This Week In Ecommerce

The streak's broken — first missed week in three years, courtesy of Retail Fest swallowing the calendar whole. Mal and Alex are back on the mics with a full debrief on the Gold Coast event, the WhatsApp party, and the Pink Flamingo carnage. Plus the Simon Beard reel that turned a vague "the conference was rubbish" critique into a soft pitch for One Life Club — and why that whole move just didn't sit right.The headline story this week is Gabi and Hezi Leibovich pulling Click Frenzy out of liquidation only weeks after Grant Arnott shut it down. The brothers are bullish, Mal isn't — the model has problems the Iran war didn't cause. Plus Super Retail's 13% share crunch, the AU retail "perfect storm" tightening, and an anonymous whistleblower letter accusing Harvey Norman buyers of taking kickbacks.The Retail Fest debrief, the WhatsApp crew shoutouts, and the Simon Beard reel that didn't land — including the One Life Club plug that took the gas out of itSuper Retail Group shares down 13% as BCF LFL drops 3.3% on the back of an Easter weekend that got killed by fuel pricesUniversal Store sells off 3% on a perfectly good update — what it says about the youth fashion walletMeta launches Hatch agentic AI plus Instagram in-app checkout, and Mal's meeting Mark Zuckerberg in a few daysGabby and Hezi Leibovich buy Click Frenzy and Power Retail out of liquidation — Mal's taking the underdog on this oneThe AU retail perfect storm gets worse: CommBank flags inflation hitting 5.4% by mid-year, Australia Post hikes 19%, big retailers offloading inventoryAn anonymous letter alleges Harvey Norman buyers took cash, trips and entertainment from vendors — and what brand owners should do about it regardless of whether the claims stick

Alex is back from iMedia (a touch fresher than Sunday morning suggested) and the lineup is loaded: Meta has officially overtaken Google in ad revenue, China has blocked the Manus AI deal that Meta was building its entire creative platform around, and Lululemon has poached its new CEO from Nike. Plus a quietly significant Aussie consolidation story that Mal cannot stop saying "just makes sense" about.Headline story: Meta is forecasted to clock $244 billion in ad revenue this year vs Google's $239 billion — first time it's ever happened, and it's a reflection of Meta's creative-first, low-complexity positioning playing better with operators than Google's targeting-heavy legacy. We get into what it means for AU brand budgets, why founders keep telling us they trust Meta more, and the surprise CCP move that just torpedoed Meta's $2B AI bet.The rise of the value-seeking customer: Two Broke Chicks, refurbished tech, free alterations at Uniqlo, lifetime warranty at Nudie — when 8 in 10 shoppers are hunting deals, brands need a perceived-value playbook that isn't just discounting.Koala's broken IPO: Listed at $3.40, popped to $3.88, now sitting at $3.10 — 30 days in and already a sub-list-price story. The wider question: is the public market dream over for AU retail?Treasury Wines re-merges Penfolds: A 40% Chinese New Year sales pop, and TWE is folding its flagship back into the portfolio. Smart consolidation or a P&L masking play?Meta vs Google: Meta tipped to overtake Google in ad revenue for the first time ever — plus the Manus AI acquisition just got blocked by the CCP.Heidi O'Neill goes from Nike to Lululemon: A 26-year Nike veteran takes the Lulu top job in September. Mouse story in heaven, or more of the same?Edible Blooms acquires three hamper brands: Kelly and the team consolidating Dessert Boxes, Gift Baskets, and Hampers.com.au into a single 700+ SKU marketplace in a category Shopify says is growing 43% YoY.

In a week where Allbirds rebranded as an AI company and somehow the stock went up 582% in a single day, we're asking the most important question for any operator: who actually owns the brand when you scale? Alex is back from the dead, iMedia and Retail Fest are around the corner, and the lineup is genuinely loaded — three deep dives across founder vision, the AU brand quietly hitting $10M in under twelve months, and Wesfarmers' very-cleverly-disguised loyalty chess move.Headline story: Fear of God just eliminated its CEO role to bring Jerry Lorenzo back into daily operations, while Nike sits at an 8-year low under Elliot Hill's slow-burn turnaround. Two brands, opposite ends of the lifecycle, same disease — and we get into what AU founders should actually do at the $50M-plus mark when the operator hire is tempting but the brand essence is fragile.Allbirds → NewBird AI: Sustainable footwear pioneer becomes a GPU-as-a-service play. Stock up 582%, then down 36% the next day. The zombie shell era of public markets is here.Woolies' ACCC defence + the rise of pawn shops: Woolies is blaming suppliers for the "Prices Dropped" mess while AU consumers are increasingly pawning their stuff to make ends meet — and op shops are jam-packed.Decjuba launches sleepwear: A 30-piece permanent range timed neatly into Mother's Day, sitting in the white space Peter Alexander doesn't quite serve.Bunnings' weekend dog hoodie drop: Mal missed it. Alex didn't. Bunnings continues its masterclass in turning product drops into earned brand moments.Bouf — Booth, Bouf, "boofhead": $10M in under 12 months, Indy Clinton as a co-founder rather than ambassador, five SKUs, expanding into men. The York St Brands holding-co playbook unpacked.OnePass goes free for 6 months: Wesfarmers wraps an Amazon-defence loyalty acquisition campaign in cost-of-living relief paper. Read the strategic intent, not the press release.

Alex is out sick this week, so Mal’s flying solo — which means the takes are unfiltered and the tangents are entirely his fault. Five stories this episode spanning a landmark US antitrust verdict, a celebrated Australian DTC brand heading to market, Instagram finally arriving late to the social commerce party, and two quickies on what happens when platforms change the rules and consumers start stockpiling baked beans.This is a big week. The Live Nation verdict dropped yesterday — a federal jury found the concert giant guilty of operating an illegal monopoly, and the implications stretch well beyond live music into how we all think about platform dependency and vertical integration. If you build your business on infrastructure you don’t own, this one’s worth your full attention.Etsy bans all fur products from 11 August — why activist-driven platform policy changes are a channel risk every marketplace seller needs to account for.Panic buying hits Australian supermarkets amid Iran jitters — what demand volatility events reveal about inventory planning assumptions.Live Nation found guilty of operating an illegal monopoly — breaking down the verdict, the potential breakup, and why the Ticketmaster tax is a warning shot for every operator building on platforms they don’t control.al.ive body — the skincare brand built by The Block twins Alisa and Lysandra Fraser — is heading to market, and it’s a masterclass in building an exit-ready DTC business without venture capital.Instagram finally launches shoppable affiliate links for Reels — nearly 15 years after affiliate marketing became standard, and why the creator economy’s real problem is still measurement, not features.

Mal's back from Japan — and the news this week is anything but zen. Allbirds just sold for $39 million after hitting a $4.1 billion valuation, Sabo Skirt has taken 16 retailers to court for design theft including Kmart and Shein, and the US cost stack is getting uglier by the week.This episode, we cover what Allbirds' spectacular collapse really tells us about the DTC hype cycle, why Sabo's legal fight matters for every fashion brand in Australia, and what the Amazon FBA fuel surcharge and the First Sale loophole threat mean for operators selling into the US market. Plus: AusPost acquires same-day delivery platform Rendr, Click Frenzy and Power Retail enter liquidation (blame the Iran war — we call BS), and junior pay rates in retail are about to be abolished.AusPost acquires same-day delivery platform Rendr, expanding same-day coverage to 90% of the Australian populationClick Frenzy and Power Retail enter liquidation — the Iran war gets the blame, but the model was already brokenJunior pay rates in retail abolished for workers 18+, with rises of up to 42% phased in through to 2030ACCC hands down Australia's first financial penalty for undisclosed influencer marketing — the Photobook Shop caseAllbirds sells for $39M — a 99% wipeout from its $4.1B peak, and what it really means for DTC brand buildingSabo Skirt takes 16 retailers to court over design copying, including Kmart and a Shein that apparently didn't get the memo after their 2024 settlementAmazon FBA adds a 3.5% fuel surcharge from April 17 — and don't expect them to ever take it off — plus the First Sale tariff loophole under threat in the US CongressAusPost acquires same-day delivery platform Rendr, expanding same-day coverage to 90% of the Australian populationClick Frenzy and Power Retail enter liquidation — the Iran war gets the blame, but the model was already brokenJunior pay rates in retail abolished for workers 18+, with rises of up to 42% phased in through to 2030ACCC hands down Australia's first financial penalty for undisclosed influencer marketing — the Photobook Shop caseAllbirds sells for $39M — a 99% wipeout from its $4.1B peak, and what it really means for DTC brand buildingSabo Skirt takes 16 retailers to court over design copying, including Kmart and a Shein that apparently didn't get the memo after their 2024 settlementAmazon FBA adds a 3.5% fuel surcharge from April 17 — and don't expect them to ever take it off — plus the First Sale tariff loophole under threat in the US Congress

