We created NNAW to fill the gap for a one-stop lifestyle store catering to modern men’s aesthetic and design needs. Recognising the challenges faced by Australia’s premium local brands in a competitive market, we aimed to showcase their exceptional products to our target audience.
NNAW homepage and best selling product.
With e-commerce marketplaces booming, we adopted a drop-shipping model to avoid managing stock. Starting small with Homewares, Grooming, and Accessories, we used market research to validate our approach. Engaging with potential brands confirmed our vision, as many creators prioritised design over business and welcomed our support in building and marketing their brand.
Brand Identity Guidelines
With creators on board, we built the brand identity and launched the site on Shopify. A backend integration enabled seamless communication with our creators’ stores, automating sales and shipping management.
Mocked up visuals of how we saw the store coming to life. Prior to Shopify build.
NNAW provided creators with a free sales platform (minus commission) to boost sales, engagement, and visibility. Our marketing strategy allowed creators to opt into campaigns, either contributing to marketing revenue or letting us take a larger commission.
Alongside PR, social campaigns, SEO, and Google Shopping, we ensured NNAW’s visibility and strong product ranking. Successful campaigns drove sales and brand awareness, attracting attention from key industry players.
The first year of NNAW provided valuable insights through Google Analytics, shaping the future direction of the business. In year 2, we saw continued success, increasing sales and breaking even in just two years. However, other commitments led to the closure of the store.
One thing we would have done differently is choosing a more memorable and easily searchable name. The concept worked, but managing marketing and customer engagement required more time than anticipated.
Navigating the early stages of an e-commerce business was rewarding but challenging and it led me to better understand marketing, and the nuances of running a business.
