Stroodles founder Maxim Gelmann shares insights on successfully balancing D2C and B2B channels for growth, emphasizing the strategic importance of brand building through D2C and efficient logistics. He reveals how to leverage strategic partnerships and intelligent outsourcing to scale an eco-tableware business, catering to both individual consumers and hospitality giants.
Key takeaways
Outsource logistics early; it's often cheaper and more efficient than in-house, especially by splitting B2B and D2C fulfillment to avoid unnecessary costs and optimize service.
Prioritize D2C for brand building, as B2B channels often treat products as commodities, making direct consumer engagement crucial for brand identity.
Leverage partnerships (e.g., three-way Instagram giveaways) to piggyback on other audiences and expand reach efficiently.
Consider strategic acquisitions to gain established customer bases and accelerate growth in new markets.
Develop unique product stories and messaging (e.g., "sustainability can be fun") to differentiate in competitive markets and resonate with consumers.
Maxim Gelmann is the founder and Chief Stroodle at Stroodles, DTC sellers of eco-tableware. Founded in 2018 they now sell via a B2B trade site, a B2B sales team and a D2C site, both built on Shopify. With sales to over 250 businesses in the hospitality industry.In this episode we discuss:How can a business effectively balance B2B and D2C operations?Portraying sustainability positivelySuccessful brand partnerships in the eCommerce spaceThe importance of giveaways and joint marketing effortsHandling logistics in-house versus outsourcing to a third-party fulfillment centerTime stamps:[00:56] Importance of brand, outsourcing logistics, building partnerships.[03:38] Changing negative stereotypes, promoting fun sustainability.[09:02] Transition into growth after overcoming obstacles. [10:40] 2 warehouses for distributors and direct consumers.[16:03] Benefit from partnerships to maximise resources and audience.[19:09] Social media marketing.[20:08] Partnerships and benefits.[23:30] Giveaways open you to large audiences at minimal cost.[27:07] The brand expanded into kids' activity packs and explored partnerships for selling on Instagram. ...This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics - https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/ad-analytics-privacy-policy/ ---
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Outsource logistics early; it's often cheaper and more efficient than in-house, especially by splitting B2B and D2C fulfillment to avoid unnecessary costs and optimize service.
What does this episode say about retail & omnichannel?
Prioritize D2C for brand building, as B2B channels often treat products as commodities, making direct consumer engagement crucial for brand identity.
What does this episode say about brand & content?
Leverage partnerships (e.g., three-way Instagram giveaways) to piggyback on other audiences and expand reach efficiently.
What does this episode say about supply chain & operations?
Consider strategic acquisitions to gain established customer bases and accelerate growth in new markets.
What does this episode say about dtc strategy?
Develop unique product stories and messaging (e.g., "sustainability can be fun") to differentiate in competitive markets and resonate with consumers.
