Episodes
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Scott welcomes John Aspinall from PickFu after a two-month hiatus on guests.Unlock the secrets to eye-catching Amazon listings and skyrocket your sales with John and learn how non-designers can create compelling product images that drive clicks and conversions on Amazon.John breaks down the key differences between graphic and merchandising designers, emphasizing the importance of storytelling through "hero" images to boost click-through rates. He also highlights how China's advancements in merchandising are challenging U.S. sellers and shares strategies to stay competitive.Packed with actionable insights, this episode covers innovative tactics for showcasing products effectively while adhering to Amazon’s guidelines. Tune in now to transform your listings and make your products stand out!
Episode Notes:
01:30 - John Aspinall Introduction
03:00 - Graphic Designer vs Merchandising Designer
06:30 - The Clickthrough Rate Comeback
08:30 - Best Practices on Merchandising
14:10 - Optimizing for Humans and Bots
15:10 - Designing Product Images
19:45 - The Image Guidelines
22:20 - Seasonal Merchandising
24:40 - The Risk/Rewards of Merchandising Experiments
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jaspinall
Website: AmazonCTR.com | pickfu.com
Related Post: 7 Pro Amazon Listing Optimization Tips to Send Your Sales Soaring
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Scott breaks down the two primary types of Amazon professionals (service providers and brand owners) and discusses the potential of categories such as grocery, beauty, consumables, and pet products.
He demonstrates how SmartScout can help identify valuable brands and gain insights from trade show analysis without attending in person.
The podcast also explores the shift in the beauty industry from “luxury” to “premium” and the implications for resellers due to brand gating initiatives. Plus, a real-world example of how price points can influence consumer choices is shared, using the AMD vs. Intel case study.
Episode Notes:
00:10 - Two Types of Amazon Professionals
01:35 - Strategies for Type 1 Sellers
06:15 - Strategies for Type 2 Sellers
10:30 - Observations and Industry Insights
13:10 - Intel vs AMD Amazon Advertising
SmartScout Tradeshows
AMZ United
Voice of the Amazon Seller
Related Post: Amazon Ungated Categories: Everything You Need to Know
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Missing episodes?
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Amazon coupons. Scott explores their potential to significantly boost your sales.Despite recent changes in Amazon's discounting policies, coupons remain a powerful tool for sellers. Scott discusses how coupons can drive click-through and conversion rates, even if not all customers utilize them.He also explores a case study featuring a top-selling brand, Jackery, which effectively employs a dual strategy of large coupons and discounts to maximize sales. He discusses the controversial practice of price inflation before applying significant discounts, a tactic used by brands such as Jackery to circumvent Amazon's pricing policies.Furthermore, Scott examines current trends in Amazon's discounting landscape, including the declining effectiveness of Prime Exclusive Discounts and the untapped potential of traditional coupons - providing strategic insights on how to effectively use coupons to clear inventory, increase market share, and avoid potential pitfalls like Amazon-to-Amazon arbitrage.
Episode Notes:
00:10 - The Power of Coupons in Boosting Sales
01:35 - Jackery Case Study: High-Impact Coupon Strategy
02:50 - Understanding Amazon's Pricing Flexibility
03:55 - The Changing Landscape of Amazon Discounts
05:05 - The Consumer Perspective on Coupons
06:55 - Coupons as a Strategic Sales Tool
07:45 - Community Engagement and Survey Initiative
09:35 - Golden Seller Awards
Related Post: Top 50 Amazon Marketing Agencies for 2025
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Scott examines the evolving landscape of the Amazon seller ecosystem. From web traffic to key tools such as Helium 10 and Jungle Scout declining by 50% over the past two years, the conversation centers on what this means for new and established sellers.He opens the discussion by exploring the sharp decline in new Amazon sellers entering the market. The pandemic-era e-commerce surge from 2020-2022 has faded, leading many new sellers to exit after facing early challenges. Despite this shift, Amazon continues to grow steadily at 15-20%, driven largely by established brands utilizing agencies and expertise to strengthen their presence.Scott also shed light on how external forces such as tariffs and policies from the Trump administration are shaping the industry while highlighting the dominance of Chinese sellers. Sellers from key cities in China remain resilient, maintaining their stronghold despite geopolitical tensions and trade challenges.Tune in for a comprehensive analysis of the trends shaping the Amazon seller space and practical advice to navigate this evolving landscape.
