Skip to main content

The Top 10 Ecommerce Order Management Software to Scale Operations

Before we go any further, let’s see our top picks for ecommerce order management systems along with what they are best for.

Managing ecommerce orders should be simple. A customer clicks "buy," your system takes it from there. Instead, it’s a daily grind of inventory miscounts, shipping delays, and endless tabs trying to make sense of it all. Sound familiar?

That’s where ecommerce order management software comes in. 

The right tool automates your fulfillment workflows, syncs inventory across channels, and keeps your ops team sane—and your customers satisfied.

But not every platform delivers. Some are bloated with features you’ll never use. Others can’t scale. That’s why we’ve reviewed the top ecommerce order management software—tools that actually help you get orders out the door, keep inventory in check, and give your team time back.

Why Trust Our Software Reviews

We’ve been testing and reviewing ecommerce management software since 2021.

As ecommerce experts ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software. We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions.

We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different ecommerce management use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & check out our software review methodology.

Comparing the Best Ecommerce Order Management Software, Side-by-Side

Chart time! Here, for your convenience, we’ll quickly compare these top ecommerce OMS picks by pricing, trial info, and use case. Then you can move on to the reviews themselves.

The Best Ecommerce Order Management Software, Reviewed

Now the reviews. These are the best ecommerce order management software we could find.

Each review details the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.

Best for ecommerce startups

  • 3-day free trial
  • From $29/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

Shopify is an all-in-one ecommerce platform designed for startups and small businesses looking to sell online. It provides tools for creating online stores, managing products, and processing payments, making it a go-to solution for new ecommerce ventures.

Why I picked Shopify: It offers everything a startup needs to quickly launch an online store, from customizable templates to secure payment processing. Your team can manage inventory and orders through an intuitive interface. The platform supports multiple sales channels, allowing you to reach customers wherever they are. With its scalability, Shopify grows with your business, accommodating increased sales and traffic.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include a drag-and-drop store builder that lets you create and customize your store without coding. The platform offers built-in SEO features to help improve your store's visibility online. It also provides detailed analytics to track sales and customer behavior, giving insights into performance.

Integrations include Amazon, eBay, Facebook, Instagram, Google Analytics, Mailchimp, QuickBooks, Xero, PayPal, and Stripe.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Detailed analytics available
  • Built-in SEO features
  • Supports multiple sales channels
  • Easy to set up

Cons:

  • Higher cost for advanced features
  • Transaction fees without Shopify Payments
  • Limited customization options

Best for small businesses

  • Free demo available
  • From $29/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.3/5

Zoho Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management tool tailored for small businesses looking to streamline their order management and inventory tracking. It facilitates order fulfillment, stock management, and real-time shipping integrations.

Why I picked Zoho Inventory: It's perfect for small businesses due to its affordability and range of features tailored to simplify inventory tasks. The tool offers multi-channel selling, allowing your team to manage sales across platforms like Amazon and eBay. Automated workflows help reduce manual tasks, saving time and effort. Inventory control features ensure you never run out of stock, providing peace of mind.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include automated inventory updates that sync across all sales channels. The tool offers real-time shipping rate comparisons, helping you choose the best option for your orders. It also provides insightful reports to aid in strategic decision-making.

Integrations include Shopify, Amazon, eBay, Etsy, QuickBooks, Xero, WooCommerce, Stripe, PayPal, and FedEx.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Real-time shipping rates
  • Automated workflows
  • Supports multi-channel selling
  • Affordable for small businesses

Cons:

  • Initial learning curve
  • Basic customization options
  • Limited advanced features

Best for retail automation

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

Brightpearl is a retail-focused operations platform designed for omnichannel retailers. It automates key business processes like order management, inventory control, and financial reporting to enhance efficiency.

Why I picked Brightpearl: It's tailored for retail automation, providing features like automated order processing and real-time inventory tracking. These capabilities help your team reduce manual tasks and errors. The platform's reporting tools give you insights into sales and performance, aiding strategic decisions. Its scalability supports growing businesses, making it a solid choice for retailers.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include automated order processing that reduces manual input and errors. Real-time inventory tracking keeps your stock levels updated across all channels. The financial reporting tools offer insights into your business's health and performance.

