of selling It’s not about replacing people. It’s about giving teams leverage, speeding up the boring work, and staying competitive as the landscape shifts. Whether you’re an Amazon pro, just testing AI in your processes, or curious where the industry’s headed, this one’s packed with practical advice and real-world examples. Listen now—and start spotting opportunities AI can unlock for your business. Topics covered: 00:00 "Integrating AI in E-commerce SEO" 06:30 ChatGPT: Second Brain on Walks 10:25 AI's Organizational Impact: Efficiency, Data, Talent 11:26 AI as a Team Enhancement Tool 16:01 AI Innovations with MCP and Artifacts 18:48 "AI: Utility Over Hype" 22:45 AI Meeting Recorders Enhance Interviews 26:13 Improving Data Hygiene and Organization 29:19 "Rufus AI: Transforming Amazon Shopping" 34:13 "Rufus Blueprint Analysis Highlights" 38:02 Empowered Teams Boost Efficiency 41:54 "Invest in Data and AI Search" 45:36 Improving Brand Presence in LLMs 46:35 Expert Tool Recommendations for Ecom 51:02 "AI E-Commerce Newsletter"

AI in the Agency: Curiosity, Change & What Keeps Me Up at Night - Richard Hill AI in eCommerce marketing. Hype or opportunity? For Richard Hill, founder of EcomOne and host of the EcomOne Podcast, the answer is clear: curiosity, testing, and embracing change are what keep an agency thriving. In this solo episode, Richard takes us behind the scenes of how his agency is experimenting with AI — from small automations to full team challenges — and why ignoring it could leave you behind. Richard Hill Richard shares his personal journey with AI, starting from curiosity at industry expos, to testing early tools like ChatGPT, and eventually running full “AI Games” at his agency. He explains how auditing his own time (and inbox!) led him to practical applications, from automated email replies to data analysis. The real message? Businesses that embrace AI will thrive. Those that don’t risk being left behind — just as with every digital shift before. He also dives into how AI is changing search behavior, SEO strategy, and eCommerce growth opportunities. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or already experimenting, this episode gives you a candid look at what’s working and what to watch out for. Listen to the full episode now and discover why AI may just be the most exciting change since Google Shopping. Topics Covered 00:04 — Introduction: Why Richard’s back on the mic solo 01:00 — The agency’s busy journey into AI experimentation 03:18 — Lessons from past industry shifts (Google Shopping going paid) 05:38 — Automating inbox replies with AI (Claude + integrations) 08:05 — What keeps Richard up at night: AI’s future in the agency 08:39 — Launching “The AI Games” at EcomOne (team challenges + £1,000 prize) 12:52 — How each department tested AI tools like N8N, Claude, Lovable & ChatGPT 15:08 — Using AI for smarter, faster data analysis 17:32 — Why curiosity and daily testing are key for business survival 18:44 — Richard’s quirky habit: brainstorming with ChatGPT on walks 21:47 — How AI is changing search, SEO, and eCommerce content strategy 25:37 — Wrapping up: Don’t get left behind — stay curious, test, and embrace change

Emma Derbyshire & Brittany Jarman — Agency vs. In-House: Why Communication Wins Every Time Agency or in-house? Oh, here we go again. A debate that refuses to die, fueled by LinkedIn posts, bad experiences, and the occasional horror story. But here’s the truth: it’s not versus. It’s not a fight. It’s a partnership. Poor communication kills partnerships. Lack of trust kills growth. Bad vibes? They’ll sink you. Emma & Britt take over the podcast this week to show you how to make agency + in-house collaboration thrive. Emma Derbyshire & Brittany Jarman Agency vs. in-house marketing. In this episode, Emma and Britt-two of eCom@One’s star strategists-take us through one of the most hotly debated topics in eCommerce and shine a light on what really drives successful growth: clear communication, collaboration, and knowing which model fits your stage of business. Fresh from a panel at IRX where Emma faced three senior eCom managers, they share what surprised them most: not one of the retailers had a true horror story with an agency. Instead, they all agreed that strong communication was the biggest factor in success. They explore the pros and cons of in-house, agency, freelancer, and hybrid models, and explain why hybrid often hits the sweet spot for growth. Along the way, they bust myths about cost, control, and the “us vs. them” mentality, and show why agencies that share knowledge with their clients are the ones you want to work with. Whether you’re scaling fast, feeling burned by a bad experience, or just figuring out what comes next, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical advice to help you choose the right path and build better partnerships. Listen to the full episode now, and don’t forget to vote on who wore the outfit best. Topics Covered 00:04 — Introduction: Why agency vs. in-house is still a hot debate 01:32 — Panel recap: Communication comes up as the #1 success factor 04:52 — Why communication must go both ways — brands have to share too 06:15 — Busting the myth of endless “agency horror stories” 08:39 — How good agencies upskill in-house teams instead of gatekeeping 11:39 — How brands really choose agencies: trust, word-of-mouth, and good vibes 15:10 — The three models explained: freelancers, full in-house, hybrid — and when to use each 26:31 — Myth-busting: agencies are too expensive, in-house equals more control, and why it’s not “us vs. them” 37:44 — Key takeaways: communication, collaboration, and choosing the right model for your growth phase 39:13 — Emma’s advice for ambitious brands looking to scale