Episode Notes:
00:10 - Market Forces and Trends
02:15 - Traffic Decline of Top Amazon Seller Tools
05:05 - Growth of Large Brands
06:45 - Analyzing The Broader Market
08:10 - Effects of Political Events on Market Dynamics
09:38 - Observations on Chinese Market Impact
10:40 - Insights on Chinese Sellers in the Amazon Marketplace
Related Post: The 10 Largest Amazon Vendor Brands
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Amazon has recently updated its bundle policy, and this episode is dedicated to breaking down the implications for sellers of all sizes.Scott discusses the specific changes, their potential impact, and strategies to continue leveraging bundling to boost sales. He also explores successful bundling strategies, using Fender guitar bundles as a case study.By analyzing their approach, we'll uncover valuable insights into creating compelling and compliant bundles. Additionally, we'll delve into the role of software tools such as Smart Scout in identifying bundling opportunities and optimizing product listings.Join Scott as he navigates this evolving landscape and empowers you to maximize your sales potential.
Episode Notes:
01:50 - Updated Product Bundling Policy for Consumables
03:35 - Example of Non-compliant Bundle
04:30 - Case Study: Fender Guitar Bundles
07:43 - The Role of Software in Bundling
Related Post: Traffic Graph Update
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Amazon is again shaking up the e-commerce world with its latest initiative: a low-cost store designed to compete with emerging players such as Temu. This new program offers rock-bottom prices and ultra-fast shipping directly from China.
Scott delves into the potential impact of this move on small private label sellers and established brands. He discusses how this strategy could affect product categories and pricing dynamics.
To stay ahead of the curve, Scott also explores the use of SmartScout to identify competitive opportunities and potential threats from Chinese sellers. Join him as he navigates this evolving landscape and discusses strategies to adapt your business accordingly.
Episode Notes:
00:27 - Amazon's new low-cost store initiative
02:35 - Key Aspects of the New Program
04:17 - Invite-only Nature and Sourcing from China
05:20 - Focus on Lightweight Items and Restrictions on Certain Product Categories
05:53 - Branded by Amazon
06:45 - No Returns
07:05 - Fulfillment Fees
07:55 - Impact on the E-Commerce Landscape
10:16 - Strategy and Tool for Small Private Label Sellers
Related Post: How To Use a China Sourcing Agent
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Scott explores the limitations of popular FBA calculators and uncovers hidden costs that can significantly impact profitability. He discusses the importance of accurate accounting and inventory tracking, as well as strategies for managing high return rates.Drawing from years of experience selling over $100 million worth of products on Amazon, Scott delves into real-world examples and insights.
Join him as he uncovers the truth behind FBA profitability and equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
Episode Notes:
01:15 - FBA Calculators Lies
04:35 - Understanding Profitability
08:55 - Amazon FBA Calculator
10:06 - Best Accounting Methods for Amazon Sellers
12:00 - How to Have a Profitable Amazon Business
Coupon Code: Smart2024
Related Posts:
The Best Accounting Methods for Amazon Sellers
Profit Estimations
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In this episode, we're joined by Max Sinclair, Founder and CEO at Ecomtent, to explore how AI tools can revolutionize your e-commerce strategy.Discover how AI can help you craft product titles and descriptions that rank higher in Amazon search results. Learn why visual context is crucial in the age of AI-powered search algorithms, and how to optimize your listings accordingly.Explore innovative templates that make it easier to create stunning primary images and A+ content.Don't miss this opportunity to learn how AI can help you save time, boost sales, and stay ahead of the competition on Amazon.
Episode Notes:
00:50 - Max Sinclair Introduction and Background
05:40 - AI's Impact on E-commerce
07:20 - Content Creation and the Importance of Visual SEO
08:45 - Streamlining Content Generation
13:30 - How Templates Streamline Content Creation for Non-designers
18:10 - Enhanced Brand Content
20:50 - Primary Image Optimization
25:15 - Technical Insights and Data Usage
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/max-sinclair-ai
Website: ecomtent.ai/
X: x.com/maxsinclair4
Related Post: How to Use AI for Successful Amazon Selling
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Get the latest on Amazon's pricing trends, including an upcoming inflation report.