Integrations include Shopify, Amazon, eBay, BigCommerce, Magento, QuickBooks, Xero, PayPal, FedEx, and ShipStation.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Supports omnichannel retail
  • Detailed financial reporting
  • Automated order processing
  • Real-time inventory tracking

Cons:

  • Higher cost for small retailers
  • Limited customization options
  • Initial setup complexity

Best for shipping solutions

  • 30-day free trial
  • From $9.99/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.3/5

ShipStation is a web-based shipping software designed for ecommerce retailers to manage and streamline their shipping processes. It caters to businesses of all sizes, offering tools to automate shipping tasks and simplify order fulfillment.

Why I picked ShipStation: It's ideal for businesses looking for efficient shipping solutions. Features like batch label creation and customizable automation rules help your team save time. The software provides branded tracking and return portals, enhancing the customer experience. It also offers real-time rate comparisons, ensuring you get the best shipping rates.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include batch label creation that allows you to print multiple labels at once. Customizable automation rules let you set up workflows that fit your business needs. The software also offers branded tracking pages that provide a consistent customer experience.

Integrations include Shopify, Amazon, eBay, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento, Etsy, Walmart, QuickBooks, and Xero.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Real-time rate comparisons
  • Branded customer tracking pages
  • Customizable automation rules
  • Efficient batch label creation

Cons:

  • Limited reporting features
  • Requires ongoing updates
  • Initial setup complexity

Best for manufacturing businesses

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $179/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4/5

Katana is a manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers. It helps manage production, inventory, and sales orders to ensure optimal workflow and efficiency.

Why I picked Katana: It's specifically designed for manufacturing businesses, offering features like real-time inventory management and production planning. Your team can track raw materials and finished products throughout the production process. The software's visual interface simplifies complex manufacturing operations. Its ability to integrate with ecommerce platforms ensures smooth order management.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include a visual production planning tool that lets you see your entire manufacturing process at a glance. The software offers real-time inventory tracking to keep your stock levels updated. It also provides batch tracking for traceability and compliance.

Integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, QuickBooks, Xero, Zapier, Amazon, BigCommerce, Stripe, Square, and HubSpot.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Designed for manufacturers
  • Batch tracking capabilities
  • Real-time inventory tracking
  • Visual production planning

Cons:

  • Higher cost for smaller businesses
  • Limited advanced features
  • Requires training for new users

Best for enterprise scalability

  • 60-day free trial
  • From $50,000/year (billed annually)

Kibo Commerce is a composable commerce platform designed for both B2B and B2C businesses. It offers order management, subscription management, and real-time inventory visibility to enhance customer experiences and streamline operations.

Why I picked Kibo Commerce: Kibo stands out with its flexible, modular architecture, making it ideal for enterprise scalability. Its MACH-certified platform allows your team to scale without vendor lock-in, adapting to evolving market needs. Features include personalized customer experiences, efficient management of multiple storefronts, and reduced deployment costs. This flexibility reduces costs and enhances your ability to respond to changes.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include a composable commerce platform, real-time inventory visibility, and subscription management. The platform supports seamless omnichannel interactions and efficient operations. It also allows businesses to manage multiple storefronts through a single interface.

Integrations include Salesforce, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle, Google Analytics, Adobe, HubSpot, Shopify, Magento, and BigCommerce.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Personalized customer experiences
  • Real-time inventory visibility
  • Supports both B2B and B2C
  • Flexible modular architecture

Cons:

  • May need custom development
  • Requires technical knowledge
  • Complexity in initial setup

Best for automated order entry

  • Free demo available
  • From $1/user/year

Conexiom is an AI-driven automation platform designed for manufacturers and distributors to streamline sales order and invoice processing. Its main user base includes those who need to eliminate manual entry and enhance order performance.

