Week 35 - Revamping eCommerce: Lead Nurturing Secrets, Retail Giants' Moves, and Drone Delivery Buzz

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Join Max and Rachel at "The Checkout Point by blikket.co," your definitive podcast for all things eCommerce. This week, grab your favorite caffeinated beverage and tune in to explore groundbreaking insights that are shaping the online retail world. 🌐✨

In this episode, we plunge into the transformative power of lead nurturing, based on our latest blog post "How Lead Nurturing Transformed My eCommerce Game." We’ll dissect key strategies that have revamped the eCommerce landscape and how you can implement them to skyrocket your sales.

Next, don't miss our deep dive into the evolving retail giants like Best Buy and Amazon. Discover how their latest moves could influence your buying decisions and what new marketplace dynamics mean for your business. 🛒🔍

🚀 Here's what you’ll take away from today’s episode:
- 🌟 Insights into Lead Nurturing Tactics that convert browsers into buyers.
- 🔄 Updates on Marketplace Evolutions and how they affect consumer choices.
- 🛸 Exciting developments in Drone Delivery Systems and what it means for future shopping experiences.
- 🏪 Exploration of Retail Integrations via platforms like Shopify, enhancing opportunities for small businesses.
- 🧠 The impact of AI Innovations in eCommerce, creating smarter shopping environments.

We'll end with a round-up of cutting-edge tools that are leveling the playing field for smaller players. Whether it’s through AI like Moby or utilizing GEO tools, learn how even the smallest shops can compete with the big dogs.

🎧 Don't forget to visit our blog at blikket.co for more in-depth articles and behind-the-scenes content. Join us at The Checkout Point to ensure you never miss a beat in the bustling world of eCommerce. This is your space to keep up, leap ahead, and revolutionize your retail strategy. Click subscribe and get your weekly dose of eCommerce innovation directly to your ears!

Subscribe to 'The Checkout Point' now and transform the way you manage your eCommerce business! 🔗🎙

Transcript

Alex: 0:05

Welcome to the checkout point. Your quick dive into this week's e-commerce boss with me, Alex, powered by Blikket. These 20 minutes pack the latest trends, news, and insights, let's navigate the digital marketplace together. Ready? Let's go.

Max: 0:27

Hey folks, welcome to the checkout point by Blikket.co, the spot where you catch the latest and greatest in e-commerce news. I'm Max, and yes, I'm coming to you slightly over caffeinated as usual.

Rachel: 0:39

I'm Rachel feeling a little less caffeinated, but just as excited to dive into this week's topics. How's everyone doing today? We're here to deliver all the e-commerce scoop for week 35.

Max: 0:48

Week 35, huh? Time flies. When you're having fun and chugging coffee, huh? What do we have on the agenda today, Rachel?

Rachel: 0:55

Well, max, first up, we're delving into the transformative world of lead nurturing. I'm super excited because we just published a new blog post on our website titled How Lead Nurturing Transformed My E-Commerce Game, and today we'll unpack those game changing tactics right here on the podcast.

Max: 1:12

Oh, that sounds fantastic. I've been peeking at the comments on that post, and our listeners are really into it. Can't wait to dive deeper with you all today.

Rachel: 1:21

Exactly. Then we've got some juicy retail evolution to talk about, like Best Buy, jumping into the marketplace scene and Amazon celebrating 10 big years. We're going to explore how these changes could impact consumer choices and delivery dynamics.

Max: 1:37

Oh, and you won't believe what's happening with drone deliveries from Chipotle, sending burritos flying your way to reshaping jobs. The future's here and it's buzzing over your head.

Rachel: 1:47

Then we're diving into how DHL is expanding on Shopify and what that means for small businesses. We're not stopping there. AI is transforming e-commerce in ways that are just magic, like shopping assistance that know what you want before you do.

Max: 2:01

Speaking of tech transformations, we've also got a segment on how big retailers like Walmart and Best Buy are spicing up the shopping experience with some high tech flare retail, tech, race, anyone.

Rachel: 2:13

Don't miss our last piece today on cutting edge tools, transforming e-commerce, helping smaller businesses play in the big leagues. It's about how everyone is stepping up their game with tech like Moby AI and GEO tools.

