7 Figure Seller Summit

Archive Monthly Archives: September 2023

80/20 of E-commerce September 29, 2023

Hey Everyone, 

This week we will dive into the Amazon antitrust lawsuit, where the FTC and 17 states are challenging its dominance, and explore Amazon’s response, assessing its potential impact on sellers. As we gear up for the holiday shopping season, we’ll also touch on Mastercard’s forecast of a 3.7% increase in holiday spending. For shipping and logistics news, UPS is set to hire 100,000 seasonal workers. Additionally, if you need a sourcing agent from China for your business needs, we’ve got you covered. 

Are you Looking for a Sourcing Agent in China?

Are you in search of a trusted sourcing agent in China? Look no further! We have a highly experienced professional ready to assist you. Whether you’re seeking manufacturing partners, quality control, or supply chain solutions, our experts can guide you. 

Click the link to access our sourcing request form and let us connect you with the ideal partner for your needs: https://www.8020sourcing.com/sourcing-request/ 

Your journey to successful sourcing starts here!

Amazon Faces Antitrust Lawsuit from FTC and 17 States

Amazon is facing a major antitrust lawsuit from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and 17 states in the US. The lawsuit alleges that Amazon has abused its dominant position in the e-commerce market by imposing unfair and anti-competitive practices on third-party sellers who use its platform.

According to the FTC, Amazon has violated the Sherman Act and the Clayton Act by requiring third-party sellers to agree to a “most favored nation” clause, which prevents them from offering lower prices or better terms on other platforms, including their own websites. This clause effectively locks sellers into Amazon’s ecosystem and limits their ability to compete and innovate.

The lawsuit also claims that Amazon has engaged in self-preferencing by using its access to data and analytics to promote its own products and services over those of third-party sellers. Additionally, the lawsuit accuses Amazon of imposing excessive fees and penalties on sellers, restricting their communication with customers, and suspending or terminating their accounts without due process.

The FTC and the 17 states are seeking various remedies, including injunctive relief to stop Amazon’s unlawful conduct, monetary relief to restore competition and compensate harmed sellers, and structural relief to break up or divest parts of Amazon’s business.

TAKEAWAY: This lawsuit is a significant challenge for Amazon and could have major implications for the e-commerce industry as a whole. If successful, it could force Amazon to change its policies and practices, lower its fees, and open up more opportunities for third-party sellers to compete and grow. As an e-commerce seller, you should keep an eye on this case and be prepared for any potential changes in the market.

Amazon Responds to FTC Antitrust Lawsuit – Would This Help or Hurt Your Business?

Amazon has issued a full response to the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) antitrust lawsuit. In Amazon’s full response to the FTC, Amazon strongly defends its position, asserting that the FTC’s claims are baseless, flawed, and lack evidence. Amazon argues that it has helped millions of small and medium-sized businesses grow and succeed by providing them with access to a large and loyal customer base, low-cost fulfillment services, and various tools and programs. Amazon also asserts that it faces intense competition from other online and offline retailers and that it always puts customers first by offering them low prices, fast delivery, and a wide selection of products.

This lawsuit centers around allegations of anti-competitive practices within Amazon’s platform, impacting e-commerce sellers. It’s a complex legal battle with potentially far-reaching consequences, highlighting the ongoing scrutiny of tech giants and their role in the e-commerce landscape.

Amazon is facing pressure from some authorities to break up its business, due to its dominance in the e-commerce industry. The idea of splitting up Amazon is not a simple or straightforward one. It could have both positive and negative impacts on the e-commerce industry. 

Some people think that breaking up Amazon would be good for the e-commerce market, as it would create more competition and innovation, reduce Amazon’s control over third-party sellers, and prevent Amazon from favoring its own products or services. Others think that breaking up Amazon would be bad for the e-commerce market, as it would disrupt the efficiency and convenience of Amazon’s operations and offerings, increase the costs and complexity of doing business on Amazon or other platforms, and create uncertainty and confusion for both consumers and sellers.

TAKEAWAY: While the outcome of the Amazon vs. FTC lawsuit remains uncertain, it’s a stern reminder that the e-commerce environment is evolving, and legal matters can impact your business.  It’s important to stay informed about industry regulations and market dynamics. Keep a watchful eye on developments to make informed decisions for your business. 

