Upside

In this episode of Upside, Ali and Zamir look back at the rise and fall of Argos, once the UK’s go-to everything store, and ask how a retail giant lost ground to Amazon. From its catalogue-era dominance to its struggle to adapt in the age of fast fulfilment and customer obsession, they unpack what went wrong and what modern brands can learn from it.What’s Covered in This EpisodeAli and Zamir start by revisiting Argos at its peak in the 1980s and 1990s, when the catalogue was a fixture in almost every British household. They discuss how Argos was, in many ways, ahead of its time, combining physical stores with centralised stock and rapid fulfilment long before omnichannel retail became a buzzword.The conversation then moves into the mid-2000s, when Argos still held significant market share but began to lose momentum. Ali and Zamir argue that while the business continued to perform on paper, it became overly focused on short-term financial cycles rather than long-term customer experience and infrastructure investment.They compare this approach to Amazon’s relentless focus on fulfilment, convenience, and customer trust, explaining how Amazon’s long-term mindset allowed it to compound advantages over time. In contrast, Argos struggled to evolve its proposition quickly enough as consumer expectations changed.The episode also touches on Argos’s acquisition by Sainsbury’s and how being absorbed into a larger corporate structure further limited its strategic flexibility. Ali and Zamir reflect on what Argos still represents today and whether there was a different path it could have taken in a rapidly transforming retail landscape.Key TakeawaysA household name: The Argos catalogue was once a staple in nearly every UK home.Early innovator: Argos pioneered an early form of omnichannel retail decades before it became mainstream.Lost momentum: A focus on short-term financial performance came at the expense of long-term growth.Amazon raised the bar: Faster fulfilment and deeper customer focus reshaped retail expectations.Corporate constraints: The Sainsbury’s acquisition narrowed Argos’s strategic options.Lessons for today: Long-term thinking and adaptability are essential in fast-moving markets.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali, Zamir, Will, and Leon wrap up the year by reflecting on Q4 performance and laying the groundwork for what comes next. With October, November, and December data now available, the team explain why planning for the next Q4 starts immediately, while also sharing lessons from 2025 and practical advice for building stronger brands in 2026.What’s Covered in This EpisodeThe episode opens with a clear message: Q4 is not something you review and move on from. Ali and Zamir explain why Q4 data should feed directly into planning for the next year, covering everything from cash flow and stock to creative direction and execution.The conversation then shifts to the importance of brand fundamentals. Will and Leon stress that knowing who you are targeting, and why, is the foundation for every creative and marketing decision. Once brand direction is clear, everything else flows more easily, from photography and video to Amazon listings and wider content creation.The team also reflect on highlights from 2025, including international events, major milestones, and the growth of a global team. These moments lead into a broader discussion about culture, resilience, and the internal mantra of being comfortable with uncomfortable.A significant portion of the episode focuses on artificial intelligence in creative work. Will shares how tools like Adobe are integrating AI to remove time-consuming tasks while preserving human creativity. The group agree that AI should be used as an accelerator, not a replacement, helping teams move faster without losing judgement or taste.The episode closes with practical advice for anyone planning for 2026. From revisiting listings with fresh eyes to shipping imperfect work rather than overthinking, the message is clear: review the basics, use data intelligently, embrace new tools, and keep moving forward.Key TakeawaysQ4 planning starts now: October, November, and December data should immediately inform future strategy and forecasting.Brand clarity comes first: Knowing your audience and purpose makes creative and marketing decisions far easier.Use AI as a tool: AI should speed up workflows and remove friction, not replace human creativity.Fresh eyes matter: Stepping back and revisiting fundamentals often reveals missed opportunities.Ship and learn: Progress comes from action, not perfection. Build momentum and refine as you go.Culture drives performance: Teams that embrace challenge and growth create long-term success.