Email marketing is dead. In this episode, Richard sits down with Emilia Święcicka, Strategic Partnership Manager at Intuit Mailchimp, for an engaging and insightful chat about how email marketing is evolving in the world of eCommerce & how it is simply not dead.  Emilia walks us through her journey, from starting out on the agency side to leading strategic partnerships at Mailchimp, where she helps brands and agencies unlock the full potential of email, SMS and CRM strategies.  They explore how Mailchimp has grown from a tool focused on small businesses into a powerful platform supporting mid-market and enterprise eCommerce brands, thanks to Intuit’s investment in automation, AI, advanced reporting and localised support. They also break down why email is still one of the highest-ROI marketing channels, how to use data to drive smarter campaigns and the exciting ways AI is streamlining workflows and boosting performance.  Emilia shares practical tips on building customer loyalty, the value of strong brand storytelling, and clever ways to grow your list, like pop-ups and quizzes that actually work. Whether you're running a fast-growing eCommerce store or just starting to refine your marketing strategy, this episode is full of actionable ideas to help you create better customer journeys and drive meaningful growth. Listen to the full podcast right now! Topics Covered  00:25 – Origin of partnership: Met at a platform conference years ago, collaborated on events, with Mailchimp evolving from SMB focus to mid-market and eCommerce under Intuit 03:43 – Mailchimp's growth under Intuit: Enhanced features, automation, and global support for businesses of all sizes 07:56 – Retention and LTV: Key for multi-7-figure brands; focus on creative ads and retention flows to boost profitability 13:00 – Pre-purchase research tips: Check About Us pages, reviews and social media for brand credibility 14:46 – Smart tactics: Discover lesser-known strategies using rich, diverse customer data 17:59 – Testing culture: Bigger brands embrace experimentation; even small tweaks (e.g., pop-ups) can drive conversions 22:33 – Mailchimp strengths: Trusted platform with strong deliverability and domain authentication infrastructure 25:55 – Case study – The Biker Company: Boosted ROI using Mailchimp features after switching ESPs 28:44 – SMS + Email: Combining both channels strategically enhances results 30:41 – Intuit vision: QuickBooks + Mailchimp integration to streamline operations and improve business outcomes

In this episode, Richard sits down with Nick Altimore, a seasoned link building strategist and Director at SirLinksalot, to explore one of the most underutilised yet powerful growth levers in eCommerce, link building. Together, they break down what actually works in today’s SEO landscape, starting with foundational techniques like "pillow links" and moving into advanced tactics such as 301 redirects, digital PR and some unconventional strategies you probably haven’t tried yet. Nick brings real-world case studies to the table, sharing hard-earned insights on how to scale link building efforts effectively. He offers candid advice on when to outsource, when to keep it in-house, and how to make that call based on your business stage and goals. They also dive into competitive link analysis, uncovering how to identify and bridge link gaps and how to stay one step ahead of ever-evolving search algorithms. Whether you’re running a multi-million-pound e-commerce operation or just launching your first store, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways, expert-level guidance, and future-focused tips to help you boost authority, drive qualified traffic and climb the search rankings with confidence. Topics Covered  00:23 - eCommerce growth, link building insights 05:49 - Link building strategy for eCommerce 07:05 - Foundational link building essentials 11:07 - Longevity SEO strategies 14:18 - Domain flipping with expired sites 17:31 - Domain value in link building 22:03 - Honest business budgeting advice 25:29 - Steady revenue builds business success 27:20 - Expert link building for eCommerce 29:41 - Deep dive analysis in eCommerce 35:49 - Realistic SEO budget planning 36:40 Holistic approach to ranking success 39:52 - Exploring parasite SEO and trends 43:47 - Link building lessons from viral success 49:20 - Consistent content strategy key 51:44 - Reluctant approach to link disavows 53:34 - SEO's resilience and future outlook 57:38 - Book recommendation 

