Ecommerce Masterplan: Interviews And Advice To Help Build Your Online Retail Business Faster

Scaling Smarter: How GiftsOnline4U is Transforming the Gift Business with Asgar Dungarwalla  Asgar Dungarwalla is the Founder of GiftsOnline4U, the award winning personalised gift retailer. They sell over 2,500 products via their WooCommerce website, marketplaces, and wholesale to both the B2C and B2B markets. Founded in 2012 they now do £750,000 per year.  Hit PLAY to hear: Why personalization is key for GiftsOnline4U How Asgar downsized his team to make them more efficient and effective The importance of building strong ties with outsourced teams Streamlining for profitability How to use AI in an eCommerce business  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [04:55] Personalisation challenges: wrong info from customers, technology issues. [08:08] Overseas teams are cost-effective and skilled overall. [12:02] Focus on productivity over growth for better results. [14:29] Using AI early can increase business productivity. [17:58] Perplexity AI is a great search engine. [22:18] Customized gifts using input-based real-

Judith Harvey is the eCommerce lead at Naturisimo, the home of ethical beauty. Founded in 2008 they now sell via their Shopify store with 7-figure sales.  Hit PLAY to hear: Naturisimo’s personalization journey The challenge of maintaining Naturisimo’s identity while promoting the brands they carry How to effectively use brand stories Retaining customers through education and brand association What segmentation can do for your business  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [05:36] Delivering safe, effective, clean beauty products. [09:22] Challenges: recruiting, retaining customers; expanding product purchases. [10:50] Finding product associations to educate and upsell. [13:15] Balancing brand innovation and customer loyalty. [19:16] Success based on segmentation. [20:33] Personalized, journey-based customer engagement and product discovery. [22:17] Listen to Judith’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/512Discover Yoast for Shopify >>> https://ecmp.info/yoast-shopify .This podcast use

John Sills is the Author of the ‘leadership book of the year 2023, “The Human Experience: How to make life better for your customers and create a more successful organization”, AND managing partner at The Foundation Growth Consultancy where they help organisations achieve customer led success.  Hit PLAY to hear: The importance of human experience in eCommerce and what led John to write his book The myths of customer feedback, customer loyalty, and return on investment The cost of poor customer experience How better customer experience can lower your business costs Behaviors and enablers and why you should care about them  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [05:28] eCommerce, retail, hospitality satisfy more than banking. [07:39] COVID inspired a book about being human. [11:11] Feedback surveys focus on superficial customer opinions. [15:03] Customer loyalty to organizations is often fickle. [19:04] NHS ensures transparency and engagement with donors. [22:35] Digital experiences harder to resolve customer iss

Lauren Duncan is the Head of eCommerce at Philip Kingsley, creators and sellers of Trichological Hair and Scalp products. Founded in the 1950s, Philip Kingsley now sell via their Magento eCommerce store, wholesale via salons and other retailers, and run 2 clinics in London and New York. Their number one Hair Mask sells one unit every 30 seconds worldwide!  Hit PLAY to hear: The clinical side of Philip Kingsley Digital transformation and its benefits Their promotional strategies that focused on quality over quantity The brand’s gift with purchase optimisation Philip Kingsley’s future plans  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [06:30] Hair treatment business pivots to digital expansion. [07:35] New storefront for clinic, subscription assessment, web app. [14:15] Improving execution and data for better promotions. [15:58] Elevating promotions through bespoke photo and video. [18:54] Testing, personalization, and AOV focus increase. [23:50] Exciting updates on clinical and retail transformation. [25:04] Listen to

Jenna Tanenbaum was Head of Growth at DTC toilet paper success story Who Gives a Crap for nearly 4 years. And she now runs performance creative and UGC marketing agency Ostrich.  Hit PLAY to hear: How Jenna got her start in eCommerce What she learned as Head of Growth at WGAC Lots of advice about how to build your business for growthTips for handling content creation challenges today   Key timestamps to dive straight in: [04:24] Career journey from banking to digital marketing. [08:30] Who Gives a Crap: Sustainable toilet paper, global impact. [11:44] Profits can be used in various ways. [14:50] Strong brand, culture, risk, hiring, empowerment, evolving. [17:56] Digital marketing dynamics have rapidly evolved. [21:25] Listen to Jenna’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/509Doofinder - Start Your Free Trial >>> https://ecmp.info/doofinder ..This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics - https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/ad-analytics-privacy-p

