Wrapping Up The FODcast Season 6: Our Best Season Yet!

December 13, 2024

It’s fair to say that Season 6 of Simply Commerce’s The FODcast: The Future of Digital Commerce has been our most exciting and impactful season to date.

With captivating discussions and expert insights from our stellar lineup of guests, the podcast has gained traction with listeners from across the globe. The numbers speak for themselves—this season has seen impressive engagement and a growing community of digital commerce enthusiasts tuning in for every episode.

If you missed an episode—or simply want to reflect on the highlights—here’s a look back at the conversations that defined this series.

Season Highlights

This season shone a spotlight on how businesses are embracing digital transformation to remain competitive and future-ready.

The future of digital commerce is discussed at length across all of the episodes, but here are just a few highlights from what has been a BUMPER season:

Modernising Clarks for Tomorrow’s Retail Landscape with Meriel Neighbour

  • Key Takeaway: Meriel Neighbour discusses the digital transformation journey at Clarks, focusing on modernising their technology landscape to meet future retail demands.
  • 📽️ Watch HERE 

At the MACH Crossroads: Evolving Expectations in Digital Commerce with Sonja Keerl & Jim Herbert

  • Key Takeaway: Sonja Keerl and Jim Herbert explore the future of digital commerce, emphasizing the importance of MACH (Microservices, API-first, Cloud-native, and Headless) technology in meeting evolving buyer expectations.
  • 📽️ Watch HERE 

Flexibility and Cost-Effectiveness: Fractional Hiring Insights with Adrian Wakefield

  • Key Takeaway: Adrian Wakefield discusses how fractional hiring provides businesses with access to specialized skills and strategic vision without the need for full-time commitments.
  • 📽️ Watch HERE 

Tech Strategies Redefining the Travel Industry with Mike Jones

  • Key Takeaway: Mike Jones shares how Love Holidays transformed its technology landscape, leveraging AI and service-oriented architecture to drive innovation and operational growth.
  • 📽️ Watch HERE 

Mastering Digital Transformation for Successful Business Change with Wendy Isaacs

  • Key Takeaway: Wendy Isaacs shares strategies for successful digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of aligning people, culture, and strategic planning.
  • 📽️ Watch HERE

Builing a Successful eCommerce Business with Nathan Lomax

  • Key Takeaway: Nathan Lomax talks about the challenges and successes of building an eCommerce business, highlighting the importance of resilience, strategic planning, and work-life balance.
  • 📽️ Watch HERE

Final Thoughts

It’s clear from our conversations over the last three years on the FODcast, that the digital commerce sector is experiencing a period of significant evolution, where businesses are increasingly compelled to innovate and adapt to rapidly advancing technologies and changing consumer behaviours.

Digital transformation has become the cornerstone of strategic success, driving businesses to integrate digital technologies across every facet of their operations. It’s not just about enhancing efficiency, but about creating smarter, more personalised customer journeys that foster deeper engagement and loyalty.

Companies must leverage data-driven insights to optimise their offerings, from product recommendations to tailored promotions, and even anticipate customer needs before they arise. This data-first approach is essential to staying competitive, allowing businesses to make informed, real-time decisions that enhance both customer satisfaction and profitability.

Equally important is the emphasis on customer experience, which has become a key differentiator in a crowded marketplace. Today’s consumers expect seamless, consistent, and personalised interactions across multiple channels, whether online or offline. Businesses must meet these expectations by implementing omnichannel strategies that unify customer touchpoints, providing a smooth transition from one channel to another.

Moreover, the role of agility and adaptability cannot be overstated—organisations must be ready to pivot and innovate swiftly in response to market shifts and technological advancements. The adoption of composable architectures enables businesses to create flexible, scalable solutions tailored to their specific needs, although careful planning and integration are required to avoid the complexities and costs that can arise, particularly for mid-market companies.

The digital commerce landscape is ultimately about finding the right balance between technology and the human element—ensuring that digital innovations enhance rather than replace the authentic relationships that businesses must nurture with their customers. Strong leadership, skilled teams, and a customer-centric mindset are indispensable in driving digital transformation.

As the sector continues to evolve, businesses that invest in the right technologies, stay ahead of trends like gamification and personalised rewards, and prioritise a seamless, high-value customer experience will be best positioned to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive marketplace.

Catch Up on Every Episode

Missed an episode? You can listen to the full season—and previous seasons—on your preferred platform:

Thank You To Our Guests

This season’s lineup featured an exceptional group of experts, each offering unique perspectives on the world of digital commerce.