Max: 2:25

It's gonna be a packed show, so grab your coffee or tea, no judgment here, and let's get started.

Rachel: 2:31

Don't forget, you can always hit up our blog for more deep dives and behind the scenes looks at the topics we discuss right here. Let's roll into segment one and talk about how lead nurturing can seriously revamp your e-commerce game.

Max: 2:42

Can't wait. Let's get into it. Hey Rachel. You know how we've always talked about the power of really understanding and using your email list. Well, I think it's time we dive into that awesome blog post we just published over at Blikket.co about how lead nurturing completely changed the game for our e-commerce efforts.

Rachel: 3:05

Oh, absolutely, max. It's called How Lead Nurturing transformed my e-commerce game, and I think everyone who's running an online business or thinking about it has something to gain from giving it a read. There's just so much untapped potential in those email lists.

Max: 3:21

Right. The post starts off talking about this common misconception, which I'm sure a lot of us have had, where you think of your email list just for sending out big sale announcements or maybe a lonely little, we miss you email.

Rachel: 3:33

Yeah, and what's really cool about the post is how it breaks down that myth. It shows that your email list isn't just a tool for direct sales. It's actually one of your best avenues for nurturing leads. One of the key points it discusses is the idea of segmenting your audience, which sounds a bit techie, but is super powerful.

Max: 3:51

Absolutely segmenting lets you personalize the content. So instead of blasting everyone with the same, hey, 20% off everything, you tailor messages based on their behavior and preferences. That way someone who just browsed but didn't buy gets a different message from someone who put items in their cart but then abandoned it.

Rachel: 4:11

That's spot on. And speaking of tailored content, another major point, the post hits is about timing and automation. The idea of setting up emails that trigger based on specific actions customers take. So you're always in touch at just the right moment, not too pushy, just right there with a helpful nudge.

Max: 4:29

It's kind of like being a thoughtful shop owner who knows their customers by name and can anticipate what they might need. Makes the whole shopping experience feel a lot more personalized and caring.

Rachel: 4:39

Yeah, and that not only boosts sales, but really builds loyalty. I think my favorite takeaway from the blog post. And this is something a lot of our listeners can relate to, is how this approach turned a stagnant email list into a dynamic tool that actively contributes to growing an e-commerce business.

Max: 4:57

Absolutely. And you know, for anyone listening who thinks this might be too complex or technical, the Post gives some really practical tips and strategies to start with. It's written in a very accessible way.

Rachel: 5:08

Definitely. Whether you're completely new to this or you've been running your shop for years, there's something in there for you. So head over to ble.co and check out how lead nurturing transformed my e-commerce game. I think you'll find it's well worth your time, and honestly it might just change your game too.

Max: 5:24

Couldn't agree more. Rachel. Lead nurturing isn't just a buzzword, it's a real strategy that we've seen work wonders. Hey, Rachel. Have you heard about Best Buy diving into the whole third party marketplace pool? Kind of like when everyone was trying to make their own version of slime a few years back, right?

Rachel: 5:45

Oh, absolutely, max. It's like everyone wants a piece of that sweet, sweet marketplace pie. And speaking of pies, or in this case more like celebratory cakes, Amazon business just hit their 10 year milestone. They're inviting even more sellers to join the party.

Max: 6:01

10 years. That's crazy. I remember when Amazon was just books. Now you can get everything from A to Z literally. And they're still expanding.

Rachel: 6:12

Exactly. And I find it super intriguing how these big names like Amazon and Best Buy are constantly evolving. But here's what I'm wondering. How does Best Buy's entry change the game for the average consumer, do you think?

Max: 6:25

Good question. On one hand it's super cool because more competition usually means better deals and more options for folks like us. You need a new gadget, a tech toy, sports memorabilia, they've got it

Rachel: 6:37

right, but I'm not entirely convinced it'll be smooth sailing. Remember what we talked about in the last segment with the licit blog about nurturing leads? Best Buy will need to really nurture these new relationships with both sellers and customers if they wanna make this work.

Max: 6:52

Totally, Rachel. It's all about building that trust and it isn't just about having a variety of options, but also about how they handle the whole customer experience. Which brings us to, speaking of deliveries,

Rachel: 7:04

ah, you're segueing into our next segment, aren't you? About those shipping and delivery innovations?

