Inside Commerce: Ecommerce Strategy, CX and Technology Podcast

Get inbox alerts when new episodes drop: http://eepurl.com/gJFLtjPodcast summary:James & Paul delve into the transformative world of replatforming projects, exploring modern strategies that redefine success in the current digital landscape. We share real-world insights and experiences, offering listeners a informative guide to navigating the complexities of replatforming with confidence.What's in it for you:This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in digital transformation or considering a replatforming project.Get valuable insights into the latest best practices that can help you achieve a seamless and effective replatforming experience. Tune in to discover how to leverage modern approaches to maximise project success.Key Discussion Points:The importance of aligning replatforming projects with business goalsModern tools and technologies that streamline the replatforming process. Real-world case studies showcasing successful replatforming strategies. Common pitfalls and how to avoid them for a smoother transition. The role of cross-functional teams in driving replatforming success.Chapters:[00:30] The State of Replatforming Projects[06:30] Market Changes and Technology Evolution[12:30] Understanding Cost Model & ROI Nuances[18:20] The Discovery Phase: Best Practices[24:15] Evolving Ecosystems and Integration Strategies[29:45] The Role of AI in Project Management

Summary:James & Paul delve into the evolving landscape of agentic commerce, with agency leaders Chris Marshall of Onstate and Liam Quinn of Visualsoft.The podcast focuses on the recent integration of OpenAI's technology with Shopify. The discussion highlights the potential impact of AI-driven commerce on ecommerce brands, emphasising the need to sift through the hype to understand the practical implications. Key points include the exploration of AI's role in enhancing the shopping experience, the challenges of trust and adoption, and the potential for AI to transform product discovery and purchasing processes.Learn about the strategic considerations for brands in adopting AI technologies, such as the importance of maintaining structured product data and the potential for AI to complement existing sales channels. The conversation also touches on the competitive dynamics between tech giants like Google and OpenAI, and the evolving role of platforms like TikTok in product discovery. The episode concludes with a call for brands to focus on foundational elements like data quality and user experience to effectively leverage AI in commerce.Key discussion points:There is a lot of hype around AI, but practical applications are still emerging.Trust in AI technologies is crucial for consumer adoption.The checkout experience is complex and needs to be optimised.Product discovery through AI can change consumer behaviour.Brands must maintain a strong presence to foster loyalty.Structured data is essential for AI to function effectively in ecommerce.AI can enhance convenience but may not replace traditional shopping experiences.Businesses should focus on solid data foundations before adopting new technologies.Chapters:[00:35] Introduction to Agentic Commerce and AI Checkout[03:30] Understanding the Hype: AI's Role in Ecommerce[06:05] The Practical Implications of AI in Shopping[09:30] Trust Issues in Agentic Commerce[12:00] Adoption Challenges and Consumer Behaviour[15:10] Commercial Opportunities and Limitations[27:40] The Challenge of Customer Experience in AI[30:45] Navigating Payment and Fulfilment Challenges[36:25] The Importance of Data Structure [38:30] Practical Steps for Brands in the AI Era[42:15] Security Concerns and Best Practices in AI

Unlocking the Secrets of Shopify Conversion Rate Optimisation: A Must-Watch PodcastIn the latest episode, we dive deep into the world of Conversion Rate Optimisation (CRO) with industry experts Anya Geimanson, Co-founder of Visually, and Nick Phipps, CRO lead from Vervaunt. This podcast is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to enhance their ecommerce strategy.Why You Should Tune In:Expert Insights: Gain practical, real-world insights as Anya & Nick share their extensive experience in the field. Actionable Strategies: Learn about the importance of segmentation, personalisation, and testing in driving successful CRO initiatives. Real-World Examples:Discover how leading brands have achieved significant conversion rate improvements through strategic testing and personalisation.Key Discussion Points:The challenges and opportunities of conducting meaningful A/B testing on platforms like Shopify. The role of AI in enhancing personalisation and optimising digital experiences. Strategies for measuring the true impact of CRO efforts beyond just conversion rates.Whether you're a seasoned ecommerce professional or just starting out, this episode offers valuable takeaways to help you optimise your online store and drive growth. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best in the business. Subscribe now and elevate your CRO game!