Scott compares 1P and 3P sellers and discusses how major brands like Apple dominate the marketplace. Understand how inflation affects Amazon's pricing strategies, particularly for Chinese sellers. Gain insights into the challenges and methodologies used to analyze price trends across millions of products.
Plus, learn about the prestigious Golden Seller Awards.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - About The Smartest Amazon Seller
02:30 - Golden Seller Awards
04:20 - Average Price of Selling ASINs
04:59 - 1P Brands Report
08:15 - 1P vs 3P
11:28 - Inflation Prices on Amazon Marketplace
Related Post: How to Search Amazon Storefronts and Sellers
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Ever dreamed of building a multi-million dollar Amazon business with your sibling?
Join us for a special episode where we sit down with my brother and co-founder, Jeff, to uncover the secrets behind our journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the top Amazon sellers.
We'll share candid stories about the highs and lows of running a successful e-commerce business for over a decade, including the importance of adaptability in scaling a business, insights on leveraging third-party logistics for growth, and lessons learned from pursuing brand exclusivity deals.
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an e-commerce enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss.
Episode Notes:
00:10 - Jeff Needham Introduction
02:15 - Early Days and Initial Insights Into the Amazon Marketplace
05:00 - Scaling the Business
06:55 - Realizations and Challenges
09:50 - Decision to Move Warehouse Operations to Indiana
12:25 - Optimizing the Business
15:30 - Exploration of Brand-Direct and Exclusive Selling Models
16:10 - Lessons Learned from Watching Other Competitors
17:20 - Brand Direct Challenges
19:00 - Failed Ventures and Insights
25:30 - The Reimbursement Service
26:18 - Operational Innovations
29:30 - Scott’s Scouting Tool
30:30 - Issues with Expanding Too Wide
33:10 - Dealing with Accounting
34:47 - COVID Stories
37:45 - Price Gouging
39:15 - Amazon Inventory Constraints
Related Post: 7 Pro Amazon Listing Optimization Tips to Send Your Sales Soaring
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Join Scott and George Reid from AMZ Design Kit as they explore innovative strategies for creating eye-catching Amazon product pages that convert.Discover how George's journey led him to develop a unique tool that curates top-tier design examples, infographics, and A+ content to inspire your creative process.Learn how AMZ Design Kit collects and organizes high-performing design elements to fuel your inspiration. Explore practical tips to speed up your design process without sacrificing quality. Understand the significant impact of well-designed pages on conversion rates and advertising effectiveness.Tune in to discover how to elevate your Amazon product pages and drive sales.Episode Notes:00:45 - George Reid Introduction
01:40 - Concept of AMZ Design Kit
02:50 - The Intersection of Advertising and Design
05:25- Role of Design in Conversion Rates
08:25 - Refreshing an ASIN
09:05 - Not Reinventing the Wheel
10:00 - Building a Design System
11:55 - Utilizing the AMZ Design Kit
14:55 - Design Refresh Results
17:30 - The Value of AMZ Design Kit
19:00 - Video Templates
20:40 - Affordability and Accessibility of AMZ Design Kit
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/georgereid23
Email: [email protected]
Related Post: Advertising Solutions by Amazon: A Closer Look into Amazon Ads
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Blaine Davis shares his remarkable journey, mirroring Scott's own path, from early days of reselling to venturing into private labels and ultimately offering industry-leading services.
Blaine's transition from managing an independent tool truck business online to becoming an Amazon powerhouse is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability. Discover how he navigated the ever-evolving landscape of Amazon and balanced reselling established brands with launching private labels.
Gain valuable insights into the future of e-commerce and the growing importance of collaborative partnerships. Blaine's perspective is invaluable as brands increasingly recognize the need for strong partnerships beyond transactional relationships.
