The Executive Roast: Ep 1. with Marla Fox, Director of Ecommerce, Outward Hound

This episode cuts through the fluff and dives straight into what it really takes to grow on Amazon in 2025 — especially if you’re a 1P brand battling profitability pressures, shifting algorithms, and an unpredictable retail partner.

Top takeaways from Marla:

#1 - Don’t come in hot – Flashy Sponsored Ads + low pricing = unsustainable. It’s a trap for new brands chasing quick wins.

#2 - 1P vs 3P is a different universe – Most advice out there is 3P-focused. It doesn’t always translate. Know what game you’re playing.

#3 - Quick win? Research-driven relevance – Don’t chase trends. Find niche demand + cost alignment and own it with smart ad/SEO tweaks.

#4 - Brand ≠ everything on Amazon – In categories like pet, brand doesn’t always close the sale. Price and discoverability often win.

#5 - Inventory + profitability = the real battle – Amazon’s thresholds have shifted. Stock smart or risk invisibility.

Whether you’re launching or scaling, this one is packed with real talk and actionable insight.

Listen now – 15 mins of no-fluff Amazon gold.

#AmazonFBA #DTC #EcommerceGrowth #PetBrand #1Pv3P #TheExecutiveRoast

Guest Bio:

Marla is Global Ecommerce Director at Outward Hound.

Marla has a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication with a focus on Journalism and published many articles & blogs prior to entering Ecommerce 8 years ago. Marla has experience in onboarding & growing various major e-tailers and product development & sales within brick & mortar in the furniture & now pet industries.

Today she has been with Outward Hound for 3.5 years, building a small team of ecommerce experts and managing Amazon & Chewy.

Outward Hound is a passionate team of pet parents developing toys, games, beds, treats & gear for your dogs and cats across our portfolio of brands: Outward Hound, Catstages, Best Friends by Sheri, Petstages, Wholesome Pride & Nina Ottosson

Want to learn more about how to win on Amazon - Get in touch with the team at zeal@zealagency.co.uk

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