Max: 7:09

You betcha. It's all interconnected. With Best Buy and Amazon ramping up their marketplaces, there's gonna be a ton more shipments flying around. And not to spoil too much, but there are some bumps in that road, especially around Chicago as we'll dive into next.

Rachel: 7:24

Oh, interesting. And with the upcoming holiday season, those systems are going to be tested like never before. It's one thing to sell a ton of cool stuff, but getting it to your doorstep on time, that's where the real challenge lies.

Max: 7:37

For sure. Every time I order something, I'm like a kid waiting for the ice cream truck when it's late. The disappointment is real.

Rachel: 7:44

Exactly Max. And let's hope these companies have some strong plans in place to keep us all happy, or at least not grumpy when our packages are supposed to arrive.

Max: 7:54

No one wants to mess with Grumpy Max waiting on his new guitar from Best Buy's New Marketplace.

Rachel: 7:59

Definitely not. I'd love to see that. But for now, let's just cross our fingers and hope the marketplace evolution plays nice with a shipping revolution.

Max: 8:11

Alright, switching gears a bit from Amazon's big anniversary. Let's zoom into something that's literally flying off the charts. I'm talking about Chipotle testing, drone food delivery with Zipline. Imagine a burrito flying straight to your doorstep.

Rachel: 8:25

No way. That's like every lazy Sunday's dream. But wait, are drones now becoming our new delivery drivers? That's quite a game changer for snack attacks.

Max: 8:35

Exactly, and it's not just about nailing the laziness factor. It's super cool because you know, it potentially speeds up delivery times, cuts down on road traffic, which is a huge plus for the environment. Honestly, it's just futuristic and fun.

Rachel: 8:49

That's true, max. But here's what I'm wondering. How does it actually work in say, different weather conditions? Like can my burrito still parachute in during a storm? Just imagining a soggy burrito disaster is making me second guess this tech.

Max: 9:03

Good point. But considering the strides tech companies are making, I'd bet they have some clever solutions up their sleeves. Also, check this out. This isn't the first dive into innovative delivery methods. You remember the issues USPS faced with delays in Chicago?

Rachel: 9:20

Oh, absolutely. It tied right into what we were talking about with Amazon's marketplace news. If drones can bypass ground traffic issues, then maybe e-commerce could see fewer of those headline making delays.

Max: 9:31

Right, and speaking of branching out next, we're diving into how DHL is expanding international shipping on Shopify. It's clear that the shipping and delivery game is seriously leveling up across the board.

Rachel: 9:43

Yeah, that ties in neatly. It's not just about drones though. It's the whole ecosystem evolving with DHL pushing into new territories via Shopify, we're seeing a sort of renaissance and logistics.

Max: 9:55

Totally. And you know, with Chipotle launching Chipotle, their drone service in Dallas, it's kind of a pilot that could ripple out to other industries. Imagine getting not just your burrito. Maybe your new sneakers or your school books by drone.

Rachel: 10:10

I see your point, but that just makes me think about the job aspect. Drone deliveries sound cool, but what about the delivery folks? Where does this tech leave them?

Max: 10:18

Hmm. That's a hardy bite of food for thought. Maybe it's not replacing, but reshifting the job landscape, like more tech and maintenance roles

Rachel: 10:27

could be. And the more we innovate, the more we adapt. Right. Just fascinating stuff. Hey, before we get carried away, planning our future drone delivered lives, how about we get ready to delve into that DHL expansion with Shopify Next

Max: 10:41

good call. And for anyone tuning in, keep those ears peeled. Looks like the future of delivery is literally knocking at your door or well flying to your doorstep.

Rachel: 10:50

Just watch out for flying burritos, everyone.

Max: 10:57

So hopping right off our chat about the recent shipping woes with the USPS. It's like everyone in e-commerce is trying to zip past these delivery snags. And speaking of zipping right through DHL is making a splashy move on Shopify, they're ramping up their international shipping services for US merchants.

Rachel: 11:15

Oh, I was just thinking about how that ties in with all the delays reported, having more options is like finding an extra exit when the highway's jammed. But Max, how do you think this DHL expansion will change the game for small businesses using Shopify?

