Desvendando os segredos de negócios diretos ao consumidor bem-sucedidos

Planning a birthday gift for my friend took me on a digital shopping spree over the weekend. After nearly an hour of browsing, I found the perfect gift online, only to discover it was out of stock. Frustration and disappointment set in, prompting me to abandon the purchase. It was a clear case of me being ready to buy, but the store was not ready to sell.

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Stockouts, the depletion of a product's inventory, are inconvenient for both customers and businesses. For customers, it means wasted time, frustration, and dissatisfaction. For businesses, it means lost customers and lost sales.

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Although being out of stock indicates high demand, the negative consequences are substantial:

• Losing customers, sales, and revenues;
• A decrease in customer satisfaction, which leads to a damaged brand reputation;
• Bad customer reviews;
• Customer migration to competitors;
• A slowdown in growth.

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Stockouts can have a huge impact on your bottom line. Walmart executives reported they were leaving almost $3 billion on the table as a result of going out of stock.

‍70% of shoppers would shop at a competitor rather than wait for any length of time for out-of-stock items. So to avoid these unpleasant consequences for your e-commerce, we will share with you some tips on how to prevent stockouts from happening.

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1. Understand what are the causes behind stockouts:

Inaccurate data:

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Inaccuracies are pretty common when you’re dealing with inventory and stock management. With all the different product flows going in and out of your warehouse, it is easy to make mistakes and thus have variances between your real inventory data and the numbers you have on paper.

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Wrong lead time:

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Sometimes the time it takes to deliver all your products from the manufacturer to your warehouse can be a bit longer than you think, which leads to your new products arriving later than planned.

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Under ordering:

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Inaccurate data leads to poor decision-making. Having inaccurate demand forecasting can lead to under ordering and this is a major reason for running out of stock.

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Manual spreadsheets:

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Manual inventory management mainly causes inaccurate data. If you’re using Excel to monitor your inventory KPIs, I urge you to change it, because these errors not only lead to stockouts but can also lead to massive losses.

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In a study conducted by Stephen Powel from the Tuck Business School, they analysed 25 sample spreadsheets and found that 15 workbooks (spreadsheets for work) contained a total of 117 errors.

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While 40% of those errors had little impact on the businesses studied, 7 errors caused massive losses of $4 million to $110 million, according to the researchers’ estimates.

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_{Bigblue Tips
Bigblue helps you manage your stock easily. Predict demand, get alerts for low stock, and track which items are selling or sitting on shelves.}

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Now that we’ve seen the 4 main reasons behind stockouts and the damages they can lead to, let's move on and see what are the solutions to prevent being out of stock.

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2. Get real-time data:

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As seen previously, inaccurate data is the main cause of all your inventory troubles but thanks to technology, it has never been this easy to get access to real-time data.

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So the first step to preventing stockouts is to implement an inventory management system that gives you access to accurate data in as close to real-time as possible.

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Having a system that automatically updates your stock levels whenever a product is sold or returned will help reduce errors and accurately monitor your inventory, and thus have better and more accurate decision-making.

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^{Make sure to also analyse the item's velocity, this will help you to know how fast your items are moving.}

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To illustrate, let’s imagine that you have only 20% of your inventory for product X, but this product moves slowly and won’t run out until a few months, thus you might not have to reorder for some time.

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Contrariwise, if your product Z is a fast-moving item and takes just a few days to get sold out, you will then need to reorder it even if you still have some on hand.

Crossing between stock levels data and item velocity data will help you make better decisions and avoid stockouts.

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3. Forecast demand:

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To avoid stockouts, forecasting demand is a must-do. It will help you plan your future operations and know approximately how many products you’ll sell.

Knowing the demand you will be having for your products will help you to reorder the right amount of items and thus keep your stock levels safe.

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You can base your forecast on historical sales data, but you will also need to take into consideration many factors such as marketing campaigns, promotions, seasonality, and velocity. Diving deeper into these numbers will give you some insights into how your products are going to perform.

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During your forecast, you should also pay attention to the consumer trends in your market to notice if there’s anything new that people are gravitating towards. This allows you to anticipate and make sure to be ready in terms of operations.

Finally, don’t forget to create a repeatable monthly process that helps you analyse previous forecasts and compare them to actual results to see how accurate it is and how you can improve them.

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4. Set inventory alerts:

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After analysing the velocity of your items, you should be able to forecast when the product will be depleted. Compare that to the time needed to restock, and you will be able to know exactly when you should reorder.

Then make sure to set a threshold for each item so that you’re alerted automatically when the limit is reached. This will help you gain time since you won’t have to check your stock levels every 10 minutes and will ensure that you reorder your item on time and thus avoid stockouts.

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To calculate safety stock and reorder point, you can use these simple formulas:

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Reorder point formula= (Items sold per day) x (days it takes for new inventory to arrive) + safety stock

Safety stock formula = (Maximum daily usage * Maximum lead time in days) – (Average daily usage * Average lead time in days)

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There isn’t a one-size-fits-all "general lead time formula" that universally applies, as different industries, like manufacturing, have specific lead time formulas.

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One of the simplest and commonly used formulas looks like this:

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Lead Time (LT)=Order delivery date − Order request date

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Manufacturers and retailers often have different lead times for different products due to differences in fulfilment timelines, specifications, shipping, and more.

When calculating lead time, it's common to consider various aspects.

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Here are a couple of examples:

Lead Time (LT) =Manufacturing time + Procurement time + Shipping time (Most commonly used by manufacturers)

LT= Procurement time + Shipping time (Most commonly used by retailers)

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As an example, let’s imagine you sell 75 bags per day and that it takes 8 days, since the reorder, for new inventory to arrive.

During weekends and bank holidays, they can sell as many as 85 bags and the maximum lead time in days is 10.

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Safety stock = (85 x 10) - (75 x 8) = 250

Reorder point = (75) x (8) + (250) = 850

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Make sure to set an alert when your stock level reaches 750 bags so that you can reorder on time and ensure you won’t run out of stock.

Ensure an alert is set when your stock level hits 750 bags, enabling timely reorders and preventing stockouts.

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^{To improve operational efficiency and streamline order fulfilment, consider implementing advanced strategies to reduce lead time, meticulously calculating production lead time at each stage to ensure optimal results.}

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5. Communicate with your customers:

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Even if you have the best systems in place, stockouts can still occur. If it happens, being transparent and communicating clearly with your customers is the only way to keep their trust and build a stronger relationship.

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Update your products’ pages and clearly show that it is out of stock. Make sure to include the expected date for when the products will be available again, and allow your customers to register their email address to get notified when the product is back in stock.

You can also showcase similar products as a replacement and offer coupons and discounts to ensure that these customers won’t shop from a competitor's site.