Why I picked Conexiom: Conexiom excels in automated order entry with features like touchless automation and real-time visibility into order workflows. This automation ensures 100% data accuracy, reducing delays and minimizing manual intervention. The platform offers seamless ERP integration, which is crucial for improving efficiency and profitability. It allows your team to focus on growth rather than handling repetitive tasks.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include touchless automation that eliminates manual entry, real-time visibility into order workflows, and enhanced security measures. The platform also provides automated validations to ensure data accuracy. These features help optimize order performance and improve customer satisfaction.

Integrations include SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, Infor, Epicor, NetSuite, QuickBooks, JD Edwards, and SYSPRO.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Effective onboarding
  • Easy setup process
  • User-friendly interface
  • Increased order accuracy

Cons:

  • Limited customization options
  • Integration complexity
  • Initial setup challenges

Best for cloud ERP integration

  • Free demo available
  • From $1,800/month (billed annually)

Acumatica is a cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) software designed for small to medium-sized businesses. It offers comprehensive solutions for managing financials, distribution, and customer relationships, providing flexibility and scalability.

Why I picked Acumatica: It excels in cloud ERP integration, which is essential for businesses looking to unify their operations. The platform allows your team to access data from anywhere, enhancing collaboration and decision-making. Its flexible deployment options cater to various business needs, whether on-premise or in the cloud. The software's open architecture supports customizations, ensuring it fits your specific requirements.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include a user-friendly interface that simplifies navigation and usage. The platform provides real-time insights into business performance, helping you make informed decisions. Its robust reporting tools allow for detailed financial analysis and forecasting.

Integrations include Salesforce, HubSpot, Shopify, Amazon, eBay, Magento, QuickBooks, Avalara, PayPal, and Microsoft Dynamics.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Cloud access for remote teams
  • Comprehensive financial analysis
  • Real-time business insights
  • Flexible deployment options

Cons:

  • Limited industry-specific features
  • Requires technical expertise
  • Initial setup complexity

Best for inventory management

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $269.08/month (billed annually)

SkuVault is a cloud-based inventory management solution designed primarily for ecommerce businesses and warehouses. It helps manage inventory across multiple channels, improving accuracy and reducing stockouts.

Why I picked SkuVault: It excels in inventory management with features like real-time inventory sync and barcode scanning. These features help your team maintain accurate stock levels and streamline warehouse operations. SkuVault's reporting tools provide insights into inventory performance, assisting in better decision-making. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible for teams of all sizes.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include advanced reporting tools that provide insights into inventory performance. The system supports barcode scanning for quick data entry and reduces human error. Real-time inventory sync ensures your stock levels are always accurate.

Integrations include Amazon, eBay, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento, QuickBooks, ShipStation, ChannelAdvisor, and Walmart.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Advanced reporting tools
  • Barcode scanning capabilities
  • Real-time inventory updates

Cons:

  • Potential integration challenges
  • Limited customization options
  • Learning curve for new users

Best for ERP integration

  • Free demo available
  • From $10,000/year (billed annually)

Sana Commerce is an ecommerce platform built for businesses that need deep integration with their existing ERP systems. It serves manufacturers, distributors, and wholesalers by connecting ecommerce directly with ERP data to simplify operations and improve customer experience.

Why I picked Sana Commerce: It excels in ERP integration, providing a unified system that reduces complexity and enhances data accuracy. Your team can manage products, orders, and customer interactions directly through the ERP, minimizing data duplication. The platform supports personalized customer experiences by leveraging real-time data. This integration ensures consistency and reliability across all business processes.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include real-time inventory updates that keep stock levels accurate across all channels. The platform offers personalized catalog management, allowing you to tailor product offerings to different customers. It also provides comprehensive order tracking, giving your customers visibility into their purchases.