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali and Zamir unpack the mounting economic pressures facing UK businesses, from the long-term cost of Brexit to shifting marketplace dynamics and a disappointing government budget. They explore how these forces intersect and why small businesses continue to feel overlooked in an increasingly complex economic environment.What’s Covered in This EpisodeAli and Zamir begin by examining the estimated cost of Brexit to the UK economy, which they suggest is now running at around £100 billion per year, equivalent to roughly 4 to 5 percent of GDP. They discuss how these losses are not abstract figures but real costs felt most acutely by small and medium-sized businesses through increased bureaucracy, reduced trade efficiency, and lost growth opportunities.The conversation then turns to Amazon’s recent decision to reduce certain fulfilment fees, particularly in apparel. While this move may appear positive on the surface, Ali and Zamir argue it is largely aimed at competing with ultra-low-cost platforms such as Temu and Shein, potentially benefiting overseas sellers while placing further pressure on UK-based brands already operating on tight margins.They also reflect on the latest budget announcement, expressing frustration at the lack of meaningful support for small businesses. The discussion highlights ongoing policy gaps, including delays around the removal of the de minimis threshold, which continue to disadvantage domestic sellers.Throughout the episode, Ali and Zamir connect these themes to a broader concern that small businesses remain central to the economy yet consistently neglected in policymaking, raising serious questions about long-term sustainability and growth.Key TakeawaysBrexit’s ongoing cost: The UK economy is estimated to be losing around £100 billion annually as a result of Brexit.SMEs feel the impact most: Increased admin and reduced trade opportunities are hitting smaller businesses hardest.Amazon fee cuts are strategic: Reduced fulfilment fees appear designed to compete with Temu and Shein rather than support UK sellers.Budget disappointment: The latest budget offers little to no relief for small businesses.De minimis delays matter: Continued uncertainty around thresholds is creating further strain for UK-based sellers.Policy neglect persists: Small businesses are vital to the economy but remain under-supported by government decisions.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali and Zamir break down the real mechanics of advertising on Amazon and explain why great ads do far more than drive paid traffic. They unpack how Amazon’s advertising ecosystem works, why bidding alone will never guarantee visibility, and how successful campaigns can directly improve your organic search performance on the platform.What’s Covered in This EpisodeAli and Zamir begin by challenging the common misconception that advertising on Amazon is simply a matter of increasing bids. They explain that ads only work when your objectives align with Amazon’s own incentives, which are built around revenue, relevance and customer satisfaction.The conversation highlights the intricate link between paid and organic performance, showing how strong advertising signals can lift your organic rankings by proving to Amazon that your listing converts and meets customer intent.They walk through the key metrics that sellers must understand, including click-through rate, conversion rate and cost of sale, and explain why each one reveals something critical about both your listing quality and your ad effectiveness.The episode also touches on market volatility and competitive dynamics, stressing that advertisers must adapt to shifting demand, rising costs and seasonal changes. Finally, Ali and Zamir outline practical strategies for building campaigns that work with Amazon’s system rather than against it, ensuring long-term efficiency and growth.Key TakeawaysBidding is not enough: Advertising success depends on strategy, relevance and alignment with Amazon’s incentives.Ads boost organic ranking: Strong paid performance signals to Amazon that your listing deserves higher organic placement.Amazon profits twice: The platform earns from clicks and conversions, shaping how ads are prioritised and shown.Metrics matter: CTR and CVR reveal the strength of both your advertising and your listing.Adaptation is essential: Market shifts require constant optimisation and informed decision-making for sustainable results.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali, Zamir and Leon tackle one of the most common and costly mistakes in e-commerce: sending traffic to a listing that cannot convert. They break down why optimisation must come before advertising and explain how understanding customer psychology is the true foundation of every high-performing product listing.What’s Covered in This EpisodeThe trio begin by stressing the importance of building a listing that is capable of converting before spending a single pound on traffic. They explain why titles, bullets, descriptions and, most importantly, images must all work together to communicate value in a way that resonates with customers.They delve into customer psychology, highlighting that benefits should always take priority over features if sellers want to connect with buyers on an emotional level. Ali, Zamir and Leon share real examples from their work with brands of all sizes, showing how subtle shifts in messaging and structure can dramatically improve results.A major focus is placed on imagery, which they describe as the most influential component of any listing. They outline how each image should communicate a single clear benefit and why a mobile-first approach is essential now that most shoppers browse on their phones.The discussion also covers the role of AI and data analytics in understanding customer behaviour. By analysing search terms, click patterns and competitor insights, sellers can adapt their listings to meet customer needs in real time and stay ahead in a crowded marketplace.The episode concludes with a call for a more disciplined, data-driven approach to listing optimisation, encouraging sellers to put in the groundwork before investing in ads or external traffic.Key TakeawaysOptimise before advertising: A listing must be capable of converting before any traffic is driven to it.Know your customer: Understanding customer psychology is the foundation of effective listing creation.Images drive conversions: Visuals should be benefit-led, mobile-friendly and strategically sequenced.Mobile first matters: Most shoppers browse on their phones, so listings must be designed for smaller screens.Use data and AI: Analytics tools help reveal what customers want, helping sellers refine listings with accuracy.