Max: 11:30

It's a total game changer, Rachel. Imagine you're a small shop online. Your horizons aren't just the next state over anymore. They're like the whole world. With DHL stepping up, it's gonna get a lot easier to send your goodies globally. Super cool. Right?

Rachel: 11:46

That sounds promising, but here's what I'm wondering. With big names like DHL, getting more involved, do small business owners need to worry about costs? You know. Sometimes these expansions sound great, but the devil's in the details.

Max: 11:59

Totally valid point. From what I see though, it looks like offering more options could actually help bring costs down, you know, through some healthy competition. It's kind of like when you have more than one bakery in town and suddenly everyone's throwing in extra donuts to win you over.

Rachel: 12:13

Exactly. And speaking of competition, did you see the jump in Shopify's stock a whopping 22% increase after their earnings report?

Max: 12:21

Wait, seriously? That's like hitting every green light when you're already late.

Rachel: 12:26

Now investors might be thinking, is it too late to jump on this bandwagon? What's your take max?

Max: 12:31

Honestly, Rachel, with the way e-commerce is booming, it might still be a sweet deal. Shopify's not just growing, they're exploding in all directions. They're not just riding the wave, they're making it.

Rachel: 12:43

Plus adding gobot to the Shopify fulfillment network. Talk about moving at lightning speed. They're promising brands, not just faster deliveries, but also flexibility and cost savings.

Max: 12:53

Hitting all the right notes. It's like Shopify and Gobot are forming a super band for logistics, and in our next segment, speaking of super, we're diving into how AI and e-commerce, like with ai, search tech, can dramatically boost sales. It's like having a crystal ball for what your customers want next.

Rachel: 13:12

Before we zap into that though, I guess the big picture here is that Shopify is seriously leveling up the e-commerce playground. Anyone thinking of setting shop online or scaling up needs to check these updates out.

Max: 13:23

Totally. Imagine being a kid in a candy store, but every candy is just the perfect pick for your customers.

Rachel: 13:29

I love that analogy, and it'll be interesting to see how these tools evolve to make shopping not only easier, but literally at your fingertips. Alright, keep this convo in mind folks as we roll into how AI might just be your next best business partner in e-commerce.

Max: 13:45

No kidding, Rachel. Let's see how these tech treats really amp up those sales. All right. Shifting gears a bit from our chat on Shopify and DHL, let's dive into something that seems to be revolutionizing the way we shop online. I'm talking about AI and e-commerce. It's like every time I blink, there's a new AI tool popping up.

Rachel: 14:10

Exactly. It's like magic, isn't it? AI is definitely not just a backstage helper anymore. It's becoming the star of the show. For instance, I was just reading about how AI search functions are seriously powering up how customers find products, which can massively drive sales and boost conversions.

Max: 14:27

Totally. It's a game changer. Imagine this, instead of typing red shoes and sifting through hundreds of somewhat relevant results, the AI actually understands what you're looking for. It might even suggest a pair you glanced at last week, but forgot to add to your cart. Super cool, right?

Rachel: 14:47

Oh, absolutely. But here's what I'm wondering. How do you think this AI magic handles the real curve balls? Like when you type something really vague, you know?

Max: 14:55

Good point. It's like if I type in GIF for 12-year-old that loves science, the AI's gotta be smart enough to throw out some science kits or the latest STEM toys instead of just a random assortment of preteen books.

Rachel: 15:08

Exactly. Speaking of getting smarter, Amazon's upping the AI ante in their marketplace. They've introduced an AI assistant that's not just about searching, it's about enhancing the full shopping experience.

Max: 15:21

Right? Say goodbye to endless browsing and hello to hassle-free shopping. It's not just futuristic. It's happening right now.

Rachel: 15:27

Now, on that note, since we're talking AI and e-commerce, how does this flow into what's coming next with our bigger retailers?

Max: 15:34

Oh, great segue. After we wrap up here, we're jumping into how stores like Walmart and Target are planning to integrate AI in their strategies. It's all part of this massive digital transformation hitting retail.

Rachel: 15:45

It sounds a bit like everyone's getting on the AI train, but, but remember how we just talked about DHL expanding on Shopify. It's fascinating how AI isn't just changing things in big retail. It's embedding deeper into the whole e-commerce spectrum affecting everything from shipping to the user checkout experience.