Here’s a full list of the brilliant minds who joined us:

Join the Conversation

The future of digital commerce is constantly evolving, and The FODcast is here to bring you the latest insights. If you’d like to be a guest on the show and share your expertise, we’d love to hear from you.

Get in touch HERE for an initial chat.

Here’s to more exciting discussions, expert opinions, and innovative ideas. We’ll see you in the next season!

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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Industry News & Headlines | November 2024

December 13, 2024

November was a month filled with engaging meetings and productive conversations. While 2024 may not have unfolded as many had hoped, there are promising signs that the market has bottomed out. Encouragingly, the discussions we’re having now are not just more confident but backed by real substance as we look ahead to 2025.

Since early 2023, many businesses in commerce and retail have pressed pause on innovation. However, it’s evident this approach can no longer hold, given the rapid advancements in technology and the rising expectations of customers and stakeholders alike.

Shopify has largely stood apart from market challenges throughout most of this year, continuing to gain significant market share at the SMB level. The company is now setting its sights on dominating the enterprise market—a bold ambition that, while requiring some compromises in the short term, many believe it has the potential to achieve.

As Shopify progresses toward this goal, we can expect a noticeable impact on future hiring trends across the industry.

Podcast discussions throughout Q4 have centred on enhancing customer experience, with a strong focus on personalisation, loyalty, promotions, and returns—crucial priorities for brands during this time of year.

As we wrap up the year, it’s clear that while challenges remain, there is a renewed sense of optimism and momentum building across commerce and retail. With conversations shifting towards meaningful innovation and a focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences, the outlook for Q1 2025 is increasingly positive. Here’s to a year of growth, investment, and exciting opportunities ahead.

 

Market Spotlight + Top 5 eCommerce Stories This Month

  • Retail Economics & Vinted released research this week showing UK shoppers plan to spend a total of £2.05bn on secondhand gifts over this festive season as pre-loved rise in popularity READ MORE
  • Ted Baker relaunched its UK website on 15 November under new operator United Legwear & Apparel Co. (ULAC) READ MORE
  • TikTok for Business forecasts record-breaking festive sales driven by a 64% rise in UK live shopping sessions over the last 12 months, with daily sales rising 93% driven by beauty brands READ MORE
  • Marks and Spencer expanded its beauty takeback scheme to 100 UK stores as part of its sustainability efforts. Customers can now recycle beauty packaging from any retailer, with over 1.6 tonnes of packaging processed since the scheme’s launch READ MORE
  • Ocado Retail will add hundreds of products to its own-brand range next year, including seasonal items. Sales of its own-range items have risen 12% this year, now making up over 10% of customer baskets READ MORE

 

Each month we send out the latest industry news and headlines, plus sector insight such as this via our newsletter, The Pulse. This also includes the latest jobs and internal news… click HERE  to subscribe

 

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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S6 | “Revolutionising E-Commerce: The Role of AI and Personalisation ” with Roxy Couse

December 11, 2024

What’s driving the next wave of e-commerce innovation?

In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Roxy Couse, Bloomreach’s new Director of Community and Content Marketing, to explore how AI and personalisation are redefining the customer experience.

From seamless shopping journeys to innovative strategies like returnless returns, Roxy shares the tools and techniques brands are using to stay ahead in a competitive digital landscape.

💡 What’s in this episode?

  • Insights into the role of AI in creating tailored customer experiences that build loyalty.
  • Strategies for overcoming omni-channel challenges and unifying business operations.
  • A look at how real-time data and user-friendly tech are transforming the e-commerce landscape.

🎙️ Roxy also reveals how Bloomreach has set the standard in personalisation, enabling brands to guide customers effortlessly to the products they need. Her practical advice on integrating AI strategically offers a roadmap for businesses looking to enhance their digital offering.

🎧 Ready to explore the cutting edge of e-commerce? Tune in now!

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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S6 | “Tech Strategies Redefining the Travel Industry” Mike Jones on Transforming loveholidays and Ushering in Innovation

December 9, 2024

Ever wondered how failure can fuel success?

In our latest FODcast episode, we’re joined by Mike Jones, CTO of loveholidays, who takes us on a captivating journey from experiencing nine startup failures in one year to leading two major companies to astounding success.

Mike shares how these setbacks became the foundation for resilience, innovation, and growth, helping Love Holidays become a tech powerhouse in the travel industry.

💡 What’s inside this episode?

  • The tech-driven transformation of Love Holidays, including the shift from monolithic systems to service-oriented architecture.
  • How Generative AI is revolutionising operations, from content creation to customer service.
  • The importance of diverse talent and co-located, cross-functional teams in driving innovation.