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali and Zamir dive into the rise of what they call AI slop, the wave of low value, low effort content now flooding the internet. They explore how unregulated AI proliferation is reshaping the digital landscape and why the rapid spread of meaningless output poses a risk to businesses, consumers and society as a whole.What’s Covered in This EpisodeAli and Zamir open the conversation by defining AI slop, the growing volume of content created by artificial intelligence that lacks substance, insight or usefulness. They discuss how this phenomenon is becoming increasingly common across platforms and how it is already diluting the quality of information online.The discussion widens to the economic risks associated with unchecked AI development, including the troubling concentration of power within a handful of major corporations. The pair compare these dynamics to historic economic bubbles, raising concerns about potential market distortions and the vulnerability of smaller businesses.They examine the need for modern regulatory frameworks that evolve alongside AI, stressing that governments must understand and address the consequences of automation and algorithmic content production. Without intervention, the future risks being shaped by a limited number of dominant players.The episode also touches on broader societal concerns, including environmental impact, resource consumption and the ethics surrounding the widespread use of AI. Ali and Zamir argue that both ecological responsibility and technological oversight must be taken seriously if we hope to build a sustainable and equitable future.Key TakeawaysAI slop is rising: Low value AI generated content is flooding the internet and diminishing the quality of information.Power is concentrating: A small group of corporations holds increasing control over AI development and its economic impact.Market risks are growing: The current trajectory mirrors past economic bubbles and may lead to distortions in the digital economy.Regulation is essential: Policymakers must keep pace with AI or risk losing control of key societal systems.Ethical and environmental concerns remain urgent: AI development must be balanced with ecological responsibility and moral oversight.Collective vigilance matters: Society must question, challenge and guide the direction of AI before it shapes the future without accountability.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali and Zamir pull no punches as they dissect Amazon’s new AI content creation tool, and their verdict is not flattering. Despite Amazon’s immense resources, the duo find themselves questioning how such a major player could release a product that falls so far short of expectations.What’s Covered in This EpisodeAli and Zamir break down their experience testing Amazon’s latest AI tool, designed to help sellers generate product images and copy. What they find instead is a frustratingly basic system that lacks the quality, creativity and usability required to make a meaningful impact for sellers.Ali voices particular disbelief, questioning how a company at the forefront of global e-commerce could deliver something so poorly executed. He argues that the tool reflects a deeper issue within Amazon: a growing disconnect between the company’s technological ambition and its understanding of what sellers actually need.Zamir expands on the missed opportunity, pointing out that while AI-driven content generation has huge potential, Amazon’s implementation feels rushed and underdeveloped. The pair compare it to existing third-party tools that already outperform Amazon’s offering in both image generation and copy quality.The discussion closes with a reflection on what this misstep says about Amazon’s approach to innovation and how sellers can continue to stay ahead by using better-performing alternatives already available in the market.Key TakeawaysAmazon’s AI tool disappoints: The new content generator fails to deliver usable imagery or effective copy for sellers.A missed opportunity: Despite its scale and resources, Amazon’s tool lacks innovation and polish.User needs overlooked: The product feels detached from the realities of how sellers create and optimise listings.Copy still matters: Concise, conversion-driven copy remains essential, and this tool fails to produce it.Better options exist: Third-party tools continue to outperform Amazon’s own offering across quality and functionality.Innovation gap revealed: The release highlights a disconnect between Amazon’s technological potential and its practical delivery.