Mal's recording from a stairwell in Osaka — because Japan doesn't open cafes before 10am and that's the quietest spot in the building. Easter crept up on everyone this year — except Cadbury, who had their shrinkflation strategy ready to go for the second year running. We also dig into the ACCC finally fining a retailer for undisclosed influencer reviews (and why the penalty might actually be too small to matter), the AusPost fuel surcharge hike hitting 30,000 contract customers from April 23, and KMD Brands — Kathmandu, Rip Curl, Oboz — entering a voluntary trading suspension as a recapitalisation hangs in the balance.Topics:Easter egg shrinkflation — Cadbury's hollow egg packs are smaller and more expensive for the second consecutive year, down from 408g to 340g since 2024 while the price jumped from $12.50 to $18. Cocoa wholesale prices have actually fallen. CHOICE is doing the forensic work so consumers don't have to.ACCC fines PhotobookShop — $39,600 in penalties for 107 undisclosed influencer reviews and selectively editing negative comments out of a published review. Mal makes the case the fine is too small to be a real deterrent.AusPost fuel surcharge hike — contract customers face a jump from 4.8% to 12% from April 23. Time to revisit your free shipping threshold and unit economics before it hits the P&L.KMD Brands trading suspension — the owner of Kathmandu, Rip Curl and Oboz enters voluntary ASX suspension while a Goldman Sachs-led recapitalisation is finalised. Half-year results delayed indefinitely.GAP returns to Australia via Myer — the third attempt, this time through local operator Fashionata across 27 Myer stores. Six consecutive quarters of global growth, cultural traction with a new generation, and Myer continuing its aggressive brand refresh strategy. Mal raises the anti-Americanism wildcard.Big Tech's very bad week — Meta hit with a $375M verdict in New Mexico, YouTube and Meta liable in California, and Australia's eSafety commissioner investigating five platforms for non-compliance with the under-16 social media ban. What this means for your channel mix, why diversification isn't optional anymore, and ChatGPT ads landing in Australia.

Mal is live from Singapore this week, joining Alex from the eTail Asia conference where AI dominated every session and the conversation is shifting — Asia's big marketplace-first model is starting to make room for DTC. Back home, Australians are dealing with a second consecutive RBA rate rise, a fuel crisis driven by the Strait of Hormuz shutdown, and the kind of cost-of-living pressure that changes how consumers spend and what operators need to do about it.This episode covers the macro squeeze in full — what rising rates, oil prices and shipping costs actually mean for your business — alongside the latest in agentic commerce (Shopify's big move and Walmart's quiet reality check), Myer's luxury beauty pivot, and the usual retail openings, closings and M&A news from around the country.H&M exits Tasmania / By Charlotte opens in WA: Global fast fashion retreats from low-density markets while a homegrown premium DTC brand goes big in Western Australia with three stores at launch.KMD rejects Stokehouse's Rip Curl demerger bid: The surf and outdoor giant turned down a proposal to spin off Rip Curl and merge it with US label Stokehouse, citing no new capital, shareholder dilution and a deal structure that created no value.Priceline franchise sale narrows to final four: The sale of Priceline Pharmacy's franchisee operations has reached its final stage with four undisclosed bidders, signalling further consolidation in Australian pharmacy retail.Rates, oil and the operator squeeze: The RBA's second consecutive rate rise to 4.10% — driven by a global energy crisis after Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz — is pushing fuel prices, freight costs and mortgage stress higher, with a third rise tipped for May.Agentic commerce arrives — but is anyone buying: Shopify has opened its infrastructure so millions of merchants can sell inside ChatGPT, but Walmart's months-long trial of in-chat checkout has produced disappointing sales results.Myer bets big on luxury skincare: After ending its 17-year Mecca partnership, Myer is repositioning beauty as its greatest growth opportunity with La Mer, Guerlain, Swiss Perfection and Helena Rubinstein landing in bespoke shop-in-shop formats.

Mal and Alex are back halfway through March with another Australian-heavy episode — covering everything from a $702K spam fine to a $750 million Amazon warehouse landing in Queensland. The week's stories are a useful reminder that the rules around consumer trust, brand authenticity, and competitive infrastructure are all tightening at once.This episode spans compliance wake-up calls, a 17-year trademark saga finally resolved in an Australian designer's favour, a bold strategy to reshore premium fashion manufacturing, and two deep dives into what brand longevity actually looks like — one a $100M nostalgia revival, the other a cautionary tale about losing sight of your customer.Lululemon's $702K Spam Act Fine — Lululemon was hit with a $702K ACMA fine for emailing unsubscribed customers and embedding promotional content in transactional emails — a reminder that enforcement is ramping up and the maximum penalty is $2.2M per day.Dolls Kill False Urgency Class Action — The US brand is facing a class action for running sales that outlasted their advertised end times, raising the broader point that manufactured urgency erodes consumer trust whether or not it ends in litigation.Katy Perry vs. Katie Perry — Australian Designer Wins — After a 17-year trademark battle, Sydney-based fashion designer Katie Perry has won the right to her own name in the High Court, underlining the importance of registering trademarks early before someone more famous comes along.RM Williams & Australian Fashion Council's 10-Year Manufacturing Strategy — RM Williams and the Australian Fashion Council have tabled a strategy to grow the domestic fashion and textiles industry from $27B to $38B by reshoring premium manufacturing — leaning into what Australia can actually win at globally.Amazon's $750M Robotics Fulfilment Centre in Queensland — Amazon is building a four-level, double-Suncorp-Stadium-sized fulfilment centre in Logan, fast-tracked by the Queensland government in just 35 days, which will make next-day delivery even more of a baseline expectation for Queensland shoppers.Von Dutch's $100M Comeback — Von Dutch has quietly crossed nine figures in global revenue by licensing its IP rather than manufacturing — proof that the 20-year nostalgia cycle is real, and that brand heritage can be monetised without owning a single factory.Witchery x Pip Edwards & Lara Worthington Collab — The campaign attracted criticism for a "hobo chic" aesthetic that felt misaligned with Witchery's core customer and tone-deaf given current cost-of-living pressures — a sharp lesson in knowing your customer before chasing cool.

Mal and Alex are back for a jam-packed, very Australian episode — recorded a day late thanks to the uneven chaos of state-based public holidays. From Koala's impending ASX debut to the Iconic finally turning a profit after 15 years, it's a week where the big stories reward anyone paying close attention to what they actually signal about the state of ecommerce and retail in Australia.This episode covers a lot of ground: geopolitical pressure on shipping costs, the dynamic pricing debate at Coles and Woolies, a snapshot of January's surprisingly solid retail data, and the tactical playbook brands need right now as conditions tighten heading into Q1. Whether you're a brand operator, a marketer, or just a retail nerd, there's something here for you.Koala IPO — Koala is targeting an April 1st ASX listing at a $300–305M market cap, backed by 42% revenue growth and a 280% jump in EBITDA, making a compelling case even in a muted IPO market dominated by AI capital flows.US-Iran Conflict & Retail Inflation — Ongoing conflict is pushing fuel and shipping costs higher, with New Zealand fashion sales already down 2.3% year-on-year and Australian petrol prices hitting record levels — bad news for discretionary retail.Lovisa & Cotton On Go Global — Lovisa has surpassed $500M in revenue across 1,100 stores in 50 countries, while Cotton On's rare push into India signals that international expansion is becoming a serious hedge against a soft Australian market.Coles & Woolies Dynamic Pricing — Neither retailer has ruled out demand-based pricing via their new electronic shelf labels, raising serious concerns about brand pricing control and consumer trust — all while both remain under ACCC investigation.ABS January Retail Data — Overall retail spending was up 5% year-on-year in January, but the data predates the February rate rise, making your own site's conversion rate a far more current indicator of business health.Brand Playbook for a Tough Market — With the in-market buyer pool shrinking, brands should shift budget toward upper-funnel demand generation, scenario plan at 70–80% of prior revenue, and prioritise newness and scarcity to drive urgency.The Iconic Finally Profitable — After 15 years, The Iconic has delivered $45.7M in adjusted EBITDA — achieved not through a single dramatic move, but by reducing discounting, going more premium, and growing its higher-margin third-party marketplace business.

In Episode 127 of This Week in Ecommerce, Mal Chia and Alex Ross break down the biggest retail news in Australia, from store closures and collapsing margins to AI-driven job cuts and the escalating beauty wars between major players.If you’re a retailer, founder, marketer or ecommerce operator, this is what you need to know right now.🔎 In This Episode:Accent Group shuts down Glue Store after an $8.6M loss — is mid-market retail officially dead?Maggie Beer Holdings returns to profit by focusing on operational efficiency instead of expansion.Ozsale relaunches under its original founder — can flash-sale marketplaces survive in 2026?Adore Beauty grows revenue 8.7% but sees profit drop 70% — can physical retail fix a margin problem?Sephora racks up $78M in Australian losses under LVMH — why is Australia so tough to crack?Block (owner of Square and Afterpay) cuts 40% of its workforce, explicitly citing AI efficiency.📈 Key Themes:Margin pressure in ecommerceThe collapse of mid-market retailBeauty industry competition in AustraliaAI replacing knowledge workersMarketplace viability in a discount-heavy worldRetail strategy in 2026Subscribe for weekly breakdowns of the biggest ecommerce and retail news affecting Australian brands.#Ecommerce #RetailNews #AustralianRetail #BeautyIndustry #AIinBusiness #Afterpay #Sephora #AdoreBeauty #Ozsale #RetailStrategy