Podcast summary:It's hard to keep customers happy, and coming back for more. Businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance customer experience and drive growth. In our latest podcast, we delve into a transformative approach with insights from Martin Newman, one of the world’s leading authorities on customer centricity.Martin challenges the traditional mindset of viewing investment in people as a cost line. Instead, he advocates for a paradigm shift where people are seen as profit centers. This perspective focuses employee on shared outcomes, enhancing customer experience and driving tangible business growth. By investing in their teams, ecommerce brands can unlock the potential of their workforce, leading to improved customer interactions and increased profitability.Throughout the episode, Martin shares actionable insights and real-world examples of how businesses can implement this mindset shift. He emphasises the importance of empowering employees, fostering a culture of innovation, and aligning business strategies with customer needs. By doing so, ecommerce brands can create a competitive edge and build lasting relationships with their customers.Join us as we explore this groundbreaking approach to customer experience and discover how viewing people as profit centres can revolutionise your ecommerce business. Tune in to gain valuable insights from an industry thought leader, and learn how to transform your customer experience strategy for success.Key discussion points:1. Customer experience has evolved to be more customer-centric.2. Many businesses still operate in silos, hindering customer experience.3. Measuring customer experience should focus on long-term value, not just productivity.4. Company culture is crucial for employee engagement and customer satisfaction.5. Engaging employees in cultural change leads to better outcomes.6. Successful brands create emotional connections with their customers.7. Technology should be used strategically to enhance customer experience.8. AI can improve efficiency and personalisation in customer interactions.9. Customer lifetime value should be prioritised over short-term gains.10. A mindset shift is needed to view customer experience as a profit centre.Chapters:[00:45] Introduction to Martin Newman and His Expertise[04:40] The Evolution of Customer Experience[10:50] Measuring Customer Experience Effectively[16:25] The Importance of Culture in Business[22:25] Driving Change and Transformation in Organisations[27:15] The Importance of Employee Engagement[29:30] Building Brand Loyalty Through Purpose[34:55] The Role of AI in Customer Experience[48:40] Transforming CX from Cost Center to Profit CenterSubscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/inside-commerce-7126171854813188096/

Summary:Design is critical to ecommerce success. However, design discussions can be fraught with emotion and subjective views. And design execution is influenced by the brand, customer demographic, product range and price point.In this podcast, James Gurd and Paul Rogers delve into the nuances of good ecommerce web design. They explore the subjective and objective elements that define effective design, emphasising the importance of aligning design with brand goals and customer needs. Good design isn't a one-size-fits-all concept but should be tailored to the specific traffic and audience of a site. The podcast highlights the need for a balance between usability and brand presentation, suggesting that design should cater to both high-intent and low-intent audiences.The discussion also touches on the role of art direction in creating a brand's identity and the importance of functional coherence in design.James & Paul reference several websites, including OKA, Sanqvist, Civilist Berlin, On Running, JW Anderson and Oh Polly, as examples of innovative design that successfully integrate creative elements with functional usability. The importance of a structured design discovery process and the need for clear design documentation to ensure consistency and adaptability is emphasised.Throughout the episode, James & Paul flag the evolving nature of ecommerce design, advocating for a strategic approach that considers both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. Key discussion points:Good design varies by brand.Understanding user intent is critical for design success.Balancing creativity with functionality is key in ecommerce.Art direction is crucial for brand identity.The design discovery process involves managing stakeholder opinions.Functional coherence is essential for user experience.Testing design changes is vital for measuring impact.Design documentation should be fluid and accessible.Chapters:[00:30] Defining Good Web Design[06:40] The Design Discovery Process[13:30] The Role of Art Direction[20:05] Interaction Design and Functional Coherence[24:40] Measuring Investment Impact in Ecommerce[28:00] Balancing Risk and Innovation in Design[29:50] Functional Coherence in Ecommerce Design[36:25] Creating Friction: A Double-Edged Sword[37:50] The Importance of Testing and Iteration[42:50] Design Documentation for Consistency

