67 episodes

The Space Bar podcast is an ecommerce podcast from Space 48, a remote-first ecommerce agency who designs high performing, technologically superior ecommerce stores for global brands.

We have teamed up with our ecommerce network of clients and tech partners to produce a focused podcast for people working in our industry. Our aim is to share the latest news, tips and advice for growing your brand online and provide as much value as possible to the ecommerce community.

We hope you enjoy it and make sure you subscribe for the latest episodes and leave a review to let us know what you think.

The Space Bar: Ecommerce Podcast by Space 48 Space 48

    • Business
    • 5.0 • 10 Ratings

The Space Bar podcast is an ecommerce podcast from Space 48, a remote-first ecommerce agency who designs high performing, technologically superior ecommerce stores for global brands.

We have teamed up with our ecommerce network of clients and tech partners to produce a focused podcast for people working in our industry. Our aim is to share the latest news, tips and advice for growing your brand online and provide as much value as possible to the ecommerce community.

We hope you enjoy it and make sure you subscribe for the latest episodes and leave a review to let us know what you think.

    #62: Operational Excellence in eCommerce: Unveiling the Engine Behind Online Success

    #62: Operational Excellence in eCommerce: Unveiling the Engine Behind Online Success

    In this episode of the Space Bar Podcast, we venture behind the scenes of the digital storefront to uncover the critical yet often overlooked facets of operational eCommerce. Join us as Jon Woodall, CEO of Dark Matter Commerce and the founder of Space 48, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Pete Robertshaw, Head of Consultancy at Space 48.

    Diving deep into the operational backbone of eCommerce, we unravel the complexities of fulfilment, inventory management, order processing, customer service, and streamlined payment solutions. With a keen emphasis on how these operational aspects are not just part of the machinery but are vital for sustaining customer loyalty and driving the engine of business growth, this episode is a must-listen for any eCom professional.

    Our experts tackle the challenges businesses face in operational eCommerce. From navigating the intricacies of delivery costs to the seamless integration of order management and ERP systems, every topic is addressed with actionable advice and real-world examples. The conversation also covers organisations' critical roles and responsibilities for making technology decisions that significantly impact operations.

    Obstacles such as scaling customer service, managing product data, and excelling in omnichannel retailing are brought to light. To wrap up, Pete stresses the monumental impact of identifying and addressing operational gaps in today's competitive eCommerce landscape. He also teases the highly anticipated Commerce Fusion event, which aims to address these challenges.

    This episode promises valuable perspectives on enhancing operational efficacy and ensuring business success in the digital age.

    Listen to the podcast now and attend Commerce Fusion for an even deeper dive into operational eCommerce excellence.

    • 51 min
    #61: Unlocking Markets: The Power of Accessible and Localised Video Content

    #61: Unlocking Markets: The Power of Accessible and Localised Video Content

    In this episode of the Space Bar Podcast, we discuss the topic of Making Video Content Accessible to All Audiences. Understanding the importance of this can transform how businesses reach out to their global audience and ensure no one is left behind in the digital age. To help dig into this topic, our host, Molly Smith, is joined by Sophie Young, Localisation Services Director, who set up the localisation department at Bring Digital, and Jonny Taylor, Head of Marketing at Bring, brings a wealth of experience across content and SEO.



    Sophie and Jonny share remarkable insights into how localisation bridges the gap between content and audiences worldwide by adapting video materials not just through language but also by considering cultural nuances, ensuring accessibility, and overcoming barriers for people with visual or hearing impairments. We're about to explore how localisation is not just a tool for global expansion but an essential component of inclusive marketing strategies that respect and acknowledge diverse audience needs.



    In our discussion, we touch upon personal journeys, the evolution and strategic importance of localisation in content creation, and the innovative measures Bring Digital undertakes to make videos accessible to all. From subtitles to voice-overs and the significant role of human translators in the era of AI, this episode unpacks the layers of localisation work and its impact on global markets.



    Prepare to deep-dive into how video content, when properly localised, can unlock untapped market potentials, foster inclusivity, and drive global growth, all while maintaining the core essence of the brand's message. 