From Trump’s tariff whiplash to TikTok’s strategic retreat and Lovisa’s share price tumble, this week’s episode unpacks the volatility shaping retail in 2025.Mal and Alex break down what’s noise, what’s signal, and what Australian retailers actually need to pay attention to — especially as global trade tensions resurface and consumer confidence remains fragile.If you’re exporting to the US, relying on TikTok Shop, or still operating on an old-school fast fashion model… this episode is a wake-up call.📰 In This EpisodeTikTok walks back mandatory Fulfilled by TikTok (FBT)TikTok reverses its plan to force sellers onto its fulfilment network, signalling limits to platform power in early-stage social commerce.ACCC announces 2026–27 enforcement prioritiesThe regulator sharpens focus on misleading pricing, digital platforms and consumer protection — with tougher enforcement expected.Bunnings launches on Uber Eats30,000 products now available for delivery, marking another step toward “everything commerce” and on-demand retail.eBay acquires DepopA major move in recommerce consolidation, as eBay doubles down on Gen Z resale and secondhand fashion.US Supreme Court overturns Trump’s global tariffsThe initial tariff framework is struck down — but quickly replaced with a new 15% flat tariff under alternative legislation.What the new US tariffs mean for Australian exportersIncreased volatility, margin pressure and renewed urgency around supply chain diversification.Lovisa shares drop ~30% after weak resultsSlower growth and margin compression highlight the pressure on fast-fashion retail models.The risks of constant newness in fashionInventory cycles and discount dependency continue to challenge brands reliant on rapid product turnover.The counterfeit crisis acceleratesA new study shows 78% of brands lose at least 5% of annual revenue to counterfeits — with AI and online marketplaces amplifying the issue.Platform consolidation and shifting retail powerFrom TikTok to eBay, major platforms are redefining the rules — and brands must decide how much control to give up.

This week, Mal flies solo while Alex recovers from a big weekend, but the headlines are anything but quiet.From a 38% surge in business-related personal insolvencies to the strategic voluntary administration of Barbecues Galore, retail stress is no longer theoretical — it’s structural.Plus:US daily online shopping drops 12%Social commerce declines sharplyValentine’s Day spending underperformsHermès defies the luxury slowdown with 12% growthThis episode breaks down what’s noise, what’s signal, and what retailers should actually be doing right now.

This week, Mal and Alex return to unpack a massive week in Australian retail. From job cuts at Peloton and controversy at Nike to Cosette’s dramatic closure and JB Hi-Fi launching a retail media network, Episode 125 breaks down the headlines that matter.🔹 In this episode:Peloton Cuts 11% of StaffThe pandemic darling continues its post-boom correction with major layoffs. Is AI taking over engineering jobs, or is this just poor pandemic planning coming full circle?  Nike Investigated for “Reverse Discrimination”The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is probing Nike for alleged discrimination against white employees. A bizarre case that may have ripple effects for diversity hiring everywhere.  Topshop Returns to Myer, Rhode Launches at MeccaTwo brand launches with very different energy. While Topshop leans into nostalgia, Rhode rides a wave of influencer-fueled anticipation. What’s the play for each retailer?  Cosette Collapses After 11 Years in AustraliaThe luxury reseller shuts down its Australian operations amid mounting legal complaints and trust issues. Mal and Alex break down what went wrong—and what it means for secondhand retail.  JB Hi-Fi Joins the Retail Media BoomJB Hi-Fi has launched its own omnichannel retail media network in partnership with Retail Media Works. Why this is a smart move—and a worrying sign for indie retail.  Facial Recognition at Bunnings Gets the Green LightIn a landmark decision, a tribunal has ruled that Bunnings can use facial recognition tech in stores—if customers are notified. A slippery slope for retail privacy, or necessary for security? 

It’s chaos out there – but in the best possible way. This week, Mal Chia is recording live from Sydney and joined by Alex Ross for a fast-paced round-up of stories shaking up ecommerce, tech, and retail. From viral toys in China to the TikTok/Meta power struggle, this episode covers the cultural trends, algorithm shifts, and economic forces every ecommerce brand should be watching.They unpack a factory error turned viral sensation (the crying horse plushie), why Facebook Marketplace is teaming up with Netflix, and what TikTok’s ownership shake-up could mean for creators and ecommerce sellers alike. They also break down inflation woes, the quiet rise of Threads, and whether Harris Farm is making a risky move by partnering with Amazon.In this episode:The crying horse toy going viral in China – a happy accident with big brand lessonsBridgerton x Facebook Marketplace – clever collab or cultural cash-in?TikTok’s US split: censorship accusations, user decline, and Meta’s moment to shineInflation bites: what rising rates mean for discretionary spend and discountingWhy ecommerce brands need to stop relying on breakneck Black Friday salesReporting season reveals some surprising wins for big-name Aussie brandsHarris Farm partners with Amazon – genius move or future regret?This ep is packed with cheeky banter, hard truths, and actionable insights for any retailer looking to navigate 2026 with smarts (and sanity) intact.

Trust is taking a beating in Ecommerce — and this week, Mal and Alex unpack exactly why. From AI-powered shopping ads and supermarket pricing games, to brands relaunching without soul and others doubling down on transparency, this episode explores how easily trust is lost… and how hard it is to win back. There’s plenty for retailers to think about as 2026 trends start creeping into today’s decisions.In this episode, we cover:🛒 AI shopping ads are comingWhy OpenAI-style shopping ads feel inevitable — and whether “best result” will soon mean “highest bidder”.🇦🇺 The Buy Australian Made pushA big government budget, but can it really change behaviour without fixing price and quality fundamentals?👖 Jeans West’s AI-led comebackWhen heritage brands relaunch with soulless, uncanny creative — and why it instantly damages trust.🦺 Trademutt’s high-vis swap campaignA masterclass in human, sustainable, trust-building retail done right.🫑 The Capsicum ParadoxHow supermarkets pricing produce per item online (instead of per kilo) creates opacity — and why the ACCC may start paying attention.💰 Smarter ways to show valueFrom cost-per-serve to cost-per-wear, and why helping customers do the mental maths matters.🧵 Levi’s teaching Gen Z to repair clothesSelling less as a confidence play — and why longevity is becoming a status symbol.🧠 The complexity taxWhy many brands don’t need more channels, tools or hires — they need better fundamentals.If you’re building, scaling, or fixing an Ecommerce brand in 2026, this episode is a timely reminder: trust isn’t a nice-to-have — it’s the business model.

This week, Mal and Alex are back with a scorching episode of This Week in Ecommerce, breaking down the biggest stories shaping retail in Australia and abroad. From Woolworths jumping headfirst into AI to the fading glow of The Oodie, the duo tackle retail shakeups, brand resurrections, and what happens when luxury loses its sparkle.Here’s what’s in store:🏆 Inside Retail Awards 2026: A refreshing mix of finalists with nods to Ergo Pouch, Nobby, and the ever-dominant Appliances Online. We celebrate the standouts (and hint at the PR machines behind them).👖 Sass and Bide: Fashion Fade or Phoenix Rising? Maya hits pause on the heritage label, but will it rise again—or is it time to retire the skinny jeans?🎮 EB Games Exits NZ: 38 stores shut down in a flash. We unpack the decline of physical media and why collectibles couldn’t save the day.🩲 Bonds & Co. Up for Sale: Hanes might be offloading Aussie staples like Sheridan and Burley. Is it smart restructuring or the start of a fire sale?💸 Saks Files Chapter 11: The US luxury retailer’s fall from grace—and what it means for premium department stores down under.🛋️ The Oodie Gets Too Comfy? Adelaide’s fluffy export is reportedly slipping into the red. But is the press blowing hot air or is the novelty finally wearing off?🧠 Woolworths x Google AI: From interpreting handwritten recipes to filling your cart—Mal and Alex debate if it’s a smart move or a sneaky upsell trap.

The Trust Reckoning: Platforms, Partnerships & the Cost of Playing It Safe2026 has barely started and ecommerce is already flashing warning signs.In the first episode of the year, Mal Chia and Alex Ross unpack a week of stories that perfectly capture the state of modern retail: trust under strain, platforms asserting power, partners disappearing overnight, and brands being forced to confront the true cost of growth-at-all-costs thinking.What’s becoming clear is that many of the “easy wins” that fuelled the last decade of ecommerce are being rolled back. Free returns are being restricted. Advertising costs keep climbing. Scam stores are multiplying. And the risk of relying too heavily on any single platform, partner, or tactic is now painfully real.This episode connects the dots between short-term decisions and long-term consequences — and why focus, authenticity, and discipline are emerging as the real competitive advantages in 2026.⚡ Topics CoveredMecca selling expired makeupA rare operational slip from Mecca shows how quickly trust can be tested in a social-first outrage cycle.Bondi tragedy profiteering & fake ecommerce storesScam retailers exploiting a national tragedy highlight the growing erosion of consumer trust online.ASOS introduces return visibility and caps free returnsASOS signals the end of free returns as a growth hack and a return to margin discipline.Wrangler, Lee & Riders pause Australian operationsThe quiet exit of mid-market denim brands reinforces how dangerous “middle-of-the-road” positioning has become.Meta locks 330,000 under-16 accountsMeta begins enforcing youth restrictions, adding volatility for advertisers reliant on scale.Sendle shuts down after PE fund freezeThe sudden collapse of Sendle exposes the hidden platform and partner risk retailers often ignore.Rhode launches in Australia via MeccaRhode shows how authenticity and pent-up demand can outperform rushed expansion.Focus vs discount dependencyBrands like Costco and Levi Strauss & Co. prove that clarity beats constant discounting.