Episode summary:Selecting the right technology stack and managing roadmaps are crucial for success. Our latest podcast episode dives into these topics with insights from a seasoned head of ecommerce, Edward Scott-Finnigan.Choosing the Right Tech Stack: The discussion highlights the importance of aligning technology choices with business goals. A flexible and scalable tech stack can ensure seamless customer experiences. Edward & James emphasise the need for flexibility in integration capabilities, allowing different systems to work harmoniously.Managing Roadmaps: Effective roadmap management is about prioritising initiatives that drive growth. The conversation explores strategies for balancing short-term wins with long-term vision. Edwards shares tips on stakeholder engagement, ensuring that everyone is aligned and invested in the roadmap's success.Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice on navigating the complexities of ecommerce technology and roadmap management. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, this episode offers something for everyone.Subscribe now to stay updated with the latest trends and strategies in ecommerce: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/inside-commerce-7126171854813188096/Key takeaways:Edward's transition from agency to client-side offers unique perspectives.Understanding the 'why' behind projects is crucial for success.Ecommerce faces challenges with technology confusion and shiny object syndrome.AI should be seen as a supportive tool, not a replacement.Real-world experiences provide valuable insights into technology adoption.Modernising legacy systems requires a nuanced approach.Networking and real-world discussions are key to navigating the tech landscape.Chapters[03:20] Edward's Ecommerce Journey & Experience[06:20] Agency vs. Client-Side Perspectives[09:00] Understanding the Why Behind Projects[12:20] Current Challenges in Ecommerce Technology[15:20] Navigating Confusion in Ecommerce Solutions[18:00] The Importance of Real-World Insights[21:00] Shifting Pain in Ecommerce Operations[26:30] Navigating Modernisation in Ecommerce[31:30] The Role of AI in Ecommerce Operations[37:40] Strategising for the Future of Ecommerce[41:50] Unifying Technology for Enhanced Student Engagement

Get expert advice on the latest ecommerce shipping trends and how brands need to plan ahead to ensure a consistent quality of customer service.Shipping remains a critical challenge. With fluctuating tariffs, evolving customer expectations, and geopolitical tensions, ecommerce teams face mounting pressure to deliver consistent, high-quality service. The complexity of global supply chains, coupled with regional variations in shipping regulations, further complicates the process.To build resilience, ecommerce teams must diversify their carrier networks. By leveraging regional carriers, businesses can mitigate risks associated with reliance on a single provider. Additionally, transparency in shipping costs and delivery times is crucial. Providing customers with clear expectations helps maintain trust and satisfaction.Investing in technology that integrates seamlessly with existing systems can streamline operations and enhance flexibility. By adopting a proactive approach to inventory management and exploring alternative shipping routes, ecommerce teams can better navigate disruptions and ensure a seamless customer experience.Ultimately, resilience in shipping strategies is key to thriving in the ever-changing global market.Key discussion points:Fluctuating Tariffs and Geopolitical Tensions: impact on shipping costs and regulations.Evolving Customer Expectations: demand for faster, transparent delivery options.Complex Global Supply Chains: challenges with regional shipping regulations and logistics.Diversifying Carrier Networks: mitigating risks by using regional carriers.Transparency in Shipping Costs and Delivery Times: building customer trust and satisfaction.Technology Integration: streamlining operations and enhancing flexibility.Proactive Inventory Management: preparing for disruptions and ensuring availability.Exploring Alternative Shipping Routes: adapting to changes and maintaining service quality.Chapters:[00:30 - 03:30] Introduction to Shipping Challenges[03:00 - 09:00] Impact of Tariffs and Regulations[09:00 - 12:00] Customer Expectations and Market Trends[12:00 - 18:00] Diversifying Carrier Networks[18:00 - 22:00] Importance of Transparency[22:00 - 30:00] Leveraging Technology for Flexibility[30:00 - 36:30] Proactive Inventory Management[36:30 - 45:00] Exploring Alternative Routes[45:00 - 50:00] Conclusion and Future Outlook

