Why are my Amazon listings getting suppressed?

Amazon listings can be suppressed for various reasons, including policy violations, missing information, low quality products, and inaccurate descriptions. To avoid suppression, sellers should ensure their listings comply with Amazon's guidelines. This article also briefly touches on negotiating with Amazon Vendor on price cuts. It suggests sellers should analyse their situation, be prepared to negotiate, and have a backup plan.

Why are my Amazon listings being suppressed?

Violation of Amazon's Policies
Listings that violate Amazon's policies regarding prohibited items, restricted categories, or prohibited content may be suppressed. This includes counterfeit goods, restricted products like certain electronics or chemicals, or listings with inappropriate or misleading information.

Missing required fields
Not filling in the required menial listing attributes such as main images, product information and other related attributes.

Price gouging
Drastically shifting your product price or not offering an equal price on Amazon vs other e-commerce sites. 

Poor Product Quality
If products are low quality or do not meet Amazon's standards, they may be suppressed to maintain customer satisfaction and trust in the platform.

Intellectual Property Infringement
Listings that infringe upon the intellectual property rights of others, such as trademarks or copyrights, may be suppressed upon request from the rights holder.

Seller Performance Issues
Sellers with poor performance metrics, such as high order defect rates, late shipments, or a history of customer complaints, may have their listings suppressed as a measure to uphold Amazon's standards of customer service.

Product Listing Inaccuracy
Listings that provide inaccurate or misleading information about the product may be suppressed to ensure customer transparency and fairness. Using high-volume keywords like “PlayStation 5” in a baking tray listing for larger audience exposure - less of a problem after the A9 algorithm 

Security Concerns
Listings that pose security risks or violate Amazon's security policies may be suppressed to protect customers from potential harm.

Policy Changes or Updates
Sometimes, Amazon may update its policies or requirements for product listings, and if a listing does not comply with these updates, it may be suppressed until the necessary changes are made.

What do I do when Amazon Vendor wants to decrease my product prices?

• First question: Are they still ordering? If yes, then do nothing.

• Analyse sales rank and margin requirements based on storage time.

• Explore ways to increase sales speed.

• Do not launch directly with the vendor; use Seller Central instead.

• Use Seller Central to boost rank, then return to the vendor.

• Try to give as little as possible when negotiating.

• Always negotiate when they ask for a decrease.

• Be prepared to say no and have a minimum acceptable price.

• Consider offering a lower price through pallet codes for optimised logistics.

How do I negotiate terms with Amazon Vendors?

• If notified, request more information.

• The two-week deadline to reply is often a scare tactic.

• Push for price increases if necessary during actual negotiations.

• Understand their total margin goals and see what extras you can get.

• Have a backup plan with Seller Central.

• Be prepared to say no and withstand pressure.

• Know your rights (e.g., GSCOP).

• Use the opportunity to build a relationship, inquire about seasonality, request Vine credits, and ask what they can do for your account.