Adapt or Go Extinct? Lessons from Katie’s, Lululemon, and Black Friday

This week, Mal and Paul tackle the hottest topics in ecommerce, from legacy brands shutting their doors to the record-breaking growth of global giants. Packed with insights, analysis, and actionable advice, Episode 67 is a must-listen for anyone navigating the fast-paced world of eCommerce. The End of Katie’s: After 90 years, Katie’s is closing its doors alongside 160 Mosaic Brands stores. Mal and Paul discuss what went wrong and the critical need for innovation in a rapidly evolving market. Dean Salakas’ Farewell: The Party People founder exits the business with a well-earned sale, leaving a legacy of transparency and impact in Australian retail. Lululemon’s Comeback: How a refreshed women’s range helped boost net income by over 40%, and why getting your core product mix right is key to sustainable growth. TikTok Discovery Boom: With 55% of consumers using TikTok for product discovery, the duo explores why brands need to rethink their strategies for top-of-funnel growth. Black Friday Wrap-Up: Mixed results across the Tasman as New Zealand retailers report a flat event, while Australian Shopify merchants see double-digit growth. Is this trend evenly distributed, or are global players like Amazon and Shein dominating the market? 💡 Key Takeaway: The ecommerce landscape is changing faster than ever. To thrive in 2025, brands must focus on innovation, customer acquisition, and the right product strategies to stay relevant and competitive. Follow MalLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malchia/Website: malchia.com Follow PaulLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulwaddyecommerce/Website: learnecommerce.com Follow Ecom NationLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecom-nation/Website: ecomnation.com.au