This wasn’t a normal year in retail. It was a stress test.In this solo episode, Mal breaks down the five forces that quietly reshaped retail and ecommerce this year — and why so many brands struggled at the same time.This isn’t a recap of headlines. It’s a post-mortem of business models that only worked when conditions were perfect.Starting with the most visible consumer shifts and counting down to the most structural force underneath it all, Mal unpacks why weak retail models stopped being subsidised — and what actually separated the brands that survived from the ones that didn’t.🔢 What’s covered in this episode:#5 — Cheap China Reset Consumer ValueHow platforms like Shein and Temu didn’t just steal share — they rewired how consumers think about price, value, and waiting.#4 — AI Broke Trust Before It Created AdvantageThe rise of scam stores, fake creatives, and chargebacks — and why AI punished brands without taste, judgment, or governance.#3 — Retail Darwinism: Mosaic vs LabubuTwo very different failures, same lesson.• Mosaic Brands: legacy retail collapsing under debt, malls, and irrelevance• Labubu via Pop Mart: hype, virality, and scarcity with no durability#2 — The Death of the DTC FairytaleWhy brands rushed into stores, marketplaces, and wholesale — not for growth, but for survival.#1 — US Tariffs: The Real Story Beneath EverythingThe invisible structural force that exposed fragile economics, crushed mid-market margins, and made everything feel harder at once.

Black Friday has officially become Australia’s retail Super Bowl — but is that actually a good thing? In Episode 118, Mal and Alex unpack Australia Post’s biggest day ever ($1.5 billion in a single hit), why activewear keeps winning the sales race, and what it means when demand gets squeezed into just a few frantic days a year. From supermarkets racing for last-mile convenience to Lululemon’s very public identity wobble, this episode is a sharp end-of-year reality check for Ecommerce brands heading into 2026.  In this episode, we cover:Australia Post’s busiest day ever and what $1.5B in Black Friday spend signals for the marketWhy demand is concentrating into fewer days — and why that’s risky for cash flowActivewear’s continued rise (and why promotions are doing the heavy lifting)Woolworths, Coles and the battle for instant delivery via DoorDash and Uber EatsHow convenience shopping is quietly reshaping consumer behaviour (and budgets)Lululemon’s CEO exit, founder criticism and the fight to stay culturally relevantWhy “playing it safe” can slowly kill a once-iconic brandAustralian fashion retailers slashing inventory by up to 60% — smart reset or overcorrection?Practical advice on stock forecasting, supplier negotiation and protecting cash flowWhy 2026 could be a healthier year — if brands don’t forget how to take risksKey takeaway:Growth isn’t just about selling more during peak — it’s about staying relevant, managing cash wisely, and giving customers a reason to come back the other 360 days of the year.

This week, Mal and Alex break down the biggest stories shaping Australian ecommerce and retail. From AI slip-ups to collapsing kids’ brands, booming APAC Black Friday numbers, and a world-first social media ban, this episode covers the signals founders need to be watching as we head into 2026.Bunnings AI Illegal Advice — Their chatbot gave unsafe electrical guidance, highlighting the risks of AI deployments without proper guardrails.Step One Sales Slump — The underwear brand forecasts a 31–37% drop as overexpansion and category fatigue collide with cost-of-living pressure.Go-To Winds Down Gro-To — Zoë Foster Blake quietly closes the kids’ line to refocus resources and protect the core brand.Smiggle Struggles — Premier Retail flags weak sales as parents trade down on non-essential kids’ stationery.Loyalty Shift to Recognition — Points are losing power; emotional recognition, identity and belonging now drive true loyalty.BFCM 2025 Data — APAC sales surge, POS grows 54%, and Australia ranks #3 globally as Black Friday becomes an omnichannel event.Under-16 Social Media Ban — Age verification wipes out teen audiences on major platforms, reshaping youth marketing and influencer ecosystems.

Black Friday may be done and dusted, but the retail news machine definitely isn’t. This week, Mal and Alex unpack everything from the world’s first streetwear IPO to the grim reality of Aussies spending nearly half their income just keeping a roof over their heads. Add in fashion inflation, a Shein copying scandal, and the FDA doing something very questionable with cosmetic safety… and you’ve got yourself a spicy episode of This Week in Ecommerce.Human Made becomes the first streetwear brand to IPO — and investors go wild with a 12% opening-day surge. Can streetwear stay cool when shareholder value enters the chat?Surfstitch is relaunching with a focus on Aussie brands, but can they rebuild trust after years of brand damage and discount-driven decline?Fashion inflation hits 5.4% YoY, higher than total inflation. With costs rising across labour, materials and operations, retailers are facing the double-edged sword of higher prices and lower demand.Housing affordability crisis: Aussies are now spending a staggering 45% of household income on accommodation — and a terrifying 68% in Sydney. Mal and Alex break down what this means for discretionary spend, the rise of thrift and circular fashion, and how brands can adapt their assortment and value proposition.Shein accused of copying Last June within weeks: A new designer launches, and Shein allegedly pounces almost immediately. The duo unpack what this means for creativity, cultural value, IP protection, and why consumers need to care about originality.FDA withdraws mandatory asbestos testing for talc-based cosmetics: Yes, really. Mal and Alex explore the implications for global supply chains, safety standards, consumer trust, and why brands should expect increased scrutiny — even in markets like Australia.

This week, Mal and Alex wade into a very marketplace-heavy news cycle — from Princess Polly jumping into physical retail, to the quiet death of flash-sale platforms, to the Iconic proving you don’t need to spend more to grow more. Then we get into the big stuff: Kogan’s New Zealand headaches, Myer’s surprisingly strong marketplace success, and why Australia’s supermarket shelves are suffering from a chronic case of “innovation avoidance”. It’s packed, it’s punchy, and it’s peak 2025 retail chaos.  QuickiesPrincess Polly goes IRL at Westfield Bondi Junction with flashy mirrors, LED screens, and 50 new weekly styles — continuing the shift from pure-play to omnichannel.  OzSale to shut down in 2026, signalling the slow death of flash-sale marketplaces and the brutal economics of discount-led models.  The Iconic rejigs its marketing budget, growing NMV 5.8% through smarter spend, AI, and better channel discipline — not bigger budgets.  Deep DivesKogan’s NZ marketplace (Mighty Ape) drags profitability, highlighting the risks of cross-border marketplace ownership, low margins, and crowded competition.  Myer Marketplace surges +41%, with strong online sales, high brand trust, and a major Mirakl partnership to onboard thousands more sellers by 2026. Retail media revenue incoming.  Why Australia’s CPG innovation sucks — supermarket duopoly, high costs, low risk tolerance, shrinking investment, and a culture of “incrementalism over invention”. Plus the consumer role in pushing innovation forward.  Other Bits You’ll Hear About Black Friday chaos (or lack thereof) and early read-outs on trading performance.Whether Aussie shoppers are more loyal to price than brand.The slow decline of in-store sampling — and how that affects new product discovery.Why D2C CPG brands struggle with shipping, AOV, and margins.

Black Friday mayhem is in full swing, but Mal and Alex are keeping cool—and throwing the odd grenade—while the industry scrambles. In this episode, they unpack the week's biggest stories in ecommerce, from delivery duopolies to unexpected beauty wins.In this episode:Menulog exits Australia – UberEats and DoorDash now dominate as Menulog bows out, raising monopoly concerns.AI image theft – A furniture brand’s photos were unknowingly used via AI, sparking copyright headaches.Mateship x ParcelPoint – New partnership unlocks free shipping through community parcel drops.Country Road’s pivot – CR plans a department store-style model by stocking third-party brands.Amazon, Temu & Shein takeover – The trio are on track to own a third of Aussie online retail.Retail award season – Adore Beauty wins hearts (and Tim Tam points); Ladd and York Street rise fast.Retail crime soars – A 20% spike in theft prompts tougher penalties and more in-store security.Black Friday buying habits – Skincare leads the haul as consumers shop smarter and earlier.