Integrations include Microsoft Dynamics NAV, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Microsoft Dynamics AX, SAP ERP, SAP Business One, Salesforce, Magento, WooCommerce, Shopify, and BigCommerce.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Comprehensive order tracking
  • Personalized customer experiences
  • Real-time data accuracy
  • Deep ERP integration

Cons:

  • Limited customization options
  • Initial integration complexity
  • Requires ERP system knowledge

Other Ecommerce Order Management Software

Here are some additional ecommerce order management solutions that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:

  1. Extensiv

    For 3PL warehouse management

  2. BigCommerce

    For large online stores

  3. Veeqo

    For shipping label creation

  4. NetSuite

    For integrated business management

  5. CRM Creatio

    For low-code process automation

  6. Linnworks

    For multichannel retail operations

  7. Cin7 Omni

    For retail and wholesale

  8. Unicommerce

    For warehouse operations

  9. Cin7 Core

    For inventory optimization

  10. Odoo

    For modular business applications

  11. Salesforce Commerce Cloud

    For personalized customer journeys

  12. QuickBooks Enterprise

    For financial order management

  13. Increff WMS

    For inventory accuracy

  14. Now Commerce

    For B2B order processing

Our Selection Criteria For Ecommerce Order Management Software

We don’t throw around “best” lightly. To make this list, tools had to prove they could actually handle the chaos of ecommerce order management—not just talk a big game. Here’s how we broke it down.

Core functionality (25% of total score)

First, we looked at the basics. If a tool can’t nail the fundamentals, it’s out. Every platform had to handle:

  • Order processing and tracking
  • Inventory management
  • Shipping and fulfillment integration
  • Customer relationship management
  • Reporting and analytics

Additional standout features (25% of total score)

Once the basics were covered, we looked for extra firepower—the kind of features that actually make your life easier, not more complicated.

  • Advanced automation capabilities
  • Customizable workflows
  • Multichannel selling support
  • Real-time data synchronization
  • Built-in returns management

Usability (10% of total score)

We’ve all been burned by clunky software. A tool’s only good if your team can actually use it—without needing a week-long training course.

  • Intuitive user interface
  • Ease of navigation
  • Learning curve
  • Customization options
  • Mobile accessibility

Onboarding (10% of total score)

Great features don’t matter if you can’t get up and running fast. We checked how each platform supports new users from day one.

  • Availability of training videos
  • Interactive product tours
  • Access to webinars
  • Onboarding templates
  • Chatbot assistance

Customer support (10% of total score)

When things go sideways (and they will), support matters. We evaluated how quickly and effectively each vendor helps you get back on track.

  • 24/7 support availability
  • Response time
  • Access to a knowledge base
  • Live chat options
  • Dedicated account managers

Value for money (10% of total score)

Price tags mean nothing without context. We didn’t just look at cost—we looked at what you actually get for your money.

  • Pricing transparency
  • Cost compared to features offered
  • Flexibility of pricing plans
  • Free trial availability
  • Discounts for annual subscriptions

Customer reviews (10% of total score)

Last but not least—we listened to the people actually using these tools. Real-world feedback is the ultimate BS detector.

  • Overall satisfaction ratings
  • Commonly mentioned pros and cons
  • Feedback on support services
  • User-reported ROI
  • Recommendations from industry peers

How to Choose Ecommerce Order Management Software

There’s no shortage of shiny features and bold claims—but choosing the right software comes down to what you need to run smoother, scale smarter, and stop firefighting orders all day. 

Here’s a decision-making checklist to cut through the noise.

FactorWhat to actually look for
ScalabilityWill this tool grow with you—or force you to switch in a year? Look for solutions that handle rising order volumes, more SKUs, and new sales channels without breaking your ops.
IntegrationsCan it plug into what you already use—ERP, CRM, accounting, your ecommerce platform? Native integrations save hours and headaches. No one wants to manage disconnected systems.
CustomizabilityCan you tweak workflows, dashboards, and reports to fit your business, or are you stuck in a rigid system? Flexibility here means less workarounds later.
Ease of useWill your team actually use it? Test for intuitive navigation and minimal training time. If you need a consultant to figure it out, it’s probably not worth it.
BudgetDon’t just chase the lowest price—look at total cost vs. value. Consider long-term ROI, not just upfront costs. Bonus points for flexible plans and transparent pricing.
Security safeguardsIs your data (and your customers’ data) safe? Look for encryption, access controls, and compliance certifications. Peace of mind should come standard.
Support servicesHow fast can you get help when things break? Prioritize 24/7 support, live chat, and a solid knowledge base—because downtime costs money.
Reporting toolsWill it give you the data you actually need? Look for robust, customizable reports that surface actionable insights—not just vanity metrics.

