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

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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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S6 | Episode 5 with Simon Suarez from AbsoluteLabs

October 16, 2024

What are the secrets to revolutionising digital commerce in today’s fast-paced retail landscape?

In Episode 5 of the current season of the FODcast, we welcome Simon Suarez, Director of Enterprise Architecture at AbsoluteLabs, who shares his extensive insights into omni-channel strategies and customer engagement.

With decades of experience spanning luxury retail brands including Gucci, Stella McCartney, and Sweaty Betty, Simon discusses how brands have shifted from isolated operations to a customer-focused approach.

He reveals how the pandemic helped to transform physical stores into omni-fulfillment centres and highlights the impressive success of brands such as John Lewis in creating a seamless customer experience.

Join us as we explore the future of retail engagement and the vital role of techno-functional leaders in driving business growth. Discover the transition from a project-to-product mindset and how agile organisations are adapting to consumer preferences.

In our chat with Simon, we also discuss the importance of a personalised service through clienteling and balancing diverse customer needs within a store environment – and where cutting-edge trends in AI, mobile integration, and gamification also have their part to play.

This episode is packed with valuable insights into the ever-evolving retail industry and covers a wide range of topics, from innovative strategies to actionable advice for those working in, around, and for retail businesses. One not to be missed.

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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Industry News & Headlines | September 2024

October 16, 2024

Is it just us, or did September fly by in a blink? It was a jam-packed month of meetings, events, and travel for us, yet somehow we’ve already landed in the final quarter of the year!  As we gear up for what’s next, here are a few key market insights and updates to keep on your radar.

It was interesting to read the latest ManpowerGroup report which indicates a positive +28% Net Employment Outlook—up 8% this quarter. While optimism is rising thanks to easing inflation and lower interest rate expectations, businesses are still cautious. Temporary hiring is up, but permanent roles are growing more slowly as companies prioritise short-term flexibility.

Key updates:

  •  New vacancies fell short of expectations due to project delays and a focus on internal promotions.
  •  Hybrid work remains a hot topic, with Amazon announcing the return of a five day working week in the office. Over half of our conversations touch on hybrid challenges – more on that to come.
  •  AI and Machine Learning still dominate conversations with those in the sector, although the future is still uncertain. One thing we can be sure of is more developments in 2025.

It’s worth saying at this point that, although vacancies dipped in September, conversations are stronger than ever with business leaders and hiring managers. Events like The eCommerce Expo highlighted brands’ focus on modernising tech stacks for 2025, with social commerce expected to grow next year.

 

Market Spotlight + Top 5 eCommerce Stories This Month

  • Boohoo Group PLC is reportedly considering a break-up of its core labels including PrettyLittleThing, Karen Millen and Debenhams, in an attempt to boost its share price following a c.90% decline since its pandemic high READ MORE
  • Tesco is relaunching its online F&F Clothing range on its new marketplace after closing Tesco Direct back in 2018 READ MORE
  • TikTok Shop launched its inaugural week-long Sales event ‘For You Days’ on 23 September. The event features discounts of up to 50% on trending products and live shopping sessions, allowing direct engagement with brands and creators READ MORE
  • Moonpig teamed up with The Entertainer to offer 200 new toy products, including brands like Paw Patrol and Barbie, alongside personalised cards READ MORE
  • Ocado Retail raised its full-year sales guidance after a strong quarter, with retail revenue rising 15.5% to £658m for the 13 weeks to September 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 | Bonus Episode 3 with Michael Barker from Freeman Clarke

October 5, 2024

In our latest BONUS FODcast short, we’re joined by Michael Barker, a leader in fractional executive hiring, to explore why mid-market companies are moving towards fractional roles over full-time hires for C-level expertise.

Michael shares how companies are increasingly tapping into specialised talent for agility and flexibility in the fast-paced digital landscape as we dive into the impact of tech advancements on leadership, the importance of collaborative communication, and how Conway’s Law and Stephen Covey’s principles continue to shape effective system design.

The conversation wraps with an insightful look at the integration and cultural challenges companies face when bringing in fractional leaders, particularly in tech. Michael highlights the growing importance of teaching over doing, sharing real-world scenarios, like managing cyber threats, to illustrate the flexibility and skill required in these roles.

Whether you’re a fractional professional yourself, or a business leader looking to hire one, this episode offers more great insight on how this agile model is reshaping business growth and digital transformation.

Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

Written by:

Tim Roedel

CEO

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S6 | Episode 4 with Meriel Neighbour from Clarks

September 26, 2024

What are the future-proof strategies every retailer needs to adopt?

For Episode 4 of the current season of the FODcast, we were joined by multi-award-winning digital commerce leader, Meriel Neighbour, Head of Global Digital Product Delivery and Transformation at Clarks who shared with us the transformational journey of the iconic footwear brand.

With extensive experience from her tenure at Ted Baker, the Post Office, Selfridges, and Matches Fashion, Meriel discusses the critical need for Clarks to modernise its technology landscape.

Discover how the adoption of composable commerce and headless architecture is setting Clarks up for long-term success by providing flexibility and resilience in their digital operations.

Plus, lots more insight as we talk about the brand’s challenges and triumphs as they progressed through this transformative journey, how they are poised for future growth, and ready to meet the evolving demands of the digital commerce landscape.

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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Challenges & Opportunities Across Digital Commerce | Q3 2024

September 15, 2024

In the fast-paced world of digital commerce, technological advancements and evolving consumer behaviors are reshaping how businesses operate and compete.

From online platforms and mobile commerce to cloud-based ecosystems, companies must continuously adapt to remain relevant.

This report highlights key insights gathered by the team here at Simply Commerce through surveys and industry discussions, focusing on the challenges businesses face and the opportunities for growth.

Key Takeaways:

  • Increasing Profitability: Nearly 50% of businesses are struggling with competitive pressures and economic uncertainty.
  • Market Conditions: Over a third of respondents highlighted external market dynamics like economic shifts and regulatory changes impacting operations.
  • Technology Adoption: 19.3% find it challenging to keep up with technological advancements and maintain a competitive edge.
  • Talent Acquisition: Hiring skilled professionals is a major hurdle for 22.9% of businesses seeking growth and innovation.

For deeper insights and strategies to navigate these challenges, download the full report below:

DOWNLOAD FULL REPORT TO READ MORE

As always, if you’re keen to explore how Simply Commerce can assist your business in navigating these trends and challenges within the digital commerce sector, please do get in touch. 

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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Industry News & Headlines | August 2024

September 15, 2024

August is best summarised as being a ‘steady’ month. It’s no secret that it’s one of the slower months of the year with many taking extended time out of the office and whilst we have also felt processes slow down, we’ve been able to add to our client base and are feeling confident as we move into September.

On that note, it does feel September has the potential to be a huge month for us and the industry with multiple callbacks in the calendar to discuss both new projects kicking off and hiring.

As mentioned in the previous newsletter, historically Sept-Dec has been a good trading period for us and we have no reason to believe it will be any different this year based on the conversations we are having.

This means there should be plenty of new vacancies at all levels – a great time to start putting your feelers out if you’re thinking of a new opportunity.

Product Owners and Managers are a growing area of demand as companies look to transition from a project to product-led environment. This isn’t necessarily a new thing, however, we are now seeing the next wave of companies embark on this change and I believe this will continue over the coming year or two.

Software engineering also continues to be a strong area for us with more than 50% of our new vacancies to date this year sitting here.

 

Market Spotlight + Top 5 eCommerce Stories This Month

  • The LEGO Group hails record profits in the first half of 2024, with revenue up +13% to £3.5bn. This is partly due to Lego ramping up its partnerships with the likes of Fortnite and Nike in a bid to reach more consumers READ MORE
  • The House of Fraser website and app have now been rebranded as Frasers Group, allowing customers to shop from all of Fraser Group’s brands in one place, including Sports Direct, Game, and sofa.com READ MORE
  • SHEIN has filed a lawsuit against rival Temu for what it calls an ‘unlawful enterprise built on ‘counterfeiting, theft of trade secrets, infringement of intellectual property rights, and fraud’        READ MORE
  • Marks and Spencer and Ocado Retail have once again been named the fastest-growing supermarkets in the UK over the last 12 weeks, with sales up 10.7% and 14.3%, respectively. Asda and Aldi UK were the only supermarkets to experience a drop in sales over the 12 weeks, in comparison to the same period a year ago, with sales down 6.4% and 0.7%, respectively READ MORE
  • Tesco’s fashion brand F&F will be introducing ‘digital passports’ across its clothing range amid a ramped-up crackdown on sustainability by the European Union according to reports 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