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/amazon-rapid-sales-growth-faster-resolutions-bigger-margins-tickets-1968010438198?aff=oddtdtcreatorIn this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir sit down with Sameed Naviwala, CEO of Bumble Towels, to unpack how he built an eight-figure e-commerce brand from nothing. From starting with zero capital to becoming a recognised name in online retail, Sameed’s story offers a grounded look at what it really takes to succeed on Amazon and beyond.What’s Covered in This EpisodeAli & Zamir explore Sameed’s entrepreneurial journey, tracing his path from early setbacks to scaling Bumble Towels into a thriving e-commerce brand. Sameed reflects on the lessons learned along the way, emphasising the importance of self-awareness, humility, and setting ego aside to recognise weaknesses and improve decision-making.The discussion delves into the realities of scaling an Amazon business, from managing inventory and cash flow to balancing investment risk with long-term stability. Sameed shares how he navigated moments of uncertainty, learned to adapt to changing market conditions, and found success through consistent focus on product quality and customer experience.Together, they explore how the direct-to-consumer model deepens brand connection, and why staying relevant in a crowded marketplace requires constant innovation and discipline. The conversation also touches on financial literacy, the hidden dangers of over-diversification, and the systems that support sustainable growth.This episode blends practical insight with real entrepreneurial grit — a must-listen for anyone looking to build something lasting in the world of e-commerce.Key TakeawaysStart small, think big: Sameed built Bumble Towels from zero capital to eight figures by focusing on consistency and discipline.Self-awareness drives growth: Recognising weaknesses and setting aside ego are essential to improving business strategy.Inventory control is everything: Managing stock levels prevents cash flow strain and ensures steady growth.Know your market: Understanding customer needs and adapting to trends is key to long-term success.Brand before expansion: Building a brand that resonates creates differentiation in competitive spaces like Amazon.Balance risk and reward: Sustainable growth comes from calculated investment, not reckless scaling.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir explore the accelerating rise of artificial intelligence and what it means for business, creativity, and society at large. From the launch of OpenAI’s Sora 2 to Google’s Nanobanana, the duo unpack the astonishing speed of progress in AI and the growing concern that regulation may not be keeping pace.What’s Covered in This EpisodeThe discussion opens with Ali voicing concerns about the potential exploitation and concentration of power as AI capabilities advance faster than most governments can regulate. He warns that the next wave of tools could outstrip our ability to manage them responsibly.Zamir shares his take on the opportunities these innovations bring, particularly within marketing, content creation, and automation. Tools like Sora 2 and Nanobanana showcase how AI can now generate hyper-realistic video and image content at a fraction of the cost — a major leap for creators and brands.As the conversation deepens, they examine the ethical and economic implications of this shift, including the potential for job displacement, inequality, and the growing dominance of a few mega-corporations. Both hosts agree that while AI offers unprecedented opportunities for entrepreneurs, it also demands heightened awareness, adaptability, and moral responsibility.The episode closes on a reflective note, considering how society might react to a future shaped by AI — and whether, in a hyper-automated world, people will begin to seek more authenticity, creativity, and human connection.Key TakeawaysAI is evolving at breakneck speed: The emergence of Sora 2 and Nanobanana demonstrates how rapidly generative technology is advancing.Regulation lags behind innovation: The pace of AI development may outstrip policymakers’ ability to ensure ethical and responsible use.Power is concentrating: A handful of tech giants now control the future of AI, raising concerns over fairness and accountability.Business opportunity meets ethical risk: Entrepreneurs must embrace innovation while safeguarding integrity, privacy, and equity.Workforce disruption is inevitable: As automation grows, proactive retraining and adaptation strategies are essential.A shift towards authenticity: As AI becomes more pervasive, genuine human creativity and storytelling may become even more valuable.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir break down a packed week in e-commerce — from billion-dollar fines to shifting seller fees and evolving platform policies. The conversation opens with the Federal Trade Commission’s record $2.5 billion fine against Amazon over deceptive Prime membership practices, before branching into global tax changes, rising operational costs, and the latest platform updates shaping the digital landscape.What’s Covered in This EpisodeAli & Zamir dissect the implications of the FTC’s $2.5 billion fine, exploring what it means for Amazon’s governance, consumer trust, and the wider e-commerce ecosystem. They discuss how this decision signals a tightening regulatory environment, particularly in the United States, where scrutiny over marketing and data practices continues to grow.The discussion then turns to the mounting costs of doing business on Amazon, including increased FBA storage and shipping fees ahead of the critical Q4 period. The pair offer perspective on how sellers can manage profitability when expenses are rising faster than demand.They also examine the latest VAT and tax regulation updates, from HMRC’s revised guidance in the UK to new compliance measures in Canada, outlining what international sellers need to know to stay on the right side of the law.Finally, the episode explores TikTok Shop’s new policies aimed