    Topics include:


    The strategic importance and benefits of making video content accessible and localised for global audiences.
    The various forms of localisation, including subtitling and voice-over, enhance accessibility and market reach.
    Incorporating both global and local approaches in marketing efforts to achieve effective localisation.
    The critical role of maintaining brand consistency across different markets while respecting cultural nuances.
    Global brands must adapt their messaging and products to resonate effectively with local markets.
    Examples of cultural considerations and the importance of native-speaking translators in ensuring content is appropriate for each market.
    The evolution of audience behaviours and expectations regarding engaging with online video content.
    The significance of accessibility in business strategy and the advantages of prioritising subtitling and voice-over for individuals with disabilities.
    Limitations of using AI for translation and the complexities AI faces with languages having different conventions and cultural nuances.



    Hosted by ⁠Molly Smith⁠, Group Head of Marketing at ⁠Dark Matter Commerce⁠.



    Guests: ⁠Sophie Young, Localisation Director, ⁠Bring Digital⁠ and ⁠Jonny Taylor⁠, Head of Marketing at ⁠Bring Digital

    • 38 min
    #60: Unboxing Logistics: Overcoming Challenges & Harnessing Tech in Fulfilment Operations

    #60: Unboxing Logistics: Overcoming Challenges & Harnessing Tech in Fulfilment Operations

    Welcome to the latest insightful episode of the Space Bar Podcast, where we unpack the complexities of logistics and fulfilment that retailers are grappling with in a market full of rising costs and changing consumer expectations. Logistics maestro James Hayes from Whistl Group joins host Pete Robertshaw to dissect the state of delivery in the UK and explore innovative solutions.



    Retailers are feeling the pinch as delivery costs spike and operational expenses skyrocket. But what's the underlying cause, and more importantly, what can be done? We're discussing whether it's better to pick up or drop off, the myth of carrier hierarchies, and the pressing question - to free deliver or not to free deliver?

    favourite

    James lends his expertise to the gripes with packaging, locker services' real benefits, PUDO's rising popularity, and the ins and outs of providing an 'eco' delivery option. Can customers expect to pay less, and should retailers offer it as a necessity? Tune in to find out.



    With a focus on eCommerce and technology, hear James divulge the details regarding game-changing fulfilment and shipping technologies and whether AI is making significant strides in logistics.



    Listen now to understand how you can overcome these current logistics challenges.

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    Remember to subscribe to the Space Bar Podcast for more episodes like this, and if you found value in our discussion, give us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Stay tuned for more expert takes and deep dives into the world of eCommerce and logistics! 🚀

    • 1 hr 4 min
    #59: How to craft a winning strategy

    #59: How to craft a winning strategy

    Welcome back to the Space Bar podcast! In this episode, we discuss the importance of digital strategy and how to craft a winning one. In today's ever-shifting digital ecosystem, the marketing landscape has transformed dramatically, ushering in a new era of strategies, technologies, and consumer behaviours that continually redefine digital marketing.



    We’re joined by Mel Walker, COO, who leads the strategy function at Bring Digital, and Ollie Lees, Strategy Director at Bring Digital. Some of our loyal listeners may know Ollie already, as he has been a long-standing employee at Space 48 and has recently moved over to Bring, Space 48’s sister performance marketing agency and part of the Dark Matter Commerce group. 



    Both bring a wealth of experience across strategy, data, and consultancy in this space. So, eCommerce professionals who are looking to build an effective strategy for your brand in 2024, this episode is worth seeing. 



    Topics include:


    Introducing Mel Walker and Ollie Lees


    The importance of strategy in eCommerce


    Adopting new technologies without a clear strategy


    Strategy misconceptions in business


    Simplicity in strategy


    Business Strategy and Cost Efficiencies 


    Strategy's Impact on Business Direction and Consistency


    Attribution Modeling in Digital Marketing


    Data Accuracy in Attribution Modelling and GA4


    Measuring Marketing ROI and Data Accuracy


    Taking a step back and auditing for growth


    Strategic frameworks for eCommerce business success


    The importance of OKRs in eCommerce


    Strategic planning in eCommerce, focusing on "Why" questions


    Balance scorecards


    Top five tips for strategy



    Hosted by Molly Smith, Group Head of Marketing at Dark Matter Commerce.



