Learn how e-commerce sellers can scale beyond Amazon and into retail. In this episode, our guest shares insider steps to go retail-ready and build a brand that truly lasts.

What if the key to transforming your e-commerce brand into a retail powerhouse lies in understanding the nuances of today’s retail landscape? Join us for an insightful conversation with Yohan Jacob from Retail Bound as we challenge common misconceptions Amazon sellers hold about retail. Discover how the post-COVID-19 era has created opportunities for online brands to thrive in physical spaces, with retailers integrating enhanced online experiences and buy online, pick up in-store models. We'll uncover the strategies behind pricing consistency across platforms and how a strong online presence can serve as a stepping stone to retail success.

Ready to master the marathon that is retail success? We dive deep into the transition from crowdfunding to the big leagues of traditional retail, revealing the strategic planning needed for product packaging, pricing, and marketing in environments like Best Buy, Walmart, and Costco. Through Yohan's expert lens, learn about the importance of understanding margins, price points, and product derivatives, and how these factors can be leveraged to thrive amidst fierce competition. Hear real-world examples of how brands have navigated these challenges, ensuring their place on the shelves of major retailers.

But the path to retail success isn't just about getting onto the shelves; it's about staying there. We tackle the financial intricacies of working with large retailers, from managing extended payment terms to financing purchase orders. Yohan shares valuable insights into the unique world of platforms like QVC and HSN, where product demonstrations are key. Plus, discover practical advice on breaking into the market through smaller channels, honing your craft before taking on the giants. Whether you're an e-commerce seller ready to expand or an Amazon aficionado eager for new opportunities, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and expert advice to elevate your retail game.

In episode 468 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Yohan discuss:

• 00:00 - Navigating Retail for E-Commerce Sellers
• 04:37 - Changing Attitudes Towards Online Retailers
• 07:57 - Challenges of Crowdsourced Product Manufacturing
• 09:42 - Navigating Retail Margins and Strategies
• 13:45 - Retail Pricing Strategies and Brand Derivatives
• 18:01 - Preparing for Retail Success
• 24:05 - Understanding Retail Economics and Margins
• 27:46 - Consumer Electronics Profit Margins and Costs
• 30:23 - Retailers' Margin and Product Strategy
• 37:50 - Handling Retail Transitions and Liquidation
• 42:03 - Exit Strategy for Seasonal Products
• 42:32 - Navigating Retail Payment Terms and Strategies
• 48:31 - Retail Financing and Distribution Strategies
• 54:51 - Exploring Trade Shows for Business Growth
• 58:11 - Utilizing Brand Exposure for Retail Expansion
• 1:02:09 - Retail Growth Strategies for E-Commerce

This week, we dive into Amazon product video production, exploring how AI is reshaping e-commerce videos, boosting response rates, and keeping customers engaged.

Rob Wiltsey, founder of VideoFresh, takes us on an engaging journey from his high school days as a video enthusiast to leading a top-tier company that revolutionizes video production for e-commerce. He shares how VideoFresh ingeniously combines the artistry of video with the structured efficiency of lean manufacturing principles, a synergy that has transformed how Amazon sellers and e-commerce platforms utilize video content. Rob’s approach not only optimizes production efficiency but also offers cost-effective solutions that don't compromise on quality, an aspect that has positioned Video Fresh as a leader in the field.

As we explore the multifaceted e-commerce marketing funnel, Rob and I discuss how strategic video content plays a vital role at each stage. From creating emotional connections with top-of-funnel content to crafting tactical videos for deeper engagement, Rob emphasizes the diverse video types essential for different marketing objectives. We touch upon the significance of cost-effective strategies such as batching product shoots and choosing the right video format—whether for branding, direct responses, or educational purposes—to align with specific goals. Personal anecdotes enrich our conversation, illustrating how VideoFresh's creative strategies are applied in real-world scenarios.

The discussion also ventures into the future, examining the intersection of AI and video production. Rob shares insights on how AI is currently enhancing creativity and efficiency without replacing the invaluable human touch in video production. He describes the exciting potential of AI to revolutionize how brands test and create content, while cautioning against the risk of AI-produced work becoming lackluster if not strategically managed. By balancing the technological advancements of AI with human expertise, Rob paints a picture of a vibrant future for video content strategy, one that e-commerce sellers can leverage to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving digital landscape.

In episode 467 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Rob discuss:

• 00:00 - Video Production for E-Commerce Sellers
• 07:28 - The Power of Video Marketing
• 08:56 - Video Production Strategies for E-Commerce
• 13:39 - Creating Effective Video Content Strategy
• 19:14 - Video Strategies for Shopify vs Amazon
• 25:29 - Optimizing Testimonial and VSL Videos
• 30:08 - Effective Testimonial Video Creation Tips
• 34:41 - Amazon Video Production Process Overview
• 37:35 - Optimizing Video Production for E-Commerce
• 39:07 - Video Content Planning and Scripting Process
• 46:32 - Clarity in Visual Content for AI
• 49:17 - The Future of AI Video Production
• 51:04 - Rising Interest in Generative AI Videos
• 55:38 - Embracing AI Technology in Videos
• 58:13 - AI Advantages in Video Marketing
• 1:06:01 - Innovative Motion Capture Workflows

In this episode, our guest discussed why retail still outpaces e-commerce 4X. Learn how Amazon-proven brands land on Costco, Target, & Walmart shelves with his insider playbook.

What if your online brand could conquer the retail world, just like it did on Amazon? Join us as we chat with Doug Harding, an expert in navigating the complex transition from online selling to retail dominance. Doug shares invaluable insights into why retail remains a powerhouse, accounting for about 80% of US sales, and how online successes can pave the way for tangible, store-shelf victories. From strategic placement in major retailers like Costco, Walmart, and Target to the essential role of branding and social media in capturing buyer attention, this episode is packed with actionable advice for Amazon sellers ready to make the leap.

We unpack the challenges of retail distribution and explore the sophisticated logistics behind ensuring your product stands out in stores. Doug explains how refining packaging and leveraging distribution partners can smooth the path from online clicks to retail checkout aisles. Discover the financial strategies that can support this shift, including creative financing options like private equity and factoring, which have helped brands like Bertello pizza ovens expand from a Shark Tank pitch to a household name in major retail chains.

For those contemplating retail expansion, we highlight the potential for impressive sales growth and the unique considerations of wholesale cost structures. Our discussion covers the nuances of retail pricing and profit margins, emphasizing the importance of maintaining brand integrity while negotiating store placements. As we explore the opportunities and strategies for retail growth, you'll gain fresh perspectives on why retail is far from dead and how it can be a robust avenue for your business's future success. Tune in for a wealth of wisdom on harnessing retail opportunities and nurturing sustainable business growth.

In episode 466 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Doug discuss:

• 00:00 - The Power of Retail Expansion for Amazon Sellers
• 04:30 - Changing Perspectives on Online Retail
• 07:26 - Navigating Retail Distribution Challenges
• 15:45 - Retail Pull Strategy Implementation Guidance
• 17:13 - Maximizing Retail Placement and Distribution
• 20:56 - Understanding Retail Shelf Placement Strategy
• 24:55 - Packaging Strategies for Retail Success
• 31:15 - Retail Logistics and Distribution Challenges
• 37:17 - Subscription Fees and Dominant Retailers
• 40:50 - Retail Product Launch and Distribution
• 42:54 - Shark Tank Product Success Story
• 50:23 - Retail Margin and Cost Structure
• 57:42 - Margin Analysis in Retail Sales
• 1:01:16 - Challenges of Online Advertising
• 1:03:50 - Exploring Retail Opportunities for Growth