Top 5 Amazon Seller Reads this Week: Issue #227

The SPS Commerce Team

By The SPS Commerce Team, The SPS Commerce Team

Last Updated May 9, 2025

4 min read

Top 5 this week

1. ‘It’s hitting a tipping point’: why the store is retail’s next big media channel

“This obviously makes a lot more sense for endemic brands, like groceries, but I find this fascinating. The entire video was very watchable. Grocery TV’s CEO, Nickell, is onto something. More ads in more places–why not TVs in grocery stores? Apparently it works! Easy to plug-and-play with DSP. Very interesting to see this maturation of brick and mortar advertising. If you’re in Grocery or related categories, ask your DSP provider.” ~Clayton Atchison

2. Amazon Q1 earnings: Here’s what you need to know

“A few highlights to call out: The continued focus on new AI-powered product discovery paths is something I’d recommend all sellers keep an eye on. Prime Day is officially set for July, so we can all start our logistical (and mental) preparations now. Particularly interesting is the introduction of “new ways to shop” with Amazon showing products from brand websites, even if not listed on the marketplace. I’m eager to see how shoppers engage with these kinds of search results. Definitely worth a glance!” ~Nikko Patten

3. Walmart resumes sourcing from China while officials make pleas for small business protection

“Walmart’s sourcing shift could signal insider confidence that the tariff stranglehold may loosen in the near term. The Chamber’s plea for small business exclusions is also promising. Watch this space and be ready with documentation to demonstrate hardship if new policies pass. Early readiness could be key to beating the rush.” ~Chelsea Cohen

4. The True Cost of Amazon Vendor Chargebacks: A Breakdown by Type

“With over 40 distinct chargeback types, Amazon Vendors face a complex landscape where operational missteps can erode revenue. However, finding opportunities to recover some of these deductions can significantly improve margins. Use the free Chargeback Navigator tool in this article to understand, prioritize, and take action against chargebacks to help minimize losses.” ~Shelby Owens

5. Amazon Introduces New Labels for Returned and Refurbished Products: What Shoppers Need to Know

“Amazon’s new “returned and refurbished” labels mark a shift toward transparency. Sellers must now monitor the metrics that trigger them: return rates, review patterns, listing clarity. A red badge can tank conversions, a green one can boost them. Staying proactive on product quality and customer feedback isn’t optional, it’s visibility insurance.” ~Vanessa Hung

Community

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Vendor PO Tools & Brand Referral Bonus Policy Change

Improve operations with Vendor Central’s new PO management features and tariff-based cost increase tools. Plus, take note: Amazon now explicitly prohibits “double-dipping” between Brand Referral Bonus and Associates commissions. Stay compliant and competitive with these latest changes.

Read this week’s news roundup.

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Rapid-Fire Amazon Strategies: 15 Experts, 90 Minutes

Discover 15 quick, actionable Amazon hacks from industry experts like Chelsea Cohen, Chad Rubin and more. Join in on May 28 for the 10×5 Amazon Hack Series Webinar, where proven sellers share 5-minute strategies to boost your profits, optimize your advertising, navigate new tariffs, and scale your business in 2025.

Register now to secure your spot.

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Connect with Carbon6 at Events Near You

Join us at select Amazon seller and ecommerce events where you can network with industry leaders and discover strategies to grow your business. Find where Carbon6 will be next on our events page, along with other high-value events worth attending.

Explore upcoming events here.

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