at penalising repetitive and AI-generated content, considering how these rules might reshape discoverability, creativity, and the opportunity for smaller creators. The conversation closes with a look at Amazon’s newest device launches and AI advancements, particularly Alexa’s next evolution — a glimpse at where Amazon is heading beyond retail.Key TakeawaysRecord fine for Amazon: The FTC’s $2.5 billion penalty marks a turning point in how regulators hold e-commerce giants accountable for misleading practices.Rising FBA fees: Increased storage and shipping costs during Q4 will squeeze margins; strategic inventory planning is key.VAT and tax changes: New regulations across multiple markets, including the UK and Canada, demand closer compliance monitoring from sellers.TikTok tightens standards: The platform’s new penalties for repetitive or low-quality content are reshaping creator strategies.Innovation continues: Amazon’s latest Alexa updates reflect its push towards more intelligent, AI-driven devices.Regulatory shift: The FTC’s move signals a broader trend towards stricter oversight of digital commerce globally.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir are joined by Danu Abeysuriya to unpack the recent Amazon Web Services (AWS) outage that sent ripples through the digital world. The incident disrupted everything from Seller Central logins to Amazon’s own checkout processes, shining a spotlight on just how dependent global infrastructure has become on a single provider. Together, they explore what really happened, why it matters, and how brands can prepare for similar disruptions in the future.What’s Covered in This EpisodeWhen AWS goes down, so does a huge portion of the internet. Ali, Zamir, and Danu dive into the scale of the outage, explaining how AWS powers roughly 30% of all online services and why this concentration of control raises questions about resilience and risk.Danu breaks down the technical side, including DNS failures and the cascading effects that occur when one system falters inside a massive network. The team then looks at the business impact, from halted sales and frustrated customers to the growing importance of redundancy, backup planning, and cyber insurance.The conversation also highlights Amazon’s communication during the crisis and what it revealed about transparency in tech giants. The trio close with practical takeaways for sellers and digital businesses on how to diversify infrastructure and build systems that can withstand future shocks.Key TakeawaysAWS runs the internet: Around 30% of global digital infrastructure relies on AWS, making outages widely disruptive.Sales standstills: During the outage, customers struggled to complete Amazon purchases, showing how dependent commerce is on one system.Redundancy is essential: Businesses must invest in failover systems and disaster recovery plans to protect operations during downtime.Amazon’s response: Transparent communication helped restore trust, offering a case study in effective crisis management.Diversify or risk exposure: Relying on one cloud provider increases vulnerability; multi-cloud strategies and cyber insurance reduce risk.Old tech, new problems: The discussion highlights DNS as a potential weak point and stresses the need for continuous infrastructure updates.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir tackle the most important stretch of the e-commerce calendar, Q4. With consumer intent at its highest and sales potential peaking, the duo unpack why this period can make or break a brand’s year. They explore how up to 60% of annual revenue can come from these 13 weeks and share practical advice on how to prepare, prioritise, and profit when competition is at its fiercest.What’s Covered in This EpisodeAli & Zamir break down the anatomy of Q4, from the ripple effect of Prime Day through to the run-up to Christmas. They highlight how shopper intent shifts week by week, why ad costs climb, and how smart brands use data and timing to stay ahead.The pair dig into common misconceptions, from over-stocking and panic discounting to mistimed campaigns, explaining how these mistakes can erode margin and momentum. They also discuss fulfilment and delivery readiness, noting how small operational gaps can have outsized effects during peak season.Throughout, the focus stays on strategy: building sustainable growth rather than chasing short-term spikes, understanding when to push, and when to protect profitability.Key TakeawaysQ4 is make or break: Some sellers generate up to 60% of annual revenue in this period, making preparation critical.Understand intent cycles: Shopper behaviour fluctuates across the quarter; align campaigns with peaks in demand.Don’t overspend on ads: Rising CPCs can eat into profit. Focus on timing and targeting, not just spend.Stock smartly: Balance availability with sell-through. Avoid over-buying that ties up cash flow after peak.Fulfilment readiness matters: Delivery delays can cost more than missed sales; plan logistics early.Profit beats volume: Prioritise margins and efficiency over chasing record sales days.