Holiday Spending to Increase 3.7%

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a prime opportunity to boost your e-commerce sales. According to a recent report by Mastercard SpendingPulse, holiday retail sales in the US are projected to surge by 7.4% compared to last year, reaching an all-time high of $859 billion. It’s a promising outlook for business owners eager to capitalize on the festive season.

According to this report, E-commerce sales are expected to make up a significant 18.5% of total retail sales, up from 14.6% the previous year. This highlights the growing preference for online shopping, underscoring the importance of having a fast, user-friendly, and secure website.

Inflation, especially affecting categories like apparel, jewelry, and electronics, will impact consumer spending. To navigate this challenge, it’s essential to craft a thoughtful pricing strategy and consider offering discounts or incentives that attract and retain customers. 

Additionally, in-store sales are set to rebound by 6.6% as consumers seek social experiences and convenience. To tap into this trend, consider providing omnichannel options such as “buy online, pick up in-store” (BOPIS) or convenient curbside pickup.

TAKEAWAY: As an e-commerce seller, staying informed about holiday spending trends and being agile in your strategy can be the difference-maker for a successful season.

UPS to Hire 100,000 Seasonal Workers for Peak

As the holiday season approaches, UPS has recently announced its plans to hire more than 100,000 seasonal workers to support the peak holiday shipping demand. 

UPS said it is filling full- and part-time seasonal positions, mainly seasonal delivery drivers, CDL holders, and package handlers. The company also said that permanent positions are available in some areas for those who apply early. In fact, nearly 50,000 seasonal employees have earned permanent positions at UPS over the past two years.

The application process for seasonal workers at UPS is fast and easy. Most applicants will have an offer in hand within 25 minutes of completing an online application1. Nearly 80% of seasonal positions do not require an interview.

TAKEAWAY: The parcel delivery industry is expecting a busy and challenging holiday season as e-commerce continues to grow and consumers shop online more than ever. As an e-commerce seller, you should be aware of the potential impact of this peak season on your business, such as shipping delays, higher costs, and increased competition. Consider how you can leverage the opportunities that this peak season offers, such as reaching new customers, offering promotions and discounts, and providing excellent customer service.

In case you missed it: 

Until next week!

– Gary

80/20 of E-commerce September 22, 2023

Hey Everyone, 

We’re officially into autumn now with Q4 right around the corner. This week, China will be entering a week-long holiday with possible supply chain disruption.

Speaking of Q4, it’s the official start of Black Friday and holiday shopping. Amazon Prime Big Deals dates have been announced, and soon, other retail giants like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy will be joining in. Keep an eye on TikTok Shop, which is gearing up to compete with Amazon by offering early bird deals. On a positive note, there’s potential for Amazon to drop its 2% fees with its SFP program.

We will have a recap of Brandon Young’s webinar workshop “We’ve SOLVED Amazon’s Ranking Algorithm: Step-by-step Instructions to Dominate Your Niche”. Last but not the least, we have a bonus entrepreneurial mindset mini-course from Ben Leonard and a free chapter from his book entitled “Quit Stalling and Build Your Brand. You Don’t Need an MBA to Crush It in E-Commerce.”

This is the 80/20 of e-commerce for the week of September 22nd. 

China Sourcing News: Weeklong Holiday Approaching with Possible Factory Shutdowns – Sept 29 – Oct 6

Heads up! A weeklong holiday, known as the National Day or Golden Week, is approaching in China from September 29th to October 6th. This year, the holiday coincides with the Mid-Autumn Festival, making it an even more significant celebration. To partially offset the seven consecutive days of the National Day holiday, October 7th and Sunday, October 8th, have been designated as official workdays, resulting in a 7-day working week.

During this period, factories, warehouses, and freight partners in China may be closed for up to eight (8) days, from September 29th to October 6th. Factories might be closed for a portion of the week or even the entire week. Logistics providers, such as freight forwarders, trucking companies, and ports, may also be affected.

TAKEAWAY: To ensure a smooth operation during this time, it’s advisable for businesses to proactively plan their work arrangements for this extended break. This is especially important if your clients follow a different holiday schedule. Mark these dates on your calendar and get ahead of the game by preparing for your inventory and delivery requirements in advance.

