It feels like something of an annual pilgrimage. And this year Tamebay made the trip to the NEC in Birmingham Internet Retailing Expo 2018 as usual. It was rather colder than usual. There have been definitely been IRXs in the past when you could sit out in the sun in shirtsleeves but this time there was still snow unthawed in shady corners of the complex.
The IRX exhibition floor was packed with all manner of providers and suppliers and there was a buzz for the full two days of the event. And there was an interesting schedule of talks and presentations. Sadly, because it’s so busy, it’s just not possible to listen and learn as much as we would like, but we did get to a number of sessions.
Here are some highlights and insights we picked up over the course of the event that you likely won’t read elsewhere:
– Adyen were at Internet Retailing Expo 2018 and soon they will be powering payments for eBay. And just about every eBay seller I spoke to, and also hacks like us, tried to get a nod or a wink about how the new eBay payments system would work and noone got any information whatsoever. Loose lips sink ships, it seems.
– The Facebook speaker gave his talk and then wouldn’t take questions and couldn’t leave the room quick enough. Presumably under orders to avoid inquiries about Cambridge Analytica. Don’t mention the Russians.
– The Google speaker revealed that they have been working closely with eBay to improve their ranking and performance. So that sounds like good news. We look forward to seeing improved eBay rankings.
– The after-party is still one of the key aspects of the event on the first day and the chance to meet other people in the industry in a convivial and informal environment with the social lubricants of drink and food. It’s also a good chance to catch up with friends.
And don’t forget that IRX will be back in 2019, this time during the first week of April. Hopefully it will be warmer. Maybe Team Tamebay will see you there?
8 Responses
Why was the VOLO stand empty? Any ideas?
Why was the VOLO stand empty?
eBay absent again. Amazon business present……..
We went to irx, only our second time. Found it pretty irrelevant as a marketplace seller. Yes, we are small, but established. Lots of stalls courting the big boys with millions to spend on ‘promise the world’ solutions; that isn’t us. I am guessing to have a stall there is an incredibly expensive way to get leads so they are only interested in the most lucrative businesses. Came away with some nice freebies but not much else. We won’t go again I don’t think ?