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir dive into Amazon’s second Prime Day of the year, an event that sparks more debate than excitement. Is it a genuine opportunity for shoppers and sellers, or a manufactured moment designed to inflate demand ahead of the holidays? The duo unpacks the origins of October Prime Day, born in the pandemic, the psychology behind early gift-buying, and the blurred line between real deals and retail theatre.What’s Covered in This EpisodeOnce seen as an exclusive sales holiday, Prime Day has evolved into a twice-yearly event that some argue has lost its edge. Ali & Zamir trace its roots back to 2020, when Amazon introduced an October edition to offset supply chain disruptions, a move that has since become a fixture in the retail calendar.They explore why shoppers’ trust in deal days has waned, and how consumer behaviour has shifted toward early gifting, especially for men’s products, based on sales data trends. The discussion also turns to the sellers’ side: how brands that didn’t participate can still extract value from Prime Day by analysing category spikes, testing promotions, and using data to inform Q4 strategy.Throughout, they question whether these orchestrated shopping frenzies truly deliver savings or simply reshape buying patterns, and how savvy sellers can turn the hype to their advantage.Key TakeawaysPrime Day fatigue is real: The twice-yearly format has diluted excitement and increased consumer skepticism.A pandemic invention: The October edition began in 2020 as a logistical fix and became a permanent retail play.Early holiday momentum: Data shows Prime Day gift purchases skew male-heavy, hinting at emerging shopper trends.Missed Prime Day? No problem: Use Q4 promotions to gather data, benchmark competitors, and prepare for next year.The illusion of savings: Many discounts are relative to inflated prices; smart shoppers and sellers read the fine print.Sales spikes ≠ growth: A strong Prime Day does not always translate into higher monthly revenue; context is everything.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir sit down with Will Plant, Creative Manager at This Way Up, to unpack why design is the most underrated growth lever on Amazon and beyond. From the main image that wins the click to A+ modules that tell your story, Will shares a practical playbook for turning creative into conversions.What’s Covered in This EpisodeDesign isn’t decoration—it’s performance. Will breaks down how shoppers actually buy on Amazon (hint: they scan images first), and how to build listings that meet customer needs at a glance. You’ll learn how to structure image galleries for CTR and conversion, which USPs deserve top billing, why fonts and readability matter more than you think, and how A+ content and Stores add legitimacy and lift. The crew also debates where AI helps (speed, mockups, concepting) vs. where human judgment still wins (taste, brand feel, emotional resonance). Plus: good/bad/ugly design examples, the danger of being slavishly on-brand, and why constant A/B testing beats opinion.Key TakeawaysWin the click with Image #1: Treat the main image as a CTR asset. Make the variant/type instantly clear (e.g., beans vs. ground; espresso vs. filter) to attract the right traffic.Sequence images 2–9 for conversion: Lead with your strongest USP on Image #2; map subsequent images to the customer’s search intent and benefits (not just features).Readable beats pretty: Use clear, large, legible fonts. If it can’t be read in half a second on mobile, it might as well not be there.A+ content = story + legitimacy: Use video, carousels, and comparison charts (vs competitor or across your range). It’s prime real estate for education and brand trust.Store strategy: It’s the only Amazon space without competitor noise. Build sub-pages around customer needs, not just categories, and route ads accordingly. Put best-sellers first.Design for mobile first: Most Amazon browsing happens on phones; optimize font sizes, spacing, and image cropping accordingly.Brand ≠ sacred on marketplaces: Rigid guidelines (e.g., “no text on images”) can hurt conversion. Adapt the brand system for the e-commerce context—then A/B test relentlessly.AI is a co-pilot, not a replacement: Great for speeding up visuals and comps; humans still set taste, narrative, and emotional cues.Emotional connection matters: Use perspective, context, and small storytelling cues to make benefits felt, not just stated.Common pitfalls: Walls of text, tiny copy, unclear hierarchy, and ignoring order of images—all reduce conversion.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir dissect a viral video claiming Amazon “rigs the game” with its private label products. The video has millions of views, but is it telling the full story, or just sensational clickbait? The guys unpack what’s true, what’s misleading, and what every brand owner needs to know before drawing the wrong conclusion.What’s Covered in This EpisodeThe viral video suggests Amazon unfairly promotes its own brands, uses seller data to copy products, and squeezes out competition with unbeatable margins. While some points hold water, like the reality of Amazon brands getting premium placement, others are misrepresented or oversimplified.Ali & Zamir explain the Amazon Accelerator program, where third-party sellers actually produce many “Amazon brands,” and why sellers shoulder the risk while Amazon keeps the rights. They also highlight how brand analytics data is available to every seller, not just Amazon, and why this matters for new product development.The duo also tackle misconceptions around pricing, margins, and private labels, pointing out that every major retailer does it, from Tesco Finest to Costco’s Kirkland. Far from being a reason to avoid Amazon, they argue this is simply the reality of modern commerce. And finally, they call out the irony: while the video criticizes Amazon, its creator is monetizing the content with affiliate links back to, you guessed