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You can also offer free shipping for the people who left their emails and are willing to wait for the product to be back in stock. This will make the wait worth their time.

Even if this reduces your profit margins, it is still better than losing the sale and risking that the customer won’t ever come back. (honestly, I would have waited a bit more for my friend’s gift, if shipping was offered)

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6. Work with a logistics provider:

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If you’re managing your logistics internally and stockouts became a recurrent problem, think of externalizing your logistics to work with a company that has great expertise in this area. If you’re managing your logistics internally and stockouts become a recurrent issue, think of externalising your logistics to work with a company that has great expertise in this area and could reduce the workload related to supply chain management.

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Many providers nowadays offer very efficient services and can help you automate all your logistics processes.

Bigblue, for example, gives access to real-time data and offers its e-commerce clients a wide variety of features such as automatic inventory alerts and personalized tracking emails.

Externalising your logistics can help you gain time and focus on your business growth while ensuring that your inventory is always on point.

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Preventing stockouts doesn’t happen overnight. It is a hard task that requires a lot of effort.

Through these tips, you will be able to manage your purchase orders and inventory more efficiently and prevent potential stockouts.

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Remember, taking extra time to forecast demand and implementing an automated inventory system to have access to real-time data will help you considerably in the long run.

Preventing stockouts is a good way to meet customer demand, fulfil orders, and ensure the best possible experience for your customers (and their friends 😉)

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Brands are smartly using advent calendars, a classic holiday tradition, for marketing. Physical and digital calendars connect with customers daily, adding excitement for the festive season.

Getting it right is important, like when Chanel's 2021 advent calendar didn't go down well and faced a lot of criticism.

In the UK, advent calendars are popular. Nearly 38% of adults plan to buy them as presents, and about 19% for themselves.

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So, what's advent calendar marketing, and how can you make the most of it this year?

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Advent calendars: a rising trend in e-commerce marketing

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Advent calendars, a tradition dating back to 19th-century Germany, have evolved significantly from their origins of offering daily religious pictures to children. Today, they are a dynamic and interactive element in e-commerce marketing.

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Retailers and shoppers are showing a growing interest in advent calendars, with stores like Selfridges & Co in the UK doubling their range to 128 types in 2022.

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Modern advent calendars are evolving into a crucial tool for both family fun and e-commerce marketing. They offer a mix of product sampling and digital engagement through interactive online activities like contests and stories. 

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This not only enhances brand presence but also boosts excitement among existing and potential customers. Used creatively, they go beyond simple social media posts, adding a special touch to festive marketing strategies.

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Chocolate advent calendars top the list in the UK for both personal use (79%) and gifting (82%). Beauty products follow, chosen less frequently (13% personal, 20% for gifting). The rest of the respondents selected calendars ranging from toys, alcohol, jewellery, tea, puzzles, cheese, candles, or perfume.

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Many UK adults view advent calendars as either for children (43%) or too costly (27%). However, a third don't agree with these reasons, hinting at other factors. More affordable and age-inclusive calendars could shift purchasing trends.

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Key benefits of Advent calendars

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Advent calendars offer several advantages for brands:
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• Increase sales during the holiday season by offering daily deals or showcasing products in an advent calendar. This takes advantage of shoppers' excitement and boosts sales for brands.
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• Sharing advent calendar content on social media platforms boosts customer interaction and brand visibility. It keeps followers engaged with daily updates. Zagbijoux, for example, is using Instagram to post festive product photos daily.
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• Brands can use advent calendars for creative social media marketing during Christmas to engage potential customers.
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• Advent calendar can show gift ideas with a specific gift guide for each day, perfect for the holiday season.
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• Brands can attract potential customers by offering great deals like gifts, discounts, or popular gift cards. This is especially effective during this time of year.
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• Use advent calendars for holiday marketing campaigns to introduce new products or services festively.
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• Increase traffic to your landing page or blog post, enhancing online engagement and SEO.
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• Providing unique content or exclusive deals can create brand loyalty and differentiate a brand from competitors.
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• The advent calendar can help you plan different types of content for the holidays. It serves as a guide for what you want to share.
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• Educate audiences about products, as Swarovski did with their advent calendar, and gather valuable customer data and insights like their email addresses.

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Crafting an irresistible advent calendar

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The choice between physical and online

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Your brand's first decision is whether to opt for a physical or an online advent calendar. Physical calendars provide a hands-on experience, with customers opening each day's window for a gift. Virtual calendars on social media reach more people and are cost-effective, offering daily surprises like deals or festive content.

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Online calendars can significantly boost your brand’s reach and engagement. Platforms like Instagram or Twitter are perfect for daily reveals, fostering interaction and a community feel around your brand during the festive season.

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Alternatively, you could blend both physical and virtual calendars. This dual approach can enhance exposure, brand awareness, and word-of-mouth.

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10 top advent calendar ideas for brands

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Perfect for brands aiming to stand out this festive season with creativity and engagement! 🌟🎄

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• Daily discount codes, gifts, or vouchers: New exclusive offers every day.
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• Wish list: Fun competition with winners getting their most wanted item(s).
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• Product teasers and reveals: Exciting daily product reveals, with special offers.
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• Social media challenges: Fun, festive-themed social challenges with prizes.
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• Customer stories spotlight: Daily heart-warming stories or testimonials.
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• Interactive quizzes and polls: Daily brand-related quizzes or festive trivia with rewards.
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• Festive tips and tricks: Daily holiday tips, like gift-wrapping or festive recipes.
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• Behind-the-Scenes glimpses: Insights into your brand's holiday preparations.
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• Charity initiatives: Different charity features each day to promote community goodwill.
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• User Generated Content (UGC) showcases: Have followers share festive photos for daily prizes.

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Lessons from failed advent calendars campaign:

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• Tony's Chocolonely: Apologized for leaving an empty calendar window to protest slave labour in the chocolate industry, upsetting children.

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➡️ The need for sensitivity in marketing, especially when involving children. Social awareness campaigns should not compromise the customer experience.

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• Kmart: Accidentally omitted Christmas Eve from their calendar.

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➡️ The necessity of consistent quality control in manufacturing and thorough quality checks in product design, especially for date-specific items.

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• John Lewis: A mathematically incorrect message claiming Christmas was 16 days away on 2nd December.

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➡️ The significance of accuracy in educational or informative products, underlining the need for brands to verify all information.

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• Cadbury Dairy Milk: Featured a message “Give hugs at Christmas” which was inappropriately timed because of COVID-19 restrictions.

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➡️ The need for context-aware and timely messaging, especially during sensitive periods or global crises.

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• Zoella: Released an overpriced (£50) Advent calendar with low-value items (estimated to be around £20) and only 12 windows. It led to backlash and a subsequent price reduction.
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➡️ The importance of aligning product value with price, particularly for influencer-endorsed products, and responding swiftly to customer feedback.

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• Chanel: Sold a pricey (£610) Advent calendar with underwhelming contents like a keychain and a sticker book, criticised heavily by TikTok unboxers.

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➡️ Chanel’s advent calendar, while aesthetically pleasing, failed to meet customer expectations regarding content quality and value. Luxury pricing must be backed by luxury experiences, especially as customers are increasingly vocal on social media.

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The Dos and Don'ts of Advent Calendars

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The Do's
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• Align with brand identity: Ensure that the calendar reflects your brand’s values, aesthetics, and quality.
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• Curate thoughtful gifts: For physical calendars, select desirable items that resonate with your audience.
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• Embrace digital creativity: For virtual calendars, use engaging graphics, interactive elements, and exclusive content to keep users excited.
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• Promote sustainability: If opting for a physical calendar, consider eco-friendly materials and reusable designs.

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The Don'ts
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• Avoid overpricing: Make sure that the calendar’s price is justified by the value of its contents.
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• Don't neglect quality: Poorly made items or lacklustre digital content can damage your brand’s reputation.
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• Beware of unrealistic expectations: Don’t promise more than you can deliver. Honesty in marketing fosters trust.

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In summary, online and physical advent calendars are a creative holiday marketing strategy and an effective tool for businesses.

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They're not just about celebrating Christmas, they're about connecting with audiences in meaningful ways. Advent calendars offer brands a unique opportunity to engage with customers and to spruce up their Christmas marketing.

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Brands can create a great customer experience and build loyalty. They can do this by looking at past examples, aligning with their brand, and using digital platforms creatively.

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The surge in e-commerce growth has heightened the focus on environmental sustainability, especially on the impact of shipping. In 2020, the shipping and return of products were responsible for 37% of total greenhouse gas emissions.

Carbon-neutral shipping emerges as a vital solution in this context. Helping e-commerce brands reduce their environmental impact and meet the needs of eco-conscious consumers.

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Why eco-friendly logistics is not an option any more

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The shift towards green logistics is not just a trend but a necessity in the face of global environmental challenges.

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With the transportation sector responsible for 11% of the global CO₂ emissions, it's important for the rapidly growing e-commerce sector, projected to reach US$3,099.00 billion in revenue in 2023, to lead in sustainable practices.

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• 79% of UK shoppers are favourable to sustainable delivery methods and even willing to pay more for them.
• 49% are concerned with home delivery sustainability.
• About half of fashion consumers are calling for initiatives that reduce carbon footprints and promote eco-friendliness at checkout.
• 45% of UK shoppers expected fashion brands to commit to plastic-free products.
• 70% of surveyed customers are willing to wait 5 extra days for home deliveries in exchange for an environmental benefit.

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What is carbon neutral shipping?

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Carbon neutral shipping balances transportation's carbon emissions through various green measures, including renewable energy investments, tree planting, or eco-friendly projects. Understanding this approach is essential for both businesses and consumers, as it's a fundamental aspect of eco-responsible e-commerce practices.

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All in all, given the fact that carbon neutral shipping does not evade the initial emissions created from the shipping and handling of packages – it may seem that carbon neutral shipping doesn’t benefit the environment at all.

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While carbon neutral shipping cannot prevent the emissions created from the travel required for packages to reach their final destination, carbon neutral shipping is still beneficial to the environment – as it can help provide the financial support necessary to research and instil new sustainable methods that are vital in the fight against climate change.

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10 actionable tips to reduce carbon emissions from shipping

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Once the total carbon emissions have been calculated, the next step is to reduce those emissions as much as possible. 

Improving shipping efficiency is the most impactful way for e-commerce businesses to reduce emissions and manage the growing demands of delivery.

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Here are several actionable recommendations for sustainable shipping practices:

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1. Optimise route efficiency: Implementing advanced routing software can minimise travel distances and reduce fuel consumption. This includes selecting the most efficient routes and consolidating shipments to maximise load efficiency.
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2. Use energy-efficient vehicles: Transitioning to vehicles that use alternative fuels or electric vehicles can significantly lower emissions.
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3. Invest in carbon-offset projects: Investing in projects like reforestation or renewable energy can offset unavoidable emissions.
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4. Eco-friendly packaging: Use minimal, recyclable, or biodegradable packaging to reduce waste and carbon footprint associated with shipping.
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5. Local warehousing and fulfilment: Positioning products closer to the customer base reduces the distance for delivery.
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6. Utilise technology in inventory management: Adopt advanced systems to better predict product demand, helping to avoid excess stock and reduce unnecessary shipping.
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7. Encourage bulk purchases: Incentivising customers to buy multiple items at once can reduce the number of individual shipments.
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8. Offer flexible shipping options: Provide customers with a choice of eco-friendly shipping options, even if it means slower delivery times.
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9. Educate customers: Increase awareness among customers about the environmental impact of shipping and promote eco-friendly practices.
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10. Implement carbon accounting: Regularly measure and report on the carbon emissions from shipping activities to identify areas for improvement.

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By using these strategies in shipping, e-commerce brands can improve efficiency, reduce carbon footprint, and contribute to a sustainable future.

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Carbon neutral shipping options for e-commerce

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France:
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• Colissimo: Offers green delivery solutions, including carbon-neutral options.
• DHL France: Features the GoGreen service for eco-conscious shipping.
• FedEx France: Focuses on sustainable logistics with EarthSmart.

Spain:
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• Correos: Delivers an array of eco-friendly and carbon-neutral shipping services.
• SEUR: As part of DPDgroup, it provides green shipping solutions with Total Zero.
• UPS Spain: Supports businesses with environmentally responsible shipping options.

United Kingdom:
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• DPD UK: Integrates carbon-neutral shipping in its Green Delivery initiative.
• Royal Mail: Offers sustainable, carbon-conscious parcel delivery.
• UPS UK: Like Spain, offers green shipping solutions, including carbon-neutral options.

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Collaborate with green logistics providers

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Collaborating with green logistics providers offers long-term benefits for e-commerce businesses focused on sustainable growth and reducing environmental impact.

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These partners are experts in the supply chain, adept at implementing strategies that not only reduce carbon emissions but also save money in the long run. By integrating emission reduction tactics into your online shopping platform, you can improve profit margins while contributing positively to the environment.

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Also, it not only supports a healthy bottom line by reducing operational costs but also aligns with the growing consumer trend towards environmentally responsible brands. Integrating sustainable practices can enhance your brand's reputation and positively influence your growth rate.

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Their large-scale operations often mean better shipping rates, leading to cost savings. 

The advanced technology used by these partners ensures efficient route planning and inventory management, reducing both environmental impact and operational costs.

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Such partnerships offer the scalability and flexibility essential for growing e-commerce businesses. Green logistics providers can adjust to changing demands, freeing e-commerce companies to concentrate on their core activities without the added burden of logistics management.

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Collaborating with a green logistics provider equips e-commerce businesses with the necessary tools for adopting sustainable practices, offering a blend of expertise, cost-effectiveness, and efficient technology.

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Bigblue, the logistics partners you need

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Bigblue launched the “Collectif pour une Logistique Responsable” with partners like Hipli and Lizee, aiming to foster greener logistics through industry collaboration.

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We're committed to plastic-free packaging, using recyclable materials to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions. In our quest for green logistics, we're also powering our data servers with 100% renewable energy.

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Additionally, we've developed an algorithm that selects the best packaging, reducing parcel size, cutting shipping costs, and lowering carbon emissions. It reduces packaging volume by an average of 22%. Our system notifies you of address errors, avoiding delivery mistakes and unnecessary return trips. We also optimised our TMS to create a carrier agnostic offer, finding the best options for delivery routes.

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Choosing us as your logistics partner is also joining our mission to work towards a more sustainable e-commerce.

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Conclusion

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In summary, carbon-neutral shipping is essential for e-commerce brands, aligning environmental responsibility with consumer expectations. 

It not only reduces the ecological impact but also enhances brand image and customer loyalty. As environmental concerns grow, adopting carbon-neutral methods positions e-commerce businesses as progressive and responsible, key for success in a competitive market.

Investing in carbon-neutral shipping is a crucial step for sustainable growth and maintaining relevance with eco-conscious consumers.

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The key to attracting and retaining customers lies in delivering exceptional customer experiences. With brand loyalty fading and alternatives readily available, e-commerce businesses must evolve beyond traditional customer service.

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Research from Hubspot indicates that a positive customer service experience leads to 93% of customers being inclined to make repeat purchases with a brand. Estimates suggest that the annual cost of bad customer service ranges from $75 billion to $1.6 trillion.

Customer support today is not limited to pre- or post-purchase. It now encompasses the entire journey, starting from the first contact and extending beyond the purchase.

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This article discusses how focusing on improving your customer support strategy and adjusting to their changing expectations can greatly benefit businesses in a competitive market.

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1. 3 reasons why you can't overlook customer service in e-commerce

1.1 Boost customer loyalty

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One of the key advantages of good customer service is that it boosts loyalty and helps in retaining clients over the long run. This will result in diminishing your costs and thus increase profitability.

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According to the Harvard Business Review, acquiring a new customer is anywhere from 5 to 25 times more expensive than retaining an existing one and if you increase customer retention rates by 5%, profits will increase anywhere from 25% to 95%

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Along with boosting customer loyalty, ensuring good customer support allows you to turn your existing customers into brand advocates with whom you’ll create special relationships and connections.

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A good tip for nurturing this relationship is, for example, to send a thank you email after each purchase. This will improve the customer experience and will help you reinforce the connection between your brand and them. Another way can be, to send small gifts alongside the products when your customers asked for a return in the first place.

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1.2 Sustainable growth

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Companies that provide positive experiences have better growth opportunities. Having clear and smooth customer support processes helps you to be proactive and avoid spending time dealing with and fixing problems. It allows you to focus your time and efforts on other areas of your business to drive growth.

Having a good customer support team that interacts with customers and collects their feedback (either positive or negative) also helps you to understand your customers, their needs, and their expectations. That feedback can be used to optimize your processes, improve your products to provide the right offers to your customers, and thus sustainably drive growth.

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1.3 Get positive reviews and enhance brand reputation

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Providing good customer service will help you get positive reviews from your current customers.

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Brightlocal’s research on customer reviews revealed that positive reviews make 68% of consumers more likely to use your products or services, and so it is a good way to enhance your brand reputation and stand out from your competitors.

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It will help you position your brand as one that puts customers at the centre of everything that you do and consequently gives you a competitive advantage to attract more leads, boost your sales and drive growth.

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Good customer service has many benefits. To make the most of it, you require a good strategy. This can be challenging, so we will give you some tips and factors to consider when designing your strategy.

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2. 4 tips to create the best customer service experience

2.1 Define “great customer service” for your business

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The first step is to clearly define what you mean by great customer service.

This includes the quality standards that your team has to follow in every interaction and situation possible. These standards differ from one type of business to another and each one has its unique one, but here are some ideas to help you create your own definition of great customer service:

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• The behaviour used while communicating with your customers. (tone, language, attitude)
• The maximum time accepted to answer your customers' queries or maybe real-time interactions.
• The level of proactivity that your team has to adopt.

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Defining these aspects will give a clearer idea of how your processes will work and set clear expectations with customers. A good example to illustrate this is the Customer Service Commitment that Southwest Airlines has created and shared with its clients.

Southwest Airlines has been named by Forbes as the best local airline company for its customer service in 2019.

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2.2 Focus on all your customer journey

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As I’ve mentioned earlier, a good customer strategy doesn’t only focus on the post-purchase part but on the whole journey.

So as e-commerce, you’ll need to understand each step of your customer experience and which are the problems that he may face in each one of them. 

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Being proactive is key to anticipating potential issues and crafting the best solutions to avoid them.

Understanding the scope of interactions that your clients have with you can help you determine which kind of support to offer at each step. 

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To illustrate, let’s imagine you have an online store for selling clothes, a great way to provide good customer support can be by adding size guides on each product page, this will help your customers make the best purchase decision.

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You can also add a chatbot to help them during the purchase consideration phase to better convert them later.

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2.3 Define your communications channels

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To define the best communication channels, you’ll need to find out which channels your customers are using. By analysing your data, you can figure out if your customers prefer to contact you by email, phone, or maybe social media.

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Based on these insights and your resources, you’ll be able to choose the right channels and tools to communicate with your customers. There are a lot of different channels that you can choose to use for your customer support, and here’s a small list of the channels you may want to consider while designing your strategy:
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• Email:

The most used channel for customer service alongside the phone. It is a good way to provide technical support, as it can be frustrating through other channels.

It also helps to get a record of the interaction. Not only that, but it is a good channel for non-urgent queries, as it sometimes takes a day to answer all the emails. The negative part of it is that impatient customers tend to switch channels as they tend to use another approach they feel is quicker.

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• Phone:

The most popular channel alongside emails. It is the most direct and fastest way to solve a problem, as it allows direct conversation in real-time. However, it can be time-consuming and not truly well suited for small teams with lots of queries.

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• FAQs and help centres:

This is a great way to be proactive while letting your customers solve their problems by themselves. It can also help answer common questions and find a solution to general problems fast.

The tricky part is that you need to make it easily accessible and well-organized so that your customers can find the answers to their queries effortlessly. It is cost-effective as you won’t have to spend much money on it, and it also helps scale your customer service and allows your team to focus on more specific queries.

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• Live chat (chatbot):

A good way to provide real-time support for your customers as they may have questions during their purchasing process. Although it helps in converting actual leads into customers who purchase your products, live chat also has one main challenge: being able to meet your customer expectations and answer them in a matter of seconds. The success of the live chat depends on how well your team is trained to quickly solve your customers' problems and convert them into buyers.

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• Social media:

Social media platforms have grown disruptively during the last few years and customers don’t use them for traditional customer service needs, they instead use them to praise or complain about your brand.

Knowing the powerful word of mouth that social media has, your brand needs to have your customer support team present on these platforms. They can spot these public complaints, quickly address them, and offer help to turn them into positive outcomes. It is also crucial to offer fast answers as 42% of customers who are complaining, expect an answer within 60 minutes on social media.

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These are the 5 most used channels today to provide support to customers, but that doesn’t mean that you have to choose only one of them or all of them. Based on your resources and your customer’s behaviour, you can adapt your strategy by selecting the most efficient channel.

2.4 Use helpdesk and other customer service software

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Running an e-commerce brand means using the appropriate tools, depending on your needs, such as Gorgias, Onepilot or Zendesk or CRM software.

They are great ways to manage all the customer-related data that you collect, whether it’s calls, search history on your website, or chat transcripts. 

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Centralising all your interactions​​’ data in one place and making it accessible to all your employees, enables them to be better advisors and be more effective in managing interactions with your customers and better guide them while solving their queries.

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Finally, every customer is different, nevertheless, they all share one specific trait: they all like to feel special and to be treated specially. So providing great customer service and putting the customer at the centre of everything you do, is essential to stand out from the crowd and to drive sustainable growth.

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In 2017, Rihanna started Fenty Beauty, changing the beauty game with a fantastic 40-shade foundation line-up (now 50!) that welcomed all skin tones. This bold step, along with their creative products and powerful social media presence, led Fenty Beauty to a staggering $72 million in just one month. It earned them awards like being named one of Time magazine's best inventions in 2017.

Even in a tough beauty market, Fenty Beauty's dedication to including everyone and celebrating diversity has created a new norm in the industry, making a lasting impact.

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1. Fenty Beauty: A clear and unique brand positioning

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With an annual revenue of $582 million, Fenty Beauty changed the beauty game by embracing diversity. Unlike many other brands, they launched with a wide range of 40 foundation shades, later expanding to 50.

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This commitment to inclusivity, inspired by Rihanna's own experiences, paid off, with Fenty Beauty's launch sales in the US skyrocketing fivefold and outperforming competitors. Their campaigns also featured models of diverse skin tones and were among the first to include men, making them a leader in the makeup industry for all.

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1.1 Transparency and commitment

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^{In 2020, Fenty Beauty pledged $1 million to support racial justice causes, including Black Lives Matter and the NAACP.} 

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Unlike many brands that posted brief tributes and returned to normal operations, Fenty Beauty stood in solidarity by stopping operating completely and consistently raising awareness of racial issues. This not only celebrated diversity but also underscored their product's inclusivity for all skin tones.

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1.2 Other commitments of Fenty Beauty

1. Sustainable packaging: Fenty Beauty has worked to minimise the environmental impact of its packaging by using recyclable materials and reducing the amount of packaging used. For example, the brand's Match Stix come in refillable packaging, which reduces waste.
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2. Vegan and cruelty-free products: All Fenty Beauty products are cruelty-free, meaning they are not tested on animals. In addition, many of the brand's products are vegan (not all of them), meaning they do not contain any animal-derived ingredients.
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3. Responsible ingredient sourcing: Fenty Beauty has committed to sourcing ingredients responsibly and ethically. The brand works to ensure that the ingredients used in its products are not linked to deforestation, habitat destruction, or human rights abuses.
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4. Environmental partnerships: Fenty Beauty has partnered with organisations such as the Climate, Community & Biodiversity Alliance and the Rainforest Alliance to support environmental conservation efforts.
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2. Rihanna: The marketing queen

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2.1. A clean and tasteful visual identity

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Fenty Beauty's visual identity is modern and minimalistic, featuring clean lines and bold typography. Their packaging, with a sleek matte black finish and the iconic "F" logo resembling a makeup brush, exudes a luxurious appeal for consumers seeking high-end beauty products.

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Moreover, Fenty Beauty's advertising consistently features diverse models and influencers, representing various ethnicities, skin tones, and body types. This aligns with their commitment to inclusivity and diversity, creating a cohesive and effective visual identity that has contributed to their success in the competitive beauty industry.

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2.2. Strong social media presence and customer engagement

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Fenty Beauty has a very strong social media presence, with a highly committed and loyal following.

On Instagram, Fenty Beauty boasts over 12.8 million followers as of March 2024. Their engaging content mix includes product images, makeup tutorials, and user-generated posts. Notably, Fenty Beauty's Instagram engagement rate soars at 0.85%, surpassing the industry average, with an impressive average post-engagement rate of 1.38%.

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On TikTok, the brand has garnered 2.6 million followers and 52.4 million likes. Meanwhile, their YouTube channel has more than 911k subscribers and showcases makeup tutorials, behind-the-scenes clips, and interviews with Rihanna, accumulating over 146 million views to date.

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2.3 Influencer partnerships and user-generated content (UGC)

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Fenty Beauty has worked with a variety of influencers, including beauty bloggers and makeup artists, to promote its products. For example, the brand collaborated with beauty influencer Jackie Aina to launch a shade extension for its Pro Filt'r Foundation. The partnership generated significant buzz on social media and helped to expand the brand's reach.

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The brand's focus on UGC and influencer partnerships has helped to build a strong community of loyal fans and has contributed to its success in the competitive beauty industry.

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2.4 Rihanna's integral role in Fenty Beauty's marketing and brand image

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As the founder of the brand, she frequently uses her personal image and social media presence to promote Fenty Beauty and its products.

Here are some ways Rihanna uses her image and social networks to promote Fenty Beauty:

• In-person events: Rihanna has made appearances at various Fenty Beauty events, including product launches and pop-up shops. Her presence at these events helps to generate buzz and excitement for the brand. For example, Rihanna's Super Bowl performance wearing Salomon and a red jumpsuit, where she touched up her makeup with Fenty Beauty's Invisimatte Matifying Powder, generated $5.6 million in media impact value. This quick act not only promoted her brand but also showcased the product's effectiveness, leading to an 800% increase in Google searches.
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• Social media: Rihanna has a massive social media following, with over 152 million followers on Instagram as of March 2024. She frequently posts about Fenty Beauty products, using her images and videos to showcase the brand's offerings. Rihanna's posts often feature her wearing Fenty Beauty products, which helps to position the brand as a key part of her style.

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• Campaigns: Rihanna has been featured in several Fenty Beauty campaigns, including the brand's launch campaign in 2017. Her participation in these campaigns helps to build brand recognition and credibility.
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• Partnerships: Rihanna has partnered with other high-profile celebrities and influencers to promote Fenty Beauty products. For example, in 2021, she collaborated with rapper A$AP Rocky (BF and father of 1,5) on a campaign for the brand's new skincare line (Fenty Skin).

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3. Engaging and disruptive marketing campaigns

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Fenty Beauty has been known for its disruptive marketing campaigns that challenge the status quo in the beauty industry. Here are a few of the brand's most notable campaigns:

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3.1 The launch campaign

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Fenty Beauty's launch campaign in 2017 was a game-changer in the industry. The brand's focus on inclusivity and diversity was a refreshing change from the limited shade ranges many other beauty brands offer. The campaign featured a diverse range of models, including women of different races, ages, and sizes, and generated a lot of buzz on social media.

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3.2 Body Lava campaign

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Fenty Beauty's Body Lava campaign in 2018 was another standout moment for the brand. The campaign featured Rihanna herself applying the brand's shimmering body oil in a series of sultry videos that quickly went viral on social media. The campaign helped to cement Fenty Beauty's reputation as a brand that's not afraid to push boundaries and take risks.

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3.3 Flyliner campaign

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Fenty Beauty's Flyliner campaign in 2018 featured a diverse group of models showing off the brand's new liquid eyeliner. The Flyliner eyeliner, named "Cuz I'm Black" after Rihanna's iconic Twitter clapback, symbolises her unapologetic expression of Black identity and assertive social media presence, in line with the brand's empowering message.

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3.4 Gloss Bomb campaign

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Fenty Beauty's Gloss Bomb campaign in 2019 featured a diverse group of models and influencers showcasing the brand's popular lip gloss. The campaign's focus on inclusivity and diversity helped to reinforce the brand's message that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and shades.

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4. Global reach and strategic partnership 

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4.1 The Sephora partnership: A launchpad for Fenty Beauty's global domination

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Fenty Beauty's partnership with Sephora helped the brand achieve global reach. The brand is available in over 30 countries worldwide and has seen significant success in markets like the US, Canada, the UK, and Europe. According to NPD Group, Fenty Beauty was the top-selling prestige makeup brand in the US in 2018, with sales of over $500 million. The brand also expanded its reach by launching pop-up shops in major cities like London, Paris, and New York.

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Fenty Beauty's relationship with Sephora has been instrumental in the brand's success. Sephora was the exclusive launch partner for Fenty Beauty when it was first launched in 2017. The partnership provided Fenty Beauty with access to Sephora's extensive distribution network, which helped to increase the brand's visibility and reach.

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Stats about the collaboration:
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• According to NPD Group, Fenty Beauty was the top-selling brand in the U.S. prestige beauty market in 2018, just one year after its launch.
• Fenty Beauty's Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation was the best-selling foundation at Sephora in 2018.
• Fenty Beauty's launch at Sephora generated $72 million in media value in its first month, according to Tribe Dynamics.
• In 2019, Fenty Beauty was named “Brand of the Year” at the WWD Beauty Inc Awards.

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4.2 Rihanna's Ambani wedding surprise: A strategic move for Fenty Beauty's India expansion?

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Rihanna's surprise appearance at Anant Ambani's pre-wedding event made waves worldwide. Fans of Fenty Beauty, myself included, wondered if her presence held a deeper significance.

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Fenty Beauty, valued at $2.8 billion, hasn't tapped into the lucrative Indian beauty market. Reliance Retail, owned by the Ambani family, recently acquired Sephora India, potentially offering a pathway for Fenty Beauty's entry.

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Rihanna's performance could be a strategic move to establish a connection with the Ambanis and facilitate Fenty Beauty's India debut, possibly through a partnership with Sephora India. Interestingly, Fenty Beauty didn't wait for an official announcement, launching on Nykaa's online store on March 7th.

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This series of events - the Ambani connection, the strategic performance, and the swift online launch - suggests a well-planned effort by Fenty Beauty to penetrate the Indian market. Was Rihanna's performance merely a dazzling show, or part of a calculated business strategy? Time will tell, but Fenty Beauty's actions indicate a serious intent to succeed in India.
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5. The Fenty effect
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Fenty Beauty's launch had a significant impact on the beauty industry, particularly in terms of promoting inclusivity and diversity. The brand's success has inspired other beauty companies to follow suit and expand their shade ranges to be more inclusive.

This is called the “Fenty effect”.
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From Kylie Cosmetics to Marc Jacobs, it seems like Rihanna might have shaken up the industry by catering to a market of people it has been ignoring for decades. Pop Sugar reported that since the launch, Sephora locations have seen more customers of colour than before.

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According to the Daily Dot, much of this advertising started after it was announced that the darker shade foundations of Fenty Beauty were running out.

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In the years since Fenty Beauty's launch, several other beauty brands have launched products with a wider shade range and marketed themselves as more inclusive. For example:
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• Huda Beauty expanded its shade range for its Faux Filter Foundation in 2018, following the launch of Fenty Beauty.
• Too Faced expanded its Born This Way Foundation shade range to include 35 shades in 2019, after facing criticism for its lack of inclusivity.
• Maybelline launched its SuperStay Full Coverage Foundation in 2018 with a shade range of 28 colours, which was expanded to 50 shades in 2019.
• CoverGirl launched its TruBlend Matte Made Foundation in 2018 with a shade range of 40 colours.

In conclusion, Fenty Beauty has contributed to the creation of a new standard in the cosmetics and beauty industry. It would now be unthinkable for a brand to launch without offering products that'd fit half of the world's population. Rihanna was the first to address this market in its entirety.

In the fast-paced UK e-commerce market, efficient e-commerce shipping cost management is key to success. With an expected growth to £177.72 billion by 2023, businesses need to optimise shipping to attract and retain customers, as 61% are likely to abandon carts if shipping fees are too high.

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1. How are transportation fees calculated?

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1.1 Package weight

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Most carriers, including Royal Mail, DPD, Chronopost, Mondial Relay and Evri, use the package weight to calculate logistic fees.

The rationale behind it: the heavier the package, the more it will cost.

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1.2 Package size

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Besides weight, the size of the package also plays a crucial role. Larger packages occupy more space, limiting the number of items a carrier can transport at once. 

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This is why carriers, including air and road transport companies like DHL, FedEx or UPS, use dimensional weight for pricing. 

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^{Dimensional weight is calculated using the formula (length x width x height) / 5000, measured in centimetres.} 

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It helps determine the shipping price based on the larger of the two weights — actual or dimensional. 

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Understanding how carriers are calculating shipping costs can help you optimise packaging to reduce shipping expenses.

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^{At Bigblue, we select the best packaging to ship your products. We aim to eliminate the empty space in your packages, save you money, and lower the environmental impact of your products.}

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1.3 Contents

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If your package contains high-value items, it's prudent to opt for additional insurance to safeguard against damage or loss. Shipping luxury items, such as expensive perfumes or designer pieces, demands extra caution.

True, the package becomes the carrier’s responsibility when the merchandise arrives at the warehouse until they are delivered to the final client. However, there is a cap on the compensations and indemnities, and they end up being fixed at their discretion.

In the event of the loss of an expensive item, it is quite likely that the carrier’s compensation policy will partially cover the damages. Not only will you not recover the full value of your package, but you will also be obliged to send a new product to the client at your expense. 

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1.4 Delivery speed

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Standard delivery will have a lower price than express delivery.

As you know, customers are becoming extremely demanding when it comes to delivery time. They expect their package to be delivered within 48 hours.

Express shipping entails additional costs that are often negatively perceived by customers. Your challenge will be to educate them on the benefits of standard delivery: less expensive and more environmentally friendly. This will help you both cut costs and improve your brand’s image.

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1.5 Additional costs to keep in mind

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Shipping costs are not just about the transportation itself. 

They also include all the expenses involved in preparing the package, such as storage, picking, and packaging (including personalisation). Finally, if you are shipping internationally, you will have to pay certain taxes or duties.

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10 strategies to help you optimise your shipping costs 

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8.1 Multi-carrier approach

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Employing a variety of shipping carriers offers flexibility and access to different shipping methods. For domestic shipping within the UK, carriers like Royal Mail are popular for their reliability and trust. For e-commerce businesses, diversifying carriers means potentially accessing more competitive options that cater to various customer needs.

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<sub>Bigblue Tips

👉 Experience efficiency in logistics with Bigblue. Leverage our advanced WMS and TMS for streamlined delivery and cost savings. Our smart carrier selection ensures fast and affordable shipping solutions.</sub>

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8.2 International shipping policies

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Navigating international shipping has become more complex post-Brexit, with additional customs duties and regulations. Clear communication of shipping policies and fees is essential for expanding global reach while maintaining customer trust.

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8.3 Balancing free shipping with financial health

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Offering free shipping is an effective strategy to attract customers, but it must be balanced with the business's financial health. Setting minimum order values for free shipping can be a sustainable approach. 

Continuing to manage it smartly is crucial. This can involve promotional strategies like limited-time free shipping offers or loyalty program benefits, which can boost customer acquisition and retention while managing cost impact.

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8.4 Efficient delivery service

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Ensuring a fast and accurate delivery process, including efficient pick, pack, and ship operations, is essential for meeting customer expectations. Timely delivery enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty, directly influencing repeat business and positive reviews.

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8.5 Flexible delivery choices

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Offering a range of delivery options, including next-day and standard shipping, allows customers to choose based on their needs and urgency. This flexibility is especially important in today's market, where delivery time can be a deciding factor for many online shoppers.

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8.6 Leveraging technology

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Incorporating technology to streamline the shipping process is vital. This includes the use of automated systems for generating shipping labels, tracking deliveries, and reducing shipping errors. For instance, at Bigblue we use algorithms to detect invalid addresses, preventing shipping errors and ensuring efficiency.

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8.7 Understanding consumer behaviour

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Recognising patterns like the high rate of online returns (54% in the UK) helps in optimising the shipping process. An efficient returns process not only improves customer satisfaction but also helps in retaining loyalty.

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8.8 Good customer service

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Be ready to help customers with any questions or problems they have with shipping. This builds trust and loyalty.

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<sub>Bigblue Tips 

Use personalised and updated real-time order tracking emails to reduce customer support!
➡️ Provide your customers with all the essential details like order status, number of items, carrier details, delivery address, and updates on parcel status with ETAs and alerts.</sub>

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8.9 Data-driven shipping decisions

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Using data analytics to understand shipping patterns, peak times, and customer preferences can lead to more informed and cost-effective shipping decisions. This approach enables businesses to optimise their shipping options and costs based on actual customer behaviour and preferences.

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8.10 Smart packaging and sustainability

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Adopting smart packaging solutions that match product size helps reduce shipping rates and waste. 40% of UK shoppers are willing to pay more for carbon-neutral shipping, signalling a shift towards eco-friendliness in consumer preferences.

Offering eco-friendly shipping options appeals to environmentally conscious consumers and can differentiate a brand in a competitive market.

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Hire a logistics provider to reduce shipping costs

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Logistics are incredibly time-consuming. You should be investing your energy in growing your business.

Working with a logistics company allows you to focus on what matters most, avoid time-consuming tasks, and help you provide an exceptional delivery experience. 84% of shoppers are unwilling to buy from a company following a poor delivery experience.

At Bigblue, we specialise in logistics for e-commerce. We take care of your stock, prepare your shipments, and release you from time-consuming tasks while keeping your customers happy. Above all, we negotiate prices with carriers for you.

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Optimising your shipping costs for your online store involves a multifaceted approach that includes understanding market trends, leveraging technology, and adapting to consumer preferences and environmental concerns. By implementing these strategies, e-commerce businesses can enhance customer satisfaction, streamline operations, and increase profitability in a highly competitive market.

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We are thrilled to announce our extraordinary achievements during Black Friday Cyber Monday (BFCM) 2023.

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We've redefined e-commerce logistics excellence with our skilled team and technology, shipping over one order per second.
+95% of Black Friday orders were processed by Saturday night and 99.5% of all the BFCM orders were processed before the end of November. 

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Congratulations to our merchants for their exceptional performance during this year's BFCM. Many merchants saw their order volumes grow 10 times higher than their average daily numbers. One of our merchants even saw a 75x increase!

We're proud to have played a role in these impressive achievements!

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Our team and our partners across 8 warehouses in France, Spain, and the UK, showcased exceptional collaboration and efficiency. Their efforts, supported by Atlas -Bigblue’s advanced Warehouse Management System- have significantly enhanced productivity.

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Key highlights of Bigblue BFCM 2023

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“It's our priority to ensure our merchants’ success during the year's biggest shopping event, achieving a peak rate of shipping one parcel every second. This exceptional performance was made possible by our team's dedication and the efficient use of our proprietary WMS, Atlas,” said Tim Dumain, CEO and co-founder at Bigblue.

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Bigblue continues to set new industry standards, striving for excellence and innovation in the e-commerce logistics sector.

Introduction

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As the festive season approaches, you must be asking yourself how you will manage Christmas deliveries.

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In 2023, the UK's Christmas retail sales, combining online and in-store, were projected to hit £84.9 billion, marking the highest seasonal spending. 

With an average budget ranging from £700 to £973, customers will start the gift shopping season with heightened expectations for timely delivery. 

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You can use logistics to your advantage to improve customer satisfaction and make your sales surge as Mariah Carey streams on Spotify. 

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^{At Bigblue, we’ve seen brands like Détective Box or Caval achieve more than 95% customer delivery satisfaction during peak periods.} 

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Consider partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider like Bigblue to streamline warehousing, transportation, and order fulfilment, efficiently meeting your increased business demands.
Contact us here for expert assistance in managing your Christmas e-commerce logistics.

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1. Make sure you can deliver on time

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Fast and reliable delivery is crucial for Christmas gift shopping, ensuring gifts arrive on time and eliminating the worry of late arrivals.

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Wunderman Thompson's The Future Shopper Report 2023 shows a preference for speed in online shopping, with 48% of consumers favouring faster over cheaper delivery, and the average acceptable wait time reducing from 2.36 to 2.15 days since 2022.

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During the festive season, delivery demands surge, yet customer expectations remain high. Falling short in meeting these standards poses a risk of losing customers to rivals such as Amazon.

It's crucial to communicate any changes in delivery timelines to your customers proactively to create the best delivery experience.

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Clear communication regarding delivery times can reassure customers and potentially attract new ones.

‍A proactive approach, such as announcing delivery schedules on social media and via email, can set the right expectations and enhance customer experience.

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<sub>Bigblue Tips 

Bigblue's Fast Tags and Estimated Arrival Time (ETA) features offer detailed order tracking, reducing customer queries and boosting sales! 

👉 By integrating with product pages, it provides real-time delivery updates based on customer location. 

Ensure timely arrivals for office Secret Santas and family Christmas dinners with the quickest shipping options visible to your customers.</sub>

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2. Wave shipping costs smartly to boost sales

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^{78% of shoppers buy more for free shipping and 48% abandon carts over shipping costs.}

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Offering free shipping, even if only for a limited period like Christmas, can significantly increase the likelihood of a purchase.

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Alternatively, setting a minimum purchase amount for free shipping can encourage customers to buy additional items, such as matching socks with unicorn slippers. 

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We advise 25% more than the average shopping basket, and you can use a gamified checkout to make the add-to-cart page even more fun for your customers!

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Franklin Petfood added a progress bar to their checkout page: Free pickup point delivery → free home delivery → free treat!  

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However, if free shipping isn't viable, consider incorporating the shipping cost into the product price to offer a 'free shipping' illusion. Or simply and honestly explain to your customers why you can’t offer free shipping. 

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<sub>Bigblue Tips

At Bigblue, we've recognised the transformative power of automation in logistics.
👉 Utilise our in-house WMS and TMS for an optimal experience and cost savings in delivery. Our intelligent carrier selection consistently picks the quickest and most cost-effective options for you.</sub>

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3. Boost sales with a festive touch in your tracking emails and pages this Christmas

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^{Order tracking is an essential part of the post-purchase experience, with 93% of consumers wanting proactive delivery updates.} 

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Personalised tracking emails and pages, detailing every step from order preparation to delivery, can significantly improve customer satisfaction.

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‍Elevate your game further by sprinkling in some enticing product recommendations to supercharge your Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO)!

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‍During Christmas, customising these emails with festive themes can further engage your customers.

These emails and pages are also an excellent opportunity for re-engagement and attracting new customers through discount codes, referrals, or product reviews. How? Add a Christmas banner with a discount code! 

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<sub>Bigblue Tips

Leverage Bigblue to create your own branded tracking emails and pages. On average, customers check the tracking page four times per order!
👉 All the relevant information at a glance, real-time tracking with ETA, and proactive updates on delays or backorders.</sub>

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4. A touch of magic for an unforgettable unboxing experience

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^{The holiday season is an opportunity to elevate your packaging.}

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Adding personalised festive greetings, thank you notes, special Christmas card, gift notes, or samples can create a memorable unboxing experience for your customers.

Efficient preparation is key to managing the increased volume of orders during this period.

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5. Crafting a customer-friendly return policy

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A flexible return policy is more critical during the festive season.

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^{67% of online consumers will check a brand’s returns policy before committing to buy, so a “free returns for the holidays” offer can help you win customers.}

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Research shows that offering free online returns encourages a higher average basket spend amongst shoppers.

Simplify your return policy to ease customer understanding and extend return windows for added peace of mind during Christmas.

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Ensure your policy is clear on return timelines, processes, exceptions, refund terms, and who covers return shipping costs.

Another best practice is to provide them with a return label directly in their package. Or, make it as easy as possible to download or print it from your website!

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<sub>Bigblue Tips

A hassle-free return experience can make a huge difference in customer loyalty and be your brand's selling point.
👉 Simplify your return process to enhance customer satisfaction with Bigblue!</sub>

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6. Mastering inventory management for peak season

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^{Accurate inventory management is vital to prevent stockouts during the high-demand Christmas period.}

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Real-time inventory tracking, anticipation of demand based on historical sales data, and setting up stock alerts are some strategies that can help avoid missed sales opportunities.

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<sub>Bigblue Tips 

Unleash the full potential of Bigblue's dashboard and analytics.

Our app integrates with popular CMS platforms like Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, and all your sales channels and marketplaces (including Choose, Ankorstore, and Amazon), ensuring that every purchase made on your shop is instantly synced.

👉 Take control of your stock coverage using our main inventory dashboard to stay informed about the units sold and your bestsellers.</sub>

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Conclusion

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Effective logistics management during Christmas can transform your e-commerce business.

‍By focusing on delivery services, customer communication, festive packaging, and return policy, you can enhance the shopping experience and boost your sales. 

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‍Remember, it's not just about managing the holiday logistics; it's about creating a festive and memorable experience for your customers. 

So, start planning now and make this Christmas a season to remember for your online store!

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‍Bigblue is here to supercharge your e-commerce business growth, especially during the bustling Christmas season.

Think of us as an extension of your team, smoothing out everything from warehousing to delivery. Keen to see how? Reach out to our team and let's make this festive season your best yet!