Warby Parker, an eyewear brand renowned for its direct-to-consumer (D2C) business model, and Allbirds, an eco-friendly shoe brand that went public on NASDAQ in 2021, exemplify innovation in connecting manufacturers directly with consumers without intermediaries. This model promotes a positive image by endorsing an eco-friendly business approach. However, the disclosure of the companies’ financial statements revealed that both had accumulated losses greater than anticipated. While it would have been ideal for manufacturers to supply products directly to consumers, the burden of inventory increased along with rising administrative and marketing costs. Distributors in the middle shared profits, but they also shouldered the financial burden. Choosing eco-friendly options often incurs higher costs due to the search for alternatives, which can lead to accumulating losses. Pollution negatively impacts both consumers and suppliers, and business deficits further inflict additional damage that c...
If a New Zealand fisherman catches a seabream in New Zealand, he makes a profit of $9 per kilogram, but if a tourist catches it, $88 goes back to New Zealand. This is because to fish a seabream, the tourist has to spend money on flights, hotels, and all sorts of rentals. The opportunity cost and value-added will change as B2B becomes B2C. - Joseph's "just my thoughts"