🎙️ Mike shares how strategic leadership and the seamless alignment of technology with business goals have propelled a ‘technology company that just happens to be in travel’ to industry frontrunner status. His insights are packed with actionable lessons for anyone navigating the dynamic intersection of business and tech

💬 As Mike puts it best: “You either win or learn.” It’s a mindset that resonates deeply throughout this conversation.

🎧 Ready to be inspired? Tune in now on your favourite platform—links below! 👇

Links as always can be found below – available on multiple platforms, wherever you get your podcasts >>>

 

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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S6 | “At The MACH Crossroads: Evolving Expectations in Digital Commerce” with Sonja Keerl & Jim Herbert

November 28, 2024

In our latest FODcast episode, CEO Tim Roedel hosts our first head-to-head with two industry heavyweights: Sonja Keerl, co-founder of the MACH Alliance, and Jim Herbert, CEO of Patchworks.

Together, they tackle a critical question:

What does the future of digital commerce look like as we approach 2025, especially with MACH at a key inflection point?

This jam-packed episode focuses on the growing ambition of buyers and the pressing need for vendors to adapt quickly to keep pace. As MACH technology continues to shape the digital commerce landscape, can vendors move fast enough to support evolving buyer expectations?

🔍 Discussion Highlights:

  • MACH at an Inflection Point: Jim and Sonja discuss how we’re at a pivotal moment for MACH technology, with buyers pushing for more flexibility, speed, and scalability – but are vendors keeping up?
  • AI-Driven Commerce: Explore how AI is simplifying complex systems, making commerce smarter and more efficient for businesses of all sizes, and how it fits into the MACH framework.
  • The Rise of Tech-Savvy Buyers: Digital-native enterprise buyers are reshaping how technology is integrated, demanding transparency, seamless ecosystems, and tailored solutions.
  • Platform Evolution: Can platforms like Shopify meet the growing needs of enterprise customers while staying true to MACH principles? We dive into the debate.
  • New Frontiers for MACH: From healthcare to financial services, discover how unexpected sectors are adopting composable technology and driving demand for MACH solutions.
  • Vendor Adaptability: Why vendor success hinges on their ability to adapt quickly and align with buyers’ big ambitions in this rapidly evolving landscape.

 

🎧 Tune in now to hear from two industry experts leading the charge in an ever-changing digital commerce space 

Links as always can be found below – available on multiple platforms, wherever you get your podcasts >>>

 

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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S6 | Mastering Digital Transformation: Insights on Change Management with Abbie Ross and Kathryn Roberts

November 21, 2024

Ever wondered why so many digital transformations fail even with the latest tech? Tune in to the latest FODcast episode, where Abbie Ross and Kathryn Roberts from Lean Tree reveal the often-overlooked factor in success: the people behind the transformation.

In this insightful chat, Abbie and Kathryn share why aligning project teams and end-users is crucial from day one and how clear, consistent communication can prevent the costly missteps that derail projects.

They discuss practical strategies to help leaders turn digital initiatives into collaborative efforts that empower teams and maximise tech investments.

💡 Ready to lead a transformation that truly works for your people and your business?

Don’t miss their expert tips on bringing in external change management specialists for a smoother, more sustainable transformation journey.

Links as always can be found below – available on multiple platforms, wherever you get your podcasts >>>

 

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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Industry News & Headlines | October 2024

November 15, 2024

Q4 started positively with a flurry of new positions being registered plus previously paused vacancies coming back to market. Historically Q4 has usually been a strong trading period for the business and it looks as though this will be the case this year.

The general sentiment within the industry is that there is lots of opportunity out there. In the last 4 weeks we have seen, multiple retail brands turn on the tap for leadership hiring, a handful of new projects signed off with platforms such as BigCommerce, Shopline and Shopify and have heard of a noticeable increase in RFP’s for almost all of our clients.

Whilst a lot of these are still focused on smaller incremental changes in areas around PIM, Search and Loyalty, there are more conversations around larger transformation programmes.

Shopify still seems to be the platform of choice for many SME’s re-platforming and this has created a candidate short market, particularly across delivery and engineering. Hiring vendor side also seems to have increased with a number of businesses investing in their sales functions at either BDR, AE or Partnerships level. Usually, this reflects opportunity in the market they are looking to capitalise on.

With the above in mind, there is a general feeling of optimism as we head towards 2025.

AND FINALLY…

Job application numbers are high, particularly across more generic areas, this is creating a real problem for both job seekers who are struggling to be seen, as well as those looking to hire due to the time taken to filter through the applicants. If this is a pain you’re suffering we have some quick tips to help, feel free to get in touch if they could help you.