    Guests: Mel Walker, COO, Bring Digital and Ollie Lees, Strategy Director at Bring Digital

    • 1 hr 6 min
    #58: Diary of an ecommerce manager - an interview with Clare Kelly

    #58: Diary of an ecommerce manager - an interview with Clare Kelly

    Welcome back to the Space Bar podcast! In this episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Clare Kelly, an experienced eCommerce manager who has transitioned into being her own boss in consultancy.  



    Join us as we delve into Clare's fascinating 15-year journey in the digital space, where we discovered our shared expertise in all aspects of eCommerce, from marketing strategies to operational know-how. This interview will uncover Clare's valuable experiences and highlight her impactful roles at various companies. Get ready for an enlightening discussion as we tap into Clare's wealth of insights, providing our listeners with a treasure trove of eCommerce wisdom.



    Topics include:


    Introduction to Clare - from working at Amazon to Tate Modern. 
    Working for Microsoft and the early days of tech and search engines
    Search Engine Marketing and Demographic Changes 

    Younger gens favors TikTok and Instagram over traditional search engines.
    Bing's usage by older gens and potential marketing opportunities.

    Amazon E-commerce and Merchandising Strategies 
    Amazon Seller Strategies and Fees 
    Work Culture at Tate Modern and Amazon 
    Digital Marketing for Cultural Institutions
    Replatform project for the Tate Group
    Salesforce Commerce Cloud Implementation Challenges
    Importance of correct architecture for business complexity.
    B2B and B2C E-commerce Experiences 
    Challenges in B2B and B2C Retail Marketing 
    Ecommerce Trends and Sustainability 
    Recommerce potential in the fashion industry.
    Ecommerce Strategies and Trends 
    Ecommerce Platforms and Replatforming 
    Entrepreneurship, E-commerce, and Sustainability 



    Guest: Clare Kelly, Ecommerce & Digital | Consultant & Coach, Branch9 Digital

    Hosted by Pete Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting, Space 48

    • 53 min
    #57: Simplifying Globalisation For Digital Retail: Strategies For Stress-Free Expansion

    #57: Simplifying Globalisation For Digital Retail: Strategies For Stress-Free Expansion

    Welcome to this week's episode of the Space Bar podcast!



    In this episode, we're diving into the topic of globalisation made easy and how it can help you internationalise your digital retail business without any headaches. We have two amazing guests, Laetitia and Emily Peters, who are sales directors at Global-e, the world leaders in end-to-end cross-border ecommerce solutions.



    During this episode, we'll explore the challenges many merchants face when growing their business globally. How Global-e simplifies the cross-border process makes it easier for the consumer and the merchant. No more dealing with issues like currencies, duties, shipping, and languages - Global-e is here to alleviate that stress!



    Topics include:


    Discovering global ecommerce solutions and leveraging data-driven insights
    Simplifying cross-border processes for brands and merchants
    Focusing on international expansion opportunities in markets like Poland and Turkey
    The importance of researching local markets and consumer behaviours before expanding internationally
    Utilising marketplaces like Amazon or eBay for market research
    Localising websites and marketing efforts to drive traffic and win back business
    Strategies for addressing language barriers, payment methods, and checkout processes in ecommerce
    Pricing strategies, integration, and adjusting prices for different markets
    Shopify partnership with Markets Pro for global expansion to 200 countries
    Emphasising localised payment methods and their significance
    Recommendations for ecommerce logistics, shipping, and fulfilment
    Addressing customs issues and promoting transparency in cross-border selling
    The importance of localised checkout and shipping processes for sustainable international sales
    Emerging trends in ecommerce sustainability, including cash-on-delivery payments in the Middle East and net-zero emissions goals



    Hosted by Pete Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting, Space 48

    • 50 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
10 Ratings

10 Ratings

Molly Roxanne ,

The podcast for all things eCommerce!

Really interesting and insightful podcast for anyone working in the e-commerce space!

AAO-90 ,

99 problems but a pod ain’t 1

Really insightful!

nickj89 ,

Great insight into the eCommerce industry

I might be biased, but I loved the first episode and I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next!

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