Rosie Mangiarotti is the founder & CEO at Perkies, creators of innovative undergarments. Founded in 2019, Perkies sells via their Shopify store, Amazon, and wholesale, and is now growing 100% year on year.  Hit PLAY to hear: Why you should solve real pain points in your business How Perkies adapted and evolved their product line Rosie’s collaboration with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation  The importance of leveraging sales channels Focusing on continuous innovation  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [04:43] Started business, launched products, inspired by entrepreneurs. [07:31] Reduced focus on sticky bras, emphasis on nipple covers. [12:37] Creating realistic, enhancing nipple products for survivors. [14:16] Empowering women, giving back, problem solver. [17:32] Early Amazon launch and reviews drive sales. [21:13] Listen to Rosie’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/508Doofinder - Start Your Free Trial >>> https://ecmp.info/doofinder ..This podcast uses the following thi

Nick Feint is the founder at Stone Arrow Jewellery. A multichannel jewellery retailer selling recycled glass jewellery from New Zealand. Founded over 25 years ago they now sell via their own physical and eCommerce stores, as well as wholesale, totalling around $500,000 a year and are growing at a steady annual 20%.  Hit PLAY to hear: Adaptability in business Turning challenges into opportunities The importance of storytelling, email marketing, and a good loyalty program Leveraging different sales channels Collaboration and teamwork  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [03:25] Key interview points: retention, wholesale, low carbon. [07:00] Getting online fever from COVID. [09:12] Upcycled bottle designs are beautiful and innovative. [12:06] Exciting shift to recycling in local market. [14:58] Fashion industry embracing versatile wholesale methods. [22:17] Encourage additional purchases through loyalty points program. [23:24] Listen to Nick’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/507Doofinder - S

Wizz Selvey is a powerhouse with a constant stream of ideas and insight (that’s what her clients say!). Wizz helps brands navigate the retail space in the UK, helping them standout, build brand awareness and grow through both DTC sales AND selling through retail partners. Wizz and I have been sharing tips on LinkedIn for AGES so it’s great to finally be able to chat – AND to bring that chat to all of you. Hit PLAY to hear: The importance of understanding the retail landscape Why you need to diversify your channels Building strong relationships with your retailers How adaptability can help sustain your growth Integrating your retail and DTC strategies And why patience and persistence are key  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [05:26] Diversifying sales channels can boost profits.  [08:48] Strategic approach to retail distribution takes time. [12:13] Proving customer demand is crucial for buyers. [15:42] Continual awareness building for successful sales process. [18:56] Plan launch strategies and drive consum

Stuart Davis is the co-founder, CEO, and everything else!! at Dubs – a footwear brand on a mission to disrupt the kids’ shoe industry. They’re clearly having an impact as (at the time of recording) they’ve just been shortlisted for FOUR awards at the Drapers Footwear Awards!! Launched in 2022 they’re selling via their Shopify store and stockist network. Hit PLAY to hear: Fixing a personal problem with a global solution Sustainability as a journey Providing education and making a cultural impact Having big visions for the future Embracing continuous improvement  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [04:13] Friends cope with job loss, create sustainable sneakers. [08:58] Designing sustainable shoes with circularity in mind. [11:40] Sustainability professor's advice: focus on continuous improvement. [15:06] Wishing for more time to grow brand. [18:30] Listen to Stuart’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/505..This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analy

Nick Hussey is the founder and managing director at FRAHM Jacket, a men’s clothing brand that exclusively sells by pre-order. Founded in 2018 they did £2.2million via their Shopify site in 2023. Hit PLAY to hear: Why honesty and transparency are key for any brand The role of preorders in building a successful business Thinking long-term Practicing sustainability in your business Why product quality trumps quantity  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [05:20] Commuter cycling brand failed to reach potential. [07:14] Nick’s determination to build a successful business. [11:51] House-husband, kids, mental health, brand growth. [15:35] High-growth businesses erode brand, face downfall. [17:44] Preorder, exclusivity, anticipation, positive reviews. [19:49] Growth is a metric of a business. [23:44] Creativity blossoms when money is scarce. [24:57] Listen to Nick’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/504..This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics - https

