Marketplaces have ever-shifting dynamics. Supply chains get disrupted. Cross-border commerce comes with cross-border confusion. How do you stay on top, and, how can you think differently about it?
Each month, Rick Watson’s What's Next newsletter will dive deep into a specific topic and forecast what’s next.
Here are a few items that have appeared in some of my previous newsletters:
Discover key insights from Mastercard’s 2024 holiday sales report, highlighting eCommerce growth, in-store acceleration, and consumer behavior trends. Learn how discounts, fast shipping, and supply chain strategies shaped this record-breaking season.
Discover the key trends shaping 2025, from the rise of niche-focused businesses to shifts in global trade and supply chain strategies. Learn how SaaS valuations are stabilizing, why "de-Chinafication" is reshaping economies, and what challenges consumers still face.
Discover why hiring an outside consultant can be the game-changer your business needs. This article explores the value of an independent perspective, expertise in digital transformation, and access to extensive industry networks that help businesses solve complex challenges, uncover new opportunities, and make confident decisions.
Explore the intriguing timing of Amazon Haul's launch amidst political shifts and competitive pressures. Was this strategic move a hedge against Temu or a calculated political play? Find out how Amazon is positioning its new 'Low Cost Store' and playing chess on a global stage.
Explore Black Friday and Cyber Monday trends, highlighting how trust, desirability, and a strong value proposition are essential for retailers to thrive. Discover why deep discounts alone won't secure long-term success.
Explore how Walmart's rapid growth among high-income consumers, fueled by its eCommerce expansion, marketplace success, and optimized supply chain, is challenging Amazon's dominance in retail.
Amazon’s Q3 earnings reveal impressive growth across essential categories, AI, and AWS, positioning the company for a promising future. Learn how Amazon is reshaping retail, cloud services, and advertising while navigating challenges in low-cost retail and fresh grocery.
Discover the essential steps to crafting a successful eCommerce Platform RFP. From defining decision-making criteria and understanding customer needs to choosing the right system integrators, this guide dives into the critical elements that streamline selection and set your business up for growth.
This article explores BigCommerce's leadership evolution under CEO Travis Hess, focusing on the strategic appointments of trusted executives and the critical roles still open. It delves into BigCommerce’s competitive positioning, particularly against Shopify, and its potential "Blue Ocean" opportunities in the eCommerce market. Expect insights on how BigCommerce plans to innovate, make big bets, and secure its place in the future of digital commerce.
In this article, readers will explore Walmart's digital transformation under the leadership of Seth Dellaire, recently appointed Chief Growth Officer. With a strong background in advertising and digital services, Dellaire is set to drive growth across Walmart's omnichannel product, design, and marketing teams. The article also highlights Walmart's strategy to compete with Amazon, leveraging digital services and data-driven solutions for enhanced customer experiences.
Discover how businesses can achieve growth while reducing costs by optimizing people, processes, and technology. This article explores why cutting expenses without a clear strategy can backfire and provides a step-by-step approach to aligning your operations with growth goals. Learn how even modest growth can translate into gaining market share in a competitive landscape.
This article explores the challenges facing Shopify's "Shop Promise" after the company's decision to sell Deliverr to Flexport. It delves into how Shopify's estimated delivery date system is struggling, the implications of recent layoffs at Flexport, and why Shopify may need to rethink its logistics strategy by outsourcing to specialized third-party providers.
This article explores eBay's recent move to lower seller fees in the UK, comparing it to competitors like Facebook Marketplace and Amazon. It raises critical questions about whether fee reductions alone can attract more sellers and buyers, and highlights eBay's latest AI innovation, "Magic Bulk Listing," aimed at simplifying the listing process. With increasing competition, the article examines whether these changes are enough to reverse eBay's decade-long stagnation.
This article explores the Biden administration's recent announcement regarding the de minimis exemption, which allows shipments valued at $800 or less to enter the U.S. without duties. It discusses the implications of the proposed rulemaking, including increased tracking of imports and consumer safety concerns.
Explore how Shopify navigates 2025 as a dynamic force balancing rulemakers, entrepreneurs, and bridge-builders. Dive into risks like hubris, business model challenges, and maintaining innovation while catering to enterprises.