 

Market Spotlight + Top 5 eCommerce Stories This Month

  • Boohoo Group PLC has named Debenhams boss Daniel Finley as its new CEO, shunning Mike Ashley’s demands to run the business READ MORE
  • Harrods relaunched its ecommerce platform with Scayle, featuring a refreshed design, integrated systems, and an upgraded mobile app coming soon READ MORE
  • Avon is moving away from door-to-door selling, expanding its franchise presence to 650 Superdrug stores by year-end and planning 2,300 global locations by 2024 READ MORE
  • Vinted completed a £282.96m secondary share sale to fund expansion into categories like electronics and books, valuing the company at £4.16bn as it broadens its second-hand market reach READ MORE
  • Amazon extended its same-day delivery to over 80 UK towns and cities, including Middlesbrough, Aberdeen, and Plymouth. With demand doubling since 2023, it’s investing £580m in robotics and AI to improve fulfilment efficiency READ MORE

 

Each month we send out the latest industry news and headlines, plus sector insight such as this via our newsletter, The Pulse. This also includes the latest jobs and internal news… click HERE  to subscribe

 

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

Connect on LinkedIn

S6 | Episode 7 with Wendy Isaacs from Valtech

November 6, 2024

Looking to lead a successful digital transformation in today’s fast-paced world? In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with Wendy Isaacs, Executive Director of Commerce and Experience Delivery at Valtech.

Wendy’s journey—from the early days of CompuServe to steering modern digital strategies—provides invaluable lessons for navigating change in the digital age.

Wendy shares her insights on achieving transformation by balancing people, culture, and strategic planning. She breaks down the difference between incremental and revolutionary change, showing how both require alignment across behaviour, skills, and organisational structure, with people at the core.

For anyone involved in digital transformation, Wendy’s advice on skilled programme management, effective product ownership, and forging strong business partnerships is essential listening.

Links as always can be found below – available on multiple platforms, wherever you get your podcasts >>>

 

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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S6 | Episode 6 with Sam Panzer from Talon.One

October 25, 2024

Discover how to maximise customer loyalty and boost profitability with expert insights from Sam Panzer, Director of Industry Strategy at Talon.One.

In the latest episode of The FODcast, Sam shares his career journey from retail marketing to industry strategy, offering actionable advice on how brands can leverage loyalty programmes, gamification, and personalised offers to transform customer retention.

Sam explains how even modest loyalty rewards can significantly enhance retention without eroding profits, unlike traditional discounts. With convenience-driven competitors like Amazon, emotionally engaging loyalty programmes are now more vital than ever. This episode explores how brands can elevate their loyalty strategies using technological advancements, creating seamless and impactful retail experiences.

We also dive into the power of gamification as a tool for boosting customer engagement. Sam highlights techniques like gift-with-purchase incentives and product bundling—successfully used by brands like Lego—that create value while protecting profitability.

The episode wraps up with a look at data-driven loyalty strategies, discussing the importance of integrating customer data, session behaviour, and item data to tailor promotions more effectively.

🎧  Packed with valuable insights and practical tips, this episode is a must-listen for brands looking to refine their loyalty programmes and stay ahead in a competitive market.

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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S6 | Bonus Episode 4 with Simon Lascelles from Business Technology Leaders

October 23, 2024

In our latest FODcast short, CEO Tim Roedel welcomes Simon Lascelles, Managing Partner at Business Technology Leaders.

Simon reveals how the fractional leadership model is transforming mid-market companies by offering high-level technology executives on a flexible basis – a trend that is quickly becoming the new normal for a number of reasons.

🔍 Discussion Highlights:

  • Fractional Leadership Model: Simon outlines how agencies are primed to provide fractional CIOs, CTOs, and other C-suite roles to support digital transformation without the expense of full-time hires.
  • Benefits of the Model: How businesses are seeing the advantages of getting access to top-tier expertise as needed, address the tech talent shortage, and save on costs compared to hiring full-time executives.
  • Accountability and Engagement: How do fractional leaders embed themselves into the culture of their ‘clients’? (And, why they must be as deeply invested in outcomes as full-time/salaried staff).
  • Expanding Roles: How the fractional approach is now extending to roles beyond technology, including CFO, CMO, and CBO, forming a “fractional executive team” to drive business success.
  • Future Outlook: What is the “new normal,” especially when looking at the growing relevance of changing employment laws and benefits for mid-market companies?

🎧 Tune in now to discover how fractional leadership is already revolutionising business strategy in an evolving market

Written by:

Tim Roedel

CEO

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