Did you make it to Retail Global 2018? It was an enlightening three days filled with insights, networking, education and…puppies! Look, we’re not saying all future events should include the RSPCA walking around with cute dogs to help them find a new home, but…ok I am actually saying exactly that.
Here are some key non-puppy related takeaways from the event.
- The Buzz
The whole conference was buzzing with the sound of marketplaces. From the presentations, to the panels, to the general conversations, there was a distinct marketplace focus. The buzz-word of the conference this year was most definitely marketplaces and the excitement surrounding all things eBay, Catch, Amazon and Trade Me was enormous. There has definitely been a shift in 2018 compared to other years. Retailers and brands are getting on board and can see the potential and exactly where this new wave of e-commerce is taking us.
- Amazon
Amazon’s presence at Retail Global was very well received. They made it clear that they are committed to helping Australian retailers grow their business on the marketplace. Amazon’s arrival in Australia has been their most successful launch to date and their presence at the conference showed us that things will evolve in this space very soon!
- Logistics
The logistics battleground has always been a focus of e-commerce conferences and fulfilment continues to be a pain point for many retailers. With the launch of Prime later this year, things are only going to continue to heat up in 2019 and beyond.
- The Business of Mindfulness
It was great to see an increased awareness around mental health at the conference this year. There was even a mindfulness track with some great presentations and a Wellness walk on the Thursday and Friday mornings. In such a fast-paced and continually changing industry, it’s important now, more than ever, to have the tools to manage stress and be able to incorporate this in our day-to-day lives.
- Gala Goals
ChannelAdvisor was very proud to sponsor the annual Gala Dinner. This dinner raised over $152,000 which is a phenomenal effort! This money will be used to reopen the Haiti hospital that will service 10,000 people and build seven new homes for families. To guarantee that 100 percent of these funds reach the people in need, Catch Group Co-Founder Gabby Leibovich covered all charity costs!
- Puppies
Did I mention the puppies?
Well done to the event organisers for a seamless experience over the three days. It was fantastic to have an opportunity to catch up with so many of our customers and retailers and join in on the lively discussions about e-commerce and the opportunities that are ahead of us.
Here’s a discount code for $100 off the early bird rate for next year’s show: CA100.
If you weren’t able to make it to Retail Global this year and want to discuss anything you may have missed, please reach out to us here.