This week on This Week in Ecommerce, Mal and Alex wade into the mayhem of “Black Friday month” — from the ACCC crackdown and a $6.8B spending forecast, to Coles’ AI-powered ecommerce surge and Shein’s controversial Paris store opening. Plus, they unpack the women’s workwear boom and why it’s the next billion-dollar opportunity hiding in plain sight.It’s a big week for Aussie retailers: consumers are tightening wallets, regulators are circling, and AI is reshaping the back office faster than anyone expected. The big question — how do you grow, stay ethical, and keep your margins intact during the busiest month of the year?🗞️ Quick HitsJessica Hatzis joins Betts Group — The Frank Body founder takes on a CMO/shareholder role to modernise a 133-year-old footwear brand. Expect a full repositioning, not just new ads.ACCC targets dodgy Black Friday discounts — The watchdog’s hunting fake “sitewide” sales and false strikethroughs. New penalties: up to 3× the ill-gotten gain.$6.8B in Black Friday spend forecast — ARA and Roy Morgan predict a 4% lift YoY, with 25% of spend now online. The margin war just got hotter.City Chic rebounds in ANZ — +10% revenue locally after aggressive restructuring; proof that focus beats expansion in tough markets.💡 Deep DivesColes Outpaces Woolies with 27.9% Ecommerce GrowthColes’ online sales now make up 13.3% of revenue, thanks to bigger fulfilment centres, smarter inventory, and a national rollout of ChatGPT Enterprise. Mal and Alex debate whether AI is creating efficiency — or quietly replacing people.The Women’s Workwear RevolutionGreenHip and She Wear are rewriting the rulebook on fit and function, showing that “women are not small men.” From Good Design Awards to booming demand, this is a category masterclass in spotting underserved markets and building brand moats through empathy and design.Shein’s Paris Store Backlash & The Collapse of CheapAs Shein opens inside Paris’ luxury BHV and faces protests, Aussie discounters like The Reject Shop lose their “low-cost” crown to Shein and Temu. The duo dig into what “value” means now — and how Australian retailers can win on trust, speed, and sustainability instead of racing to the bottom.

In this episode, Mal and Alex dig into what the latest retail news really signals — from job cuts at Amazon and Puma to quiet operational mastery at JB Hi-Fi and Starbucks’ long-awaited turnaround. They unpack the balance between AI efficiency and human experience, and debate whether Lululemon’s NFL partnership is a bold brand play or a case of chasing relevance.Key theme: The tension between focus and flash — doing the basics brilliantly versus chasing the next shiny thing.⚡ Quick Hits1. Amazon & Puma layoffsAmazon cuts 14,000 corporate roles; Puma drops 1,400 jobs.Mal coins the term “OrgZempic” — brands trimming for short-term health but risking long-term muscle.🔍 “If your first instinct is to cut, you don’t really have a growth strategy.”2. JB Hi-Fi steady growth+2.7% group sales to A$2.2B; online now 10% of total sales.Praised as the model of operational discipline and brand clarity.🧠 “They just do the basics right — clarity, value, execution.”3. Starbucks turnaround+2% global comp sales, +5% net revenue (US$9.1B) — first growth in 7 quarters.Loyalty up 11%, return to “third place” philosophy.✍️ They’re even writing names by hand on cups again.💬 “Turnarounds don’t come from innovation; they come from remembering what made you great.”4. AusPost’s “Back Team Australia” campaignCEO warns Amazon, Temu & Shein could dominate in 4 years.Debate: can patriotism outweigh price and convenience?💡 “If your factory sells the same product on Temu, you’ll lose — build what only you can.”🧠 Deep Dive1. Lululemon × NFL — smart expansion or brand drift?New collaboration with all 32 NFL teams; products on Lululemon.com, NFL Shop, and Fanatics.Mal questions whether it’s chasing dopamine (short-term hype) over long-term DNA.Alex highlights consumer response split — TikTok praise for quality, criticism for sameness.⚔️ Provocation: Is Lulu trying to grow men’s share or just chasing headlines?2. Gymshark × Dick’s Sporting Goods — DTC grows upGymshark enters wholesale via 12 House of Sport stores in the U.S.Only two core collections stocked — a “controlled wholesale” model.Alex reframes: “It’s not betrayal; it’s a level-up.”💥 Takeaway: DTC isn’t dead; it’s just maturing into an omnichannel play.3. Amazon’s Andy Jassy says “AI will end brick-and-mortar”Jassy predicts a flip from 85% in-store to 85% online.Mal and Alex push back — AI will enhance, not eliminate, physical retail.Mal: “You still can’t try on ski boots online.”Alex: “If anything, it reinforces why experiences matter.”🧩 Lesson: AI will automate discovery; human connection still converts.🧩 Key TakeawaysFocus is the new growth strategy — JB Hi-Fi and Starbucks win by doing less, better.AI is not the enemy — it’s a mirror showing what parts of your retail experience actually matter.Don’t chase new audiences at the cost of identity — Lululemon, take note.Retail nationalism won’t save you — differentiation will.

With Alex off the grid for the Tinny Rally, Mal takes the mic solo to unpack the week’s biggest retail headlines — from LSKD’s global retail rollout to Amazon’s rising fulfillment fees and what the latest Australia Post data says about online fashion’s surprise comeback.In This Episode:Cyber Month begins: Why early “Black Friday-but-not-Black Friday” sales are flooding inboxes — and what it means for retailers.LSKD goes global: The Aussie activewear powerhouse plans 29 stores by 2026 across the US, NZ, Singapore and the UAE.Netflix × Mattel × Hasbro: KPop Demon Hunters becomes a merch juggernaut — what it says about streaming IP and licensing strategy.Target US cuts 1,000 jobs: Corporate consolidation or warning sign for global retail giants?Amazon raises fees again: Why Mal calls it “rent-seeking behaviour” — and what D2C brands must do to survive the Amazon tax.Australia Post fashion report: Online fashion sales up 13 % YoY — is discounting a drug the industry can’t quit?Regional retail opportunity: The fastest-growing online fashion buyers aren’t in Sydney or Melbourne.Key Takeaways:Diversify your sales channels before you’re held hostage by marketplaces.Brand and differentiation remain the only real margin drivers.Black Friday should be short, sharp and strategic — not a month-long discount hangover.Regional Australia is ripe for growth — if you can reach those customers well.

It’s another jam-packed week in retail as we edge closer to peak season. In this episode, Mal and Alex cover the biggest stories across the e-commerce landscape—from unpredictable collabs to timeless classics making a comeback, and the rising retail moment that is Halloween.💡 In this episode:🍦 Lovehoney x Billy Van Creamy: Why an unexpected collab between a sexual wellness brand and a cult ice cream maker is winning attention—and how “weird” partnerships are making waves.💍 Havaianas x Arms of Eve: The iconic Aussie thong brand is getting the luxury treatment. Pinterest search interest is up 51%—is it Crocs’ turn to step aside?🧵 Hermès Designer Exit: After 37 years, the queen of “quiet luxury” steps down. What happens when legacy brands bring in the youth?👖 Levi’s Rebound: Up 7% YoY and D2C now 44% of revenue. Is this the rise of “recession-proof boring brands”?🎃 Halloween Spending Tops $500M in Australia: A holiday once dismissed as “too American” is now a retail powerhouse. Why Aussie brands should pay attention.👟 Is Drop Culture Dead?: Gen Z fatigue, resale pricing backlash, and availability anxiety—why sneakerheads (and fashion lovers) might be over the hype.🇺🇸 Bonus Take: With US tariffs on Chinese and Mexican goods tightening, is it time to diversify your supply chain?🎯 Big Themes:The return to trusted, high-quality staples in uncertain economic timesCollabs that actually work—and how randomness equals cut-throughGen Z’s shifting shopping habits (and what it means for DTC brands)Cultural moments (like Halloween) as drivers of spend, not just “holidays”Why boring might just be the new cool📍 Mentioned Brands & News:Lovehoney, Billy Van Creamy, Havaianas, Arms of EveHermès, Levi Strauss, Nudie JeansBlack Milk, OnlyFans x Urban Decay, RM WilliamsRetail Dive: Drop Culture Commentary🎧 Listen now to hear what every Aussie retailer should be planning for this Halloween and beyond.

This week, hosts Mal Chia and Alex Ross dive into one of the biggest news weeks of the year for global retail and ecommerce. From Simon Beard’s bold new Creator Army venture to the rise of Digital Product Passports and a 100% tariff on Chinese imports announced by Donald Trump, this episode covers everything Australian retailers need to prepare for.Plus, we look at Kooki's return to the UK, the closure of Famous Footwear’s Australian stores, and Gap’s new multi-year AI partnership with Google Cloud that’s set to redefine retail operations.🧭 Key Stories This Week1. Simon Beard launches Creator ArmyThe Culture Kings founder is back — and he’s not doing things by halves. Creator Army is a platform to train and connect “full stack creators” with brands, launching via livestream this week. Mal and Alex explore where this sits in the crowded creator–brand ecosystem and why Beard’s personal brand might be the secret weapon that gives it an edge.2. Kooki returns to the UKAfter more than a decade, the iconic Aussie–French fashion label is heading back to London with a corporate-owned flagship planned for 2026. The hosts unpack what this says about the resurgence of UK retail and why control over brand expression matters more than ever.3. Famous Footwear calls it quitsAll 17 Australian stores are shuttering, with online trading to continue only until year’s end. Mal and Alex discuss what went wrong — from weak brand awareness to lack of differentiation — and what retailers can learn about standing out in a crowded category.4. Digital Product Passports debut in BangladeshA world-first initiative in textile traceability is rolling out with support from Fashion for Good and H&M. It promises full visibility into a garment’s origin, materials, and ethical footprint — a move that could reshape consumer trust and regulatory expectations by 2030.5. Trump’s 100% tariff on Chinese goodsAnother shockwave for global trade: Donald Trump has imposed a 100% tariff on Chinese imports to the U.S., sparking immediate market volatility. The hosts unpack what this means for Australian brands selling into the U.S., and how to prepare for supply chain disruption right before Black Friday.6. Gap x Google Cloud: AI Meets RetailGap has signed a multi-year AI partnership using Google’s full stack — Gemini, Vertex AI, and BigQuery — to transform product development, pricing, and operations. Is this the beginning of a smarter, more data-driven retail era?

