Amazon ‘Exclusives’ May Set Stage For Its Own ‘Kickstarter’ — Forbes

Last week, Amazon.com Amazon.com announced the launch of Amazon Exclusives, a new online store that gives consumers access to innovative, new “up-and-coming” products including some featured on ABC Network’s “Shark Tank” television program and others that got a start with funding from Kickstarter campaigns.

Amazon Exclusives features a wide variety of products including Jackery mobile device chargers, Tower inflatable paddle boards, Hot Chocolate Design shoes for girls and women, Olioclip photo lenses for iPhone 6, and Zackees LED-turn signal bicycle gloves. Jackery, Oilioclip and Zackees are Kickstarter success stories, according to Engadget, while Tower originated on Shark Tank.

“Our mission on behalf of customers is to make Amazon the destination for brands and innovators to launch and sell their products, providing our customers early access to new products,” said Peter Faricy, VP of Amazon Marketplace, in a statement. “We understand that helping brands gain exposure for their award-winning new products is beneficial to customers that desire to be the first to have the hot new item.”

The items sold on the new store are only available through Amazon and the manufacturers’ own physical stores and/or websites. Because Amazon handles fulfillment, all the items are eligible for free two-day delivery to Prime members.

The BrainTrust of industry insiders at RetailWire saw a great deal of value in Amazon giving customers a go-to spot to find under-the-radar brands.

“Another win for Amazon,” said Max Goldberg, president of Max Goldberg and Associates, “Exclusive products that have received extensive exposure through mass media or have built cult followings through the internet. This provides consumers with another reason to visit the retail giant and to get or keep a Prime membership.”

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“This is a great way for Amazon to stay at the forefront of ‘new’ without having to devote much time and energy to it,” said Zel Bianco, president and CEO of Interactive Edge. “They can also use all of their great benefits of being a huge business to support small businesses — gaining sales and shopper loyalty from people who may otherwise try to shop smaller and local.”

Source: http://www.forbes.com