In this episode, Pete Robertshaw is joined by Robin Spinks and Kat Stoner from the RNIB to discuss why digital accessibility needs to be top of mind for every online retailer in 2025.
They share the inside story of RNIB’s new Shopify site, detailing how they balanced beautiful design with world-class accessibility, and what other brands can learn from their journey. Expect practical advice, real-world examples, and a look at the game-changing impact of the European Accessibility Act.
In this special edition episode, the Space Bar podcast team recaps the BigCommerce EMEA summit held in London. Andrew Barber, Engineering Manager at Space48, joins leading eCommerce consultant Pete Robertshaw to discuss the latest updates from the BigCommerce event, including exciting developments and the brand's future direction.
This episode dives into the key takeaways, including the evolving leadership under new CEO Travis Hess and how BigCommerce is shifting its focus towards B2B and composable commerce.
We also explore BigCommerce’s commitment to the future, addressing product innovations, partner integration, and their evolving SaaS offerings.
Episode highlights:
Pete Robertshaw is joined by Chris Lever, Head of Tech SEO at Bring Digital and co-founder of the TechSEO North community, to see how organic search has evolved since Pete’s early career foray into SEO.
Chris talks about his introduction to SEO and how the field is adapting to the rapid rise of AI in search. He speaks in-depth about the benefits and drawbacks of working with headless CMS builds, why brands can’t rely solely on paid media to fuel their search growth, and debates that age-old question: is SEO dead?
Pete unpacks with Chris the most crucial mistakes that eCommerce brands are making in their technical SEO implementations today, including the most common site migration disasters you can easily avoid. Don’t miss it!
In this episode:
Pete Robertshaw is host of the Space Bar Podcast and Head of eCommerce Consultancy at Space 48.
In the first episode of 2025, the Space Bar podcast team review the big eCommerce stories of the past 12 months before looking ahead to what 2025 will bring.
Guest host Jonny Taylor, Head of Marketing at Dark Matter Commerce, pits two experts — leading eCommerce consultant, Pete Robertshaw, and Dark Matter Commerce CEO, Jon Woodall — against the ‘all-knowing’ AI to answer the question: who is better at predicting the future?
Pete and Jon discuss the fast-emerging trends changing digital commerce today, from the unstoppable rise of social commerce (despite TikTok’s potential US ban) to the B2B ‘explosion’ that’s being championed by B2C best practices.
Episode highlights:
Introducing this week’s guests 2024 in review The rules of the ‘prediction’ game Prediction 1: B2B eCommerce ‘explodes’ in 2025 Prediction 2: Social commerce will win over older demographics Prediction 3: AI-assisted online shopping will become the norm Prediction 4: Sustainability will become table stakes for eCom brands AI vs human experts: the verdict Closing remarksIn this episode of The Space Bar Podcast, Peter Robertshaw chats with Ben and Clare Adams, co-founders of Start with Data. Together, they unravel the complex world of product data, enrichment, and Product Information Management (PIM) to help businesses thrive in today’s digital economy.
From understanding key data terminology to knowing when it’s time to invest in a PIM, Ben and Clare provide actionable insights for businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re struggling with messy processes, limited data, or choosing the right platform, they’ve got you covered.
In this episode:
Hosted by Pete Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting at Space 48.
In this episode of The Space Bar Podcast, Peter Robertshaw sits down with Mairaid Hart, Head of EMEA Partnerships at Klevu, to explore the evolution of product discovery in eCommerce.
Together, they explore the latest advancements in AI-driven personalisation, from automating merchandising to deploying tailored recommendations that increase click-throughs and conversions. Mairaid explains why seamless search experiences have become essential for brands to engage shoppers, and why people are more likely to convert when their site search queries are specific.
As they look to the future, Peter and Mairaid discuss the next wave of innovation, including conversational discovery and hybrid search capabilities.
Topics Covered in This Episode:
Meet Our Guest: Mairaid from Klevu shares her background and passion for eCommerce search technology.
The Rise of Product Discovery: How site search has evolved, and why it’s central to shopper engagement today.
AI-Driven Personalisation: The data-backed benefits of personalised search and merchandising.
Optimising Search Placement: Tips on making search visible and user-friendly for higher engagement.
Future Innovations: A look at conversational search, AI advancements, and the potential of hybrid search.
Hosted by Peter Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting at Space 48.
In this episode of The Space Bar Podcast, Peter Robertshaw sits down with Jim Herbert, CEO of Patchworks, and Lee Farmer, Operations Director at Ellisons, to tackle the complexities of integrating legacy systems with modern technology.
Jim shares how Patchworks simplifies these challenges with innovative middleware solutions and new features like database shapes. Meanwhile, Lee gives us an inside look at Ellison's journey from outdated, manual processes to streamlined automation, revealing how continuous improvement is essential for any business to thrive.
