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Tag: amazon

  • Bodie’z Rolls Out Waterless Functional Sherbet Sachets Across Kmart

    Bodie’z Rolls Out Waterless Functional Sherbet Sachets Across Kmart

    Sydney sports nutrition brand Bodie’z has launched a waterless functional sherbet range called Fizzers across Australia, pricing single-serve sachets at $2.50. The rollout puts the direct-to-mouth powders into discount department store chain Kmart alongside Amazon and the company’s direct retail site this September.

    The launch shifts the company beyond its established ready-to-drink protein water products into portable dry formats. Each sachet delivers active nutritional compounds without requiring water or shaker bottles, targeting consumers seeking faster daily supplement habits.

    Three functional recipes

    Bodie’z built the Fizzers lineup around three specific formulations. Electrolyte Fizz focuses on hydration and mineral replenishment, while Creatine Fizz provides 3 grams of creatine monohydrate per serving. The third option, Lock In Fizz, combines L-tyrosine, matcha, and vitamin B6 for cognitive support.

    Every variant is low in sugar and uses natural flavouring. Founder Bodie Lazar designed the recipes to eliminate common points of friction in sports nutrition, including measuring scoops and swallowing large capsules.

    Waterless formats and retail reach

    Functional food manufacturers across the Asia-Pacific region are increasingly testing waterless and confectionery-inspired formats to capture shoppers who find standard powders and pills inconvenient. Moving into Kmart gives Bodie’z direct access to high-footfall general retail shelves, broadening its consumer base beyond specialist supplement channels.

    Distribution begins this month across Kmart’s national store network, Amazon Australia, and the brand’s e-commerce platform.

  • Amazon Expands Quick Commerce Fashion Delivery to 300 Indian Cities

    Amazon Expands Quick Commerce Fashion Delivery to 300 Indian Cities

    Amazon plans to expand its Amazon Now quick delivery service for fashion to 300 cities across India. Orders on the platform doubled every quarter since launch, while Prime members who adopt the rapid option purchase three times more frequently.

    Micro-Fulfilment and Event Demand

    The service uses compact, technology-enabled micro-fulfilment centres placed close to residential clusters. Inventory algorithms position stock according to neighbourhood demand patterns rather than broad regional forecasts.

    Amazon is directing the rapid delivery network toward sudden, occasion-led purchases instead of planned wardrobe restocking. During the T20 World Cup, cricket jersey sales rose 2.5 times before match days and spiked eightfold on match days.

    Demographic Shift Toward Gen Z

    Younger shoppers are driving the platform’s fastest gains. Gen Z consumers now account for more than half of Amazon Fashion’s customer base in India, up from 30 per cent two years ago, with order volumes in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities expanding at double the national pace.

    Premium labels now account for nearly 20 per cent of fashion spending on the platform and are expanding at twice the broader category rate. The company channels this traffic through its Gen Z portal SERVE, an influencer network of over 100,000 creators, and digital sizing tools including virtual try-on and Rufus.

    Across India, quick commerce operators such as Blinkit, Zepto, and Instamart have pushed aggressively into apparel and lifestyle items, forcing traditional e-commerce marketplaces to compress delivery windows from days to hours. Amazon is relying on its micro-hub density and Prime ecosystem to defend fashion market share against those dedicated hyper-local rivals.

    The company has not disclosed the completion schedule for the 300-city rollout, making the pace of micro-hub deployment the key operational figure to track across the country.

  • South Korea’s APR Targets W500b in Europe After First-Half Sales Surge

    South Korea’s APR Targets W500b in Europe After First-Half Sales Surge

    South Korean beauty company APR raised its full-year European sales target to 500 billion won ($358 million) after regional revenue jumped 363 per cent in the first half of 2026.

    European sales reached 228.9 billion won ($163.8 million) during the six-month period, accounting for roughly 17 per cent of the Seoul-based firm’s total revenue.

    Amazon Stores and Sephora Shelves

    Online momentum built quickly after APR launched official storefronts on Amazon in the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain late last year. Average monthly sales across those five country portals grew more than eightfold between January and June, lifted by demand during Amazon’s Prime Day event.

    Physical retail followed a parallel trajectory. APR secured shelf space at Sephora in March, driving its first-half offline revenue in Europe up more than ninefold compared with the same period a year earlier. To support the retail push, the company increased its available stock-keeping units in the region by more than five times.

    Korean Beauty Footprint Abroad

    The European push shows how quickly Asian beauty brands can convert digital traction into physical shelf space once regional distribution networks open up. While domestic Korean cosmetics demand remains steady, major operators in Seoul increasingly rely on Western department store chains and global e-commerce portals to absorb rising production volumes.

    APR is preparing to open dedicated Amazon storefronts in additional European countries while negotiating terms with regional department stores and specialty beauty chains to widen its physical distribution network before the end of the year.

