Let's talk Marketplace

Five marketplaces in one fell swoop – after 1.5 years of preparation, AlphaTrail is taking the next big step in multichannel distribution. In this episode, Valerie talks to Michael Grundwürmer, CEO & Co-Founder of AlphaTrail, about how the former Amazon-only brand has developed into an international premium brand for bicycle parts and is simultaneously launching on eBay, Otto, Decathlon, Alltricks, and bol. They discuss the biggest challenges, such as finding a suitable logistics provider, the unimagined possibilities of AI, and the power of clear focus – which always trumps pure speed. Note from the Sponsor ChannelEngine:Marketplace fees, middleware costs, pick & pack, shipping, returns processing, and even storage fees - anyone who sells on marketplaces knows that it's often not easy to understand what you're really left with at the end of the day. That's because hidden profit killers can lurk everywhere. To help you get more profit out of your marketplaces, ChannelEngine has compiled 5 tips for greater profitability on marketplaces in a new e-book. It shows how low-margin products can become real profit drivers and why clearly calculated minimum prices are crucial for your profitability. Click here for the 5 tips for greater profitability on marketplaces: https://marketplace-universe.com/5-tips-for-better-marketplace-profitability/Chapters:00:00 Introduction to AlphaTrail and Its Journey09:00 Diving Deeper into AlphaTrail's Product Strategy15:13 Marketplace Strategy and Expansion Plans20:28 Exploring Marketplace Strategies24:52 The Role of AI in E-commerce28:06 Understanding Customer Behavior Across Marketplaces33:16 Data-Driven Decision Making in E-commerce34:38 Maintaining a Lean Business Model37:15 The Future of AI in E-commerce

International verkaufen? Für viele ein Angstthema, für MeineMarkenMode längst Alltag – wenn auch mit reichlich Narben. In dieser Folge sprechen wir mit Timo Bethlehem, Geschäftsführer von MeineMarkenMode, und Julius Komp, CEO & Co-Founder des Cross-Border-Dienstleisters Exporto, über die realen Herausforderungen der Expansion in europäische Märkte: Steuerregularien, Zollformalitäten, Retourenprozesse, Lieferzeiten – und die allzu bekannte Diskrepanz zwischen den Messwerten der Carrier und den Erwartungen der Marktplätze. Außerdem sprechen wir darüber, warum der britische Markt besonders anspruchsvoll ist, wie stark grenzüberschreitende Steuerpflichten interne Ressourcen binden können  und warum DHL für den Versand in die Schweiz nicht die passende Lösung war. Timo teilt seine Erfahrungen mit beeindruckender Offenheit – inklusive vieler schmerzhafter Learnings. „Ich verzichte darauf, alle meine Narben zu zeigen“, sagt er – doch in dieser Folge offenbart er doch einige. Chapters00:00 Einführung in die Internationalisierung08:20 Die Herausforderungen der Expansion11:49 Typische Stolpersteine bei der Internationalisierung19:04 Compliance und Steuerthemen als Hürden23:38 Management der Logistik und Carrier-Auswahl24:44 Herausforderungen im internationalen Versand27:13 Die Bedeutung von Dienstleistern in der Internationalisierung31:18 Ganzheitliche Lösungen für den europäischen Versand36:14 Marktherausforderungen und Strategien für den UK-Markt40:59 Zukunftsausblick und Expansionsstrategien  Chapters00:00 Introduction to International Expansion 08:20 The Challenges of Scaling Abroad 11:49 Common Pitfalls in Cross-Border Growth 19:04 Compliance and Tax Issues as Key Barriers 23:38 Managing Logistics and Choosing the Right Carriers 24:44 Operational Challenges in International Shipping 27:13 The Role of Service Providers in Successful Expansion 31:18 End-to-End Solutions for European Shipping 36:14 Market Challenges and Strategic Approaches for the UK 40:59 Outlook and Future Expansion Plans.

In this episode, Ingrid and Valerie discuss the most important marketplace news from May – and one topic clearly stands out: the proposed merger between Zalando and About You is now officially under scrutiny by the European Commission. Many brands have already received formal inquiries from Brussels. The two explore what this means for brands and the deal’s timeline – and talk about why About You pulled out of TikTok Shop after just four weeks.Also in this episode: Nike is back on Amazon as a 1P supplier, and e-commerce in Germany is growing again – but almost entirely driven by marketplaces. The same goes for the Otto Group, whose improved numbers are largely thanks to its marketplace business.And they take a look into the future: at gaming platform Roblox, which is entering e-commerce with Shopify, and at the potential impact Amazon’s AI shopping assistant Rufus could soon have. Chapters:00:00 Marketplace News Overview06:53 Merger Investigations and Market Impacts12:47 Nike's Return to Amazon13:56 E-Commerce Growth in Germany16:40 Roblox cooperation with Shopfy17:35 Emerging Trends in E-Commerce20:12 Community Building and Future Outlook