This podcast episode is a special one and let us tell you why!  Richard sits down with the powerhouse sisters and Co-Founders of Pretty Lavish, Samantha and Stephanie Frost. From humble beginnings as a spare-bedroom side hustle, Pretty Lavish has blossomed into a global contemporary occasion wear brand, backed by a growing team of nearly 50 and thousands of loyal customers. Tune in to hear how Samantha’s fashion buying expertise and Stephanie’s finance background combined to turn a £500 test order into an international favourite, all while embracing slow fashion principles in a fast fashion world.  The sisters share candid stories about their organic growth journey, from launching on Shopify, navigating early tech mishaps and living at home to re-invest everything back into the business, to surviving a major setback when their first collection appeared on a rival’s site before they had even received stock. You’ll also get practical insights into how Pretty Lavish is staying ahead: leveraging year-long design cycles, exploring the rise of rentals and resale in fashion, building community through real-world events and embracing automation and AI to scale smartly. Plus, discover advice for Founders, the power of family resilience and their bold vision for US expansion. Whether you’re interested in eCommerce strategies, building a sustainable brand or just love a good Founder story, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips you won’t want to miss.  Hit subscribe and join us for this honest and practical journey behind the scenes of one of the UK’s most exciting fashion brands. Topics Covered  00:32 - How an early exposure to business, low barriers to entry and the opportunity to scale via social media shaped the journey of Pretty Lavish 06:16 - Decided to focus full-time on the business for six months after traveling, resulting in increased momentum and rewards 07:10 - Samantha’s initial efforts led to rewards, highlighting input-output correlation. A transition from a supportive corporate job to full-time involved reduced workdays, easing the change and maintaining financial ties through contracted work, as it took years before we paid ourselves. 11:36 - eCommerce challenges, platform investments and adapting to changes like social selling and the rise of secondhand buying 13:40 - Encouraging versatile fashion use and exploring social selling trends on platforms like TikTok 17:16 - Steph discussed the significance of brand days in fostering team culture and aligning company vision 21:38 - Success came from not following the conventional route in growing the fashion business 25:47 - Businesses always face challenges, requiring a solution-driven mindset. Early issues included learning from contract inadequacies when a manufacturer released designs to another brand 29:11 - The focus is on improving efficiency through automation and AI, with objectives set for 2025 to streamline processes and enhance product placement using advanced commerce tools 32:52 - Leveraging automated content adjustments and operational strategies offers significant advantages, especially for early adopters 35:48 - How they work together and compliment each other with different strengths  37:27 - Focus on community events and building brand immersion, while preparing for international expansion through foundational automation and tech investments 40:29 - Book recommendation 

Saving nipples since 1984.  Richard sits down with Stacey Priestley, Senior Growth Marketing and Social Commerce Manager at Lansinoh, a pioneering brand dedicated to supporting moms at every stage of their pregnancy and postpartum journey.  With over 17 years of eCommerce experience, Stacey brings a unique blend of industry expertise and personal passion for helping parents navigate the challenges of motherhood. In this episode, Stacey shares how Lansinoh built a loyal community through authentic word-of-mouth, the brand’s game-changing approach to TikTok Shop and affiliate marketing and why user-generated content is now at the heart of their strategy.  Plus, Stacey reveals the importance of personalisation in their digital campaigns, the tech stack that powers their eCommerce success and offers plenty of practical insights for brands looking to forge genuine connections with their audience. If you’re an eCommerce leader eager to stay ahead of the curve, or simply love the stories behind innovative brands, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Be sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode! Topics Covered  00:23 - Building loyal communities with Stacey 04:49 - Saving nipples since 1984 06:19 - Parenthood: My first priority  14:31 - Digital strategy for young mums 16:56 - Personalised pregnancy guidance 19:23 - TikTok Shop's rising importance 24:14 - Affiliate collaboration strategy 25:54 - Leverage TikTok's affiliate tools 29:05 - Women's Health UGC strategy 33:25 - Unexpected TikTok bundle success 37:09 - From non-reader to avid reader