In Episode 108 of This Week in Ecommerce, Mal and Alex dissect the biggest stories shaping ecommerce and brand strategy this week — from Gucci’s cinematic campaign to Shopify’s major AI integration with OpenAI.They unpack what brands get right (and wrong) when chasing attention, and how ecommerce leaders can stay ahead as the lines blur between product, performance, and content.🔍 Key Topics:🧠 OpenAI x Shopify: How deep AI integration changes product discovery — and why structured data is the new SEO.💸 The ‘AI Ad Tax’ is coming: Mal and Alex break down what ad-supported AI could mean for already stretched retail budgets.🎬 Gucci’s Spike Jonze short film: What it says about attention, brand depth, and whether smaller brands can (or should) follow suit.🧘‍♀️ Alo Yoga’s $3,600 bag + ageism lawsuit: Are they stretching the brand — or solidifying their luxury pivot?🧍‍♀️ Body image backlash: Why Aje and Bec & Bridge had ads pulled — and whether the scrutiny is driving lasting change.🏃 Nike’s DTC slowdown: Is the wholesale comeback a sign of bigger shifts in distribution strategy?🛒 Amazon’s Prime AOV play: One-tap add-ons could be a game changer in bundled logistics and habit-forming behaviour.With Black Friday just around the corner, it’s a timely pulse check on the state of brand, discovery, and consumer expectations.

In Episode 107 of This Week in Ecommerce, Mal and Alex tackle a chaotic week in retail, tech, and consumer trust.From Meta’s live demo fail to another sunscreen brand getting caught with dodgy SPF claims, this episode dives into how trust, transparency, and timing are becoming critical differentiators for brands heading into Q4.💣 Key Topics Covered:👓 Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses live demo fail 🧴 Another sunscreen brand recalled for inaccurate SPF claims — is trust in new beauty brands eroding?👙 Nike x Skims finally launches… but the drop lands flat after months of delays and no real innovation💰 Are we already in a recession? Mal & Alex break down the economic signals and what it means for retail🧼 The rise of men’s grooming: Is male-focused beauty the next white space?🚨 Amazon fined $3.8B for misleading Prime signups — is it just the cost of doing business?🔒 Data protection, privacy, and why Shopify’s move to block address exports is a smart oneAs always, the team brings insights, analysis, and a bit of banter to help you navigate the noisy retail news cycle.

Q4 is coming in hot — and retail is already on fire 🔥This week, Mal and Alex dig into a scandal shaking one of Australia’s biggest retail groups, the quiet downfall of viral sensation Labubu, and what TikTok’s rise as a search engine means for brands heading into peak.Also on deck: Aussie consumer confidence is defying global trends, David Jones’ web traffic spikes unexpectedly, and discoverability is shifting away from Google… fast.If you’re planning Black Friday, betting on bundles, or wondering how to bring your brand story to life in a TikTok-first world — this one’s for you.🔎 Key Stories:Super Retail Group CEO ousted over undisclosed relationship — costing him millions in shares.Labubu's $6B valuation crash shows what happens when hype outpaces strategy.Australia Post resumes U.S. parcel shipping (earlier than expected!) — great news for merchants.David Jones traffic jumps +1M users in August — has their site overhaul paid off?Aussie shoppers to spend 14% more this holiday season, says Deloitte.TikTok and YouTube are now key discovery platforms — what brands must know.Black Friday pricing strategies & PDP optimisation tips — how to win wallet share without eroding margin.

In this episode of This Week in E-Commerce, Mal and Alex unpack the big trends shaping Q4 and beyond — from the slow fade of Lululemon’s dominance, to why fragrance is suddenly every brand’s favourite brand extension, and how Gen Z’s conscious spending habits are forcing a rethink on value.Whether it’s the rise of K-Beauty, the fall of dark UX, or the EU’s bold stance on fashion waste, one thing is clear: standing still is no longer an option.🔑 In this episode:• 🧘‍♀️ Lululemon’s glow-up fades as the brand struggles to maintain momentum in the U.S.• 🌸 Fragrance is booming as fashion brands turn scent into a scalable product category.• 🇰🇷 K-Beauty dominates Aussie skincare — affordable, innovative, and culturally aspirational.• 👙 Monday Swimwear opens in Beverly Hills, proving the playbook for Aussie DTC brands scaling luxury.• 💳 Click to Cancel gains traction, signalling the end of dark UX in subscriptions.• ♻️ The EU introduces Producer Responsibility, with massive implications for Australian brands.• 🧠 Gen Z plans to spend less this holiday season, not just due to cost — but conscious choice.

This week marks two years of This Week in E-Commerce and the hot takes are flowing as freely as ever.Mal’s just landed in Sydney to deliver the IPX keynote, Alex is dropping a new webinar series, and the industry hasn’t slowed down one bit.From Qantas’ fashion-forward makeover to Lorna Jane’s bold lifestyle play, and the relentless rise of TikTok Shop, Mal and Alex cover the stories that matter — with a healthy side of chaotic retail energy.🧵 Topics this week:✈️ Qantas taps Rebecca Vallance for new crew uniforms — and it’s about more than just looks.🧘‍♀️ Lorna Jane acquires a luxury wellness retreat — the blueprint for lifestyle brand expansion?🎟️ Aussies spending big on experiences — concerts > groceries?🛍️ P. Louise breaks TikTok Shop records with $2.7M in 14 hours — and the rise of TikTok TV shopping studios.💳 Harvey Norman loses appeal over “interest-free” advertising — and the court wasn’t subtle about it.🧠 Retail’s mental health crisis — SDA report exposes shocking working conditions for frontline staff.🤖 The AI backlash continues — is the hype bubble about to burst?Mal and Alex also share their thoughts on building culture, respecting frontline retail workers, and the importance of designing marketing moments (not just new product drops).

In Episode 103 of This Week in E-commerce, Mal Chia and Alex Ross dive into the biggest trends, scandals, and pop culture crossovers shaking up retail this week.From AI-generated “digital slop” to the Gen Z-led thrifting boom and the impact of Taylor Swift’s diamond ring, this episode explores how brand trust, creativity, and consumer behaviour continue to evolve in unexpected ways.🔑 Key topics this week:🧠 AI-generated ads and the backlash:J.Crew and Guess slammed for using AI models, sparking backlash over authenticity and even “digital blackface”Why customers feel deceived and what brands need to consider around trust, ethics, and creative integrityWhen it’s helpful to use AI (and when it crosses the line)👛 The Thrifting Boom is Real:87% of NSW adults shopped secondhand this yearWhy Gen Z loves the thrill of the find and personalised styleSavers opens a “thrift megastore” and Vinny’s builds its tech stack💎 Taylor Swift, Devil Wears Prada & Fashion Pop Culture:Devil Wears Prada 2 is already shaping editorial trendsSwift’s natural diamond sends ripples through the engagement ring marketTravis Kelce’s American Eagle collab and redefining masculinity in retail🧢 Quickfire stories:Mosaic Brands hit with a $25M fine for failing to deliver nearly 740,000 ordersSetire posts a $12M swing into the red and pivots to AsiaHomeCo Ballarat sells for $54M, highlighting the importance of regional retail hubsThe bag charm trend is officially mainstream

In this episode of This Week in E-Commerce, Mal Chia and Alex Ross tackle the biggest disruption to Australian retail logistics in years: Australia Post has abruptly halted all standard parcel shipments to the US.With the end of de minimis on August 29 and tariffs of up to $200 USD per parcel kicking in, brands relying on AusPost are suddenly scrambling to find alternatives — or risk being cut off from the US entirely.Mal breaks down what’s behind the move, who it hits hardest, and what urgent steps retailers need to take now — from switching to commercial clearance to investing in 3PL or local US warehousing.Also in this episode:• 🏬 Adore Beauty’s retail expansion & profit growth• 🛠️ New Zealand’s Kitchen Things enters receivership• 💄 Mini Cooper x TBH Skincare: a very pink brand collab• 🚨 Naked Sundays pulls SPF products amid safety concerns🔑 Key Topic: Australia Post Halts US ShipmentsTriggered by the end of de minimis and uncertain US tariff processingImpacts all standard AusPost parcels to the US and Puerto RicoCommercial carriers (e.g., DHL, UPS) still operational via clearance modelRetailers face $80–$200 USD duties per parcel during transitionSolution coming via Zonos partnership — but not in time for BFCMSmall and mid-sized brands especially vulnerableMal also gives credit to the WhatsApp retail community for helping brands navigate the crisis — with shoutouts to Dean Salakas, Jethro Marks, and Justin Irvine for their early insights and support.