Ecommerce doesn’t sit still—and neither do the tools that power it. Here are the trends shaping the next generation of order management software.

  • Vendors are baking in AI to deliver predictive insights. Tools now forecast demand, flag inventory risks, and recommend next steps—so you’re not just reacting, you’re planning ahead.
  • AR is making its way into the buying experience. Customers can now visualize products in their space before purchasing, especially in categories like home decor and furniture. Fewer returns, more conversions.
  • Blockchain is boosting supply chain transparency. Immutable records help verify product authenticity and track movement, building trust with both consumers and partners.
  • Eco-friendly features are on the rise. Software now tracks carbon footprints and helps optimize for sustainable shipping. That’s not just good for the planet—it’s good for your brand.
  • Subscription management tools are gaining traction. As more businesses adopt recurring revenue models, platforms are adding features to handle renewals, payments, and fulfillment with zero manual input.

What is Ecommerce Order Management Software?

Ecommerce order management software helps you track, manage, and fulfill customer orders—from the second someone clicks “buy” to the moment the package lands on their doorstep.

Think of it as mission control for your ecommerce ops. 

These tools centralize orders from all your sales channels, sync inventory levels in real time, automate fulfillment workflows, and handle returns without the chaos. 

The goal? Fewer errors, faster shipping, and happier customers—without your team manually updating spreadsheets at midnight.

Retailers, warehouse managers, and ecommerce teams rely on this software to streamline operations, reduce costly mistakes, and scale up without losing control.v

Features of Ecommerce Order Management Software

Not all features are created equal—and nobody needs a bloated tool with functions you’ll never use. Here are the features that actually move the needle in ecommerce order management.

  • Real-time inventory tracking. Sync stock levels across every sales channel to avoid overselling and out-of-stock disasters.
  • Automated order processing. Speed up fulfillment by automating tasks like invoicing, picking, packing, and shipping—so your team can focus on growth, not grunt work.
  • Advanced analytics. Surface insights on sales trends, inventory turnover, and customer behavior to make smarter, data-backed decisions.
  • Multichannel selling support. Manage orders from your online store, marketplaces, and social platforms in one place—without losing your mind.
  • Customizable workflows. Tailor order processes to match how your business runs, not the other way around.
  • Subscription management. Handle recurring orders and payments without manual oversight, perfect for subscription boxes and service models.
  • Eco-friendly shipping options. Optimize routes, carriers, and packaging to reduce carbon impact and meet sustainability goals.
  • Demand forecasting. Predict future sales with AI-driven analytics, so you’re never caught off guard by spikes—or slowdowns.
  • Comprehensive reporting tools. Go beyond surface-level metrics with detailed reports that actually help you improve ops and drive growth.

Benefits of Ecommerce Order Management Software

The right order management software doesn’t just help you “stay organized”—it helps you run a tighter, faster, and more profitable operation. Here’s what you actually get out of using it:

  • Streamlined operations. Automate the busywork, cut manual errors, and speed up fulfillment processes—so your team can focus on high-value tasks, not putting out fires.
  • Accurate inventory control. Real-time stock tracking means fewer stockouts, less overselling, and happier customers (who actually get what they ordered).
  • Better customer experience. Fast, accurate orders with real-time tracking and easy returns = fewer support tickets and more repeat business.
  • Smarter decision-making. Advanced reporting and analytics give you the insights you need to manage inventory, forecast demand, and boost margins.
  • More sales, more reach. Multichannel support lets you sell across platforms without losing control of your backend—or your sanity.
  • Support for growth. Whether you’re adding products, sales channels, or markets, the right tool scales with you—and won’t fall apart under pressure.
  • Sustainability wins. Eco-friendly shipping tools help you meet environmental goals and connect with values-driven customers.