Together, they explore the role of APIs, the impact of AI on integration, and the vital importance of partnerships in executing successful projects, whether you're wrestling with legacy systems or looking to future-proof your operations.
Topics covered in this episode:
Meet the Experts: Jim Herbert (CEO of Patchworks) and Lee (Operations Director at Ellison's).
From Legacy to Modern: Ellison's transformation from manual, legacy systems to modern API-driven solutions.
Patchworks’ Innovation: Jim explains how Patchworks bridges the gap between legacy systems and modern platforms using cutting-edge middleware.
The Role of APIs: How modern integration technologies shape Unified Commerce.
Security & Compliance: Jim and Lee discuss the importance of data security.
AI's Impact on Integration: A forward-thinking discussion on how AI reshapes automation, operational efficiency, and the future of integrations.
Power of Partnerships: Solid partnerships are crucial in navigating complex integrations.
Looking Ahead: Future trends in Unified Commerce, the integration landscape, and the exciting potential of AI to streamline processes even further.
Hosted by Pete Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting, Space 48.
Welcome back to the Space Bar podcast! In this episode, we discuss how email marketing has transformed in 2024 with Phil Holman, the Senior Enterprise Account Executive at Dotdigtal and an expert in all things eCommerce and digital marketing.
Phillip shares his knowledge and experience in email marketing, examining how it’s changed over the years and the current trends. We study how retailers can segment and personalise their email marketing campaigns to improve their customers’ experiences.
He also shares the challenges and strategies for success for B2B and B2C retailers when making email marketing campaigns.
Topics include:
What impact will AI have on email marketing in the near future?
Hosted by Pete Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting, Space 48. Guest: Phil Holman, Senior Enterprise Account Executive at Dotdigtal.
In this exciting episode of The Space Bar Podcast, we're joined by Jonny Webb from Active Matter and Chris Brooks from One Iota, two industry leaders transforming the omnichannel landscape.
Jonny dives into his journey from Noble to Active Matter, sharing how loyalty programs and seamless customer experiences are reshaping the future of eCommerce. Chris sheds light on One Iota’s work with iconic brands like Hugo Boss and Pro Direct, emphasising the importance of integrated strategies that unite the online and physical retail worlds.
Together, they explore how community engagement, personalisation, and AI elevate customer interactions and why TikTok’s eCommerce potential is skyrocketing. Plus, they unpack the growing influence of micro-influencers in the ever-changing retail space.
Topics covered in this episode:
Hosted by Pete Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting, Space 48.
If you’re ready to level up your omnichannel strategy and learn how the best in the business do it, you won’t want to miss this episode!
Welcome to the latest Space Bar podcast episode! This time, we spoke with Ash Pallett, Senior Digital and eCommerce Manager at gardening retailer Sarah Raven.
In this episode, we discuss Sarah Raven’s journey since completing a platform migration in 2021 to BigCommerce. Ash shares her experiences and expertise in all things eCommerce. Ash and Pete delve into the current trends and changes in the eCommerce industry. Ash highlights the importance of personalisation and usability testing to Sarah Raven’s growth strategy, built around enhancing customer experience at every opportunity. She also explains how other eCommerce brands can empower themselves through data-driven decision-making.
Topics covered in this episode:
Challenges and opportunities in the gardening industry, including weather impact and sustainability goals.
Improving the ecommerce checkout experience.
Personalisation and merchandising to enhance the customer experience.
Usability testing and data-driven decision-making.
Advanced attribution modelling & understanding your customer.
Adapting to be successful agency-client partnerships.
Future trends.
Topics covered in this episode: Hosted by Pete Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting, Space 48.
Welcome back to the Space Bar podcast! In this weeks episode, Pete speaks with Tom Robertshaw, the founder of HYPA Apps.
In this episode, we discuss the evolution of HYPA from a project in the Space 48 innovation lab to a stand-alone brand today. He explains where HYPA fits into the eCommerce landscape and the challenges that come with eCommerce app development. We also discuss how retailers can jump to new technologies at the pace the business can sustain and grow.
HYPA was launched by Tom Robershaw in 2024. It develops a range of innovative products that help eCommerce brands boost conversion rates, streamline store management, and create outstanding ecommerce experiences.
Hosted by Pete Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting, Space 48.
In this episode, we explore the complex world of payments in-depth, demystifying it and exploring how businesses can make informed decisions to enhance customer experience and boost revenue. Our host, Pete Robertshaw, is joined by Nicole Olbe, Managing Director at Adyen, and Alexander Speke, Commercial Partnerships Manager at Adyen—both renowned experts in the fields of payments and eCommerce solutions.
