Trump's Tariffs Tantrum, TikToks 2025 Triumph, and Amazon Driving People Away?
Episode Description
In this episode of Upside, Ali and Zamir unpack a week of developments that could reshape the landscape for sellers and brands operating globally. From proposed US tariffs to the rise of TikTok as a serious commerce platform and new questions around Amazon’s affiliate practices, they explore what these shifts mean in practice for businesses of all sizes.
What’s Covered in This Episode
Ali and Zamir open with a breakdown of former President Trump’s proposed 10 percent tariff on goods traded between the UK, the US, and parts of Europe. They discuss how such a move would increase the cost of trading into the US and why the impact would be felt very differently depending on the size and structure of a business. While larger organisations may be able to absorb or offset these costs, smaller brands and manufacturers could face difficult decisions around pricing, margins, and supply chains.
The conversation then moves to TikTok and its growing influence in e-commerce. Ali and Zamir explore how the platform is shifting its focus towards larger brands, strengthening anti-fraud measures, and positioning itself as a serious player in social commerce rather than just a media channel. They discuss what this means for brand strategy, advertising, and the future of consumer discovery.
They also examine Amazon’s Project Starfish and the implications it has for affiliate marketing and brand transparency. The discussion raises concerns around how Amazon can use AI to create listings and capture affiliate revenue from direct-to-consumer sales, often without brands being fully aware. Ali and Zamir question what this means for brand control, attribution, and trust within the wider Amazon ecosystem.
The episode closes with a reflection on the resilience of traditional retail, highlighting the continued success of UK high street retailer Next. Ali and Zamir discuss how adaptability, operational discipline, and a clear understanding of customers have allowed some legacy retailers to thrive despite ongoing disruption.
Key Takeaways:
Tariffs raise costs: A proposed 10 percent tariff could significantly increase the cost of trading into the US.
Small businesses feel it most: Larger brands may absorb tariff costs more easily than smaller manufacturers.
TikTok is evolving fast: The platform is actively courting bigger brands and strengthening its commerce offering.
Affiliate transparency questioned: Amazon’s Project Starfish raises concerns around attribution and brand control.
Retail is not dead: Businesses like Next show that traditional retail can still succeed through adaptation and focus.
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