  • Asia-Pacific Captures 42 Percent Share as Global Retail Hits 31.58 Trillion Dollars

    Asia-Pacific Captures 42 Percent Share as Global Retail Hits 31.58 Trillion Dollars

    Asia-Pacific accounted for 42 percent of the 31.58 trillion dollar global retail market in 2025, cementing the region as the primary revenue hub for consumer merchandise. The sector is expanding at an annual compound rate of 5.35 percent, heading toward 43.17 trillion dollars by 2031.

    Regional momentum stems from dense consumer populations, rapid formalization of modern store networks, strong manufacturing supply chains, and high mobile-commerce adoption across emerging markets. North America held the second spot globally, supported by higher household spending and established warehouse-club networks.

    Shifting Channel Mix and Digital Share

    Digital channels are taking a larger cut of total retail receipts. Global e-commerce penetration reached 23.5 percent in 2025, up from 18.0 percent in 2020, and projections put digital sales at 29.5 percent of the total market by 2031. Retailer-owned e-commerce and online marketplaces represent the fastest-growing routes to market, even as physical supermarkets and convenience formats retain volume dominance in food and grocery categories.

    Average global retail spending per person stood at 3,851 dollars in 2025, with that number forecast to climb to 5,026 dollars by 2031. Food and beverages remains the single largest product category worldwide, driven by everyday repeat demand that cushions operators against cyclical discretionary drops.

    Operational Pressure and Volume Recovery

    For store operators and digital merchants across Asia, top-line growth is shifting away from post-pandemic price inflation toward real merchandise volume gains. Real volume growth is forecast to accelerate from 2.8 percent in 2026 to 3.3 percent by 2030, putting sharper focus on store productivity, automated warehouse replenishment, and private-label margins.

    Global chains including Walmart, Amazon, Schwarz Group, Aldi, and Costco continue to recalibrate inventory to limit shrink and return costs. RetailNews Asia tracking shows regional operators are prioritizing membership ecosystems and in-house retail media networks to defend operational margins as logistics and wage bills rise.

    Merchants face an immediate baseline as global trade volumes, which expanded 4.6 percent in 2025, test supply visibility ahead of the projected 33.27 trillion dollar market turnover mark in 2026.

  • India Quick Commerce Discounts Ease to 20% as Rivals Add Dark Stores

    India Quick Commerce Discounts Ease to 20% as Rivals Add Dark Stores

    Average discounts across India’s quick-commerce platforms have dropped to between 19 and 20 per cent, cooling from early-year peaks as operators focus on unit economics. The pull-back comes even as larger e-commerce rivals prepare to roll out up to 1,500 new dark stores over the next 12 to 18 months, according to research by UBS.

    Price discounting reached its height in early 2026 when Amazon Now raised discount rates from 26 per cent in November 2025 to 57 per cent two months later. Competitors responded in kind. Flipkart Minutes and incumbent platforms increased promotional discounts by 200 to 300 basis points across key retail categories before the pricing war settled over the past four months.

    Dark Store Land Grab

    The total addressable market for quick commerce across India is projected to reach $59 billion by FY30, upgraded by UBS from an earlier forecast of $34 billion. Quick-commerce networks now operate across more than 100 towns and are expected to capture roughly half of all incremental growth in online retail across the country.

    Network footprints are widening beyond standard grocery lines. Dark stores increasingly handle consumer electronics, personal care, and apparel, directly competing with traditional parcel delivery networks. To contest this volume, conventional e-commerce groups are setting up 400 to 600 micro-warehouses each, with plans to scale their combined networks to between 1,200 and 1,500 facilities.

    Unit Economics and Margins

    Incumbents enter this new round of competition with substantial cash reserves. Blinkit and Swiggy’s Instamart hold roughly Rs 18,000 crore each on their balance sheets, while Zepto holds about Rs 7,000 crore. Blinkit posted positive adjusted EBITDA margins in the first quarter alongside rapid net order value growth. Instamart reached contribution-margin break-even in May, lifting its sequential quarterly margin by 160 basis points to negative 0.2 per cent. Zepto cut promotional pricing and removed more than four million unprofitable customer accounts before restarting growth spending in July.

    Across Asia’s instant-delivery markets, platforms in South Korea and Southeast Asia experienced a similar shift once order density matured: headline subsidies gave way to monetisation through merchant advertising, platform fees, and branded marketing tie-ups. In India, UBS reduced its steady-state operating margin forecast for the sector by 250 to 300 basis points, reflecting the lower margins found in non-grocery merchandise and higher fulfilment costs outside top-tier metros.

    Attention now shifts to food-delivery user activation, where platforms report that more than 70 per cent of accounts transact less than once a month. Zomato and Swiggy are rolling out smaller basket sizes, tighter delivery radiuses, and reduced restaurant commissions to draw those dormant accounts into regular ordering cycles.