Max: 16:03

Totally. And here's the kicker. Businesses are really leaning into this tech, not just to keep up with the Joneses, but because it's reshaping how we predict sales, manage inventories and interact with customers. It's like every aspect of online shopping is getting an AI powered facelift.

Rachel: 16:20

And honestly, max, it makes me a bit skeptical. I mean, how much can we rely on machines to understand human nuances in shopping? There's a lot that can go right, but also a bit that could go not so right.

Max: 16:32

Absolutely a fair point, and it'll be interesting to see how AI adapts to those very human quirks. AI in retail. It's not just science fiction, it's shopping made sci-fi realness.

Rachel: 16:43

Well put Max. I guess we'll keep an eye on this and see where the future of shopping is headed. Powered by none other than ai.

Max: 16:50

You got it. And speaking of future, let's not forget to tune into our next segment where we'll decode how major retailers are tackling their digital transformations. If you thought today's chat was exciting. Just wait until we uncover what's next. So diving right into today's juicy topic, retail giants like Walmart and Target are really stepping up their game with some serious AI plans. It feels like a tech show down at the shopping mall.

Rachel: 17:20

Exactly. I was just thinking about how we talked about AI and e-commerce in the last segment. These big retailers seem to be on the same page. It's like AI is the secret sauce spicing up their strategies, right?

Max: 17:32

Oh, absolutely. It's the game changer. For instance, Walmart's not just dipping its toes, they're basically cannon balling into the deep end with their AI implementations. It's all about enhancing their supply chain and customer service.

Rachel: 17:45

That sounds impressive, but here's what I'm wondering. Do we know if all this tech glam is actually translating into better numbers for them?

Max: 17:52

Well, that's the rub. While Walmart did beat the street expectations on sales. They missed the earnings mark and those pesky tariffs didn't help at all.

Rachel: 18:01

No way. So it's like you can have all the AI you want, but there are still these giant economic waves that can toss you around.

Max: 18:07

Exactly. It's not just about having the tech, but also navigating the economic seas. Speaking of rough seas targets having a bit of a struggle bus moment, their Q2 sales dropped as they're trying to turn things around.

Rachel: 18:20

Yikes. That's a bit of a different story from what we're seeing with Walmart. Even with similar AI plans, the outcomes can be worlds apart. It shows that it's not just what you have, but how you use it.

Max: 18:31

Right on the money, Rachel. And speaking of different strategies, you've got Best Buy, launching a third party marketplace. It's like they're borrowing a page from Amazon's playbook.

Rachel: 18:41

Honestly, that's super interesting. By opening up their platform, they're inviting more brands to come and play in their backyard, which could really be a sales driver for them.

Max: 18:50

It's like hosting a party and inviting all your friends to bring a friend. The more the merrier. Right?

Rachel: 18:55

Exactly. And this expansion is another point that ties in beautifully with what we'll be discussing next about new e-commerce tools. It's all about leveraging technology to not just meet but exceed customer expectations

Max: 19:08

for sure. Whether it's through ai, third party marketplaces, or the next big thing in tech tools. What's fascinating is seeing how each of these companies tweaks the formula to try and find their secret sauce. I mean, will Best Buy's marketplace become the new go-to spot, or will Walmart's AI investments pay off big time?

Rachel: 19:28

Those are the big questions, and it's going to be so interesting to see how all this plays out. Retail might not be everyone's cup of tea, but throw in some cutting edge technology and suddenly it's like watching a thrilling sports match.

Max: 19:41

Who knew shopping could be so techie and exciting right now? That's something to put in your cart and checkout. But hey, speaking of techie. Our next segment about the latest e-commerce tools will definitely be something to tune into as well.

Rachel: 19:54

Can't wait for that one Max. The world of e-commerce is always full of surprises.

Max: 20:03

Alright, diving right in from our chat about big retailers like Walmart and Target beefing up their tech. Let's zoom in on what's fresh in the e-commerce tool shed. Have you heard about triple whale's, Moby ai, Rachel?

Rachel: 20:16

I've just skimmed through something about that. Is that the one that's supposed to be a game changer for e-commerce operations?