“If you can't do better than Allegro, stay at home.” A clear message from Marcin Czyczerski – and a warning to Western platforms that think they can just start up in Poland. The former CEO of CCC/Modivo describes the unique features of the marketplace landscape in Poland – one of the most exciting and challenging e-commerce markets in Europe. Marcin explains why Allegro is so dominant and why Western brands often struggle on Allegro. He assesses the opportunities for other players and reveals what makes Polish retailers and customers tick. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Polish Marketplace Landscape11:01 The Rise of E-commerce in Poland24:05 Challenges for Western Marketplaces in Poland24:33 Understanding Polish Consumer Behavior30:27 Allegro's Competitive Edge35:09 Challenges for Western Brands on Allegro42:48 The Future of E-commerce in Poland

The biggest challenge in marketplace strategy? Your own company. In this episode, Ingrid talks to Christian Leihner, former Head of Marketplace and E-Commerce at Unilever and Haier, about the internal obstacles that often cause marketplace initiatives to fail – long before the first SKU goes live. Together, we clarify why many marketplace teams consist of nothing more than “an intern and a dog,” how a lack of support from senior management, unclear responsibilities, and a lack of incentives can ruin even the best ideas, and what companies need to do differently to build scalable, strategic marketplace structures from the inside out.Note from the sponsor PlentyONE:Multi-channel is a bit like an IKEA wardrobe: It looks simple, but until you try to put it together. If that sounds familiar, then you might want to check out a new white paper by PlentyOne, because they have put together everything you need to make multi-channel selling work. It breaks down the 10 most common challenges sellers face when entering the world of multi-channel from chaotic tool setups and losing the buy box to inconsistent product content. And they also give you lots of instructions on how to clear these typical pain points in their day-to-day operations. Get your free copy right here: https://www.plentyone.com/de/multichannel-whitepaper?utm_source=marketplaceuniverse&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=CP_MKT_Whitepaper_Multichannel &utm_content=podcast-spoken-adChapters:00:00 Introduction to Marketplace Challenges07:29 Transformational Pain in Marketplace Teams17:32 Navigating Internal Barriers to Marketplace Success23:20 Strategies for Marketplace Entry29:26 Retail Media and Marketplace Dynamics

Temu is on everyone's lips: aggressive advertising, rapid expansion, low prices. But is that reason enough to become active there as a brand? In this episode, Ingrid and Valerie talk to Marius Eckel, Head of E-Commerce & Marketplaces at Selva Technik, about his decision not to use Temu for the time being – even though he is otherwise very open to new platforms. They discuss Temu's current strengths, such as reach, speed, and good terms, but also operational hurdles and price and platform conflicts arising from a Temu listing. Marius explains why he is not writing off Temu, but will continue to evaluate it regularly.Note from the sponsor eBay:Expanding internationally – but how? If you want to learn more about how you can expand your global reach, then the free webinar “Unlock Global Growth Cross-Border Opportunities” from our partner eBay is for you. Isabell Butterwegge from eBay will share best practices and practical tips to help you succeed worldwide. You will learn about the opportunities eBay offers you and the tools available to support you. So mark your calendars: May 20, 2025, 11 a.m. To register, click here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/3017442359025/WN_bUNKInsESEyW2-TLrUlOBw#/registrationChapters:02:56 Meet Marius Eckel: E-commerce Insights06:08 Marketplace Strategies and Challenges08:57 Exploring Temu: Initial Impressions18:03 Navigating Multiple Marketplaces21:12 The Impact of New Market Players24:02 Brand Safety and Market Perception27:54 Challenges of Selling on Emerging Platforms30:33 Evaluating Market Trends and Brand Positioning35:51 The Impact of Global Trade Dynamics

How do you build a successful marketplace? For this episode, Ingrid and Valerie have switched perspectives and brought Pinki Choudhury, a true master of marketplace development, to the microphone. As the strategic mind behind successful marketplace launches such as Tesco, Kingfisher, and Castorama, Pinki knows exactly what she's talking about. She presents her “Super Eight” -  the most important points for a marketplace that pays off - for everyone involved. This episode offers exciting insights into the mind of an experienced marketplace builder and is also a lesson in clear strategy -  not only for retailers with marketplace ambitions.Note from sponsor Taxdoo:Why are less than one percent of tax consulting firms prepared to work with marketplace retailers? Why don't they understand their business? And how can retailers find an experienced tax expert for their marketplace business who truly deserves this title? Roger Grothmann, founder of Taxdoo and former tax auditor, reveals what goes wrong behind the scenes in a very insightful interview, shares his critical insights, and provides valuable practical tips. You can find the entire interview here: https://marketplace-universe.com/interview-what-makes-a-good-tax-advisor-for-marketplace-sellers/ Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Marketplace Dynamics02:45 Understanding Marketplace Success Factors09:10 Key Ingredients for Building a Marketplace24:46 Navigating the Challenges of Fashion Marketplaces33:06 Balancing First Party and Third Party Relationships