  • Amazon Tycoon Jeff Bezos Sets Sights on Premier League Glory with Liverpool Stake Acquisition

    Amazon Tycoon Jeff Bezos Sets Sights on Premier League Glory with Liverpool Stake Acquisition

    A consortium spearheaded by Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s founder, is on the brink of securing a one-third stake in Premier League team Liverpool. The consortium is reportedly being directed by Amit Bhatia, who is the son-in-law of steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal and previously held shares in the English Championship club Queens Park Rangers. Alongside Bezos and Bhatia, the group of investors also boasts Eduardo Saverin, a co-founder of Facebook.

    A Strategic Minority Investment

    Last month, a spokesperson from Liverpool’s current owner, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), confirmed that a consortium managed by Amit Bhatia is contemplating a strategic minority investment in Liverpool Football Club. The proposed investment would value the club around GBP 4.4 billion (US$5.9 billion), which would mark one of the largest evaluations in a football club deal to date.

    FSG has been probing potential outside investments in recent years, while maintaining command of the club. If the proposed valuation is finalized, it would highlight the substantial growth of Liverpool’s value during FSG’s 16-year tenure.

    Transformative Times for Liverpool

    This potential investment emerges at a time of considerable transformation for Liverpool, both on and off the football pitch. Despite significant expenditure on new players, the club only managed a fifth-place finish in the Premier League last season. In response, they have replaced Dutch manager Arne Slot with former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, hoping to revamp their fortunes. Additionally, the club’s influential Egyptian forward, Mohamed Salah, has also left the team.

    Michael Edwards, who was instrumental in shaping the Liverpool squad that clinched their first domestic league title in 30 years in 2020, stepped down as the chief executive officer of football at Fenway Sports Group in July.

    Despite the changes, Liverpool remains one of the most successful and valuable clubs in global football, with a massive fan base that stretches around the world. The team has an impressive record, with 20 English league titles, six European Cups, eight FA Cups, a record ten League Cups, and one FIFA Club World Cup to their name.

    Questions & Answers

    Who is leading the consortium potentially acquiring a stake in Liverpool Football Club?
    The consortium is led by Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, and includes Amit Bhatia and Eduardo Saverin.

    What is the potential valuation of Liverpool Football Club following this investment?
    The investment could potentially value the club at approximately GBP 4.4 billion (US$5.9 billion).

    What significant changes have occurred at Liverpool recently?
    Liverpool has seen several changes, including finishing fifth in the Premier League last season, parting ways with manager Arne Slot, and losing key player Mohamed Salah.

  • Joybuy’s European Invasion: JD Challenges Amazon with Major eCommerce Expansion

    Joybuy’s European Invasion: JD Challenges Amazon with Major eCommerce Expansion

    On Monday, JD, a top-tier e-commerce powerhouse from China, announced the expansion of its Joybuy online marketplace into several European markets. By extending its reach into the United Kingdom, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, JD is significantly enhancing its global footprint and setting itself up as a formidable competitor against Amazon, the current market leader.

    JD’s international growth strategy gained momentum last year with the agreed purchase of Germany’s Ceconomy, the parent company of popular electronics retailers MediaMarkt and Saturn, in a deal worth 2.2 billion euros (US$2.52 billion).

    Chinese Retailers Expand Global Reach

    This move by JD is part of a broader trend of Chinese retailers and brands seeking to establish themselves in foreign markets. With the retail landscape in China marked by intense competition and tepid consumer demand, businesses are increasingly turning to countries in North America and Europe as potential sources for scalable growth.

    Joybuy, both on its website and mobile app, will offer a wide range of products from various categories, including technology, appliances, beauty, home goods, and groceries. The platform will also host dedicated stores for several household brands such as L’Oreal, Braun, DeLonghi, BRITA, and Bodum. JD has promised that pricing on Joybuy will be “competitive.”

    Fast Delivery as a Selling Point

    According to Matthew Nobbs, Joybuy’s UK Managing Director, the company’s formidable delivery service will be one of its key selling points. Customers in major cities who place their orders by 11 am can expect to receive their purchases on the same day, while orders placed before 11 pm will be delivered the following day.

    Joybuy’s same-day delivery will be available to more than 15 million households across Europe and the UK from the get-go. The company offers free delivery on orders over 29 euros ($33.21) or 29 pounds ($38.52) and plans to challenge Amazon Prime with its own delivery subscription service. Known as ‘JoyPlus’, this service will provide subscribers with unlimited free delivery for a monthly fee of 3.99 euros or 3.99 pounds.

    While Mr. Nobbs did not disclose the amount invested by JD in this ambitious project, he did confirm the involvement of 60 warehouses and depots across Europe and a dedicated last-mile delivery service. It is worth noting that JD’s previous bids to penetrate the UK market, including a potential takeover of consumer electronics retailer Currys and a bid to acquire Argos from the Sainsbury’s supermarket group, have fallen through.

    Questions & Answers

    What is JD’s latest venture?
    JD has expanded its Joybuy online marketplace into the UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg.

    What types of products will Joybuy offer in these new markets?
    Joybuy will sell products across various categories, including technology, appliances, beauty, homeware, and grocery.