Discover Blaine's challenges and the strategic pivots that led to Marketplace Pros's success. Learn how he adapted to changing market dynamics and transformed his business to offer a comprehensive suite of services.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Blaine Davis Introduction
02:20 - Getting to Know Blaine
04:12 - Exclusive Partnerships
05:35 - Private Label vs. Reselling
07:40 - Knowing Your Keywords
08:30 - The Automotive Niche
10:50 - Getting Heavy on the SKU
11:40 - Competition and Market Dynamics
16:00 - Launching New Products
16:30 - Fees and Amazon Policies
18:30 - Challenges In Doing Pivots/Transitions
20:35 - What Excites Blaine About the Marketplace?
22:15 - The Rise of New Marketplaces
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blainejdavis/
X: @blainedavis
Website: blainedavis.net
Email: [email protected]
Related Post: How Product Research Can Upscale Private Label Sellers’ Businesses
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Are you leaving money on the table when it comes to Amazon reimbursements?Join us for an in-depth discussion with Yoni Mazor, the CGO of Getida and a seasoned expert who has been navigating the complexities of Amazon seller reimbursements since 2015.
In this episode, we'll dive into the essential strategies and industry insights you need to maximize your returns. We'll discuss the evolving landscape of Amazon reimbursement services, including the critical changes to Amazon's upcoming reimbursement policies. Yoni will share proven tactics for ensuring you're not leaving money on the table.Don't miss out on this invaluable advice that could significantly impact your bottom line. Tune in to learn how top sellers efficiently audit tens of billions in transactions and why private equity-backed solutions are setting new standards in transparency and compliance.Episode Notes:
00:30 - Yoni Mazor Introduction
02:21 - Getida’s History
07:55 - Scaling Challenges and Innovations
11:35 - Patent Innovation and Document Handling
12:35 - Recent Changes in Amazon’s Policies
17:35 - Logic Behind Amazon Timeframes
21:45 - Leaving Money on the Table
23:45 - The Inconsistencies in Amazon
26:20 - Advertising Click Fraud
28:50 - Getida’s Future
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/yoni-mazor-b204a274
Website: getida.com/
Related Post: What Is an Amazon Returnless Refund?
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Mike Danford, Growth Optimizer at Adverio, shares his extensive experience, offering invaluable insights into Amazon's competitive landscape.Discover how Mike transitioned from a small-scale seller to managing large product catalogs efficiently. Learn about the challenges and opportunities he faced along the way, and gain valuable tips on streamlining operations and optimizing product listings.Uncover the power of dynamic pricing strategies and how Mike has used them to maximize profitability. Understand the benefits of adjusting prices in real time based on market trends, competitor activity, and customer demand.Explore the potential of machine learning for predictive analytics in e-commerce. Learn how Mike has leveraged data-driven insights to forecast sales, optimize inventory levels, and identify emerging trends.Whether you're a seasoned Amazon seller or just starting, this episode offers actionable tips and strategies to help you grow your business and achieve long-term success.Episode Notes:00:55 - Mike Danford Introduction 01:30 - Mike’s Journey 04:05 - From Seller to Agency Founder 06:18 - Managing Large Catalogs 08:30 - Techniques for Optimizing Large Product Ranges 10:10 - Handling C1 and C2 Tier Products 12:10 - Introduction to Dynamic Pricing Tools 15:25 - Charm Pricing and Its Benefits 16:25 - Seller Central Utilities Benefits 18:30 - Custom-Built Tools and Machine Learning 20:35 - Integration of AI and Machine Learning 23:15 - Reflections on Amazon's Future DirectionsWebsite: Adverio.ioLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danfordmikeRelated Post: How to Use AI for Successful Amazon Selling