Philip Kingsley had been on an interesting ecommerce journey, having to rapidly digitise its consultation service following COVID and subsequently making subscriptions the cornerstone of its growth strategy. This episode dives into the brand's journey, led by Lauren Duncan, Head of Ecommerce, who shares insights on how they have transformed their business model.The Subscription Model: Philip Kingsley has embraced a subscription model that goes beyond mere convenience. By offering discreet delivery and personalised treatment plans, they cater to the unique needs of their customers, particularly those dealing with hair loss. This approach not only provides a seamless customer experience but also fosters long-term loyalty.Digital Transformation: The brand's digital transformation was accelerated by the pandemic, leading to the development of virtual consultations and a robust web app. These innovations have allowed Philip Kingsley to reach a broader audience and offer tailored solutions.Customer-Centric Approach: Lauren emphasises the importance of understanding customer needs and preferences. By leveraging data and customer feedback, Philip Kingsley continuously refines its offerings, ensuring that the subscription service remains relevant and valuable to its users.Philip Kingsley's success in ecommerce is a testament to the power of subscriptions in building lasting customer relationships. By focusing on personalisation and convenience, they have set a new standard in the beauty industry. Subscribe the the Inside Commerce newsletter to stay updated on our latest episodes: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/inside-commerce-7126171854813188096/

Get ecommerce updates & insights:Join 1,900+ ecommerce professional, subscribe to our newsletter on LinkedIn today:https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/inside-commerce-7126171854813188096/About this podcast:In this episode, James Gurd and Paul Rogers discuss the current state of the ecommerce industry, focusing on key trends including:Strategic partnerships for last mile deliveryPayment innovationsStructured product data & AI agentsThe impact of AI in Customer ServiceThe evolution of search and product discoveryThey explore how businesses are adapting to changes in consumer behaviour, the importance of structured data for agentic search, and the implications of AI on job markets. The conversation highlights the need for ecommerce brands to embrace new technologies and strategies to remain competitive, whilst avoiding the inevitable industry hype.Key takeaways:Strategic partnerships with delivery companies are becoming essential.Delivery innovations are key to improving customer experience.Payment methods are evolving, with new trends emerging regularly.Buy now, pay later has become a mainstream payment option.Personalisation in shopping is still evolving and not fully realised.Structured data is crucial for AI and customer service efficiency.AI is being overhyped, but it can enhance operational efficiency.Ecommerce brands must adapt to survive in a competitive landscape.AI will change job roles, not just replace them.Chapters:[00:40] Industry Trends and Client Concerns[03:00] Strategic Partnerships in Delivery[12:52] Payment Innovations and Trends[26:40] The Future of AI in E-commerce[35:47] AI Hype and Job Market Implications

Join our LinkedIn newsletter:https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/inside-commerce-7126171854813188096/ Podcast summary:In this podcast, Warren Cowan and James Gurd delve into the critical importance of understanding the context of data when making ecommerce decisions. They explore how misinterpreting data can lead to compromised decisions, using real-world examples like Elton John's unexpected influence on a test for Matches Fashion. The discussion highlights the necessity of scrutinising test results to ensure reliability and the dangers of relying solely on metrics like revenue per visitor, which can be easily skewed by outliers. Warren also emphasises the need for businesses to focus on customer intent and context, rather than just catalogue-driven approaches to merchandising, to enhance user experience and drive better decision-making. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their data-driven strategies and understand the nuances of contextual data in ecommerce.Key takeaways:Understanding data context is crucial for better decision-making.Mistakes in testing can lead to valuable learning opportunities.Testing results can be skewed by outliers and external factors.Customer intent should drive the design of ecommerce platforms.The goal of focusing on customer intent is to inspire and support customers in their shopping journey.Creating a seamless shopping experience requires understanding user journeys.Retailers must adapt to changing customer behaviours and preferences.Chapters:[05:20] Warren Cowan's Journey to Founder of FoundIt![10:13] Understanding Testing and Misreading Results[15:10] Celebrity Influence on A/B Testing[19:40] The Importance of User Intent in Ecommerce[25:04] Utilising Intent Signals for Better Navigation[30:33] Creating Engaging Shopping Experiences[32:45] Capturing Behavioural Intent Signals[41:55] The Importance of Structured Product Data