    What is Joybuy’s delivery policy?
    Joybuy offers fast delivery, with orders placed by 11 am arriving the same day and orders placed before 11 pm arriving the next day. Free delivery is available on orders over 29 euros or 29 pounds, and an unlimited free delivery subscription service, ‘JoyPlus’, is available at a monthly fee of 3.99 euros or 3.99 pounds.

  • Amazon India Drops Referral Fees to Accelerate Seller Growth Amidst Fierce E-commerce Competition

    Amazon India Drops Referral Fees to Accelerate Seller Growth Amidst Fierce E-commerce Competition

    Amazon has announced that it will abolish the referral fee for sellers in India on items priced under 1000 rupees (approximately US$10.98). This decision aims to encourage more retailers to use their platform and gain a stronger hold on India’s competitive e-commerce market.

    Expanding ‘Zero-Referral Fee’ Policy

    Amazon’s initiative builds upon its ‘zero-referral fee’ policy, introduced last year, which encompassed about 12 million items priced below 300 rupees. This program played a significant role in a 50% increase in new sellers joining Amazon’s Indian platform. The referral fee is a commission that sellers pay Amazon for each item sold.

    Starting March 16, this new policy now covers more than 125 million items. In addition to scrapping the referral fee, Amazon has decided to reduce some shipping costs.

    Targeting Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs

    “This step is intended to make selling on Amazon more profitable and simpler, particularly for small businesses and entrepreneurs in tier-2 and tier-3 cities,” said Amit Nanda, Director of Selling Partner Services for Amazon India.

    India is a vital market for Amazon, given the rapid growth of the internet user base in the world’s second-most populous country, driving e-commerce growth.

    However, Amazon is up against stiff competition from Walmart-backed Flipkart and Reliance Industries’ retail arm, owned by billionaire Mukesh Ambani. Quick-commerce entities such as Eternal’s Blinkit and Swiggy’s Instamart are also making significant inroads into market share.

    In December, Amazon announced plans to invest over $35 billion in India by 2030. While this investment will help expand its AI infrastructure, the focus will primarily be on growing retail logistics and stimulating small-business growth.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Amazon’s new initiative regarding referral fees in India?

    Amazon has decided to eliminate the referral fee for products under 1000 rupees, aiming to attract more retailers to their platform.

    How will this affect small businesses and entrepreneurs in India?

    By removing the referral fee and reducing some shipping costs, Amazon is making selling on its platform more lucrative and easier, particularly for small businesses and entrepreneurs in smaller cities in India.

    What are Amazon’s future investment plans for India?

    Amazon plans to invest over $35 billion in India by 2030, with a focus on expanding its AI infrastructure, enhancing retail logistics, and promoting small-business growth.

  • Amazon Boosts Indian Market Presence: Cuts Reseller Referral Fees to Propel Small Business Growth

    Amazon Boosts Indian Market Presence: Cuts Reseller Referral Fees to Propel Small Business Growth

    In a bid to strengthen its foothold in India’s highly competitive e-commerce sector, Amazon recently announced that it will cease to charge sellers referral fees for products priced under 1,000 rupees, or US$10.98. This decision, revealed by the company on Monday, is part of an ongoing initiative to attract a broader range of merchants to its online marketplace.

    Enhancing the ‘Zero-Referral Fee’ Policy

    Amazon is building upon its ‘zero-referral fee’ policy that was introduced last year. Initially, this policy was applicable only to about 12 million products that were priced below 300 rupees. However, the implementation of this policy led to a remarkable 50% increase in the number of new sellers joining Amazon’s platform in India.

    A referral fee is essentially a commission that sellers have to pay to Amazon for each product sold through its platform. The newly extended policy, which came into effect on March 16, now applies to more than 125 million products.

    Along with this, Amazon has also announced a reduction in certain shipping charges, making it even more cost-effective for sellers to use their platform.

    Amit Nanda, the director of Selling Partner Services for Amazon India, stated that this move was aimed at “making selling on Amazon more lucrative and simpler, particularly for small businesses and entrepreneurs in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.”

    Amazon’s Crucial Market: India

    India has become an increasingly important market for Amazon due to its expanding base of internet users, which has significantly fueled e-commerce growth in the world’s most populous country.

    However, the e-commerce giant faces stiff competition not just from Walmart-backed Flipkart and the retail division of Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries, but also from quick-commerce platforms such as Eternal’s Blinkit and Swiggy’s Instamart, which have been rapidly gaining market share.

    Amazon revealed plans in December to invest more than $35 billion in India by 2030. The investment will not only be used to expand its AI infrastructure, but also to enhance retail logistics and boost small-business growth.

    Questions & Answers

    What does Amazon’s new decision entail?
    Amazon has decided to stop charging sellers in India referral fees for products priced under 1,000 rupees. It has also reduced certain shipping charges.