Amazon Prime Big Deal Days Announced – Oct 10-11

Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days are back, and they’re bigger than ever! Starting October 10th and lasting 48 hours, this exclusive event for Prime members offers a head start on holiday shopping, nearly six weeks ahead of Black Friday. Amazon is known for its impressive discounts on fashion, home, and toys, and this year is no different. Top brands like Sony, Dyson, SharkNinja, LG, and Barbie are on the list.

Last July’s Prime Day was a massive success, with the Fire TV Stick, Laneige Lip Glowy Balm, Apple AirPods, and a Bissell portable deep cleaner flying off the virtual shelves. Prime members from 19 countries, including the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Germany, can join in on the shopping frenzy. Amazon is even rolling out influencer-curated shopping lists and offering in-store discounts at Amazon-style store locations in California and Ohio.

Source: Amazon

Prime Big Deal Days will take place in 19 countries around the world according to a recent Amazon press release.  They will “kick off on October 10 in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, the U.S., and the UK. Prime members in Japan can shop the Prime Big Deal Days event October 14-15.”

TAKEAWAY: The October Prime Sale is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs and Amazon sellers to increase their sales and attract new customers. Make sure you’re prepared by stocking up on inventory and promoting your products ahead of time.

Walmart, Target, Best Buy follow Amazon with Early Start to Holiday Sales

Retail giants like Walmart, Target, and Amazon are gearing up for an early October holiday sales showdown. It’s not just about Black Friday anymore; these industry heavyweights are rewriting the shopping calendar.

With Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days scheduled for October 10th, Walmart leads the charge with “Walmart Deals – Holiday Kickoff” from October 9th to 12th, presenting online discounts spanning electronics, home goods, fashion, and toys. Meanwhile, Target introduces “Target Circle Week” from October 1st to 7th, delivering substantial discounts, and Best Buy surprises with a 48-hour flash sale commencing on October 10th, featuring irresistible deals on tech gadgets.

What’s even more appealing is that third-party sellers can also participate, making this an inclusive opportunity for e-commerce entrepreneurs. Mark your calendars and prepare to capitalize on these early holiday sales events.

TAKEAWAY: These early October holiday sales by retail giants open up exciting prospects for e-commerce sellers. It’s your chance to reach a massive audience and boost your sales ahead of the holiday rush. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity!

Amazon May Drop 2% Fees for Using New ‘Seller Fulfilled Prime’ Program

According to a recent report by Bloomberg, Amazon is considering waiving the 2% fees for sellers who use the new Seller Fulfilled Prime program. This program allows sellers to fulfill Prime orders from their own warehouses, rather than relying on Amazon’s fulfillment centers. By eliminating fees, Amazon aims to encourage more sellers to participate in the program and increase the selection of Prime-eligible products. To be part of this, you’ll need to meet Amazon’s strict criteria, including offering premium shipping, on-time deliveries, and nationwide coverage.

The Seller Fulfilled Prime program offers several benefits to sellers, including greater control over inventory and shipping, as well as the ability to provide a more personalized customer experience. With this program, sellers can maintain their own brand identity and packaging, which can help differentiate their products from competitors. Additionally, sellers can leverage their existing logistics infrastructure and potentially reduce costs associated with using Amazon’s fulfillment services.

The best part, SFP participants get a Prime badge on their listings, which can attract more shoppers and boost your sales.

TAKEAWAY: Stay tuned, because if these fees disappear and that Prime badge shines on your products, it could be a game-changer for your Amazon business.

TikTok Shop to Rival Amazon with Early Black Friday Deals

TikTok Shop is set to compete with Amazon this holiday season by offering early Black Friday deals as early as October 27th. The social media marketplace, which debuted in the US earlier this September, consists of shoppable videos with direct links to the products being offered. Not only that, but TikTok creators are able to sell from their small businesses, so consumers have plenty of options to choose from.

The TikTok Shop’s early Black Friday deals will offer discounts of up to 50% off, and the platform aims to move at least $20 billion in products this holiday season.

TAKEAWAY: This development is significant because it signals a shift in the e-commerce landscape. Social media platforms like TikTok are becoming major players in online shopping. For entrepreneurs and Amazon sellers, this could open new doors for marketing and connecting with potential customers.