Subscribe to the Inside Commerce newsletter:https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/inside-commerce-7126171854813188096/Episode summary:Imagine walking into a store, stepping onto a scanner, and instantly unlocking a personalised journey that follows you from the shop floor to your phone and beyond. That’s the reality Vivobarefoot is building with its MyVivo CRM project - a bold step toward a seamless, omnichannel customer experience.The MyVivo experience begins in-store, where customers are invited to take a foot scan. This isn’t just a novelty; it’s the foundation for a tailored relationship. The scan captures unique data, helping staff recommend the perfect fit and style. But the magic doesn’t stop there.Once the scan is complete, MyVivo connects the dots across every touchpoint. Customers receive personalised recommendations and content through email, the Vivobarefoot app, and even in future store visits. The system remembers preferences, past purchases, and even foot health insights, ensuring every interaction—online or offline—feels connected and relevant.What sets MyVivo apart is the commitment to true omnichannel engagement. Whether a customer shops online, visits a store, or interacts via mobile, their experience is consistent and informed by their unique profile. This not only builds loyalty but also empowers customers to make better choices for their feet and the planet.Vivobarefoot’s MyVivo project is more than a CRM upgrade - it’s a reimagining of what customer experience can be. By starting with a simple foot scan and extending that data across every channel, Vivobarefoot is setting a new standard for personalized, omnichannel retail.Tune in to listen to Amy Fullerton, Global Head of CRM, discuss how Vivobarefoot built the vision for MyVivo and the process they followed to start implementing this transformative service.Key takeaways:Understanding customer behaviour is crucial for effective CRM.Vivobarefoot aims to encourage a barefoot lifestyle through education and community engagement.Data integration and system alignment are key challenges in CRM.Customer insights are gathered through biometric and behavioral data.The importance of making data actionable for customer engagement.The project is structured around four strategic pillars: product, health, community, and rewards.Future developments will include on-demand health content and personalised recommendations.Chapters:[00:00] Laying the Foundations for a Connected Future[02:41] Understanding My Vivo: Mission and Goals[07:47] Strategic Pillars of Customer Loyalty[11:34] Structuring the Transformative CRM Project[14:19] Tech Challenges in CRM Implementation[19:53] Gathering and Utilizing Customer Insights[25:36] Making Data Actionable for Customer Experience[35:35] Future Vision: On-Demand Health Content

Follow us on LinkedIn:Subscribe to the bi-weekly newsletter packed with ecommerce news, advice and useful resources.https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/inside-commerce-7126171854813188096/ Episode summary:In this conversation, James Gurd and Josh Duggan discuss the evolving landscape of ecommerce marketing, focusing on performance and brand marketing trends. They explore how consumer search behavior is changing due to AI and chatbots, the importance of content in marketing strategies, and the need for brands to optimise for profitability. The discussion also covers measurement techniques, the challenges of expanding into international markets, and the role of AI in enhancing paid media strategies.Key takeaways:The ecommerce landscape is rapidly changing due to AI and chatbots.Consumer search behaviour is shifting, with a predicted drop in search engine volumes as AI agents increaseBrands must adapt their marketing strategies to focus on upper funnel tactics.Content quality and relevance are crucial for engaging consumers today.Understanding profitability is essential for effective ad spend management.Incrementality testing helps brands measure the true impact of their marketing efforts.International markets present significant growth opportunities for ecommerce brands.Social proof can enhance the effectiveness of marketing campaigns in new markets.AI is increasingly being used to automate and optimise marketing processes.Brands need to be strategic in their approach to paid media and content creation.Chapters:[00:40] Introduction to E-commerce Marketing Trends[07:20] The Evolution of Consumer Search Behaviour[13:15] Paid Media Strategies and Consumer Behaviour[17:40] The Importance of Content in Marketing[23:35] Optimising for Profitability in Ad Spend[29:35] Measurement and Incrementality Testing[37:45] Expanding into International Markets[43:30] The Role of AI in Paid Media