    What is the goal behind Amazon’s decision?
    This decision is aimed at attracting more merchants to Amazon’s online marketplace in India, making the platform more lucrative and simpler, especially for small businesses and entrepreneurs in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

    How does Amazon plan on investing in India’s e-commerce sector?
    Amazon has revealed plans to invest more than $35 billion in India by 2030. The funds will be used to expand its AI infrastructure, improve retail logistics, and boost the growth of small businesses.

  • Amazon, Temu and Shein to Dominate Australia’s Marketplace Sector at the Expense of Local Competition

    Amazon, Temu and Shein to Dominate Australia’s Marketplace Sector at the Expense of Local Competition

    Australia’s marketplace sector is being redefined as global ecommerce giants use their international scale and advanced infrastructure to grow their share of consumer spending at the expense of local marketplaces, according to new research from Pattern.

    The ‘2026 Marketplace Consumer Report’ highlights a sector that looks markedly different to just a few years ago. With fewer local Australian marketplaces following the closures of Catch and MyDeal, and pressure on Kogan to maintain its competitiveness as consumers increase their spend with global platforms, data suggests a long-term shift in how marketplace competition will play out in Australia.

    Amazon now reaches 60% of Australian shoppers, growing its customer base by 3.45% year on year. Temu continues to expand rapidly with A$2.6 billion in sales last financial year and 47% of Australians purchasing from the platform, while Shein has lifted its reach to 30%, recording the fastest growth (15%) among major marketplaces. Australia’s last remaining dedicated local marketplace, Kogan, however, is losing ground. Just 15% of consumers now shop on the platform, reflecting a 6% year-on-year decline.

    “The pressure on Australian born and bred marketplaces from global giants like Amazon and Temu is no longer theoretical. What we’re seeing is a sector shaped by international scale, logistics sophistication and global ecosystems. This isn’t a temporary cycle, it’s a structural shift and could signal the end of the local Australian marketplace era as we once knew it,” said Merline McGregor, Managing Director for Pattern Australia.

    Amazon Leads as eBay loses ground

    Amazon continues to lead the Australian marketplace sector with 8.8 million active shoppers and 66% of consumers planning to shop on the platform. eBay, however, is sliding in the opposite direction, declining 7% to 51% of shoppers planning to use the platform in 2026.

    The research shows Amazon purchase decisions are broadening and no longer price-led, with price as a motivator falling by 42%. Shoppers now point to speed (35%), Prime benefits (31%) and overall preference for Amazon (28%) as key reasons for purchasing on the platform. The growing role of product reviews, now cited by 24% of shoppers, highlights Amazon’s advantage in trust and community validation, an edge eBay has struggled to match.

    “Amazon has moved beyond competing purely on cost. While price still matters, its advantage today is also about removing friction at every stage of the shopping journey. Faster delivery, trusted reviews and habitual usage are what has made it the dominant marketplace in Australia and what keeps customers coming back,” said McGregor.

    Temu and Shein rebuild trust and expand beyond price

    Shopper perceptions of product quality and trust have improved sharply for Temu and Shein, marking a significant shift in how these platforms are viewed in Australia. Over the past year, Temu recorded a 50% increase in product quality and trust perception, while Shein saw a 36% increase.

    Historically criticised for inconsistent quality, in 2025 Temu was trusted by just 12% of shoppers and Shein, 11%. However, sustained investment in supplier standards, range expansion beyond fast fashion and brand partnerships with established global brands is beginning to change sentiment.

    “Temu and Shein have worked hard to shed their reputations as low-cost disruptors and are now emerging as serious players in the marketplace landscape,” said McGregor. “Temu now serves 4.7 million Australians, with its customer base growing at 24% annually. With trust levels rising, these platforms are no longer competing on price alone, firmly positioning them for sustained, long-term relevance in the Australian market.”

    Product discovery fragments across platforms

    Product discovery behaviour is fragmenting rapidly. While Google has regained ground, with 54% of shoppers beginning their product searches on the platform since the rollout of AI-generated answers that ease discovery, social media is disrupting search.

    Social media is now one of the fastest-growing starting points for product research, with 67% more consumers beginning their search on social platforms compared to 2025. Today 78% of Australians are active on social media and with near-universal mobile use, discovery is increasingly shaped by feeds, creators and short-form video.

    “Social platforms are collapsing the long bridge between inspiration and transaction,” said McGregor. “With the imminent launch of TikTok Shop in Australia, this shift will accelerate. Brands that invest in creator-led content and seamless in-platform shopping will be best positioned as social becomes a central pillar of modern product discovery.”

    Convenience and delivery speed emerge as key differentiators

    With 93% of Australians purchasing from marketplaces in the past 12 months, convenience has become a defining factor in how consumers choose where to shop. One in three Australians now cite ease of use and delivery speed as the primary reason they turn to marketplaces. Amazon exemplifies this shift, with 36% of shoppers naming convenience as the main driver of their purchasing behaviour.

    “Delivery performance has become a core brand asset for marketplaces today. Many Australians are choosing to order products through a marketplace, even if the same product is more expensive than elsewhere, simply because it could be delivered faster,” said McGregor.