WEBINAR REPLAY: “We’ve SOLVED Amazon’s Ranking Algorithm: Step-by-step Instructions to Dominate your Niche” feat. Brandon Young

Missed our live webinar “We’ve SOLVED Amazon’s Ranking Algorithm: Step-by-step Instructions to Dominate your Niche” with Amazon expert Brandon Young? No worries! You can now watch the full replay and unlock the secrets to dominating your niche on Amazon.

In this webinar you will:

🚀 Uncover the enigmatic secrets of Amazon’s ranking algorithm

🛠️ Step-by-step instructions to elevate your organic ranking and dominate your niche

🔍 Delve deep into the algorithm’s intricacies

💡 Strategies to effectively influence your rankings

🏆 Learn the art of maintaining dominance once you’ve reached the top spot

📺 WATCH THE REPLAY NOW!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 –  Introduction

02:50 –  Why this webinar is important and who is it for

06:00 – Amazon is a ranking algorithm. “Algorithm = Performance x Relevancy” 

09:00 – Amazon Ranking Algorithm = Weighted Averages Over Time

15:00 – On-the-spot live walkthrough analysis using Data Dive

18:00 – How to know the market?

28:30 – Master Keyword List, Outlier Keywords, and Deep Dive Case Study

48:50 – Using AI for copywriting listings

55:05 – If a seller uses an AI copywriter, will it do it 100% or does the seller need to polish it?

55:40 – Special Offer from Data Dive

58:05 – Products sold by big vendors

59:40 – Can Data Dive be used for people doing wholesale or reselling?

1:00:30 – Would PPC targeting these keywords be better or do both add it in bullet points and use PPC?

1:04:40 – Should I use keywords for various uses of my versatile product in the title and listing during the launch, or will this confuse the algorithm about where to display my product?

1:09:04 – Should I use the maximum character limit for my Amazon product title, or is it better to keep it concise for better overall ranking?

🔐 Click the link below and SAVE $50 A MONTH FOR LIFE when you sign up for Data Dive by entering our discount code 7FSS at the final checkout!

►► SPECIAL OFFER FROM DATA DIVE ◄◄

Unlock the Secrets of E-commerce Success Today! – “Quit Stalling and Build Your Brand. You Don’t Need an MBA to Crush it in E-Commerce”

Have you ever wondered how some people seem to effortlessly build successful ecommerce brands, while others are left struggling? Well, wonder no more.

Ben Leonard, the anti-guru behind the multi-million-dollar brand, Beast Gear, is sharing the secrets to his e-commerce success. Ben grew an international 7-figure business and successfully exited after 3 years; the business holy grail. 

I’m super excited to learn that he wrote his book sharing what he learned along the way so you can do it too. As you know, Ben is an alumni speaker at the 7 Figure Seller Summit and Co-Founder of  EcomBrokers. Ben has generously offered a free chapter from his book as well as a mini-course on the entrepreneurial mindset and additional exclusive bonuses for the 7-Figure Seller Summit community. You can grab these freebies by joining his wait list. 

Ben Leonard’s new book, “Quit Stalling And Build Your Brand. You Don’t Need an MBA to Crush it in E-commerce” is your roadmap to e-commerce success. Whether you are just starting, or you’re going pretty well but need some extra oomph…

Better yet, when you join the waitlist for the launch, you’ll get several exclusive bonuses – for FREE. Just visit www.quitstallingbook.com/7fss and secure your spot. 

Here’s what you’ll get:

  • A free chapter of the book – Get a sneak peek at Ben’s unique insights before anyone else.
  • An Entrepreneurship Mindset Mini Course – Start thinking like an entrepreneur today.
  • Ecommerce Hacks eBook – Discover clever tips to take your e-commerce brand to the next level.
  • Exclusive access to the book launch – Be among the first to get your hands on the complete guide.

Don’t miss this golden opportunity. JOIN THE WAIT LIST and unlock your potential today.

In case you missed it:

80/20 of E-commerce: September 15, 2023

Hi Everyone,

We’ll dive into the buzz around Amazon Accelerate, highlighting the latest updates on Amazon’s New Supply Chain and Amazon’s FBA Removal Policy. Also, TikTok Shop has just recently launched in the US and partnered with Flowspace for its fulfillment. 

If you’ve missed Chris McCabe’s live webinar on “Top 3 Competitor Attacks to Watch Out for in Q4” now is your chance to watch the replay. Plus, don’t miss our upcoming webinar next week, “We’ve SOLVED Amazon’s Ranking Algorithm,” featuring 8-figure seller and industry expert Brandon Young. Mark your calendars for Thursday, Sept 21, at 9 pm EST.