In Episode 101 of This Week in E-Commerce, Mal Chia and Alex Ross take on a packed week of retail stories — from beauty trends and licensing meltdowns to JB Hi-Fi’s record-breaking run. It’s a wild ride through the strategic, the strange, and the surprisingly successful.The duo dives into how legacy brands like ASICs are quietly crushing it, why Funko Pop’s licensing-heavy model is falling apart, and how an Aussie distributor turned Pokemon cards into a $200M empire. Plus, they unpack Urban Decay’s eyebrow-raising OnlyFans ad campaign, and what it signals about changing norms in influencer marketing.All that — and yes, salmon sperm makes an unexpected appearance too.🔑 Key Topics:👟 ASICs’ Massive GrowthRevenue up 17.7% to $2.74B; net profit margin at 13%Performance footwear is booming — and so is ASICs’ R&D-fueled product strategyWhy it’s winning without trend-chasing🧸 Funko Faces CollapseSales down 22%; 20% of staff laid offTariffs + margin squeeze from licensing = a business model under pressureWhy relying solely on IP you don’t own is risky🛒 JB Hi-Fi’s Unstoppable StreakFY25 revenue up 10% to $10.5BOutperformed ASX by 54%New CEO incoming — but can they keep the momentum?🎴 Pokémon Cards = Big BusinessAussie distributor Banter Toys turned a 2007 handshake into $200MWhat it tells us about licensing, nostalgia, and the kidult economyPokémon is still the most-searched item on eBay💄 Urban Decay x OnlyFansIs sex selling again — or just evolving?Risks, rewards, and what this means for brands chasing reach through controversy🍣 Beauty Trend of the Week: Salmon Sperm FacialsYep, you read that right.

🎉 We made it to 100! In this special centennial episode of This Week in E-Commerce, Mal Chia and Alex Ross reflect on the ever-evolving world of retail — and prove once again there’s never a quiet week.From Yotpo’s shock email/SMS shutdown, to Zara’s banned ads, to the rise and potential fall of Crocs, Labubus, and kiddulting, this episode is packed with insights on trend cycles, product strategy, and the power of focus in a crowded market.Plus: we dive into the under-recognised brilliance of the National Indigenous Fashion Awards, and whether Australia’s fast fashion giants are simply… running out of steam.🔑 Key Topics:📉 Yotpo Pulls the Pin on Email/SMSAbrupt shutdown of its messaging product & sale to AttentiveWhat it says about the all-in-one stack modelWhy best-in-class still beats bundle-and-hope in MarTech🚫 Zara’s Ads Banned in the UKAds featuring ultra-thin models pulled for breaching standardsHow editing, posing, and lighting all play into body imageThe growing push for healthy representation in fashion marketing📉 AKA Brands Plateau in AustraliaCulture Kings & Princess Polly struggle with relevanceA demographic with less cash and higher expectationsCan these brands age with their audience—or will they fade out?🌈 The Rise of Kiddulting (and Maybe the Fall?)Labubu, Jellycats, Pokémon collabs & the “lipstick effect”Is nostalgia the new luxury?Signs the resale bubble may be popping🩴 From Crocs to Havianas: Are Chunky Shoes Over?Crocs shares tumble 30%Shift to “barely there” shoes like mesh flats & slidesWhat this trend says about post-pandemic style psychology🌿 National Indigenous Fashion AwardsA must-watch moment for Australian fashionRepresentation, authenticity & cultural storytellingWhy it deserves mainstream attention (and retail support)

In Episode 99 of This Week in Ecommerce, Mal Chia flies solo as Alex recovers—but there's no shortage of big headlines and big numbers. With Q2 earnings dropping across the tech giants, Mal breaks down what it all means for retailers and brand owners.From Amazon’s surprise exit from Google Shopping to Shein’s €1M greenwashing fine, and the continued rise of retail media and AI-driven ad platforms, this episode is a crash course in what’s shaping e-commerce in Q3 and beyond.Mal also revisits the Tigerlily x Seafolly comeback story, and gives a sharp, honest take on brand positioning, DNA, and why some brands should stop chasing "luxury" and get back to what made them great.🔑 Key Topics:🛒 Amazon Quietly Exits Google ShoppingGlobal pullback from Shopping ads = less competition for independentsMore impressions, lower CPCs… but more pressure to differentiateWhat this tells us about Amazon’s growing internal search power🧾 Q2 Earnings Breakdown: Big Tech’s Big BetsAmazon: $167B in revenue, $18B profit, ad business outpacing marketplaceMeta: 22% revenue growth driven by AI-powered ad tools (Advantage+)Google: $96B revenue; search still strong despite GenAI threatsKlaviyo & Shopify: Enterprise focus and AI bets continue🌏 Shein Fined for Greenwashing€1M fine by Italian watchdog for vague/misleading sustainability claimsFrance’s fast fashion law could hit them harder—up to €190MA sign that regulators are finally holding fast fashion accountable👙 Tigerlily’s Relaunch Under SeafollyBack to prints, brand DNA, and margin-sharing via backend opsA case study in the dangers of “going premium” without positioningLessons from Riderwear and how brand dilution hurts growth

In this special emergency episode of This Week in E-Commerce, Mal Chia and Alex Ross are joined by Justin Irvine (The Aggregate Co) to break down the seismic news shaking Australian retail: the end of the U.S. de minimis exemption — with just 30 days’ notice.Previously, parcels under $800 could enter the U.S. tariff-free. Now, all shipments will be subject to duties, clearance fees, and new red tape — no matter where they’re from. This change, fast-tracked by an executive order from Donald Trump, will have immediate consequences for any Aussie brand selling to the U.S., especially those relying on low-cost international shipping or postal hacks like Australia Post.Justin unpacks what it means, who it hits hardest, and how retailers can still sell into the U.S. — but only if they act fast.

In Episode 98 of This Week in E-Commerce, Mal Chia and Alex Ross return fresh from the Online Retailer Conference to unpack the most fascinating stories across retail, brand partnerships, AI commerce, and luxury’s crumbling facade.From the $150M acquisition of TikTok Shop darling Phleur, to LVMH’s luxury fall from grace, to the rise of ChatGPT-powered shopping, this episode is full of high-impact insights. Mal and Alex also explore the dangers of building in public, influencer fallouts, and how fandom-fueled collabs are rewriting the rules of product drops.🔑 Key Topics:🛍️ TikTok Shop’s First Big ExitFleur, a beauty brand born on TikTok, acquired by TSG Consumer.Launched in 2022, now doing $150M in annual retail sales.What it tells us about social-first commerce and marketing-led brand growth.📉 LVMH’s Luxury SlumpFashion and leather goods down 9.2% YoY.Ongoing issues: data breach, labour scandal, and luxury goods used for money laundering.Has the dream lost its magic—and its moral compass?🧠 ChatGPT Checkout & DiscoveryThe future of shopping: ask, recommend, buy—all without visiting a store.What this means for product data, storytelling, and discoverability.Will this bring the magic back to online retail, or just recreate the ad-driven mess of Google?🎮 Fandom x Collab = $200M in One DayFinal Fantasy x Magic: The Gathering sells $200M in a single day.Mal breaks down the power of licensing and superfans.Why niche + nostalgia might be the most underrated sales combo in ecomm.🤝 When Partnerships Go BadThe fallout between influencer Sarah’s Day and fragrance brand Who Is Elijah.Why founder/influencer alignment matters—and what to do when the public gets involved.Lessons from The Daily Edited and other brand-influencer blowups.

In Episode 97 of This Week in E-Commerce, Mal Chia and Alex Ross are recording live from Sydney ahead of the Online Retailer Conference—and the energy is high. They unpack a packed agenda of the latest retail news, including:Temu’s aggressive push into the Aussie market with a new local seller programAmazon’s $4B last-mile investment and what it signals about growth plateaus in citiesMoonpig’s quirky entry into Australia’s print-on-demand gifting sceneLoro Piana’s luxury labour scandal, andThe “emotional ceiling” holding e-commerce back from its next growth curvePlus: Alex and Mal discuss why Miss Amara and Go-To Skincare are winning the emotional loyalty game—and what retailers can do to create “micro-moments” that build real brand love.

In Episode 96 of This Week in E-Commerce, Mal and Alex are back to unpack the biggest stories shaking Australian retail. First up, Amazon Prime Day isn’t just a mid-year sale—it’s a multi-billion-dollar juggernaut that’s disrupting spending patterns and leaving local retailers in the dust. Then, the shock exit of heritage brand Country Road from New South Wales raises deeper questions about brand perception, cost pressures, and consumer loyalty. Finally, a rare bright spot: City Chic’s surprise turnaround from multi-million dollar losses to profitability shows what’s possible when brands refocus on their core customer.Whether you’re trying to protect margin, earn back trust, or plan for peak season, this episode is packed with practical insight.1. Amazon Prime Day Crushes Competition:Prime Week in Australia saw 72% of online shoppers take part.U.S. shoppers spent $24.1 billion—a 28% YoY increase.Many local retailers saw flat or declining sales as spend was consolidated with Amazon.The takeaway? Brands must now rethink whether to fight the marketplace model or join it.2. Country Road Retreats from NSW:Iconic Aussie fashion brand to shut down all NSW stores, including its QVB flagship.Rising rents + falling discretionary spend blamed for the retreat.TikTok backlash reflects deeper issues: perceived quality drop and pricing disconnect.Mal and Alex ask: can a heritage brand survive cost-cutting without damaging its identity?3. City Chic’s $12 Million Swing:From an $8M loss to up to $6M EBITDA in 12 months.Turnaround driven by a strategic exit from the U.S. and renewed focus on their core shopper.In a climate where many fashion brands are contracting, City Chic’s disciplined focus sets a powerful example.