Follow us on LinkedIn:Subscribe to our bi-weekly ecommerce newsletter:https://www.linkedin.com/company/inside-commerce/Episode summary:In this conversation, James Gurd, Sam Hurley and Paul Rogers discuss the evolving landscape of SEO in the context of AI engines and LLMs. They explore how AI search is impacting traffic trends, the importance of brand visibility, and the need for SEO strategies to adapt to these changes. The discussion highlights the significance of content structure, the enduring principles of SEO, and the future direction of search in an AI-driven world.Key takeaways:AI search is not a myth; it's growing and impacting SEO.Traffic from AI agents is increasing but still represents a small percentage.Brand visibility is becoming more important than direct traffic.SEO strategies need to adapt to the rise of AI-driven search.Content structure and relevance are crucial for appearing in AI overviews.The principles of SEO remain the same despite changes in technology.Understanding how brands are perceived online is essential.Longer, more specific search queries are on the rise.AI overviews may change how brands approach content strategy.The future of SEO will involve more focus on brand discovery.00:35 The Rise of AI in SEO03:00 Understanding Traffic Trends from AI Agents06:45 Brand Visibility vs. Direct Traffic11:40 The Accuracy of Data in AI Search17:15 The Importance of AI Overviews22:20 SEO Principles in the Age of AI31:30 Practical Advice for Adapting to AI Search

Follow us on LinkedIn & subscribe to our bi-weekly ecommerce newsletter:https://www.linkedin.com/company/inside-commerce/Podcast summary:This conversation explores the future of Content Management Systems (CMS) in ecommerce, focusing on the evolution of page builders, the impact of headless CMS, and the integration of Gen AI in content generation.The discussion highlights the varying needs of businesses based on their size and type, the constraints of native page builders, and the importance of structured data and business agility. A case study on Jamie Oliver's migration to a headless CMS illustrates the practical benefits and challenges of such transitions. The conversation concludes with insights on the evolving role of Product Information Management (PIM) systems and future trends in the CMS landscape.Key takeaways1. The future of CMS in e-commerce is evolving rapidly.2. Not all brands prioritize content in the same way.3. The role of a CMS varies significantly by business type.4. Native page builders have inherent constraints.5. Headless CMS offers flexibility and scalability.6. Gen AI is transforming content management processes.7. Business agility is essential for adapting to changes.8. PIM systems are evolving beyond just product data management.9. Structured data is crucial for leveraging AI effectively.10. Empowering clients through technology enhances their capabilities.Chapters:[00:00] The Future of CMS in Ecommerce[01:44] Understanding the Role of CMS by Business Type[07:11] Constraints of Native Page Builders[12:35] Evolution of CMS Platforms and Headless Solutions[15:40] Impact of Gen AI on Content Management[21:05] Navigating Ecosystem Choices[24:15] The Speed of Change in Technology[25:52] CMS Evolution and the Role of PIM[29:18] Headless CMS: When and Why?[32:48] Empowering Clients Through Technology[38:05] Future Trends in CMS and Ecommerce