Costs & Pricing of Ecommerce Order Management Software

Pricing for ecommerce order management software is all over the map—free starter tools, enterprise-level platforms, and everything in between. Most vendors charge per user or based on order volume, with feature tiers that scale (and so does the cost). 

Here’s how it generally breaks down.

Plan typeAverage priceCommon featuresBest for
Free Plan$0Basic order tracking, limited inventory control, and simple reporting.Side hustlers or very early-stage sellers.
Personal Plan$10–$30/user/monthOrder processing, inventory sync, basic analytics, and multichannel support.Solo sellers or small teams with simple needs.
Business Plan$50–$100/user/monthAdvanced analytics, automation, real-time inventory, multichannel selling.Growing ecommerce brands handling higher volume.
Enterprise Plan$150–$300/user/month (or custom pricing)Custom workflows, dedicated support, robust reporting, ERP integrations.Large retailers, manufacturers, or 3PLs.

Additional costs to consider

  • Per transaction/order fees. Some platforms tack on fees based on order volume—these can add up fast for high-growth brands.
  • Integration costs. Not all integrations are free; some require premium add-ons or developer help.
  • Customization or development. If your workflows are unique, you might need custom builds—especially in enterprise tools.
  • Support tiers. Premium support (e.g., dedicated account managers, faster response times) may cost extra.
  • App/plugin add-ons. Many platforms have feature gaps that require third-party apps—check those costs early.

Ecommerce Order Management Software FAQs

Here are some answers to common questions about ecommerce order management software:

What’s the difference between order management and inventory management systems?

Order management handles the full journey of a customer order—processing, fulfillment, shipping, and returns. Inventory management focuses solely on tracking stock levels and movement. Many tools do both, but not all. Make sure you’re getting the coverage you need.

Can I integrate order management software with my existing tools?

Yes, and you should. Most platforms offer native integrations with ecommerce platforms (Shopify, BigCommerce), ERPs, CRMs, and accounting software. Just be sure to check what’s included and what might require extra setup or fees.

How do I know if a tool can handle my order volume?

Look for usage limits or “scalability” language in pricing tiers. Better yet, ask for order volume benchmarks during your demo. If you’re processing hundreds or thousands of orders daily, you need software built to handle that—without slowing down.

How can I test order management software before committing?

Most platforms offer free trials or demos—take them up on it. Set up a sandbox store or use recent order data to see how it handles real workflows.

Pay attention to onboarding support, ease of use, and how quickly your team can get productive. A good trial should make you feel like, “Why weren’t we using this already?”

What’s the setup time like for these tools?

It depends. Simple tools can be up and running in a day. Complex systems—especially ones with ERP integration—can take weeks. Always ask about onboarding resources, training, and whether you’ll need a developer to help.

How do I get team buy-in for switching software?

Show the pain points the software solves (errors, delays, wasted time), then demo how it streamlines their day-to-day. Highlight quick wins—like fewer support tickets or faster shipping. Most teams just want tools that make their job easier.

Stop Managing Orders, Start Managing Growth

Manual order management isn’t just tedious—it’s expensive. 

Every delay, every inventory error, every missed shipment chips away at your margins and your customer trust. The right ecommerce order management software flips that script.

You get faster fulfillment, real-time inventory control, and a tech stack that scales with you—not against you. 

Now that you know what’s out there (and what actually works), it’s time to choose a tool that helps your team ditch the busywork and focus on what matters: growing the business.

Retail never stands still—and neither should you. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest insights, strategies, and career resources from top retail leaders shaping the industry.

Other Software You Might Need

Before we leave you, here are some more software roundups that may be of interest to you:

Sean Flannigan
By Sean Flannigan

Sean is the Senior Editor for The Retail Exec. He's spent years getting acquainted with the retail space, from warehouse management and international shipping to web development and ecommerce marketing. A writer at heart (and in actuality), he brings a deep passion for great writing and storytelling to retail topics big and small.