Throughout the discussion, Nicole and Alexander provide valuable insights on several key areas, including:
Leveraging financial and payment services to gain a deeper understanding of customer behaviours and preferences
Utilising real-time data and analytics to drive revenue growth and operational efficiency
Strategically navigating the ever-evolving landscape of payments and financial services to stay ahead of industry trends and regulatory changes
With their extensive experience and expertise in eCommerce and financial services, Nicole and Alexander share practical advice and innovative strategies that can help retailers and merchants optimise their payment processes, reduce friction, and improve overall business performance. They also discuss the latest technological advancements and how businesses can adapt to remain competitive in a rapidly changing marketplace.
This episode is packed with actionable insights and is a must-listen for retailers, merchants, and anyone involved in the payments industry who is looking to refine their payment strategies and enhance their business outcomes.
Welcome back to the Space Bar podcast! In this episode of the Space Bar Podcast, we discuss B2B commerce, its complexities, niche buying journeys, and some of the trends we’re seeing with B2B businesses and their digital propositions. To help dive into this topic, our host, Pete Robertshaw, is joined by Alex Weston, the Sales Director at SparkLayer and an expert in all things B2B digital commerce and ecommerce.
Alex shares his insights and experience in B2B ecommerce, focusing on the current landscape and the changes we are seeing. We will also dissect how a digital transformation can impact merchants and the importance of knowing your customers. Along with how to create a successful B2B ecommerce platform, we will discuss the current trends, features, and customisations we are seeing in B2B ecommerce and their impact.
Pete and Alex have a wealth of experience in ecommerce and B2B landscape, making this episode a must listen for any merchants in the B2B sector.
Topics include:
What are the trends, features, and customisations in the B2B ecommerce landscape?
What market is doing well in the world of B2B ecommerce?
Hosted by Pete Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting, Space 48. Guest: Alex Weston, Sales Director at SparkLayer.
In this episode of the Space Bar Podcast, we venture behind the scenes of the digital storefront to uncover the critical yet often overlooked facets of operational eCommerce. Join us as Jon Woodall, CEO of Dark Matter Commerce and the founder of Space 48, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Pete Robertshaw, Head of Consultancy at Space 48.
Diving deep into the operational backbone of eCommerce, we unravel the complexities of fulfilment, inventory management, order processing, customer service, and streamlined payment solutions. With a keen emphasis on how these operational aspects are not just part of the machinery but are vital for sustaining customer loyalty and driving the engine of business growth, this episode is a must-listen for any eCom professional.
Our experts tackle the challenges businesses face in operational eCommerce. From navigating the intricacies of delivery costs to the seamless integration of order management and ERP systems, every topic is addressed with actionable advice and real-world examples. The conversation also covers organisations' critical roles and responsibilities for making technology decisions that significantly impact operations.
Obstacles such as scaling customer service, managing product data, and excelling in omnichannel retailing are brought to light. To wrap up, Pete stresses the monumental impact of identifying and addressing operational gaps in today's competitive eCommerce landscape. He also teases the highly anticipated Commerce Fusion event, which aims to address these challenges.
This episode promises valuable perspectives on enhancing operational efficacy and ensuring business success in the digital age.
Listen to the podcast now and attend Commerce Fusion for an even deeper dive into operational eCommerce excellence.
In this episode of the Space Bar Podcast, we discuss the topic of Making Video Content Accessible to All Audiences. Understanding the importance of this can transform how businesses reach out to their global audience and ensure no one is left behind in the digital age. To help dig into this topic, our host, Molly Smith, is joined by Sophie Young, Localisation Services Director, who set up the localisation department at Bring Digital, and Jonny Taylor, Head of Marketing at Bring, brings a wealth of experience across content and SEO.
Sophie and Jonny share remarkable insights into how localisation bridges the gap between content and audiences worldwide by adapting video materials not just through language but also by considering cultural nuances, ensuring accessibility, and overcoming barriers for people with visual or hearing impairments. We're about to explore how localisation is not just a tool for global expansion but an essential component of inclusive marketing strategies that respect and acknowledge diverse audience needs.
In our discussion, we touch upon personal journeys, the evolution and strategic importance of localisation in content creation, and the innovative measures Bring Digital undertakes to make videos accessible to all. From subtitles to voice-overs and the significant role of human translators in the era of AI, this episode unpacks the layers of localisation work and its impact on global markets.
Prepare to deep-dive into how video content, when properly localised, can unlock untapped market potentials, foster inclusivity, and drive global growth, all while maintaining the core essence of the brand's message.
Topics include:
Hosted by Molly Smith, Group Head of Marketing at Dark Matter Commerce.
Guests: Sophie Young, Localisation Director, Bring Digital and Jonny Taylor, Head of Marketing at Bring Digital
Welcome to the latest insightful episode of the Space Bar Podcast, where we unpack the complexities of logistics and fulfilment that retailers are grappling with in a market full of rising costs and changing consumer expectations. Logistics maestro James Hayes from Whistl Group joins host Pete Robertshaw to dissect the state of delivery in the UK and explore innovative solutions.