    What products will consumers buy from which marketplace in 2026

    Pattern’s research reveals clear category distinctions across marketplaces, with each platform establishing dominance in specific shopping categories:

    • Amazon leads in Books & eBooks (30%), Electronics & Computer (25%), and Clothing, Shoes & Accessories (22%).
    • eBay shows strength in Clothing, Shoes & Accessories (17%), Automotive Parts (15%), and Electronics & Computer (14%).
    • Temu captures consumer interest in Clothing, Shoes & Accessories (22%), with notable investment in Home & Kitchen Products (13%).
    • Shein’s primary appeal lies with Clothing, Shoes & Accessories (21%), but is beginning to spark interest beyond this in Home & Kitchen (7%) and Toys, Kids & Baby Products (7%).
    • Kogan holds some ground in Electronics & Computer (8%), Home & Kitchen Products (7%), and DIY/Home Improvement (5%).

    “While the future of local marketplaces is uncertain, the opportunity for brands has never been greater. With 93% of Australians shopping on marketplaces, these platforms are where purchase decisions happen. Brands that understand category dynamics, build tailored strategies for each marketplace, and work with ecommerce specialists like Pattern will be positioned to capture a share in this consolidated but growing market,” concluded McGregor.

    For more information and to download the full report please click here: ‘2026 Marketplace Consumer Report’

    About Pattern Inc

    Pattern accelerates brands on global ecommerce marketplaces leveraging proprietary technology and AI. Utilising more than 46 trillion data points, sophisticated machine learning and AI models, Pattern optimizes and automates all levers of ecommerce growth for global brands, including advertising, content management, logistics and fulfillment, pricing, forecasting and customer service. Hundreds of global brands depend on Pattern’s ecommerce acceleration platform every day to drive profitable revenue growth across 60+ global marketplaces—including Amazon, TikTok Shop, Walmart.com, Target.com, eBay, Tmall, JD, and Mercado Libre.  For more information, visit https://au.pattern.com/

    Media Contact

    Paul Manser

    Mulberry Marketing Communications

    pmanser@mulberrymc.com

  • Amazon Seeks to Lower Vendor Costs as Chinese Tariff Rates Drop: A Strategic Move in eCommerce Landscape

    Amazon Seeks to Lower Vendor Costs as Chinese Tariff Rates Drop: A Strategic Move in eCommerce Landscape

    E-commerce behemoth Amazon has confirmed that it is in conversations with several vendors to revise costs in response to the decrease in tariff rates imposed on imports from China. The company aims to reduce the amount it pays suppliers for goods sold through its digital platform, marking an attempt to roll back concessions made to cushion the impact of tariffs introduced by former US President, Donald Trump.

    According to an Amazon spokesperson, the company is consistently working with its diverse and valued selling partners to assist them in adjusting to the shifting landscape while maintaining a wide assortment of products and competitive prices for consumers.

    In the latter part of October the previous year, an agreement was reached between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping to reduce tariffs on Chinese imports. This was in return for Beijing tackling the illegal fentanyl trade, reinstating US soybean purchases, and ensuring the continuous flow of rare earth exports.

    As a result of the agreement, the average tariffs on Chinese imports to the US have been cut from 57% to approximately 47%.

    In related news, the US Supreme Court announced last week that it will deliver its next decisions on January 14, with several major cases still pending. These include the legal examination of Trump’s comprehensive global tariffs.

    Should the court rule that the extensive duties imposed by Trump under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act are unlawful, the administration could face the prospect of reimbursing nearly $150 billion in tariffs to importers.

    Questions & Answers

    What are the discussions between Amazon and vendors about?
    Amazon is in talks with several vendors about adjusting costs in response to a decrease in tariff rates on Chinese imports.

    What was the agreement between Trump and Xi Jinping?
    Trump and Xi Jinping agreed to reduce tariffs on Chinese imports. In return, Beijing would tackle the illegal fentanyl trade, reinstate US soybean purchases, and ensure the continuous flow of rare earth exports.

    What could be the implications of the US Supreme Court’s decision on Trump’s global tariffs?
    If the court declares the extensive duties imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act as unlawful, the administration may have to refund nearly $150 billion in tariffs to importers.

  • Amazon Re-negotiates Supplier Costs Amid Eased Chinese Tariffs: The Repercussions on E-Commerce

    Amazon Re-negotiates Supplier Costs Amid Eased Chinese Tariffs: The Repercussions on E-Commerce

    Amazon, the technology behemoth, has announced that it has been in discussions with various vendors regarding modulation of costs to mirror the decreased tariff rates on Chinese imports.

    Previously, the company aimed to reduce the amount it compensates suppliers for products sold via its e-commerce platform. This adjustment is a step towards reversing concessions that were originally designed to alleviate the effects of tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump.

