How to Build Trust with Consumers, with Eddy Lu of GOAT
May 22, 2019
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Eddy Lu, Co-founder of GOAT, talks about how GOAT authenticates products, the online vs. retail sales dynamic, and the experience of acquiring a sneaker pioneer as a new upstart. The podcast delves into GOAT's inception, growth, strategic partnerships, dedication to authenticity, and the founder's entrepreneurial journey.
GOAT prioritizes trust and authenticity in the sneaker marketplace, utilizing advanced verification methods.
The strategic partnership with Footlocker aims to enhance the sneaker buying experience by combining digital expertise with physical retail presence.
Deep dives
The Origin and Growth of GOAT Marketplace
GOAT, the world's largest marketplace for buying and selling authentic sneakers, originated from a pivot from a previous company called Grub with Us. The founders, Eddy Liu and his co-founder, transitioned to GOAT due to the market opportunity it presented. With 12 million users, three retail locations, and a $100 million investment from Footlocker, GOAT has established itself as a leader. The platform employs a managed marketplace model, ensuring product authenticity and quality control, offering buyers a retail-like experience.
The Evolution Towards Authenticity and Trust
The pivotal moment for GOAT came from recognizing the need for trust and authenticity in the sneaker marketplace. Triggered by a co-founder's experience of purchasing fake sneakers on eBay, GOAT focused on combating counterfeits. Apart from utilizing machine learning for product verification, GOAT's authenticators undergo rigorous training to ensure product quality. The emphasis on trust and authenticity forms the core values and culture of GOAT, influencing every aspect of the business.
Strategic Partnerships and Expansion Strategies
GOAT's strategic partnership with Footlocker marked a significant milestone with a $100 million investment. The collaboration leverages Footlocker's physical retail presence with GOAT's digital expertise, aiming to enhance the sneaker buying experience. The vision is to combine strengths in primary and secondary markets to create an unparalleled sneaker retail experience. Additionally, the acquisition of Flight Club enabled GOAT to expand its physical retail footprint and offer customers a seamless online-to-offline shopping experience.
Future Outlook and Global Expansion
Eddy Liu envisions GOAT as the go-to platform for purchasing sneakers, not limited to exclusive releases but encompassing a wide range of sneaker styles. As the market evolves, GOAT aims to position itself as the safest and best destination for any sneaker purchase. With plans for global expansion, GOAT recognizes the importance of bridging the digital experience with physical touchpoints through an omni-channel approach. The goal is to establish trust, build brand loyalty, and offer personalized experiences tailored to diverse consumer preferences.
There's something about sneakers. It's one of those rare product categories that can get people to line up around the block. GOAT has made a huge dent in the sneaker scene, building a managed marketplace that currently lists over 1 million sneakers. Eddy shares how GOAT authenticates the product moving across their platform, how he thinks about online vs. retail sales, and what it was like to acquire a sneaker pioneer as a new upstart.
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