Bryan Marville is the founder of apparel business WORN, where he’s on a mission to dismantle America’s relationship with commodity cotton basics and fast fashion. Founded in 2018, they sell via their Shopify store and wholesale channels, and are now a 7-figure business.  Hit PLAY to hear: Why prioritizing product quality is key How to do effective brand scaling Building a loyal tribe of customers Embracing analytics to understand your business better Thinking long-term  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [05:56] Niche brand, scaled to larger sock market. [07:56] Neoprene, socks, wet suits, merino, cotton, sweating. [09:50] WORN’s design mantra: performance sustained. [11:00] Product must be performing to be sustainable. [13:32] Focus on consumer relations and product quality. [17:08] Company introduces new performance-enhanced fabric line. [20:24] Listen to Bryan’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/503..This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics

Matt Henton is Head of eCommerce at Moss, the men’s suits and formal fashion brand. Founded in 1851 Moss now sell via their Remarkable eCommerce site, and 110 physical stores around the UK.  Hit PLAY to hear: How crisis can be a catalyst for change The importance of product quality Focusing on storytelling to create connections with customers Their shift from discounts to premium pricing Expanding product range to counter seasonality  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [04:29] Transitioned from telcos to eCommerce, varied sectors. [09:11] Adapting business strategy to suit 2020 challenges. [10:34] Customers and business addicted to discounts. [14:02] Evolving fashion focus: understanding product, selling internally. [17:11] Diversified product range drives year-round sales growth. [18:35] Listen to Matt’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/502..This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics - https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/ad-analytics-privacy-poli

Bryony Tagg is the Head of eCommerce at Chilly’s, a BCorp retailer on a mission to accelerate the adoption and everyday use of REUSABLE PRODUCTS. Starting with the Chilly’s water bottle in 2010 the brand has gone a long way in the last 14 years. Their headless eCommerce site does around 30,000 orders a month, plus they have a wholesale channel too.  Hit PLAY to hear: The importance of brand and quality Adapting to market changes How Chilly’s leverages outsourcing Why you need to always put customers front and center Effective use of marketing and merchandising  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [05:43] Fashion experience led to challenges in Chilly’s. [07:17] Diversification from water bottles to various products. [10:01] Making it easier for European customers to purchase a Chilly’s bottle. [14:53] The Chilly’s team and what gets outsourced. [17:44] Chili's ensures quality, builds trust and community. [19:06] Listen to Bryony’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/501Download Shopify

You are listening to a milestone episode – eCommerce MasterPlan’s episode 500!! To celebrate this significant event, we gathered past guests – 20 of them! – and asked them the question:“what’s your top tip to make an eCommerce store more profitable?” Here’s our guest line-up for this extra-special episode: Mike Stevens, The Direct to Consumer Playbook, Lucy Jeffrey from Bare Kind Socks, Christine Nicholson, The Exit Readiness Expert, Jaye Cowle from Launch, James Gurd, Digital Juggler Ltd., Gary Amstutz from RubberStampSA, Adam Bastock, Small99 Kathleen Sullivan Garman, SullyGarman & Associates Steven Sashen from Xero Shoes Anthea Morris, Better2Know Kristian Hansen from Slø Alison Metcalfe, Alison Metcalfe Ltd., Kunle Campbell from 2x eCommerce Janis Thomas, Look Fabulous Forever, Izabela Russell from Music Radio Creative, Luke Carthy, eCommerce Consultant,  Patricia Callwood from True Serenity Tea, Laura Riches, Laylo, And Ben Dreyer from Boden! It’s the episode you’ve been waiting for so tune in to thi

Shabbir Mookhtiar is the co-founder and CEO of Flavers, a home delivery service for home cooked food. Number 50 on the Startups 100 2024 they’re growing fast. Founded in 2020 they now have over 100 chefs and over 10,000 paying customers.  Hit PLAY to hear: Identifying and solving real-world problems Adapting business models to market demands Importance of custom tech solutions Strategic rebranding How Flavers maximized their exposure on Dragons’ Den  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [04:32] Busy professionals hire neighbors for home-cooked Indian food. [09:20] Diverse customer base embraces unique global cuisines. [10:56] Business evolved from local to premium world cuisines. [16:56] Dragon's Den appearance leads to major sales boost. [18:12] Dragon's Den exposure yielded significant free exposure. [19:59] Listen to Shabbir’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/499Download Shopify's Omnichannel Report >> https://ecmp.info/shopify .This podcast uses the following third-par