Retailers are feeling the pinch as delivery costs spike and operational expenses skyrocket. But what's the underlying cause, and more importantly, what can be done? We're discussing whether it's better to pick up or drop off, the myth of carrier hierarchies, and the pressing question - to free deliver or not to free deliver?
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James lends his expertise to the gripes with packaging, locker services' real benefits, PUDO's rising popularity, and the ins and outs of providing an 'eco' delivery option. Can customers expect to pay less, and should retailers offer it as a necessity? Tune in to find out.
With a focus on eCommerce and technology, hear James divulge the details regarding game-changing fulfilment and shipping technologies and whether AI is making significant strides in logistics.
Listen now to understand how you can overcome these current logistics challenges.
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Remember to subscribe to the Space Bar Podcast for more episodes like this, and if you found value in our discussion, give us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Stay tuned for more expert takes and deep dives into the world of eCommerce and logistics! 🚀
Welcome back to the Space Bar podcast! In this episode, we discuss the importance of digital strategy and how to craft a winning one. In today's ever-shifting digital ecosystem, the marketing landscape has transformed dramatically, ushering in a new era of strategies, technologies, and consumer behaviours that continually redefine digital marketing.
We’re joined by Mel Walker, COO, who leads the strategy function at Bring Digital, and Ollie Lees, Strategy Director at Bring Digital. Some of our loyal listeners may know Ollie already, as he has been a long-standing employee at Space 48 and has recently moved over to Bring, Space 48’s sister performance marketing agency and part of the Dark Matter Commerce group.
Both bring a wealth of experience across strategy, data, and consultancy in this space. So, eCommerce professionals who are looking to build an effective strategy for your brand in 2024, this episode is worth seeing.
Topics include:
Introducing Mel Walker and Ollie Lees
The importance of strategy in eCommerce
Adopting new technologies without a clear strategy
Strategy misconceptions in business
Simplicity in strategy
Business Strategy and Cost Efficiencies
Strategy's Impact on Business Direction and Consistency
Attribution Modeling in Digital Marketing
Data Accuracy in Attribution Modelling and GA4
Measuring Marketing ROI and Data Accuracy
Taking a step back and auditing for growth
Strategic frameworks for eCommerce business success
The importance of OKRs in eCommerce
Strategic planning in eCommerce, focusing on "Why" questions
Balance scorecards
Top five tips for strategy
Hosted by Molly Smith, Group Head of Marketing at Dark Matter Commerce.
Guests: Mel Walker, COO, Bring Digital and Ollie Lees, Strategy Director at Bring Digital
Welcome back to the Space Bar podcast! In this episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Clare Kelly, an experienced eCommerce manager who has transitioned into being her own boss in consultancy.
Join us as we delve into Clare's fascinating 15-year journey in the digital space, where we discovered our shared expertise in all aspects of eCommerce, from marketing strategies to operational know-how. This interview will uncover Clare's valuable experiences and highlight her impactful roles at various companies. Get ready for an enlightening discussion as we tap into Clare's wealth of insights, providing our listeners with a treasure trove of eCommerce wisdom.
Topics include:
Guest: Clare Kelly, Ecommerce & Digital | Consultant & Coach, Branch9 Digital
Hosted by Pete Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting, Space 48
Welcome to this week's episode of the Space Bar podcast!
In this episode, we're diving into the topic of globalisation made easy and how it can help you internationalise your digital retail business without any headaches. We have two amazing guests, Laetitia and Emily Peters, who are sales directors at Global-e, the world leaders in end-to-end cross-border ecommerce solutions.
During this episode, we'll explore the challenges many merchants face when growing their business globally. How Global-e simplifies the cross-border process makes it easier for the consumer and the merchant. No more dealing with issues like currencies, duties, shipping, and languages - Global-e is here to alleviate that stress!
Topics include:
Hosted by Pete Robertshaw, Head of Commerce Consulting, Space 48
In this episode, we delve into a critical yet often overlooked aspect of ecommerce - data quality and its profound impact on the customer experience. We'll uncover how poor data quality can severely affect your customers' journey and how improving data quality can enhance that experience.
Joining our host, Pete Robertshaw, are two experts from a company that silently powers much of your online shopping experience, Henry Thomas and Mike OKeefe, both product managers at Loqate.
In this conversation, we'll explain why data quality and validation might sound boring but how it can transform an ecommerce manager into a superhero for their business.
This conversation will spotlight the importance of data accuracy and validation, laying the groundwork for understanding how this seemingly unglamorous subject can make a substantial difference in business success. Stay tuned as we unravel the hidden power behind data quality and how it can transform an ecommerce manager into a superhero for their business.
So, if you're an ecommerce professional, this is an episode you can't afford to miss.
Topics include: