It’s been a busy week for sellers, with major developments across retail and digital shopping experiences. From Amazon launching new features to retailers gearing up for a challenging holiday season,

Here’s what you need to know about the latest shifts in the industry and what they could mean for sellers and shoppers alike.
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1. Amazon Haul: A New “Temu-Like” Experience

This week, Amazon introduced “Amazon Haul” in beta within the U.S. Amazon app, targeting budget-conscious shoppers with ultra-low prices (under $20). With a look and feel similar to discount giants like Temu and Shein, Amazon Haul offers affordable fashion, home goods, electronics, and lifestyle products, all backed by Amazon’s A-to-Z Guarantee.

Our Take:

Amazon’s timing is strategic—launching right before the holidays when shoppers are looking to save. But something that actually surprised us is the fact that this new section feels separated from the Amazon experience we are used to. For example, there are no descriptions or written content to learn more about the product, just products, images, and titles.

Only Chinese factories and sellers are allowed to sell on this beta platform. There is no Prime promise, and the fee structure is completely different from FBA.

However, this also raises the question of macro-competition: Can Amazon outmaneuver established discount platforms with this late entry?

2. Amazon’s Virtual Toy Shop Is Back!

Amazon’s Virtual Toy Shop aims to simplify holiday shopping for families. This digital storefront curates toys based on age and interests, making it easier for parents to discover, shop, and ship gifts. This year’s toy catalog even features a digital “gift finder” that suggests options based on a child’s age, interests, and trends.

But while it’s a great tool for shoppers, the Virtual Toy Shop could also significantly benefit sellers, boosting visibility in one of the season’s hottest categories. However, to stand out, sellers will need to optimize their listings and make sure their products hit the right age and interest keywords.

3. Sellers Ready to Outpace Traditional Retailers in the Holiday Season?

While brick-and-mortar retailers prepare for cautious holiday spending, sellers are poised to take advantage. Reduced inventories and fewer flashy promotions from these giants leave gaps for Amazon sellers to fill.

And here’s the kicker: with Amazon managing fulfillment and delivery, sellers have a logistical edge over traditional retailers who are constrained by inventory delays and in-store operations.

And this cautious approach by brick-and-mortar retailers could benefit sellers. With fewer flashy promotions from traditional retailers, sellers with the right pricing strategies and online promotions could capture value-driven holiday shoppers.

4. Black Friday Preparations: Early Deals and Strategic Planning

Black Friday remains one of the most anticipated shopping events, and brands are already gearing up for it. With expectations that consumer spending may slow this year, many retailers have taken a proactive approach by launching Black Friday deals earlier than ever. From “early access” discounts to extended return policies, brands are using every tactic possible to capture customer attention before competitors do.

To consider: With early Black Friday deals everywhere, it’s clear that “Black Friday” is no longer a single day but a season of promotions.

For sellers, this extended approach can be a double-edged sword. While early deals give a longer window to capture sales, they also create pressure to maintain momentum across several weeks.

The question is whether early deals dilute the impact of traditional Black Friday excitement, especially if discounts reach their peak too soon.

5. A Record Year for U.S. eCommerce Sales Expected in 2024

Despite the cautious tone among some retailers, U.S. eCommerce is expected to hit record highs in 2024. What’s fueling this growth?

Platforms like Amazon are steps ahead since they already doubled down on innovation with tools like Rufus, COSMO, and advanced marketing capabilities. AI-powered search, enhanced algorithms, and dynamic personalization are helping sellers connect with customers more effectively than ever before.

Our Take:

This is a prime example of technology stepping up in challenging times. Rufus allows sellers to optimize for AI-driven customer queries, while COSMO enhances product relevance and search visibility. Meanwhile, updates to Amazon’s marketing tools make refining campaigns and targeting the right audience easier.

This reminds sellers to invest in customer experience, from tailored content to optimizing everything to be on top of all opportunities. Winning in 2024 will require going beyond price wars and focusing on differentiating through quality and service.

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As the holiday season approaches, the landscape is evolving quickly. Sellers should keep an eye on these developments to navigate the market changes.

Whether it’s through Amazon’s Haul or the Virtual Toy Shop, the opportunity to capture new audiences is real—especially if you stay adaptable and strategic in the weeks ahead.

Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds!

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