Holly Tucker, pioneer behind a successful online marketplace, shared strategic insights at eCommerce Live in Manchester.
Tucker, who transformed her business into a £158 million entity within a decade, offers a unique perspective on the intersection of small and large enterprises in the eCommerce sector. She emphasised the importance of having a long-term vision while running a small business. According to Tucker, small businesses should not mimic large corporations but should indeed adopt a ‘big business vision.’
Tucker advised that the key to success lies in setting a long-term goal and working backwards from that point. She stated, ‘When we were building the business, it wasn’t about what we were doing that day – it was about looking at where we wanted to be in ten years’ time, in 20 years’ time.’ This approach, she believes, is what distinguishes successful corporations and can be adopted by small businesses to scale effectively.
In today’s rapidly evolving online marketplace, Tucker noted the increasing difficulty faced by small businesses in competing against giants like Amazon. However, she stressed that adaptability and a clear unique selling point (USP) provide significant opportunities for growth. ‘In 2018, if you’re online, you have to adapt – which is why I believe in small business,’ said Tucker. She metaphorically described small businesses as ‘chameleons’ that can pivot with changing trends while staying true to their core values.
Tucker, who now champions creative small businesses through a new initiative, emphasises the critical role of technology in business growth. Reflecting on her own experience with social media and online platforms, she remarked, ‘Tech is the facilitator – the oil that makes your business grow. It allows you to raise funds, to get out on social media, to have a platform… there’s nothing that you cannot do with tech.’
The significance of communal support among small businesses was another focal point of Tucker’s address. Speaking to an audience in Manchester and London, she highlighted the importance of shared experiences and collaborative growth. ‘This event is very important because I believe that we’re better together,’ she remarked. According to Tucker, collective engagement in events like eCommerce Live enables small businesses to share their journeys, challenges, and successes, thereby fostering a supportive network.
Technology and community support are pivotal for the success of small businesses in the eCommerce landscape. Holly Tucker’s experiences offer valuable lessons in vision, adaptability, and the strategic use of technology.