In this episode of eCom@One with Richard Hill, we tackle one of the most critical and often misunderstood challenges in modern eCommerce, marketing attribution. Joining us is James Hawkins, Senior Partnership Manager at Triple Whale, who brings a sharp perspective on why attribution has become increasingly complex in the wake of privacy shifts like iOS 14.5 and GDPR.  James breaks down the core issues eCommerce brands face today, exposing the limitations of outdated models like last-click attribution and offering actionable insights into how AI and machine learning are reshaping the attribution landscape. From identifying common data blind spots to implementing more accurate, holistic tracking strategies, this conversation is packed with high-value takeaways. We also explore how Triple Whale’s advanced attribution tools empower brands to make smarter decisions, maximise Ad spend and accelerate growth. Whether you’re an agency leader or eCommerce professional, this is a must-listen for anyone serious about mastering attribution in today’s privacy-first world. Topics Covered  00:23 - Meet James Hawkins and understand his role at Triple Whale 05:10 - Attribution strategy is crucial, especially post-iOS 14, requiring a comprehensive plan to sustain effective business growth 06:29 - eCommerce brands face issues with attribution tracking, such as incorrect calculations and common mistakes impacting accuracy 12:10 - Start confidently with reliable data, continually refine strategies considering seasonality, global events and other factors 14:55 -Triple Whale centralises data for acquisition and attribution via server-side tracking, enhancing data quality and understanding. It features tools like Sonar for pushing event data to ad platforms like Meta, Google, and Klaviyo 18:46 - Triple Whale helps businesses gain a holistic understanding, forecast growth, benchmark against competitors, and strategise effectively for scaling 20:34 - As businesses grow, they diversify marketing efforts across multiple channels, including TikTok, Meta, Search Ads, Email Marketing, SEO, and PR. However, some channels may mislead with attribution metrics 26:16 - Embracing AI is crucial for efficiency and future success in marketing 27:01 - The rapid evolution of platforms and integration of AI in businesses is a major concern keeping business leaders up at night 32:08 - Attribution challenges arise from tracking gaps due to privacy laws, which AI helps bridge 33:59 - Where AI is heading in the next 18 months? 37:28 - Embracing AI enhances content creation, boosting output and quality, giving a competitive edge 41:54 - Book recommendation

Link building is one of the most powerful ways to boost your SEO and get your site noticed.  Think of backlinks like votes of confidence, when reputable sites link to yours, search engines see it as a sign that you’re legit and worth ranking higher. That means more visibility, more traffic, and ultimately, more customers.  But it’s not just about quantity; quality matters big time. A few strong, relevant backlinks can do way more for your rankings than a ton of low-quality ones.  Done right, link building helps you build authority, outshine competitors, and create long-term growth for your brand and Umar shares how!  Umar Faizan In this episode of eCom@One with Richard Hill, we're diving deep into the fast-moving world of SEO and link building with Umar Farzan, the Director of Growth Winner. Richard and Umar first connected at the SEO Mastery Conference in Saigon, Vietnam, and now they’re breaking down everything eCommerce brands need to know about building a strong link profile. Umar shares his fascinating journey from graphic design to becoming an SEO powerhouse, highlighting why solid systems and processes are key to success. They tackle the big question: should eCommerce brands build an in-house link-building team or outsource the work? Plus, Umar spills the secrets on link gap analysis, crafting creative content for industries that aren’t exactly glamorous, and how predictive SEO can give brands an edge. Whether you’re a seasoned eCommerce pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical tips and expert insights that could take your SEO game to the next level. Don’t miss it! Topics Covered  00:23 - What is eCommerce link building 04:41- Pre launch brand building strategy 07:20 - Product page optimisation strategy 11:00 - Efficient link building systems 15:53 - Hybrid strategy for business growth 17:24 - Inefficient SEO stifles revenue growth 21:43 - Keyword & link analysis strategy 23:45 - Adaptive SEO linking strategy 28:01 - Creating link-worthy content tips 32:22 - Ecom store tech innovations 33:10 - Ecommerce digital products strategy 38:22 - Wearable tech and sleep data 41:53 - Traffic recovery post-Google update 42:52 - Linkable assets in medical research 46:01 - Balanced link building strategy 50:31 - Google action on Digital PR links 54:44 - Book recommendation 