Follow us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/inside-commerce/Podcast Summary:Stay connected with the leading ecommerce platforms. In this episode, we interview leaders and visionaries from Shopify, BigCommerce, Centra, Commerce Layer, Remarkable Commerce, Scayle Commerce Engine and Shopline for a fireside chat on what’s happening in the second half of 2025.The conversation covers global market trends, vendor-specific strategies, product roadmaps, and the impact of AI on ecommerce. Each vendor shares their focus areas, challenges, and innovations aimed at enhancing customer experience and optimising performance across various sales channels. The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of ecommerce, highlighting innovations in POS systems, the impact of AI on shopping experiences, and the importance of modular and composable commerce solutions. The speakers discuss current trends shaping their GTM strategies, including the rise of marketplaces, operational challenges, and the need for localised approaches in global commerce. They also explore product roadmaps and the significance of customer experience in driving engagement and conversion.Key takeaways:1. AI is becoming a crucial tool for platforms to enhance operational efficiency.2. Merchants are increasingly looking for solutions that simplify their operations.3. The future of e-commerce will heavily rely on technology that adapts to changing consumer behaviours. 4. POS systems are evolving to capture more customer data.5. Retailers are increasingly looking for flexibility in their tech stack.6. Customer experience is a key focus for ecommerce platforms.7. Global commerce requires localised strategies for success.8. The importance of a unified user experience in ecommerce is growing.Chapters:[02:00] Centra[15:30] Shopline[28:45] BigCommerce[44:30] Shopify[1:00:45] Remarkable Commerce[1:16:45] Commerce Layer[1:35:00] Scayle Commerce Engine

Follow us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/inside-commerce/Summary:In this ecommerce podcast, independent consultant James Gurd speaks with Henrik Hovfman-Kraft, founder of DEMA, about the challenges and strategies in ecommerce marketing.They discuss the importance of balancing short-term sales pressures with long-term growth strategies, the role of marketing mix modelling (MMM) in understanding marketing effectiveness, and the significance of incrementality testing in measuring true impact. Henrik shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey and how DEMA provides data-driven solutions for brands to optimise their marketing efforts and avoid leaving money on the table.Key takeaways:1. DEMA was founded to address the lack of data-driven decision-making in ecommerce.2. Marketing mix modeling (MMM) helps brands understand the effectiveness of their marketing spend.3. Incrementality testing is crucial for measuring the true impact of marketing efforts.4. Brands often leave money on the table by not optimizing their marketing strategies based on data.5. Data silos hinder effective decision-making in e-commerce.6.. Understanding contribution margin is essential for sustainable growth.7. Brands need to connect online and offline data for a comprehensive view.8. The ad stock effect is important for measuring the long-term impact of marketing spend.9. Brands should always experiment and test their marketing strategies.Chapters:[00:30] Navigating the E-commerce Landscape[07:30] The Importance of Data in Marketing[14:20] Understanding Marketing Mix Modelling (MMM)[20:00] Balancing Short-term and Long-term Strategies[26:37] Incrementality Testing in Marketing[45:30] Identifying Missed Opportunities in Sales

Follow us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/inside-commerceSummary:In this ecommerce podcast, James & Paul drill into how to build out a loyalty strategy, with examples of brands executing this well. This episode is useful if you have a loyalty program and want to improve it, or are in the process of building out a loyalty strategy.The main focus is on positioning loyalty strategy correctly, because loyalty is about more than a program. A loyalty strategy is focuses on customer engagement & customer experience, because loyalty is earned through consistently great customer experience. This podcast will help you understand the fundamental mechanics of building customer loyalty, exploring levers to encourage customers to feel more positive about your brand and giving them a reason to shop directly with you. Loyalty starts when people first visit and come get used to your brand, not just when they're buying or in a repeat purchase cycle. Tune in to understand the evolution of loyalty strategies, the importance of customer experience, leveraging customer insights and data, and the necessity of financial modeling to justify investments in loyalty programs. You'll get practical examples to help you enhance your loyalty offering and better understand customer value.Key takeaways:Loyalty is earned through great customer experience.A loyalty strategy is more than just a program.Understanding customer engagement mechanics is crucial.Loyalty should be viewed as a broader customer strategy.Rewarding positive customer behaviour is essential.Customer insights are vital for effective loyalty programs.Setting clear goals is necessary for loyalty success.Measuring success should include customer experience metrics.Incentivising data collection enhances customer understanding.Financial modelling is critical for justifying loyalty investments.

