Ever wondered how much it really costs to sell a $100 hoodie? Joe Cote from Merchant Growth pulls back the curtain on the true economics of small business retail — and why the holidays may no longer be enough to keep them afloat.

From packaging and rent to payroll and marketing, Joe breaks down how tight margins, Amazon’s buying power, and consumer delay are hitting independent shops hard. Shane and Joe also spotlight what big retailers can afford that small ones can’t — and why that gap is widening.

This episode is a wake-up call for anyone who wants their main street to survive into 2026.

GUEST:
Joe Cote
linkedin.com/in/cote-joel

Originally aired on 2025-12-19

Ever wondered how much it really costs to sell a $100 hoodie? Joe Cote from Merchant Growth pulls back the curtain on the true economics of small business retail &mdash; and why the holidays may no longer be enough to keep them afloat.
From packaging and rent to payroll and marketing, Joe breaks down how tight margins, Amazon&rsquo;s buying power, and consumer delay are hitting independent shops hard. Shane and Joe also spotlight what big retailers can afford that small ones can&rsquo;t &mdash; and why that gap is widening.
This episode is a wake-up call for anyone who wants their main street to survive into 2026.
GUEST: Joe Cote <a href="http://linkedin.com/in/cote-joel">linkedin.com/in/cote-joel</a>
Originally aired on&nbsp;2025-12-19

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Advertisement