It's time to dive deep into the captivating world of podcasting with our hosts, Carrianne Dukes and Dan Zahajkiewicz, as they share their expertise and experience from 5 years of producing this exact podcast. While Richard is away in Thailand, Carrianne and Dan guide us through the intricacies of starting a successful podcast. From the initial steps to overcoming hurdles, they offer invaluable advice for aspiring podcasters. They even share the biggest mistake which stunted their growth, oh and how they secured £25,000 in sponsorship.  Learn how to define your podcast's objective, maintain consistency, and secure engaging guests. Whether you're just starting your podcasting journey or looking to enhance your current show, this episode is brimming with practical insights and strategies for success.  Tune in and discover how to make your podcast stand out in the competitive digital landscape. Topics Covered  00:00 - Just start recording without overthinking; you'll learn as you go 04:52 - Overcoming initial challenges with publishing a podcast  06:50 - Many people focus too much on equipment when starting a podcast, often using it as an excuse not to begin, while passionate individuals make do with whatever is available. 10:52 - Making sure you have an objective of your podcast to not lose sight on why you are doing it 16:28 - Staying present is easier in podcasts due to conversation feedback, unlike solo video creation. To ease video creation, imagine talking to a trusted friend's picture on the camera 21:00 - Creative work is challenging; mindset is key. Seth Godin, a pioneer in email marketing, advises consistent effort, such as writing daily blogs 23:38 - Ask your audience what content they want; they may prefer inspirational topics over technical details 27:26 - Building relationships and referrals, along with using guest-sourcing websites, help in finding podcast guests 29:28 - Companies need to be media-savvy to promote their brand effectively 34:24 - Focus on one task at a time for better productivity, especially as a content creator seeking inspiration 35:51 - Book recommendation 

It’s time to deep dive into the world of data feeds and AI with Jacques Van Der Wilt, the Founder of DataFeedWatch, now part of Cart.com. DataFeedWatch helps eCommerce retailers optimise product feeds effortlessly, boosting visibility, conversions, and sales across multiple channels. Jacques first joined us back in episode 50, and now he’s back to share how AI is shaking up data feed optimisation. We break down the key differences between AI-driven and traditional methods, exploring how AI can make feed management easier, how it helps with disapprovals, and why it gives online businesses a serious edge.  Plus, we’ll discuss how small to mid-sized retailers can use AI-powered data feeds to compete with the big eCommerce players. It’s going to be an insightful and practical conversation you won’t want to miss. Hit that subscribe or follow button to stay updated on future episodes! Topics Covered  00:23 - AI and Data Feeds with Jacques 04:45 - AI-Powered Product Categorisation 09:28 - Enhanced Descriptions Boost Retail Content 11:22 - Facebook Ad Titles: Keep Them Generic 13:51 - DataFeedWatch AI Adoption Rates 18:22 - AI Progress: Rapid and Transformative 21:04 - AI Adoption: Skepticism and Resistance 24:18 - AI-Driven Campaign Optimisation 29:12 - Enhancing Customer Control Tools 33:39 - Challenges in Digital Advertising Attribution 34:49 - AI's Impact on Medium Businesses 38:26 - Optimising Feeds for Increased ROAS 41:25 - "The Factory is the Product" 44:00 - Book recommendation 

Christopher Panteli, Co-Founder of Linkifi, discusses the vital role that Digital PR plays in shaping eCommerce success through brand building, SEO enhancement and strategic media engagements.  Linkifi are masters at getting brands featured on large publications. They’ve done the hard work of building relationships with journalists, so you don’t have to!  Learn how tailoring unique stories, leveraging industry expertise and building strong journalist relationships can propel your eCommerce brand to new heights. Christopher shares his insights into the evolving landscape of digital link building, the growing significance of Influencer marketing, and practical strategies for securing high-authority media links.  Whether you're looking to boost your brand's online presence or navigate the challenges of today's Digital PR environment, this episode is packed with valuable advice and expert recommendations to help you thrive in the ever-changing eCommerce landscape.  Don't forget to subscribe and follow us for more invaluable insights from industry leaders. Topics Covered  00:32 - The impact of Digital PR for eCommerce businesses  06:32 - How to stand out in a crowded digital marketplace 09:51 - Strategically align with authoritative niche figures 11:46 - Hire niche experts for credibility and outreach  17:45 - Build media relationships for niche-specific Digital PR 21:00 - Proactively pitch stories to receptive journalists 25:27 - Recommend dedicated specialists for different tasks internally 33:23 - Data-driven campaigns, unknown data sources, regional media 36:31 - Scrape data creatively from various online sources 37:28 - Journalists thrive on ideas brainstormed by teams 40:46 - Utilise influencers for Digital PR and coverage 45:07 - Check existing communication; request link informally 49:43 - Campaign increased organic sessions by 225% in year 50:55 - Trusted links enhance brand visibility and credibility 54:08 - Book recommendation