And for our friends in Thailand, check out the Cross Border Summit—you won’t want to miss it!

Amazon Accelerate 

Jeff Cohen, Chief Evangelist at Amazon, just dropped a treasure trove of insights from the #AmazonAccelerate event, and it’s got the seller community buzzing. The event kicked off with a powerful stat – over 60% of Amazon’s sales now come from third-party sellers, showcasing a significant shift in the e-commerce landscape over the last decade.

The event revolved around five core themes: empowering success, fostering an inclusive community, creating a platform for brand success, supporting sellers at every stage of their journey, and making a positive impact in local communities. But what really stole the show were the exciting tools and innovations unveiled.

The two biggest announcements were around Amazon Logistics and Gen AI. Both of these, as well as everything else discussed, are focused on lowering costs and improving the seller experience. 

These updates demonstrate Amazon’s drive to support these sellers and improve the customer experience. The new shipping announcement provides an end-to-end solution for shipping while Gen AI provides a much-needed service to improve listings.

For more details, check out Jeff Cohen’s LinkedIn post.

TAKEAWAY: Amazon Accelerate is set to reshape e-commerce. Dive in and explore these opportunities—it’s a game-changer for sellers!

Amazon’s New Supply Chain Service: A Game Changer for Sellers

Amazon’s latest offering, “Supply Chain by Amazon” (SCA), has just hit the market, and it’s poised to revolutionize the way entrepreneurs and e-commerce sellers handle their supply chain operations. This game-changing service is designed to streamline your inventory management, ensuring your products stay in stock, and get shipped faster, and at a lower cost than ever before.

SCA offers the full gamut of services including:

  • Collecting inventory worldwide
  • Handling customs clearance, and efficient ground transportation to bulk inventory storage, seamless replenishment across various sales channels, and direct-to-customer deliveries.

For entrepreneurs and Amazon sellers, SCA claims to streamline the whole process – With SCA, you can maintain the right inventory levels across diverse sales channels, whether you’re selling online or through physical stores. 

Plus, you get access to Amazon’s massive investment in distribution networks and cutting-edge technology, paving the way for scalable growth and a stronger bottom line.

TAKEAWAY: Amazon’s Supply Chain is a new player in the supply chain game.  It remains to be seen how effective it will be but if AGL is any indication, Amazon has the economies of scale to keep costs down and potentially pass the savings onto sellers.  It’s worth a test if you want to try to optimize your supply chain (who doesn’t?!). 

Amazon’s FBA Removals Policy Update

Amazon has recently announced an update to its FBA Removals Policy, which will take effect on November 1, 2023. The change will affect sellers who set their preferred removal option for unfillable inventory to “Dispose.” 

Amazon will schedule the removal order at its discretion based on capacity. Sellers who haven’t selected a removal option before November 1, 2023, will have their selection default to Immediate Disposal. To maintain a weekly or biweekly removal schedule, sellers must go to Automated unfulfillable settings, select the return option, and input a valid return address. They’ll then have the ability to place manual removal orders on their inventory at any time prior to their selected automated removal schedule.

Now, why should you care? As ecom sellers, this policy shift directly affects your inventory management and storage expenses. Who wants to rack up unnecessary fees, right? By staying up-to-date with Amazon’s FBA Removals Policy, you’ll sidestep those unexpected charges and keep your inventory running like clockwork.

TAKEAWAY: Stay informed about Amazon’s policies and make necessary adjustments to your inventory management strategy to avoid unnecessary fees and ensure efficient management of their inventory.

TikTok Shop Launches in the US: A New Era of Social Commerce?

TikTok, the popular social media app, has officially launched its e-commerce platform, TikTok Shop, in the US. The platform will allow sellers to conduct in-feed video and live shopping on the app. With over 150 million users in the US alone, TikTok Shop is poised to become a major player in the social commerce space.

TikTok Shop offers a seamless shopping experience by combining the power of community, creativity, and commerce. Creators can tag products in their videos to make it easier for users to buy things from in-feed videos and live videos. Brands can also make their own product portfolios, which can be accessible from their profile pages.

