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Tariffs hit Mattel, M&A news from Skechers and DoorDash and a look at Mother's Day flower delivery with Bouqs

Modern Retail Podcast · with John Tabis · May 10, 2025 · 47 min

Summary

This episode offers critical lessons for ecommerce operators on navigating global supply chain disruptions and leveraging M&A for strategic growth. Learn how major players like Mattel and DoorDash are adapting to tariffs and expanding market share, and discover Bouqs' tactical use of technology to master high-stakes seasonal demand. Essential listening for those seeking to future-proof their operations and capitalize on market shifts.

Key takeaways

Themes

e-commerce logisticsglobal trade policymergers & acquisitionssupply chain management

Topics covered

bouqs technology utilizationchina tariffsdoordash acquisitionsfloral industry tariffsglobal supply chain best practicesinventory planningmother's day deliveryskechers buyout

Episode description

On this week’s Modern Retail podcast, senior reporters Gabriela Barkho and Melissa Daniels discuss the rising challenges toy companies are facing in planning for inventory under Trump’s China tariffs. As Mattel executives said in the company’s quarterly earnings this week, the Barbie maker is trying to future-proof its supply chain to minimize potential price increases. In M&A news, DoorDash announced it acquired reservation platform Seven Rooms and delivery service Deliveroo, for $1.2 billion and $3.86 billion, respectively. In other acquisition news, Skechers was taken private by 3G Capital in a $9.42 billion deal, which is said to be the biggest footwear buyout to date. In this episode, Daniels also speaks with John Tabis (19:30), co-founder and chairman of flower delivery company Bouqs on how the floral industry is dealing with tariffs, with Mother's Day right around the corner. They get into the source of florals, and how Bouqs uses its internal technology to navigate high-demand times. Tabis, who is also a venture partner with M13, also got into best practices for companies with global supply chains at a moment of uncertainty.

Frequently asked about this episode

What does this episode say about e-commerce logistics?
Implement proactive supply chain diversification strategies to mitigate tariff impacts, as exemplified by Mattel's efforts to future-proof its operations and minimize price increases.
What does this episode say about global trade policy?
Evaluate strategic acquisitions to broaden service offerings and geographic reach, following DoorDash's successful integration of Seven Rooms and Deliveroo to expand beyond food delivery.
What does this episode say about mergers & acquisitions?
Leverage internal technology to optimize logistics and manage high-demand periods, learning from Bouqs' approach to navigating Mother's Day flower delivery with precision and efficiency.
What does this episode say about supply chain management?
Develop robust risk mitigation strategies for global supply chains by understanding the complexities of international sourcing and anticipating geopolitical and economic volatility.
What does this episode say about e-commerce logistics?
Analyze private equity acquisition trends (e.g., Skechers by 3G Capital) to understand market consolidation and potential impacts on your niche, informing future strategic partnerships or exit opportunities.

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