Amazon targets SMEs with Launchpad

Amazon has brought its small business-focused Launchpad initiative to Australia.

Launching on Tuesday, the program aims to help startups and entrepreneurs sell in a wider market. Over 150 local and international brands are already on board.

As part of the program, brands will be featured on customized product pages, receive marketing support and gain access to Amazon’s fulfillment services including unlimited deliveries through Amazon Prime.

“Australian investors and entrepreneurs are responsible for some of the most innovative consumer products in the world, from the electric drill right through to Vegemite,” Amazon Australia country manager Rocco Braeuniger said.

“We know that product creation is only one part of the equation in launching a product and that marketing, logistics and finding an audience can be just as challenging.

“With Amazon Launchpad, we have a program that will help ease some of these challenges for startups and entrepreneurs alike, allowing them to focus on growing their business and freeing up time for future innovation.”

Sugar-free drink business Nexba, Beach House Group’s skincare brand Marlowe and sunglasses retailer Soda Shades are some of the local brands participating in the program at launch.

According to Josh Miller, co-founder of Soda Shades, being featured in the program allows the brand to reach a wider audience.

The program was initially launched in the US in 2015 and has resulted in thousands of products being launched across several categories. It is now available in eight countries: the US, the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, India and Australia.