Join us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/inside-commerceSummary:In this podcast, the discussion revolves around the impact of AI on ecommerce teams, particularly focusing on the relationship between technology agencies and their clients. The conversation highlights Seth's experiment of building a website using AI tools without any developer assistance, revealing both the potential and challenges of AI in development. The discussion emphasises the importance of understanding AI's capabilities, the ongoing need for developers, and the efficiency gains that AI can bring to agencies. It also covers the future of AI in ecommerce platforms and the necessity of collaboration between AI and human expertise. During this conversation, James, Seth & Jim explore the evolving role of AI in ecommerce, emphasising the importance of efficiency, risk management, and the need for prompt engineering strategies. They explore how AI can enhance decision-making, streamline operations, and drive innovation while also addressing the complexities and risks associated with integrating AI tools into business processes. Key takeaways:Understanding AI's capabilities is crucial for marketers.Building complex applications with AI requires technical knowledge.AI can expose security vulnerabilities if not used carefully.The role of developers remains critical despite AI advancements.AI can speed up design thinking and ideation processes.AI can speed up coding but requires human oversight.Agencies are leveraging AI for efficiency gains.The future of ecommerce may rely on AI-driven interfaces.Collaboration between AI and human developers is essential. Prompt engineering is essential for maximising AI productivity.Agencies must evolve to become educators in AI usage.

Follow us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/inside-commerce/Episode summary:In this episode of the Inside Commerce podcast, Paul Rogers speaks with Matt Parkinson from Gene about the evolution of Magento and Adobe.They explore the dangers of platform tribalism, and discuss the current state of the platform ecosystem, the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in the ecommerce space. They cover the aggressive competition among platforms, the flexibility of Magento, and the implications of Adobe's SaaS strategy. Additionally, they explore the role of Hyva in revitalising the Magento community and enhancing innovation. Paul and Matt Parkinson also discuss the evolving landscape of ecommerce, focusing on Adobe and Shopify.Key takeaways:The platform ecosystem has become aggressive and tribal, with strong opinions on various platforms.Magento aims to serve a wide range of businesses, from small startups to large enterprises.Adobe's SaaS strategy addresses known issues with Magento, such as total cost of ownership.The app builder offers a low-code solution for integrating third-party technologies.Adobe Commerce Optimizer provides a pathway to full SaaS for existing Magento users.Hyva front-end has revitalised the Magento community and enhanced innovation.Community advocacy plays a crucial role in product development.The future of Adobe and Magento is leaning towards enterprise and B2B markets.Shopify's ease of use contrasts with the complexity of B2B solutions.Bluefinch aims to streamline the patching and upgrading process for merchants.ShopThru seeks to revolutionize ecommerce by embedding checkout experiences.The future of ecommerce will likely involve more AI and agentic commerce.

Follow us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/inside-commerce/Summary:In this episode ecommerce podcast, Paul Rogers speaks with ThruDark founder Louis Tinsley , who shares his unique journey from special forces to ecommerce entrepreneurship. Louis discusses the challenges and successes of building a brand in the outdoor industry, the importance of leveraging relationships, and the strategic decisions that have shaped ThruDark's growth. He emphasises the significance of team dynamics, investment, and the lessons learned along the way, while also looking ahead to future goals and international expansion.Key takeaways:Louis spent years in the Royal Marines and special forces.The idea for ThruDark stemmed from a passion for outdoor equipment and product design.Initial challenges included navigating the transition from military life to entrepreneurship.Social media played a crucial role in building brand awareness and reaching audiences.Leveraging relationships with high-profile individuals helped ThruDark gain traction.Hiring key individuals was essential for scaling the business effectively.Investment from the Clark Group accelerated ThruDark's growth and provided valuable guidance.Bringing in a CEO was a strategic move to professionalise the business.International expansion is a focus, with a growing presence in the US and Canada.Reflecting on achievements is important for maintaining motivation and setting future goals.