How important is link building when it comes to SEO? Alexandra Tachalova, CEO and founder of Digital Olympus, shares all. In this episode, Alexandra delves into innovative strategies for content promotion and link building, emphasising the importance of building authentic backlinks through meaningful connections rather than traditional outreach methods.  They discuss the growing significance of digital PR, the impact of industry shifts and the role of human expertise versus AI in content creation. Join us as Alexandra shares her expert insights on adapting to Google's algorithm changes, the integration of link building into broader marketing strategies, and the transition from link builders to brand builders in the digital landscape.  Discover the latest SEO tools and tactics that can enhance your brand’s online presence. Don't miss out on Alexandra's valuable advice and practical strategies to improve your SEO results.  Topics Covered  00:54 - Advanced link building tactics to increase revenue. 03:59 - Successful link-building business. 07:11 - Email outreach efficiency for link building decreased 13:23 - Google increases domain authority impact, affecting SEO 14:41 - Email outreach efficiency decreasing and the results are questionable 23:27 - AI's early adopters succeeded in teaching SEO journalism 26:13 - AI lacks authenticity of genuine expert content 29:52 - Monitor requests, engage on LinkedIn and follow journalists 31:38 - Digital PR costs have increased significantly 34:06 - Working with journalists involves time frame challenges 37:34 - Awards make you recognized as barbecue expert 41:24 - Consider brand authority before competing in rankings 45:17 - Study competitors for insights to improve content 48:16 - Leverage relationships for effective content promotion strategies 50:34 - Market trends emphasise brand authenticity over mediocrity

Nutrition = food = happiness. Isn’t that the truth? Alex Stewart is the CEO and Founder of PACK’D, a brand on a mission to make whole and nutritious meals accessible to everyone.  Their food is packed full of nutritional goodness, while tasting absolutely delicious, delivered straight to your door. They source the best quality plant-based ingredients freshly frozen for maximum nutritional value. In this podcast, Alex shares the mission behind PACK’D and their journey from being listed solely in leading supermarkets to online retail. He gives his honest take on the UK’s obesity epidemic and the issues facing consumers, mass ultra-processed foods. It’s important to remember that supermarkets are businesses and make decisions based on profits, not what is better for human beings. Alex discloses how he is breaking into a hugely saturated market, his subscription model and tactics and their focus on sustainability. He discusses the challenges with running a frozen based business and delivery logistics.  If you love a brand with a purpose, this podcast episode is for you!  Topics Covered  00:23 - PACK’D’s mission 03:21 - Their journey from in-store listings to eCommerce retail  07:35 - His take on the UK’s obesity epidemic  10:02 - Impressed by product range; inspired healthy creations 16:05 - Monitoring customer acquisition and delivery costs 18:40 - Subscription retention shows brand loyalty and success 25:56 - Flexible subscription with pause and extend options 27:03 - Switched from plastic to paper for sustainability 32:49 - History enthusiasts are clever; business challenges persist 33:40 - Growing sustainably with limited resources is challenging 36:53 - Customer service is crucial for repeat business

