Weekly E-Commerce & Dropshipping Highlights: Oct 09, 2024

1. Amazon to Open Nine Warehouses on Long Island by 2025

Amazon is expanding its warehouse presence on Long Island, New York, with plans to open a new facility in Melville. The e-commerce giant's latest project involves leasing a 246,000-square-foot building, reflecting its ongoing strategy to enhance delivery capabilities in the region.

2. eBay removes ‘final-value fees’ for most items in the U.K. to compete with rivals

eBay has stopped charging sellers for most items sold within the U.K. excluding automotive products, to better compete with platforms like Vinted and Depop. This move is part of eBay's strategy to attract more sellers amid growing demand for second-hand goods, particularly in the fashion sector.

3. The Sill closes its final store, shifts back to online-only business

 The Sill, a direct-to-consumer plant company, has closed all its physical stores, including its last location in Brooklyn, to focus on expanding its online business and product offerings. This strategic shift aims to better support their growing range of products and adapt to increased competition from independent plant stores.

4. Commercetools releases technology upgrades for B2B and B2C

The latest upgrades from Commercetools focus on enhancing B2B and B2C commerce experiences with improved functionality. Key features include advanced shopping cart options, market-specific tools, enhanced customer search capabilities, and specialized accelerators for manufacturing and retail sectors.

5. Erenhot has now become the e-commerce trade hub between China and Mongolia

Erenhot, a border town in China's Inner Mongolia, has emerged as a crucial e-commerce trade hub between China and Mongolia. The town is experiencing a surge in cross-border commerce, particularly in cashmere, bags, shoes, and camel wool, supported by improved infrastructure and increased tourism.

6. The Meteoric Rise of Temu and Pinduoduo—and What Might Finally Slow Them Down

Temu, a Chinese e-commerce giant, faces scrutiny in the US over its rapid growth and potential national security concerns. The company's aggressive expansion and data collection practices have sparked debates about fair competition and the need for stricter regulations on foreign-owned platforms.

7. Home Depot Launches Self-Service Ads Platform, Orange Access

Orange Access, a new self-service advertising platform, has been launched by The Home Depot's Orange Apron Media. This tool allows advertisers to buy and manage ads on The Home Depot's e-commerce site and external websites, offering real-time reporting and campaign optimization for large advertisers and suppliers.

8. DHL Express Announces Annual Price Adjustments in the U.S

DHL Express has announced a 5.9% average price increase for U.S. account holders, effective January 1, 2025. The adjustment considers factors such as inflation, currency dynamics, and administrative costs related to regulatory and security measures across the company's global network.

9. Walmart-owned Sam’s Club tests a future without checkout lines

The new Sam's Club location in Texas eliminates traditional checkouts, requiring all purchases to be made through the Scan & Go app on smartphones. This tech-forward approach aims to streamline shopping, attract younger customers, and test potential innovations for future store implementations.

10. Amazon Prime Big Deal Days 2024: Maximize Your Sales Opportunities

Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days 2024 offers sellers a golden opportunity to boost sales and visibility. To maximize success, sellers should focus on inventory management, competitive pricing, and strategic advertising while ensuring their listings are optimized for maximum appeal.

Thank you for joining us this week! Stay tuned for more insights and keep progressing in your journey! See you next time! 👋