SAN DIEGO – Much like Prosper attendees, Marc Hess is in end-of-the-year mode. As the newest member of the Prosper Advisory Council, he knows that all important end-of-year numbers are quickly piling up.
“The seller mindset is focused on ending the year strong, planning for next year, and analyzing the wins and lessons learned from 2025,” says Hess, director of Marketplaces at Salt & Stone (see part one of our interview w/ Hess). “We have a body care brand that blends performance, design, and sustainability. The brand has three major channels—D2C, Amazon, and retail.”
While Hess’ company has largely avoided the ill effects of tariff whiplash, he agrees that the uncertainty will likely continue well into 2026. “Tariff impacts have made things harder, especially for certain categories,” Hess muses. “I’ve heard stories of people losing their business due to tariff impacts. Brands are raising prices and losing market share. Other brands are raising prices and doing better than ever. Selling products online is tough, and it will continue to get tougher, but that’s also a fun challenge.”
One way to pour over the metrics and properly prepare for BFCM 2026 is attendance at Prosper, scheduled for March 10-12 at The Wynn Las Vegas. How would what work? “Prosper can help set the stage by bringing together a community of like-minded individuals working on similar problems to help educate, connect, and inspire online sellers,” Hess explains. “Making a connection with thought partners or finding the next solution provider/exhibitor can unlock the business. You could learn something new or find a new way of looking at things that sets you up for success.
“There is nothing like in-person interactions,” Hess continues. “The online world is great, but there is something special about meeting face-to-face, feeling the energy in an event space, and meeting people you would not normally interact with in your day-to-day routine.”