The de minimis rule in the US has expired, Trump has raised tariffs on China to up to 145% – what consequences will this have for the global marketplace business? Valerie and Ingrid explore this question in the new episode with the most important news in April. The US move is having far-reaching consequences – Amazon Haul is also affected, as is DHL. There's more news from Kaufland Global Marketplace, Babymarkt.de, Breuninger – and the first real Marketplace Universe anniversary!Note from sponsor eBay:Expanding internationally – but how? If you want to learn more about how you can expand your global reach, then the free webinar “Unlock Global Growth Cross-Border Opportunities” from our partner eBay is for you. Isabell Butterwegge from eBay will share best practices and practical tips to help you succeed worldwide. You will learn about the opportunities eBay offers you and the tools available to support you. So mark your calendars: May 20, 2025, 11 a.m. To register, click here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/3017442359025/WN_bUNKInsESEyW2-TLrUlOBw#/registrationChapters02:50 Impact of De Minimis Rule on US-China Trade05:52 Amazon's Strategy Against Competitors09:04 Marketplace Developments in Germany12:01 Kaufland's Global Expansion Plans14:54 DHL's New Fees and Market Reactions18:02 Political Influences on E-commerce21:10 Celebrating Marketplace Universe's Milestones

Wie schützt man eine Premium-Marke auf Marktplätzen wie Amazon, Zalando oder DocMorris – und sorgt gleichzeitig für Markenbekanntheit?  Diesen Fragen geht Valerie in der neuen Podcast-Episode mit Alexander Hally von Weleda nach. Sein Fazit: Zwei entscheidende Erfolgsfaktoren sind fundiertes Marktplatz-Know-how und eine klare Strategie. Im Gespräch verrät er, warum Weleda auf Amazon konsequent auf eine Vendor-Strategie setzt, wie die Marke auf Zalando gezielt den Sportbereich adressiert und welche Vorteile das Apothekengeschäft mit sich bringt. Außerdem erklärt er, warum er künftig stärker in Retail Media und Content-Optimierung investieren will – und weshalb der eigene Weleda-Webshop (noch) nicht so effizient läuft, wie er sich das wünschen würde.Hinweis vom Sponsor ChannelEngine: Marketplace-Gebühren, Middleware-Kosten, Pick & Pack, Versand, Retourenabwicklung und selbst Lagergebühren – wer auf Marktplätzen verkauft, weiß: Am Ende bleibt oft weniger übrig als gedacht. Denn versteckte Profit-Killer lauern überall.  Damit ihr mehr Profit aus euren Marktplätzen herausholen könnt, hat ChannelEngine im neuen E-Book 5 Tipps für mehr Profitabilität auf Marktplätzen zusammengestellt. Ihr  erfahrt, wie sich  selbst margenschwache Produkte in echte Gewinnbringer verwandeln lassen – und warum klar kalkulierte Mindestpreise entscheidend für die Rentabilität sind. 👉 Jetzt lesen: 5 Tipps für mehr Profitabilität auf MarktplätzenKapitelübersicht: 02:21 – Markenpräsenz & Markenschutz bei Weleda 06:19 – Weleda im E-Commerce: Strategien & Herausforderungen 11:31 – Markenwahrnehmung & Premium-Positionierung 15:39 – Sortimentsstrategien & lokale Anpassungen 17:51 – Exklusivität im Sortiment 20:07 – Vertriebskanäle & Marktplätze 23:40 – Lernprozesse für Beauty-Marken 26:06 – Retail-Media-Strategien 31:21 – Zukunftsvisionen für Weledas Online-Reise

In this episode, Valerie und Ingrid sit down once again with Amazon expert Malte Karstan, fresh from his visit to Amazon’s European HQ in Luxembourg. From low-price strategies to cutting-edge AI features - Amazon is navigating competitive pressure from Temu, TikTok Shop & Co. with new tools and tactics. Together, they explore: Is Amazon Haul a tactical move or a long-term play? Is Amazon on its way to a super app - with features like Rufus, the AI-based personal shopping assistant combined with BuyForMe and the shopping experience beyond its own platform? What are Amazon's interests in making its purchase offer for TikTok in the US? And what does it all mean for sellers?Note from the sponsor Channable:Do you know the e-commerce solution provider Channable? Channable offers a solution that can map trade on more than 2,500 platforms - including marketplaces, of course. Products can be managed, promoted, sold and analyzed across channels and teams. This means that the marketplace team, the e-commerce team, the social media team, performance marketing, all work with the same software. The solution focuses on automation. In addition, integrations are available for common shop systems such as Shopify, WooCommerce or Lightspeed. Find out more at https://www.channable.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Amazon Update05:04 Insights from Amazon's European Headquarters07:25 Amazon's Corporate Atmosphere and Leadership Changes10:53 FBA Fees and Competitive Strategies15:03 Amazon's Low-Cost Strategy and Market Positioning20:22 Amazon's Evolving Strategies27:17 AI Innovations and the BuyForMe Feature29:30 Amazon's Competitive Landscape and TikTok32:53 Navigating Trade Challenges and International Expansion