Is it time to grow your international footprint?  In this podcast episode Shaun Loughlin, Head of eCommerce and Technology at LeMieux, joins Richard Hill to discuss all things global expansion. During his time at the UK’s premium equestrian brand LeMieux, Shaun has grown the eCommerce team from 1 to 17 employees and boosted business growth by an impressive 200%! Shaun explores LeMieux’s mission to be the most exciting global equestrian brand, his unexpected journey into eCommerce and the strategies driving their impressive expansion.  From the importance of brand storytelling and emotional connection with customers to the intricacies of omnichannel strategy and the role of continuous learning in this rapidly changing industry, Shaun shares insights that are sure to help you with your growth journey. Whether you're interested in scaling your eCommerce operations or establishing a strong brand presence in new markets, this episode has something for you. Don't miss out on these valuable learnings from an experienced voice in eCommerce. Topics Covered  00:37 - How Shaun ended up leading the eCommerce for LeMieux with an unexpected career journey  05:28 - Jodie Bradshaw, a self-taught eCommerce Manager and equestrian enthusiast, built a successful website that benefited from strong brand distribution and a large social media following 07:56 - Hiring a data manager and implementing a product information management system transformed operations, enabling better data access, scalable marketplace expansion, and website localisation 09:41 - Focus on optimising data feeds with essential details beyond basic attributes for successful multimarket eCommerce 14:19 - Identify US, choose strategy, start with Google Ads - their global expansion strategy 17:12 - eCommerce growth demands constant warehouse expansion adaptation 22:24 - Brand value provides resilience and competitive advantage 23:16 - Differentiating with brand is a game changer 28:17 - Unsustainable business models lead to brand collapse 29:44 - Managing shopping feeds involves more than being the cheapest  32:46 - Strong brand offers unmatched quality at affordable prices 36:43 - Scaling profits but struggling with capacity strain 40:14 - Knowledge is accessible; engage with events and trends 42:33 - Strategically nurture brand communities for sustainable growth

BOSH and the podcast is live! Live on stage John Thornton, Chief Copywriter and Office Hottie at Surreal, joins Richard to share the impact of humanistic copy in achieving customer engagement and sales.  John’s campaigns aren’t your typical run of the mill marketing campaigns. Think CEOs in their pants, sexual innuendos, swearing and arguing over a colour. He believes in attention first, brand second. How does he achieve that? Tap into humanistic emotions, laughter and shock.  In this episode, John talks through brand collaborations, idea creation and how he managed to secure Barry Scott in Surreal’s latest podcast episode. Find out how he comes up with his outlandish ideas (typically on the train), uses witty humour to get people excited about cereal and gets sign off from above in this honest conversation.  Should you be scared of getting negative feedback? No, John thrives from it. Learn how he uses it to fuel his marketing efforts. It’s time to uncover the genius behind Surreal’s social media strategy. Listen to the full episode now! Topics Covered:  00:00 - Adapt strategies; persistence leads to success 06:11 - Adults' parody book on COVID safety misunderstood 07:32 - Boycott led to engagement, and improved sales significantly 11:57 - Strategic sense unnecessary; prioritise performance and ideas 15:26 - Audience questions shortly on campaign ideas' origins 16:49 - Finding unexpected links for creative ideas 20:11 - Parody adverts with jokes featuring Barry Scott. 23:13 - Monthly meetings ensure consistent, on-brand communication strategies 27:33 - Similar content to Instagram; algorithm-friendly platform 30:21 - Mental scorecard used to select brand partnerships 34:24 - Handed out spoons at London Bridge 37:22 - Grateful for community, growth, and shared knowledge

It’s time to delve into the world of brand management with Mike Whitby, an experienced Senior Brand Manager who has worked with major names like Asics, Lyle & Scott, and Pentland Brands.  Mike explores the essential balance between short-term gains and long-term brand health, the power of decision-making in leadership, and the overlooked potential of VIP tiers in loyalty schemes..  Mike shares insights on grassroots strategies for building brand loyalty through storytelling and consumer engagement, while also navigating the shift back to in-person retail experiences post-COVID. Tune in as they uncover strategic approaches to fostering community, building brand ideology, and standing out in competitive markets.  Whether you're focused on digital or physical brand spaces, this episode promises a wealth of insights and actionable advice to help elevate your brand strategy. Let's dive in. Topics Covered:  00:00 - Mike’s experience in eCom  05:51 - In-person community building post-COVID promotes brand culture 08:36 - Pop-up shops offer low-cost brand experiences 12:43 - Performance is measurable; branding requires long-term strategy 16:26 - Netflix's "Abstract" explores creative fields and branding 17:41 - Understand brand, consumer details & trends for success 21:37 - Understanding market data, identifying opportunities & engaging customers 30:21 - Evaluate current CRM processes for business improvement 31:12 - Be authentic; engage consumers thoughtfully and regularly 35:36 - Loyalty programs unlock exclusive product access  40:20 - Evaluate values and goals, decide immediately, act 44:05 - Make decisions that feel right for you 45:01 - Book recommendations