In addition to this exciting news, Flowspace has partnered with TikTok to provide fulfillment services for TikTok Shop sellers in the U.S. Flowspace is a software platform and distribution network that powers independent fulfillment. It is directly integrated with TikTok Shop, enabling merchants to manage inventory and ensure consistently efficient, reliable product fulfillment. Merchants partnering with Flowspace and TikTok Shop can take advantage of direct integration, a nationwide network, established SLAs, omnichannel fulfillment, and key account resources.

TAKEAWAY: TikTok Shop is a new and exciting way for e-commerce sellers to connect with highly engaged customers based on their interests. With its user-friendly interface and vast user base, TikTok Shop is a platform that e-commerce sellers should definitely consider using. With Flowspace’s partnership with TikTok Shop, merchants can now take advantage of efficient and reliable product fulfillment.

WEBINAR REPLAY: “Top 3 Competitor Attacks to Watch Out for in Q4”

In case you missed our recent live webinar, “Top 3 Competitor Attacks to Watch Out for in Q4,” featuring Chris McCabe, here’s the replay

📺 Watch the Replay Now: https://youtu.be/E2Jx5CzUhH8

In this webinar you will learn:

🛡️ Defend Your Brand: Discover the three powerful attacks competitors use during the critical Q4 season and how to defend your brand like a pro.

🚀 Proven Strategies: Acquire actionable strategies to prepare for and counteract these attacks in real time.

📢 Effective Reporting: Learn how to report abuse incidents as they occur, ensuring your brand’s integrity remains intact.

🔍 Deep Dive into Abuse Types: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the four different types of abuse.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 –  Introduction

02:45 –  Why this webinar is important and who is it for

05:55 –  Top 4 Competitor Attacks to Watch Out for in Q4

14:19 –  Other types of abuse

17:20 –  How to defend yourself right away from these types of abuse

18:38 –  PDP Abuse

21:35 –  Reports of IP Claim Abuse

25:27 –  Don’t give Amazon a reason to ignore you

28:34 –  Things to keep in mind regarding Abuse Report 

32:55 –  Hiring the wrong people can cost you more than just their fee

37:25 –  Escalating your Abuse Report

42:05 –  Seller Velocity Conference in NY this October 11 – 12 

48:06 –  What’s the best way to connect with Chris McCabe?

49:00 – Is there any way to protect others to modify or create unauthorized listings for my brand?

51:35 –  How to get Brand Gating in Amazon?

53:00 –  How can you show Amazon a competitor’s attack on your account when there’s no clear proof or evidence and fix the suppression without outside help?

55:00 –  Can I attack back?

56:20 –  How can we compete with brands that use blackhat tactics on Amazon when we follow the rules and Amazon doesn’t take action against them?

58:15 –  Wrap up and big takeaways

Chris McCabe, Founder of EcommerceChris, is a former Amazon Seller Performance Investigator and insider within Amazon’s Seller Performance and Executive Seller Relations teams, he knows the platform inside and out.

Want to learn more? 

🎟️ Register for Seller Velocity Conference held in New York City this October. and use code “AMZNYC” to get 30% off the tickets 🎟️

LIVE TRAINING: “We’ve SOLVED Amazon’s Ranking Algorithm: Step-by-step Instructions to Dominate your Niche” feat. Brandon Young on 9/21 at 9 pm EST

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming live training, “We’ve SOLVED Amazon’s Ranking Algorithm: Step-by-step Instructions to Dominate your Niche,” on Thursday, September 21 at 9pm EST.

Our speaker, Brandon Young, CEO of Seller Systems, is a winning Amazon seller and consultant, considered by many to be one of the leading experts in Amazon Private Label and Amazon SEO. His own brands sold more than $25 million just on Amazon in 2022 and are on target to achieve $30 million in 2023, making him one of the only coaches who is actually practicing what he teaches.

In this 60 min training you will:

  • Discover the secrets of Amazon’s ranking algorithm and receive step-by-step instructions on how to increase your organic rank to dominate your niche. 
  • Dive in and dissect the algorithm into a set of actionable components, empowering you to effectively influence your rankings.
  • Learn how to maintain dominance once the top spot has been achieved.

We believe this webinar will be of great value to you and your business. 