it, Amazon.Key TakeawaysPrivate label isn’t unique to Amazon: Every major retailer runs its own brands, often with better margins.Accelerator explained: Many Amazon-label products are produced by third-party sellers under strict terms, not by Amazon itself.Data isn’t secret: Brand analytics gives all sellers access to the same category, click, and conversion insights Amazon uses.The game isn’t fair—but it’s fair everywhere: Aldi, Costco, Tesco, and others all give preference to their own-label products.Misquotes & hype: The viral video misuses Bezos’ comments (about devices, not private label) and leans on sensationalism.Don’t be discouraged: Amazon remains a huge growth channel—brands just need to understand the landscape and compete smart.Affiliate irony: The video creator criticizes Amazon while profiting from affiliate links driving sales back to Amazon.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir run a spicy thought experiment: what if a US retail behemoth—say, Walmart—launched a UK marketplace? From physical stores and fulfillment networks to seller experience and ad budgets, they map out how a serious Amazon competitor could reshape the landscape—and why brands should prep now, not later.What’s Covered in This EpisodeFor years, Amazon has been the only real game in town for UK marketplace sellers—powerful, essential, and (too often) indifferent to seller pain. The guys explore how a Walmart entry could change that equation overnight: more options for brands, real competition for seller attention, and a land-grab for early movers.They unpack how Walmart’s strength in omnichannel (stores + online) could be the decisive edge, why physical returns and click-and-collect matter, and the many routes Walmart could take—from standing up branded stores to acquiring existing UK retail infrastructure. They also consider practical realities: fulfilment capacity, marketplace tooling, and the likely ad ecosystem that would spring up—and how Amazon might respond (hint: improved seller support wouldn’t shock us).Key TakeawaysReal competition = real options: A credible second marketplace would let brands diversify traffic, reduce platform risk, and negotiate from strength.First-mover advantage: If/when a new marketplace launches, early adopters will capture organic momentum; be ready to list fast.Budget for a second ad funnel: New marketplace = new paid placements. Ring-fence test budget so you can scale quickly.Omnichannel matters: A player with physical stores can win on trust, returns, and convenience—key to mainstream adoption.Think infrastructure: Expect heavy investment in FCs/3PLs and possible acquisitions to accelerate UK rollout.Plan international the smart way: If you learn the new platform in the UK, expansion into its other regions could be a smoother next step.Seller treatment could improve across the board: Competition pressures everyone; Amazon’s seller support may need to level up.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir sit down with Nirali and Jag, the husband-and-wife founders of Superfoodio, to uncover how a six-month backpacking trip across South America turned into one of the UK’s most exciting food brand journeys. From emergency snacks in Argentina to landing in 650 Tesco stores, their story is a lesson in vision, resilience, and saying “yes” to opportunity.What’s Covered in This EpisodeThe Superfoodio journey began when Nirali and Jag left their London corporate lives behind to immerse themselves in farming communities across South America. Inspired by the simplicity and gratitude surrounding food, they returned with a mission: to bring that ethos into products that make health more accessible.What started as subscription snack boxes curated from challenger brands evolved into retail launches at Selfridges, clusters loved by boutique hotels and Middle Eastern buyers, and eventually a bold pivot during COVID. The breakthrough? Reinventing peanut butter as buttons and cups—portable, mess-free, and built for modern snacking.Now stocked nationwide in Co-op, Tesco, and Whole Foods, Superfoodio proves how founders with no prior food background can create products that resonate deeply with both customers and retailers.Key TakeawaysOrigins in travel: A South American backpacking trip sparked the Superfoodio ethos—“every food is a gift.”From subscription to retail: Starting with curated snack boxes, the brand gained momentum after a Selfridges buyer invited them into store.Pivot in crisis: COVID wiped out 98% of sales overnight, but shifting to Amazon created a lifeline.Innovation with peanut butter: Buttons and cups turned a messy kitchen staple into a convenient, fun snack.Retail success: From Whole Foods to Tesco, strategic pitches and accelerators helped secure national listings.Always say yes: Opportunities from hotels, poke shops, and international buyers helped fuel early growth.