Amazon Vendor Central is a cloud-based inventory management system that allows third-party sellers to upload their products directly to Amazon. Using technology and smart planning is crucial for businesses to expand and connect with more people, and Shawn Oleson, a Retail Insights Manager for Amazon at SupplyPike and former Amazon employee, suggests that before jumping into it, businesses should focus on creating solid plans, organizing data, and using technology to make their operations smoother. In today’s episode, hosts Scott Luton and Greg White welcome Shawn to the show and discuss: The significance of data-driven approaches and understanding retailer-vendor dynamics The challenges businesses face with Amazon Vendor Central, and the need for strategic planning, compliance adherence, and effectively managing claims and fines The evolving nature of e-commerce, the necessity of streamlined processes, and the pivotal role technology plays in adapting to changes in Amazon’s policies The complexity of Amazon’s ecosystem and the importance of having an intermediary or partner with expertise to navigate it successfully SupplyPike’s role in providing software solutions for brands, manufacturers, and consumer packaged goods Listen in and learn more about the various challenges and best practices in managing Amazon Vendor Central, and take away key insights into…

The Buzz is Supply Chain Now’s regular Monday livestream, held at 12 noon ET each week. This show focuses on some of the leading stories from global supply chain and global business, always with special guests – the most important of which is the live audience! In this week’s episode of The Buzz, hosts Mary Kate Love and Katherine Hintz bring you the second marketing edition of The Buzz! Together they tackle top news by discussing: The uptick in influencer and celebrity marketing The impact of Amazon Prime Day on consumer shopping habits and supply chain, noting the potential strain on delivery and reverse logistics due to increased purchases and returns Costco’s decision to increase its membership fee due to inflation and rising supply chain costs, while maintaining a high customer retention rate The importance of customer experience for customer retention And so much more!