Ex-Amazon worker’s online buying ‘hack’ that could save shoppers thousands of pounds

Former Amazon employee, Maren Costa, who played a crucial role in developing the company’s online shopping pages, has shared a money-saving ‘hack’ that could potentially save shoppers thousands of pounds. Costa, known for her involvement in co-founding the Amazon Employees for Climate Justice campaign, was instrumental in shaping Amazon’s online shopping experience in its early stages. She recently contributed to the Netflix documentary “Buy Now: The Online Shopping Conspiracy,” which explores the tricks used by brands to influence consumer behaviour and the impacts of increased consumption on our lives and the environment.

Costa revealed that during her time at Amazon, tactics such as altering the colours of certain elements on the website were used to encourage shoppers to make more purchases. By testing different variations of messages, like offering free shipping for orders over a certain amount in different colours, they could determine which version was most effective in driving sales. She highlighted the subtle ways in which companies manipulate consumers to make impulse purchases without realising it.

One of Costa’s top tips for online shoppers is to resist making impulsive purchases by adding items to the cart and leaving them there for a month. If the shopper still wants the item after a month, it may indicate a genuine need for it, helping to avoid unnecessary spending. This simple strategy could potentially help consumers make more mindful buying decisions and avoid accumulating items they don’t truly need.

The documentary also features ‘waste’ TikToker, Anna Sacks, who reveals the usable products discarded by major companies by exploring trash bags. This sheds light on the scale of the world’s waste problem and challenges viewers to reconsider their consumption habits. “Buy Now: The Online Shopping Conspiracy” is now available for streaming on Netflix, offering viewers an insightful look into the dark side of online shopping and consumer behaviour.

In a world where online shopping has become increasingly prevalent and influential, understanding the strategies used by companies to drive sales is essential for making informed purchasing decisions. By being aware of these tactics and adopting mindful shopping practices, consumers can empower themselves to resist impulse buying and make choices that align with their genuine needs and values. The documentary serves as a reminder to consumers to approach online shopping with a critical eye and to be mindful of the impacts of their purchasing choices on both personal finances and the environment.