Hugo Douglas-Deane is co-founder and CMO of sustainable marketplace Canopey – the home for buying better. Founded in 2021 they soft launched in May 2023 and officially launched September 2023. Currently, the biggest focus is building the communities of vendors and customers which is up to over 30,000.  Hit PLAY to hear: The importance of sustainability and consumer trust Adopting innovative technologies Meeting diverse customer needs Expanding into B2B market opportunities Continuous innovation and community building  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [05:29] Founder passionate about sustainability, integrating into platform. [07:08] Pushing for higher eco and ethical standards. [10:05] Choosing quality, sustainable products for lasting value. [13:50] Decision: challenging, successful, impactful, led to growth. [17:18] Sustainability-driven business moves toward B2B sales. [20:29] "Swaps feature encourages sustainable decisions, mental health." [22:17] Listen to Hugo’s Top Tips! Full episode notes h

Gregor Leckie is the founder and managing director of Rapscallion Soda. Founded in 2018, they’ve shipped over three quarters of a million cans! Selling via their DTC Shopify store and B2B Shopify trade site, they’re now doing over 1,000 orders a month.  Hit PLAY to hear: Why adaptability has been a key business strategy for Rapscallion Soda Sustainability as the brand’s core principle The importance of having direct relationships with both suppliers and customers How innovation plays a role in the brand’s operations How limited edition and seasonal products can boost your sales  Key timestamps to dive straight in: [03:32] Transitioned from wholesale to digital, achieved growth. [08:06] Passionate about nose-to-tail, from fruit. [11:59] Efficient facility for long-term, sustainable operations. [13:39] Improving soft drink production for environment. [17:31] Business prioritizes transparency, seeks customer understanding. [21:24] Scotland's diverse producers, plans for Scottish citrus. [22:52] Listen to Gre

Janis Thomas is the Managing Director at Look Fabulous Forever, the innovative cosmetics and skincare brand designed to meet the needs of older women. They’re a UK DTC brand selling globally to a customer base often ignored by the DTC world, who they’re serving via a Magento site. Founded in 2013, Janis has been driving the growth strategy for just over 4 years, they’re currently doing millions a year, and working towards double figure millions. Hit PLAY to hear: The importance of public speaking in business Why you need to overcome your fear of public speaking Where to start your speaking journey Practical tips to prepare for your speaking gig Crafting your message and practicing your delivery Key timestamps to dive straight in: [04:22] Public speaking requires practice and training. [07:06] Start with your passion, genuine enthusiasm, expertise not necessary. [11:49] Network at events, build LinkedIn profile. [15:15] Prepare, know your content, pitch confidently. [17:01] Structure helps, no script, rehearse

Marianne Morrison is the Investment Director at Baaj Capital, a fund who turnaround and grow a portfolio of eCommerce brands. The portfolio currently includes about 30 eCommerce brands including 365 Games, In The Style, and Roov. Hit PLAY to hear: Why you need to focus on key initiatives The importance of diversifying your paid traffic strategies Optimising tech stack as a key part of a brand’s strategy Creating high-quality and authentic content How AB testing helps in decision-making Key timestamps to dive straight in: [04:44] Different businesses require unique strategies for success. [08:22] Tech landscape has changed in the last decade. [10:38] Optimize tech strategy, understand market to succeed. [13:37] Varied strategies needed for diverse paid ad platforms. [16:41] Knowing when to stop, learn, and test. [18:44] Don’t try and do everything at once. [20:06] Listen to Marianne’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/495Contact SHOPLINE >>> https://ecmp.info/shopline ..This podcast

Sam Wright is the Managing Director at specialist eCommerce SEO agency Blink SEO, and at Macaroni Software the new Shopify-specific SEO tool he’s building to solve problems that they’ve found with SEO at Blink SEO, especially productivity-wise. Sam’s been in SEO since 2007, and in eCommerce since 2002. Hit PLAY to hear: Why you should prioritize your category pages How to do on-page optimization Why it’s no longer about backlinks The different SEO strategies for high and low SKU count businesses Key timestamps to dive straight in: [04:11] Customers' desire critical for SEO and marketing. [08:57] Analysis reveals 60% organic revenue from Shopify. [11:18] Rule of thumb for collection pages. [12:25] Macaroni analyzes Shopify tags to optimize categories. [14:23] Listen to Sam’s Top Tips! Full episode notes here: https://ecmp.info/494Contact SHOPLINE >>> https://ecmp.info/shopline ..This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics - https://www.spotify.com/us/leg