In this episode of the eCom@One podcast, Alex Myatt, shares how you can use the influence of direct response copywriting to increase the conversion rate on your website  They explore the challenges of guiding consumers through complex purchases and managing numerous product SKUs. Alex underscores the power of simplicity and transparency in return policies and how these can boost customer satisfaction and conversion rates. Together, Richard and Alex discuss the importance of A/B testing for optimising policies and marketing strategies, as well as practical techniques like one-click upsells to drive higher Average Order Value (AOV). They emphasise the need for businesses to stand out with innovative strategies, customer-friendly approaches and robust loyalty programs. We also delve into the balance between design, copywriting, and SEO, the honest use of urgency in marketing, and the role of direct mail and offer building in enhancing perceived value and customer loyalty. Wrapping up with actionable insights on optimising product pages, email marketing and subscription models. This episode is packed with tips to elevate your eCommerce game. Join us as we unravel the secrets of maximising conversion rates, customer retention, and the overall shopping experience in the ever-evolving eCommerce landscape. 

It’s time to take a deep dive into the future of retail and what that means for your eCommerce store. With nearly 30 years under his belt, Tim Fairs brings invaluable insights from his experience with top brands like ProCook, Virgin, Clinton's, Currys and Sainsbury's. Together, Richard and Tim tackle persistent customer experience issues — from the frustration of encountering unhelpful store staff pushing unnecessary products to the importance of a knowledgeable and motivated team.  They explore how in-store experiences could be vastly improved by integrating the advantages of online shopping, including personalised customer journeys and real-time product information through QR codes. Tim shares intriguing stories about rebranding initiatives for PC World and Currys that revolutionised their sales and customer perception. Listeners will also hear about the evolving dynamics of in-store and online retail, especially against the backdrop of COVID-19.  Finally, Tim reveals actionable strategies to enhance conversion rates and personalise customer interactions, ensuring a seamless and engaging retail experience across all channels. Tune in to gain a wealth of knowledge from Tim Fairs on creating impactful, customer-centric retail experiences and staying ahead in the ever-changing world of eCommerce. Don’t miss out on this thought-provoking episode packed with professional insights and practical advice! Topics Covered:  00:00 - Richard chats with Tim Fairs on UK high street trends, in-store experiences and brand strategies 05:39 - Change in buyer behaviour 08:07 - Taking cinema breaks resets the busy mind effectively 10:59 - Differentiate store experience, staff expertise and online presence 15:51 - Combine online benefits and immersive in-store experiences. 18:59 - QR codes enhance in-store experience with information 26:18 - Restarted brand focusing on post-purchase customer experience 33:18 - Ensure product availability, delivery and finance options 35:53 - Retail and eCommerce conversions differ vastly; improve usability 41:57 - ProCook steak knives essential for Sunday dinner 45:20 - Out-of-town retailers return to central high street 47:01 - Merge online and in-store shopping benefits seamlessly 49:32 - Book recommendations 

A brand on a pioneering mission to eliminate one billion plastic cleaning tools from landfills by 2030. In this episode, Richard is joined by Sylvia Sigrist, Head of Marketing at Seep, a plastic free and biodegradable household green cleaning business. Listen to this podcast as Sylvia shares her incredible journey from working with multinationals to thriving in start-ups and her strategies that propelled Seep's impressive growth.  From leveraging digital marketing to building a dedicated online community, they explore the keys to balancing retail expansion with sustainable goals. Plus, they discuss the challenges and triumphs of running an eCommerce brand in a competitive market.  Don't miss out on valuable insights and practical advice that can help your business shine. And be sure to stick around for a special discount offer on SEEP products. Subscribe now and stay tuned for an inspiring conversation! Topics Covered:  00:00 - Silvia’s experience in eCommerce  05:18 - Appreciation for well-packaged delivery aligning ethos 07:32 - Young brand breaking into competitive eco market 10:30 - Strong social following and loyal customer base advantage 12:41 - Sylvia, branding process lengthy, working with agency 16:05 - Investing in creative testing, social channels and influencer gifting 21:56 - Customer-generated content lacks quality for advertisements 23:02 - Small influencers support small businesses and great content collaboration 26:53 - Shifting from a points-based loyalty to referral program  30:55 - Discussing AB testing, segmentation and results in marketing 35:01 - Multichannel strategy and growth pose significant challenges 36:41 - How to focus on priorities 39:23 - Excited about brand success and book recommendations