Who is DEFT

DSPs for Equitable and Fair Treatment (DEFT), is a professional association with legal representation committed to improving the Amazon DSP program. Built by active DSPs for active DSPs, we provide anonymous representation with Amazon. DEFT is dedicated to driving change that enhances the Amazon DSP program, creating a more sustainable business model for DSPs. With legal representation, and as a chapter of the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD), we have the experience and the expertise to help us reach our goals.
Join our Community

Become a part of a dedicated network of DSP professionals who are ready to make the Amazon DSP program the best it can be. Connect with peers, gain access to crucial program information, and position your DSP for success

Road Map to Equity

Engage anonymously with other members to protect against retribution from Amazon.

Lead the Change

Take an active role in shaping the future of the DSP program. Advocate for fair policies, share best practices, gain program insights, and contribute to setting new standards for excellence. Your voice matters!

Goals and Actions

The outlined goals and actions aim to address critical challenges faced by DSPs through collective efforts and strategic advocacy.

Key DEFT Focus Areas

  • Remove excessive fleet redeployment and retirement costs

  • Secure compensation for unpaid tasks

  • Resolve inability to sell DSP business

Additional Focus Areas to Improve Sustainability and Equity:

  • Rate cards that keep pace with inflation
  • AFS that is 10%+ above OKAMI & disputes for true outliers

  • Elimination of CAPs and BOCs for minor mistakes

  • Added compensation for “raising the bar” initiatives

  • Simplified scorecards with metrics that are fully under DSP control
  • Eliminate invasive co-employment practices

  • Reduce cognitive load for Fleet and reporting

  • Remove subjective measures from DSP grading
  • Introduce advisory review and sign off prior to program updates

Legal Representation

Legal Counsel

DEFT has retained legal counsel and representation from Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP, a nationally acclaimed law firm established in 1925. With over 300 attorneys and advisors with more than 555 total employees. Their authoritative representation ensures that DEFT is supported with strategic counsel in negotiating program terms with Amazon.

Key DEFT Focus Areas:

  • Negotiate with Amazon on behalf of DEFT Members

  • Summary briefing on official actions

  • Updates on relevant litigation and arbitration

Association Support

DEFT is a chapter of the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD).

For more than 30 years, the AAFD has promoted and advocated for fair and balanced franchise agreements and relationships, and helped thousands of franchisees form independent associations as chapters of the AAFD. A franchisee association provides a platform for members to speak with one voice, providing representation and advocacy with the franchisor, and as a negotiating body to promote the interests and rights of franchisees. An association also provides a framework for franchisees to work together, share best-practices and resources, and may be a key strategic tool for the franchisor’s long-term brand and business development.

Legal Support

Why Join DEFT

It's important to understand that everyone’s story is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Read below to see if this resonates with you.

DEFT is the right solution if you’re experiencing any of the following:

  • Excessive redeployment and retirement costs
  • Stagnant rate cards and decreasing margins
  • Mandated unpaid tasks Scorecard incentives needed to achieve profitability
  • CAPs and BOCs for minor mistakes
  • Auto rejected scorecard and invoice disputes
  • Invasive co-employment practices
  • Escalating cognitive load

  • Subjective and punitive DSP grading

  • Delayed or rejected AFS approvals
  • Constant “raising the bar” initiatives without compensation

Who Shouldn’t Join
If You believe:

  • The DSP program is running just fine
  • Amazon is committed to growing DSP margins and their bottom line
  • Amazon really listens to the CAG and they are effectively advocating for you
  • The goalposts will stop moving for Amazon’s benefit at your expense
  • Amazon will stop shifting more burden and cost onto DSPs

  • Program leadership really cares about DSPs and is financially accountable for DSP sentiment

  • Financial incentives between Amazon and DSPs are well aligned for win/win results

  • Amazon will make changes that benefit DSPs on their own volition

Membership

Becoming a DEFT member is your gateway to an exclusive community built to empower growth, foster collaboration, and facilitate the sharing of invaluable insights within the Amazon DSP ecosystem. It is your chance to have a voice, secure your spot at the table, and gain the tools to level the playing field. By joining DEFT, you align yourself with a collective force dedicated to overcoming the critical challenges DSPs face through strategic advocacy and united efforts. Unlock your competitive edge today—become a member today.

Join the Movement

1

Submit Your Application
Fill out our brief application form.
Once we've verified your details, you're ready for the next step toward empowerment.

2

Formalize Your Commitment
Confirm your commitment by signing the confidentiality and legal representation agreement and paying the $1,000 annual membership fee.

3

Unlock Your Benefits
Gain exclusive access to our
members-only website and Association. Welcome to the DEFT-our movement is now your movement.