    In a statement, an Amazon spokesperson stated, “We are perpetually collaborating with our diverse and valued selling partners in our store to assist them in adapting to the evolving environment while preserving a wide selection and maintaining low prices for customers.”

    In late October of the previous year, an agreement was struck between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping to reduce tariffs on imports from China. This was in return for Beijing’s commitment to address the illegal fentanyl trade, resume purchases of US soybeans, and ensure the continued export of rare earths.

    As a result, the average US tariffs on Chinese imports were reduced from 57% to approximately 47%.

    Recently, the US Supreme Court announced that it would release its subsequent rulings on January 14, with several significant cases still under consideration. These include the legality of Trump’s extensive global tariffs.

    If the court determines that the extensive duties imposed by Trump under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act are illegal, the administration could potentially be required to refund nearly US$150 billion in tariffs to importers.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Amazon’s current strategy towards its suppliers?
    Amazon has been in talks with its vendors to adjust costs in accordance with the decreased tariff rates on Chinese imports. The intent is to reduce what it pays suppliers for goods sold on its e-commerce platform.

    How did the average US tariffs on Chinese imports change recently?
    In late October of the previous year, an agreement was reached between former US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping to reduce tariffs on imports from China. As a result, the average US tariffs on Chinese imports were reduced from 57% to approximately 47%.

    What could potentially happen if the court determines that the extensive duties imposed by Trump are illegal?
    If the court declares that the sweeping duties imposed by Trump under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act are illegal, the administration might be required to refund nearly US$150 billion in tariffs to importers.

  • Amazon and Flipkart Set to Disrupt India’s Banking Sector with Innovative Consumer Loan Products

    Amazon and Flipkart Set to Disrupt India’s Banking Sector with Innovative Consumer Loan Products

    E-commerce heavyweights, Amazon and Flipkart, are planning to venture into the financial services sector in India, by offering loans and buy-now, pay-later (BNPL) options. This strategic move is poised to challenge the traditional banking sector.

    Amazon’s Plans

    Earlier this year, Amazon purchased Axio, a non-bank lender based in Bengaluru. The company primarily focuses on BNPL and personal loans. However, with Amazon’s acquisition, Axio is expected to recommence providing credit facilities for small businesses and initiate cash management services.

    Mahendra Nerurkar, VP for payments for emerging markets at Amazon, emphasized the potential for expanding credit growth, especially among digitally engaged customers and small businesses operating outside of major cities. He further revealed that the company has plans to develop specialized lending propositions to enhance cash flow management efficiency and unlock capital for merchants and small businesses.

    Flipkart’s Interest

    Flipkart, which boasts a significant stake by Walmart, has registered Flipkart Finance, its non-bank lending branch. The company is awaiting final approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for its business strategy. The plans feature two types of pay-later offerings:

    1. No-cost monthly installment loans for online shoppers ranging from 3 to 24 months.
    2. Loans for consumer durables at an interest rate of 18 per cent–26 per cent per annum.

    Typically, interest rates on loans for consumer durables from traditional lenders oscillate between 12 per cent and 22 per cent. A confidential source revealed that Flipkart aims to launch these financial products in the coming year.

    Growth of the Consumer Loan Market

    Data from credit bureau CRIF High Mark shows that India’s consumer loan market has expanded from nearly US$80 billion in March 2020 to approximately US$212 billion by March 2025. However, there are indications of a slowdown in recent quarters. Consumer loans encompass unsecured personal loans, credit cards, and loans for consumer durables.

    Both Amazon and Flipkart operate apps ranking in the top 10 platforms for payments via India’s Unified Payments Interface. Earlier this year, the RBI granted them the ability to lend directly to customers, marking a significant step towards opening India’s financial services market to foreign-backed tech firms.

    Rohan Lakhiyar, partner at consultancy Grant Thornton Bharat’s financial services risk division, stated that given their access to both supply-side and demand-side customer data, both Amazon and Flipkart have immense potential to disrupt the sector. However, he stressed that execution would be crucial as they expand beyond core retail.

    Amazon has also partnered with several local lenders to offer fixed deposit savings products with minimum amounts of 1000 rupees (US$11) to customers on its Amazon Pay platform, according to Nerurkar.

    Questions & Answers

    What are Amazon’s plans in the financial services sector in India?
    Amazon plans to offer credit to small businesses and provide cash management services through Bengaluru-based non-bank lender Axio. They also aim to develop specialized lending propositions to help improve cash flow management efficiency and release capital for merchants and small businesses.

    What types of financial products is Flipkart planning to offer?
    Flipkart intends to offer two types of pay-later offerings – no-cost monthly installment loans for online shoppers, and loans for consumer durables at an interest rate of 18 per cent–26 per cent per annum.

    What is the current status of the consumer loan market in India?
    The consumer loan market in India has grown from nearly US$80 billion in March 2020 to around US$212 billion by March 2025, according to data from credit bureau CRIF High Mark. However, recent quarters have shown signs of a slowdown in growth.