To register, please click on this link: https://bit.ly/3Esehz9 

👉 RSVP NOW 👈

A Journey of Learning, Growth, and Connections at the Cross Border Summit 2023 – Nov 16 – 17, 2023 (Chiangmai, Thailand)

This November, the Cross Border Summit presents the E-commerce Back to School Promo, offering you the opportunity to GROW, LEARN, and CONNECT with fellow e-commerce enthusiasts.

Why the ‘Back to School’ theme?  Because in the dynamic world of e-commerce, staying competitive requires a commitment to continuous learning.

Prepare yourself for an AMAZING 2024 and beyond with fresh insights, cutting-edge strategies, and a GLOBAL network of industry leaders.

Join us and think of it as YOUR ‘Back to School’ for e-commerce – where knowledge is your greatest asset!

Register NOW and embrace this ‘back to school’ experience for e-commerce success!

Date and Time: November 16 – 17, 2023 at 8 am 

Location: Changmai Thailand

Learn more here: https://2023.crossbordersummit.com/ 

Shanghai Amazon Sellers Meetup – September 21st, at 6 pm

Last month, we held the Shanghai Amazon Seller Meetup after a four-year hiatus, and it was a resounding success! We had a fantastic turnout at Abbey Road, with both seasoned 7-figure sellers sharing their social media strategies and newcomers eager to kickstart their Amazon journey.

The good news? Part 2 is just around the corner, and we want you to be a part of it!

Here are the important details that you need to know: 

🛍️Event: Shanghai Amazon Sellers Meet Up 

🗓️ Date: September 21, 2023 (Thursday)

⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM China

🏠 Location: Abbey Road

📍 Address: 3 Taojiang Lu, near Hengshan Lu, Lu Xuhui District

🌐 Google Maps:  Find Us Here

Don’t miss out! RSVP by clicking this link or scanning the QR code below: https://bit.ly/3Za4OWQ

Join us for a relaxed evening to make new connections, learn from fellow sellers, and chat about Amazon. See you there! 🚀🤝

RSVP NOW – See you there!

Finally, I met up with my friend Bradley Sutton, Chief Evangelist at Helium10, in Tokyo this week.  We had an amazing Tonkatsu lunch and caught up on some news happening in the ecom sphere.  

Meanwhile a quick shoutout to Helium10, one of the leading product research tools for Amazon sellers. If you haven’t checked them out we have a special offer for the 80/20 of Ecom newsletter readers.

Use the code 8020SOURCING6M20 to get 20% OFF for 6 Months with Helium10 or get 10% OFF Every Month by entering the 8020SOURCING10 at checkout. 

In case you missed it: 

Until next week! 

Gary

80/20 of E-commerce: September 8, 2023

Hi Everyone,

In this edition of 80/20 of the E-commerce Newsletter, we’re transitioning into the fall and getting back into the swing of things as Q4 is right around the corner. This week we have a number of events lined up in September from Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and Alibaba. 

We will also dive into Amazon’s fighting against counterfeit claims, Etsy’s share and save program, and upcoming live webinar featuring Chris McCabe on “Top 3 Competitor Attacks to Watch Out for in Q4” next Thursday, September 14 at 9 pm EST to help you protect your brand against competitor’s attacks.

Stay tuned for more e-commerce insights and updates!

Amazon, eBay, Walmart, Alibaba Host Seller Events This Month

Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and Alibaba are holding virtual and in-person events this month, giving sellers a full slate of options from which to choose. 

Amazon will host sellers at its annual in-person Amazon Accelerate conference in Seattle, Washington on September 13 – 14, while eBay will hold its annual eBay Open seller conference virtually September 27 – 29. 

Walmart held its inaugural in-person Let’s Grow! Marketplace Seller Summit last August 30, in Las Vegas, but sellers will also have an opportunity to attend the company’s first-ever Merry Marketplace free virtual event on September 27 to “learn about top trends, category insights, actionable tips for new & existing sellers and so much more.” 

Alibaba.com is kicking off its inaugural in-person event Alibaba.com Co-Create, taking place September 7-8 in Las Vegas. Alibaba.com Co-Create will include programming, panels, networking, and topics including sourcing, logistics and supply chain tips. It’s expecting 800 merchants to attend in person.

TAKEAWAY: Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and insights in the e-commerce industry and continuously look for actionable tips to improve your business strategy by attending these events.