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir dive into one of the biggest shake-ups in digital marketing history: Google’s default switch to AI search results in the UK. With organic clicks already down by more than 50%, brands that have long relied on SEO are suddenly facing a new reality—and the guys break down what this means for e-commerce sellers right now.What’s Covered in This EpisodeFor over 20 years, organic Google rankings have been the backbone of e-commerce growth. But with AI-generated answers now appearing at the top of search, users no longer need to click through multiple links to find what they’re looking for. Research shows that only 1 in 100 AI results even gets clicked, leaving traditional SEO strategies in serious jeopardy.Ali & Zamir explain why this matters so much for D2C businesses, how it impacts the delicate balance between SEO and paid ads, and why the future of traffic is shifting to marketplaces, Meta, TikTok, and AI-driven recommendations. They also share practical strategies for optimizing content so your brand can still show up in the age of “AI gods.”Key TakeawaysOrganic traffic collapse: Google’s AI switch has already caused a 50% drop in organic clicks in the UK.SEO isn’t dead, but it’s different: Brands must adapt descriptions, blogs, and content to be recognized as authorities by AI crawlers.Marketplaces are safer bets: Amazon, eBay, and others may benefit as customers seek reliable fulfillment and trust.Meta & TikTok ads are rising: Eye-time is shifting, and so must your ad spend.Optimize for AI: From ChatGPT to Google’s Gemini and beyond, sellers need to craft content that answers customer questions directly.Diversify traffic sources: Don’t worship just one “god”—spread your bets across multiple platforms.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir break down a massive change that could blindside thousands of UK and EU sellers shipping into the US: the end of the $800 de minimis exemption. Starting August 29th, shipments into the US from the UK and beyond will no longer qualify for duty-free entry, meaning brands could suddenly face hefty taxes and fees per parcel.What’s Covered in This EpisodeFor years, UK and EU sellers have relied on the de minimis rule to ship products under $800 into the US without paying duties. But with the rule scrapped—following earlier restrictions on China—sellers who don’t adapt risk surprise bills in the tens of thousands.Ali & Zamir explain how this change mirrors the chaos of Brexit and why many small online retailers are especially vulnerable. Using a real-world case from one of their brands (where 25% of revenue comes from US sales), they outline the costly risks of continuing “business as usual” and reveal practical steps to safeguard revenue streams.Listeners will learn the ins and outs of compliance—sales tax, EORI-style IDs, US labeling, and returns—while also hearing how this shift might actually be turned into an opportunity to level up operations for better customer experience.Key TakeawaysDe minimis exemption ends August 29th: UK and EU parcels to the US will no longer be duty-free.Big financial risk: Sellers could face $80–$200 per parcel in fees plus duties, making direct shipping unviable.3PL or Amazon FBA required: To continue US sales, bulk-ship into the US and fulfill via a third-party logistics provider or Amazon’s multi-channel fulfillment.Sales tax compliance is mandatory: Sellers holding US stock must register with tools like TaxJar, Avalara, or Outpost.US-compliant packaging & returns: Labeling, FDA requirements (for food/beauty), and a local returns address are essential.Silver lining: US-based stock means faster delivery, higher conversion, and the potential to scale revenue.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.

In this episode of Upside, Ali & Zamir step out of the usual B2C spotlight and into the fast-growing world of B2B e-commerce. They explore how platforms like FAIRE.com and Ankor Store are shaking up wholesale, giving independent brands and retailers an easier, faster, and more profitable way to do business.From explaining how these platforms work, to sharing real-world experience from their own brands, the duo reveals why this “old-school” industry is finally seeing serious disruption—and why your brand might be missing out if you’re not involved.What’s Covered in This EpisodeFAIRE.com and Ankor Store are redefining the wholesale process for independent brands. Instead of juggling dozens of small store relationships or relying on outdated wholesale systems, sellers can list products online for retailers worldwide to order at trade prices and volumes. Ali shares how his own brand leverages these platforms to streamline admin, improve cash flow, and reach a global customer base—all while avoiding the headaches of traditional wholesaling.The conversation also covers the platforms’ commission structures, special benefits like 0% lifetime commission on referred buyers, and how they make payment terms and shipping easier for both sellers and buyers. Listeners get practical tips on which product categories thrive on these marketplaces and why even pajama-clad entrepreneurs can fulfill wholesale orders from home.Key TakeawaysB2B is booming: FAIRE.com and Ankor Store open global wholesale opportunities far beyond traditional, geography-bound wholesalers.Payment terms without the hassle: Sellers get paid upon dispatch, while buyers enjoy up to 60 days of credit—no chasing invoices.0% lifetime commission: Refer your existing customers and FAIRE will process their orders commission-free, forever.Lower fees than traditional wholesale: Standard commissions (15% first order, 25% after) can still be less than legacy wholesale margins.Diverse product fit: Grocery, apparel, home décor, candles, stationery, kids’ products, and more do well on the platform.Easy integration & fulfillment: Process orders via FAIRE.com, Ankor Store, or even link directly to Shopify.Work from anywhere: You can fulfill wholesale orders from your home—no big warehouse required.To access more insights on building sustainable online businesses and avoiding common pitfalls in the reselling world, visit https://thiswayup.online/resources.