In Episode 95 of This Week in E-Commerce, Mal Chia flies solo to break down the biggest shifts in the retail landscape. From Amazon Prime Day’s increasingly disruptive influence to the quiet rebellion against free shipping and returns, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the post–EOFY slowdown. Mal also unpacks Lululemon’s lawsuit against Costco, the growing importance of micro-moments in retail, and the global fallout from Trump’s new $3 trillion deficit bill.Grab a coffee and strap in — it’s a sharp, insightful solo session packed with strategy and real talk.Retailers Reconsider Free Shipping & Returns:New Shippit data shows brands like H&M and Uniqlo are reversing free return policies.Returns in marketplaces can be as high as 50%, significantly eroding margins.Mal’s advice: be transparent with customers, use loyalty incentives, and reset expectations before it’s too late.The Power of Micro Moments:A good product isn’t enough—memorable moments matter.Mal highlights brands like Apple, Frank Green, and Amino Z for nailing end-to-end customer experience.Personalised touches and post-purchase surprises create long-term brand equity.Trump’s $3 Trillion Deficit and Tariff Fallout:New U.S. legislation could push interest rates higher and strengthen the USD.This risks increasing import costs for Australian retailers sourcing in USD.Recommendations: explore FX tools (Airwallex, Revolut), rethink pricing strategy, and consider reshoring or nearshoringLululemon vs Costco: The War on Dupes:Lululemon sues Costco for copying its Align leggings and promoting them as dupes.Implications for premium and luxury brands trying to protect their image.Mal calls on brands to protect IP, build community, and highlight what makes their product really different.PLUS: Online Retailer Conference is around the corner!Mal will be hosting the NORA stage at ORC Sydney, July 23–24. Use the code MalChia for a free show floor pass.https://www.onlineretailer.com/en-gb/register.html?cat=retailer&ct=U2FsdGVkX19lx0W5QMdQQ70KvdPKNrC74XrRblRub4nMH0x7/8QIRGidKg+LF5YkFollow MalLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malchiaWebsite: malchia.com

In Episode 94, Mal Chia and Alex Ross dive into a jam-packed week for Australian retail. Recording on the road, Mal and Alex cover:💎 Billionaire Bling & Excess Culture — What Jeff Bezos’ $150M wedding says about the rise of flashy consumerism, the return of “swaggy and braggy” style, and its impact on luxury retail and jewellery trends.🛍 Fit Tech & Virtual Try-Ons — Google’s standalone “Doppl” app and the future of virtual fitting, plus why solutions like MagicFit may offer better accuracy for apparel.🎀 Labubu's Everywhere — From Uniqlo partnerships to airport sightings, why Labooboo’s rise keeps accelerating.🍔 Barbie Cafés & Third Spaces — Barbie’s café concept lands in Melbourne, alongside trends like Netflix’s planned IRL stores and laundromat-cafés as new consumer hubs.🏠 Omnichannel in Action — What retailers can learn from Kookai x Hawthorn’s merch collab and the success of brands blurring online and offline.This episode explores how popular culture and retail continue to collide — and what smart retailers can do to stay relevant.

Is EOFY being overshadowed by Prime Day? And what does a $100 million penalty say about retail culture?In this week’s episode, Mal Chia and Alex Ross unpack the headlines that are reshaping Australian retail—from Amazon’s 4-day Prime Day blitz to the fallout at Optus and bold acquisition plays closer to home.🔍 This Week’s TopicsAmazon Prime Day expands to 4 daysWhat Aussie retailers can learn from the US giant’s precision-timed sales machine—and why LeBron is now the face of Prime.Optus fined $100 millionA damning ruling for targeting vulnerable customers. Mal breaks down what this says about leadership, accountability, and the ethics of sales culture.DigiDirect buys M-WaveAnother under-the-radar acquisition from the camera and tech retailer. What’s the strategy here—and how does it differ from Mosaic’s model?AMART and Freedom form a $1B furniture empireMore PE-backed consolidation. But will it work? And what lessons does retail need to learn from Mosaic’s unraveling?The risk and reward of founder contentInspired by the Shameless podcast, a look at why founder-led storytelling is dominating—and how burnout, brand-building, and visibility intersect.💬 Quote of the Week“You’re either a faceless brand or you’re someone people connect with. Founder content builds trust—but it also doubles the stakes.” – Mal Chia

This week marks a fresh chapter for This Week in Ecommerce as Alex Ross officially joins as co-host! In this packed episode, Mal and Alex dive into three major stories shaping retail right now:The ACCC Cracks Down: Major Aussie retailers like Michael Hill and Hairhouse have been penalised for misleading Black Friday discounts. What this means for trust, and how brands should rethink their promotional strategies.The Fall (and Pivot) of Alchemy Brands: With the closure of National Geographic stores and the pivot toward Lego and General Pants, Mal and Alex explore the deeper strategy behind brand licensing and experiential retail.The Rise of Labubu: From viral TikToks to $250K plush toys, the hosts dissect the Labubu phenomenon and how novelty, scarcity, and celebrity seeding are fueling a new wave of “dopamine shopping.”Key Takeaways:Why urgency-based EOFY offers are working—and where brands get it wrong.The cost of consumer mistrust and why compliance is non-negotiable heading into Black Friday.What the closure of NG stores tells us about brand reach, licensing power, and cultural relevance.How Labooboo and fruit charms are driving a “lipstick effect” resurgence in novelty shopping.

It’s the end of an era—and the start of a brand new one. In his final solo episode before bringing in a sharp-tongued co-host, Mal Chia unpacks a wild week in ecommerce. Toys R Us collapses again, TikTok Shop is turning into a digital dollar store, and Aussie wine producers are literally ripping out their vines. Brutal. But wait—there’s hope. With Nike teaming up with Lego and local legends like Robern Menz punching above their weight, not all is lost in the war for cultural relevance.In this jam-packed episode:The third (and likely final) fall of Toys R Us—why nostalgia isn’t enough anymoreTikTok Shop’s reality check: low spend, high returns, and bargain basement chaosAustralia’s wine glut and why red grapes are being bulldozed from Barossa to the borderHow Robern Menz and Lego are winning by licensing culture, not just pushing productThe one metric your next brand collab must hit—or don’t botherIt’s a world where products don’t just need margin—they need meaning. And this week proves it.

Episode 90 hits hard. While insolvencies shake Australia’s retail scene—with big names like Jeanswest and Mosaic Brands biting the dust—Mal breaks down what’s really causing the collapse: strategic debt, digital irrelevance, and a dangerous addiction to discounting.But it’s not all doom and gloom. Across the Pacific, e.l.f. Cosmetics just dropped a jaw-dropping $1B on Rhode, Hailey Bieber’s skincare brand. Why? Because cultural capital and community beat catalogue codes and clearance bins.In this episode, Mal unpacks:Why Australia’s retail mid-market is cracking under the pressureThe slow fade of Jeanswest and what it teaches us about brand neglectWhat e.l.f. really bought with $1B—and why Rhode’s audience-first model is the futureTactical moves every founder and operator must make now to survive (and thrive)It’s not about being everywhere. It’s about mattering somewhere.

This week, Mal brings the fire from Retail Fest week with a jam-packed episode that swings from sober reflection to tech fascination and geopolitical trade chaos. Kicking off with a poignant nod to National Sorry Day and the importance of Indigenous partnerships in business, we quickly shift gears to tackle:🔥 Donald Trump’s new tariff threats and why Apple and Walmart are in his sights (hint: it’s not pretty)📱 The real cost of making iPhones in America – and the wild $3,500 prediction🇨🇳 Chinese ecommerce giants flood into Australia, changing the retail game overnight💡 Why Aussie retailers must stop competing on price and double down on value🕶️ Google’s wearable reboot: teaming up with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker to give AR glasses another shot📈 What AI glasses mean for customer experience, privacy, and the future of in-store shoppingWhether you’re prepping for EOFY sales or just trying to stay sane amidst global disruption, Mal’s got your back. It’s one of those episodes where politics, tech, and retail collide—and it’s unmissable.

Mal’s back from Singapore and just in time to break down one of the juiciest weeks in retail. With the RBA announcing a second interest rate cut for 2025, you might be tempted to pop some bubbly—but hold the cork. This episode explores what the rate drop really means for consumers, ecommerce brands, and the struggling fashion sector. Mal also unpacks the collapse of cult favourites like SurfStitch and Collette by Collette Heyman, and why private equity is moving from mid-market fashion to high-margin, high-fandom concepts like Lego stores.And in a final twist, Google just might be coming for Shopify’s lunch—with AI-powered virtual try-ons and agentic checkouts, the search giant is testing a seamless end-to-end shopping experience that could shake up D2C.Key highlights:What the RBA’s rate cut actually means for ecommerce (spoiler: don’t bank on a boom)Why fashion brands are folding—and what Lego can teach us about retail resilienceMal’s no-BS guide to end-of-financial-year sales (RIP sitewide discounts)Google’s AI shopping assistant and the threat to merchant-owned ecommerceThe big question: is the link between consumer confidence and interest rates broken?