Amazon’s Counterfeit Crimes Unit Files Lawsuits Against Bad Actors Attempting to Use Social Media to Knowingly Sell Counterfeit Luxury Items

If you are an ecom seller or entrepreneur, you may have come across some social media posts that offer counterfeit luxury items such as jewelry, handbags, and accessories. These posts use a “hidden links” scheme, where they direct you to generic product listings on Amazon that actually deliver fake goods. These bad actors try to evade Amazon’s brand protection systems and lure customers with low prices and limited-time offers.

Amazon is not taking this lightly. The company’s Counterfeit Crimes Unit (CCU) has filed two new lawsuits against Kamryn Russell, Ashley Hawat, and their co-conspirators who knowingly engaged in this scam. The CCU works with brands and law enforcement to eliminate the sale of counterfeits not only in Amazon’s stores but across the supply chain. In 2022, the CCU sued or referred for investigation over 1,300 criminals in the U.S., UK, EU, and China.

Amazon supports legitimate content creators who help their followers discover new products and experiences. The company will continue to pursue the small number of bad actors who would attempt to illicitly gain influence and profit by promoting counterfeit products.

TAKEAWAY: Stay vigilant against the hidden links scam and steer clear of engaging in transactions involving counterfeit goods. Counterfeiting not only damages the reputations of the brands you love but also harms the trust and quality of the ecom industry.

Etsy Rewards Sellers for Driving Traffic to Their Listings

Etsy’s got something new called Share & Save. It’s a program where Etsy gives you special links to share on social media, blogs, and more. When people click these links and buy something from your Etsy shop within 30 days, Etsy cuts 4% off your fees.

In simple terms, Share & Save helps you save money. For instance, if your usual fee is 10% on a $100 order, you save $4. It’s optional, open to all sellers, and the links don’t expire. Remember, it doesn’t work for traffic from Etsy messages or listing descriptions.

In a nutshell, Share & Save is a way to increase sales and visibility while lowering your costs. If you’re an Etsy seller, it’s worth a try.

TAKEAWAY: If you are an Amazon seller or an ecommerce entrepreneur, watch this program and see how it affects the market and your competitors.

🗓️ Join us on October 11 & 12 in NYC for 🚀 Seller Velocity Conference 2023!

Join industry experts and 7-8 figure brand owners, for 2 days that will change your business, at the Seller Velocity Conference, NYC, October 11 and 12.

​We all need mentors and advisors to get to where we want to be in business. The Seller Velocity Conference puts you in the room with real experts. Experts on Amazon, experts in business, and experts in e-commerce and digital marketing. Industry veterans who can show you how you can optimize performance to drive your brand’s growth.


See their best line-up of speakers: 

  • Janelle Page 
  • Brandon Young (Seller Systems)
  • Bradley Sutton (Helium10) 
  • Leah McHugh (ecommerceChris) 
  • Joe Kovacs (Brand Guarde) 
  • Matt McGrory (Pacvue), and 
  • Emma Schermer Tamir (Marketing by Emma)

Limited tickets available – visit sellervelocityconference.com or click the link to REGISTER NOW

“What I loved most about attending the Seller Velocity Conference was the feeling of collaboration. Instead of feeling like a traditional conference where you had speakers and then you had attendees, it felt more like an ability to learn from your peers.”

🌟“Top 3 Competitor Attacks to Watch Out for in Q4 – Live Webinar 9/14/23 9 pm EST. 🌟

As a special bonus, we’ve arranged an exclusive webinar with Chris McCabe, the founder and man behind the success of eCommerceChris which is the industry leader in ASIN and account reinstatements. Join us on Thursday, September 14th at 9 pm EST for an insightful discussion. ” 

Chris’s expertise is unparalleled, and this live webinar is your chance to gain valuable insights that can immediately impact your business.

In this webinar you will learn:

  • The three attacks competitors use to knock each other off during Q4
  • How to prepare and defend your brand against these attacks in real-time
  • How to effectively report abuse as it happens to safeguard your brand’s integrity
  • Discover the four different types of abuse that can threaten your brand’s success

Join us in this informative webinar to safeguard your brand’s success in the competitive landscape of Q4 and beyond.

Secure Your Webinar Seat Here: https://bit.ly/3sD2BH3

Limited spots only, so don’t forget to REGISTER & RSVP HERE 

In case you missed it:

See you next week! 

Gary