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Join Scott and Robert Row, Co-Founder at Bispoke, as they dive into the power of data in revolutionizing the Amazon selling business.Robert shares his journey from digital marketing intern to working with top e-commerce brands, and how he leverages data to optimize inventory, advertising strategies, and more. Discover the importance of data-driven decision-making in Amazon selling, how to use Amazon Marketing Cloud (AMC) to gain deeper insights into your customers, best practices for inventory management and supply chain optimization, effective advertising strategies for maximizing your return on investment, and practical tips for sellers of all sizes to leverage data analytics. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a seasoned expert and discover how data can help you take your Amazon business to the next level.Episode Notes:00:50 - Robert Row Introduction 02:30 - Background of Robert 05:55 - Robert's Journey from Digital Marketing to E-commerce 07:30 - Inventory Management and Advertising Adjustments 08:35 - Advertising Strategy 09:50 - The Importance of Data 11:05 - Amazon Marketing Cloud (AMC) 15:15 - Using AMC for Audience Management 18:15 - Practical Application of AMC for Improving Ad Efficiency 22:20 - Practical Tools and Solutions 26:10 - Streamlining the Process 27:40 - Importance of Data in Making Informed Decisions 29:35 - Using SmartScout for Market Share 32:15 - What is Bispoke? 33:50 - Lessons Learned from Previous Years Email: [email protected]: linkedin.com/in/robert-row-b8006517Website: https://www.bispoke.ioRelated Post: Finding Amazon Keyword Trends: Unleash the Power of SmartScout
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Scott Needham sits down with Ishan Soni, the founder of Ad Grants Genie, to discuss innovative strategies for reducing Amazon advertising costs while driving sales.Discover how to harness the power of Google's $10,000 monthly grant for nonprofits to generate free traffic and elevate your brand visibility.Learn the ins and outs of Google's ad grant program, including eligibility requirements and best practices for maximizing its benefits. Explore the steps in creating a nonprofit that aligns with your brand and effectively leverages the grant to drive Amazon sales.Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your Amazon selling strategy and unlock new growth opportunities. Tune in now!Episode Notes:01:25 - Ishan Soni Introduction 03:20 - Understanding Google Grants Program 04:35 - Establishing a Nonprofit for Amazon Sellers 06:00 - Examples of Nonprofits Created by Various Brands 06:55 - Implementing Google Grants for Amazon Sales 10:00 - Compliances and Guidelines 10:55 - Managing Taxes and Reporting for Nonprofits 13:50 - Granular Execution and Traffic Conversion 17:15 - What is an Advertorial? 19:15 - Leveraging the Nonprofit Setup 21:35 - Tools and Services Offered by Ad Grants Genie 23:20 - Giving Back Through Nonprofit 24:10 - Importance of Building Something Beyond Amazon Website: https://adgrantsgenie.com/ Related Post: The Best Financing Loans for Amazon Sellers
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Seasoned Amazon veteran Scott Needham joins forces with the strategic mind of Michael White, Chief Strategy Officer at SmartScout, to discuss the intricacies of scaling your Amazon business. Whether you're just starting out or aiming for the coveted nine-figure sales mark, this episode offers invaluable insights and actionable strategies.Discover why resellers continue to dominate the Amazon marketplace and learn how to navigate the complex world of compliance to protect your business.Plus, get an exclusive sneak peek into the upcoming AMZ United conference, where you can connect with fellow sellers and gain a competitive edge.Don't miss this opportunity to level up your Amazon game!Episode Notes:00:45 - Michael White Introduction 02:45 - The World of Reselling 04:20 - AMZ United Year 2 05:30 - Remembering Last Year's AMZ United Conference 11:05 - Excitement for This Year's Conference 12:45 - Dealing with Amazon Account Suspension 14:10 - Best Compliance Experts 14:30 - Why Networking is ImportantRelated Post: Amazon Suspension: What Is It and How to Avoid It
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Feeling overwhelmed by Amazon's ever-changing logistics landscape?This episode of The Smartest Amazon Seller cuts through the complexity with expert insights from Rob Hahn, Head of Transportation at Pattern. Rob, with his journey from Amazon intern to robotics mastermind, unveils the secrets to optimized fulfillment and boosted sales conversions.Discover how Pattern navigates FBA fees and complexities, unlocks the power of zone skipping for faster deliveries, and masters Amazon's intricate network. Learn why Pattern's Marketplace Prep Service is a game-changer for sellers and how they streamline your fulfillment process from labeling to delivery.Rob also shares insights on addressing challenges with oversized items, unexpected inventory issues, and the future of FBA policies. Don't