  • Café Amazon Bids Vietnam Goodbye: Thai Coffee Giant Wraps up 5-Year Journey Amidst Competitive Market

    Café Amazon Bids Vietnam Goodbye: Thai Coffee Giant Wraps up 5-Year Journey Amidst Competitive Market

    The Thai coffee shop chain, Café Amazon, ended its operations in Vietnam on November 18. This closure concludes the brand’s five-year tenure in the Vietnamese market.

    The Closure

    Staff at Café Amazon locations commemorated their last day at work by sharing farewell images. The company returned its store leases, and its branches are no longer visible on prevalent food-delivery applications in the region.

    This decision follows Central Plaza Hotel Public Company Limited’s withdrawal from the Vietnamese Café Amazon joint venture in the previous month. The move demonstrates a well-planned shift in the company’s strategy due to Vietnam’s intensely competitive coffee business landscape.

    Future Plans

    Café Amazon has unveiled plans for global expansion, but Vietnam is notably absent from their target markets. The company has yet to provide an official comment on its departure from Vietnam.

    Questions & Answers

    Why did Café Amazon close its stores in Vietnam?
    Café Amazon closed its stores in Vietnam due to the intense competitiveness of the country’s coffee market. The company also underwent a strategic shift following Central Plaza Hotel Public Company Limited’s withdrawal from the Vietnamese Café Amazon joint venture.

    What steps did Café Amazon take after deciding to close its Vietnam operations?
    After deciding to cease its operations in Vietnam, Café Amazon returned its store leases and eliminated its presence from food-delivery applications in the region.

    Is Vietnam included in Café Amazon’s future expansion plans?
    No, Vietnam is not included in Café Amazon’s announced plans for global expansion. The company is yet to release an official statement on this move.

  • Amazon’s Budget-Friendly Haul Takes on Asian Market: A Thrifty Revolution in E-commerce

    Amazon’s Budget-Friendly Haul Takes on Asian Market: A Thrifty Revolution in E-commerce

    Amazon disclosed its expansion plans for its cost-effective e-commerce service, Amazon Bazaar, on a recent Friday. Known in the United States as Haul, the service is now available in 14 new markets, intensifying competition with Chinese counterparts like Shein and PDD Holdings’ Temu in the worldwide race to sell budget-friendly products such as $10 dresses and $5 accessories.

    Impact of Import Tariffs

    The import tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump made a noticeable dent in consumer sentiment, more so among the lower-income groups, who are frequently on the lookout for economical deals.

    Amazon Bazaar Versus Amazon Haul

    Amazon Bazaar operates through a standalone app, offering merchandise akin to Amazon Haul. The latter is a budget-conscious shopping section within the primary Amazon app, which was launched in the prior year.

    Having made its debut in Mexico last year, Amazon Bazaar is set to deliver the majority of its products, priced under $10 and some as low as $2, to its newest markets. These markets span a range of categories, from home goods to fashion, as per the e-commerce behemoth.

    Amazon Bazaar’s New Markets

    Amazon Bazaar’s low-cost e-commerce service has ventured into newer markets such as Hong Kong, the Philippines, Nigeria, and Taiwan. Following its launch in Mexico, the service expanded to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

    DA Davidson & Co analyst Gil Luria highlighted the significance of Amazon Bazaar’s expansion, noting it as a crucial step in Amazon’s international growth strategy. According to Luria, Amazon only ventures into a market if it can scale up to a level that both delights consumers and builds a profitable business.

    Luria further mentioned that the company often takes several years to achieve profitability when entering new countries and markets. Amazon recently reported its third-quarter international revenue at $40.9 billion, witnessing a 10% growth from the same period last year, excluding the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations.

    Luria also posited that if Amazon can successfully build a business around selling a small selection of inexpensive items with appealing service levels, it could potentially extend its services beyond its core 23 markets to nearly every other country globally.

    Global Fulfilment Centers and Service Partners

    Amazon stated that products on Amazon Bazaar are shipped directly from the company’s global fulfillment centers to the designated destinations and delivered to customers via its network of service partners.

    Expansion of Competitors

    Shein and Temu, Amazon’s rivals in the space, have also accelerated their expansion outside the United States. While Shein operates in over 160 countries, including the U.S., Brazil, Ireland, and Southern China, Temu ships to at least 70 countries.

    The Launch and Expansion of Amazon Haul

    In 2024, Amazon launched Haul in the U.S., which has since expanded the in-app service to Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, and Australia.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Amazon Bazaar?
    Amazon Bazaar is a low-cost e-commerce service by Amazon, known as Haul in the U.S., which sells a wide range of budget-friendly products.

    Which new markets has Amazon Bazaar entered recently?
    Amazon Bazaar has recently expanded its services to 14 new markets, including Hong Kong, the Philippines, Nigeria, and Taiwan.

    How does Amazon Bazaar operate?
    Amazon Bazaar operates through a standalone app and ships products to customers directly from Amazon’s global fulfillment centers via its network of service partners.