Max: 20:22

Exactly. That's the one. Moby ai. It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, doesn't it? Basically, it's designed to automate mundane tasks that typically eat up a lot of time for e-commerce businesses. Think of it as your behind the scenes superhero zapping through repetitive jobs.

Rachel: 20:41

So it's kind of like having a virtual assistant that doesn't complain about coffee quality or the temperature in the office. I might need one of those at home.

Max: 20:50

Right? But moving on, there's also some cool developments on the content front. They've got AI that's playing detective with SEO gaps. It's not just about finding keywords anymore. This AI digs deep to reveal what's missing in your content and helps you fill those gaps.

Rachel: 21:05

That actually sounds super useful. Creating content can sometimes feel like throwing words into a void, hoping someone will find them interesting. But I'm curious, how does it actually work?

Max: 21:16

Picture this, you write about, let's say eco-friendly water bottles. The AI then analyzes your content against what's ranking well on search engines and points out that you've completely missed. Talking about BPA free materials, it's like having a map where X marks the spots you missed.

Rachel: 21:34

I see your point, but here's what I'm wondering. How much creativity does that leave for the actual riders? Doesn't it sort of make everything formulaic?

Max: 21:43

Good point. It does risk making things a bit cookie cutter, but I think it's all about how you use it. It's a tool, not the entire toolbox. You can be super creative with your insights and stories and just let the AI handle the heavy SEO lifting.

Rachel: 21:57

Speaking of tools, did you catch the bit about GEO tools for SMBs?

Max: 22:01

Oh, yes. I mean, if we're talking about leveling the playing field. Those geo tools are like giving a megaphone to the little guys at a rock concert.

Rachel: 22:09

I like that analogy. They basically help small and medium businesses geotarget their audience more effectively. Right. So your local bakery can really focus on sweet talking the neighborhood.

Max: 22:21

Absolutely. And that local focus can massively boost relevance. And you know, ultimately sales, it ties back nicely to what Walmart and Target are doing, but on a scale that's approachable for smaller outfits.

Rachel: 22:33

It kind of demystifies the whole digital transformation thing, making it more attainable. Not every business can deploy AI like the retail giants, but these tools seem like a step in the right direction.

Max: 22:44

Totally. It's like not everyone needs to be a tech wizard, but having the right wand can certainly work some magic. By the way, have you thought about experimenting with any of these tools for your side projects?

Rachel: 22:56

Honestly, the SEO detective tool has caught my eye. I might play around with it to see how it can jazz up my blog without making it sound like it's written by a robot.

Max: 23:04

Let me know how that goes. I'd love to hear if it's as helpful as it promises or if you end up missing the human touch in your writing.

Rachel: 23:11

Will do. It's all about finding that sweet spot between tech help and personal flare.

Max: 23:20

Wow. What a packed episode for week 35. Right, Rachel? I'm already getting excited, thinking about diving deeper into some of these topics next week.

Rachel: 23:28

Absolutely Max today really shed some light on everything from drone deliveries to AI transforming shopping experiences. I was particularly struck by how these drones could change our everyday lives, not just for getting a burrito faster.

Max: 23:43

Yeah. Who wouldn't want a sky born burrito? I feel like our digital skies segment might just be the future sooner than we think. But tell me, Rachel, which part of today's chat was your favorite?

Rachel: 23:54

I have to say, diving into how AI is sprucing up, e-commerce was a highlight for me. It's amazing how technology can be a game changer for businesses, big and small. Listeners, I'd love to know your thoughts on all of this too. Any takeaways or surprises from what we discussed today?

Max: 24:10

Definitely drop us a line and if you enjoyed hanging out with us, you have no idea how much we'd love it. If you joined us again next week for more e-commerce news and yes, probably a few more of my terrible jokes.

Rachel: 24:23

They're not all terrible maxed up, just most of them. But jokes aside, folks, don't forget to check out Blikket.co for more resources that could really rev up your online strategy.

Max: 24:31

We'll be back with tons more to share in week 36. Gosh, the year's flying by, isn't it? Until then, keep making those digital waves and we'll catch you on the next wave.

Rachel: 24:40

Thank you so much for hanging out with us today. It means the world to us to have you tune in, take care, and see you next week for another exciting round of e-commerce evolution.

Max: 24:51

Bye for now. Keep laughing at those jokes and keep shopping tomorrow. I.