miss this episode to gain a competitive edge in the Amazon marketplace. Episode Notes:00:27 - Rob Hahn Introduction02:30 - Rob Hahn’s Background07:40 - Transition to Pattern and the role as COO09:55 - Differences in Logistics and Transportation in the International Operations11:00 - Challenges of Selling Across Different Markets and Languages11:40 - Leveraging Amazon's APIs and Handling Warehouse Management Across Regions 18:32 - Explaining the Roles of Cross-docking and Fulfillment Centers in Amazon's Network 21:35 - Pattern's Initiative in Marketplace Prep Services 26:50 - Pattern’s Latest Facilities 28:30 - Addressing Challenges with Oversized Items 30:38 - Dealing with Discrepancies 32:15 - Chinese Sellers 33:45 - Future of FBAWebsite: Pattern.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rob-hahn-12136736Related Post: Is Amazon FBA Worth It? A Quick Look Into Making Money on Amazon
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Scott sits down with Diana Gershman, the "Mary Poppins of Amazon FBA." With over 15 years of experience, Diana shares her unique journey from academia to becoming a leading figure in the Amazon selling world. This episode delves into the early days of Amazon FBA, the evolution of listing creation, the importance of data-driven decision-making, and strategies for successful wholesale on Amazon. Diana also shares her insights on negotiating with distributors, the origin of the Amazon United conference, and personal anecdotes from her career, including experiences with gender dynamics in male-dominated industries. Tune in to gain valuable insights from a true Amazon FBA pioneer and learn how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of e-commerce. Episode Notes:00:15 - Diana Gershman Introduction 02:00 - Entering the World of Amazon 03:55 - The Early Days of Amazon FBA 05:50 - Building a Listing on Amazon 07:55 - Transition from Passive Selling to Proactive Account Management 10:25 - The Impact of Data on Modern Amazon Selling 11:56 - How Keepa and Other Tools Have Evolved to Assist in Data-driven Selling 17:42 - The Significance of Forecasting and Its Benefits to Distributors 18:05 - The benefits of Establishing Relationships with Distributors 19:40 - The Proliferation of Amazon Sellers Buying from Distributors 20:22 - Learning from Mistakes and Understanding the Marketplace 22:20 - The Business of Gender and Industry Domination 23:26 - The Generational Shift in Business Ownership 24:30 - The Inception and Realization of AMZ United 27:38 - Diana Recounts the AMZ United Experience 37:09 - What Else Does Diana Do? LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/diana-gershman-4a8411bInstagram: diana (@diana_in_real_life)Related Post: How to Search Amazon Storefronts and Sellers
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Join host Scott as he chats with Josh Justice, a seasoned Amazon expert who has worked with major brands like Nordic Natural and Lego. Josh shares his 11+ years of experience, from being a solo seller in China to managing multi-million dollar ad budgets and navigating the unique challenges of working with big brands.Discover how to transition from selling your products to working for an agency or in-house at a major brand. Learn the pros and cons of working at different-sized teams, gain insights into how Amazon's biggest brands operate, and uncover strategies for optimizing your Amazon presence, including ads, SEO, and product prioritization. Finally, get an inside look at the challenges and opportunities of remote work in the Amazon space.Whether you're an Amazon agency pro or simply curious about the inner workings of the world's largest online marketplace, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice. Tune in to learn from one of the best in the business! 00:16 - Josh Justice Introduction 01:45 - Josh’s Background 03:33 - The Agency Landscape and Working for Marketplace Ignition 09:30 - Transition to Working In-House 12:05 - Working with Nordic Naturals 13:40 - The Different Mafia Families of Amazon Selling 15:10 - Initial Thoughts on LEGO as a Dream Brand 17:00 - The Remote Work Considerations and Transition at LEGO 21:13 - LEGO's Amazon Strategy Insights 25:02 - The Importance of SEO 28:30 - LEGO’s View on Ads 30:55 - Dealing with Discontinued Products 33:55 - Infinite Commerce 41:20 - Infinite Commerce Hiring 44:15 - Learning from Other People LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joshua-justice Related Post: How to Search Amazon Storefronts and Sellers
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