The RetailWire Podcast

Discover how small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) navigated the rocky economic landscape of 2023, as we sit down with  Khurjekar , Chief Revenue Officer, Business Markets and SaaS for Verizon Business. She offers a wealth of knowledge on overcoming challenges like inflation and capital access, while also providing insight on leveraging technology for operational efficiency. Aparna sheds light on the strategic tech investments that are enabling SMBs to not only endure current economic pressures but also to improve customer experiences and make smarter business choices.

Alongside Aparna, we explore the critical 'four Cs' that act as the backbone for businesses striving in a digital-first economy. The discussion also raises awareness about the importance of SMBs protecting themselves against the rising tide of cybersecurity threats, adding a layer of urgency for companies to adopt robust digital defenses.

As we cast our gaze forward, we examine the exciting prospects that cutting-edge technologies like augmented and virtual reality, telematics, and the Internet of Things hold for transforming industries. We share how Verizon's Connect telematics system is already making a significant impact on vehicle fleet management, and we discuss the promising economic outlook for 2024, reflecting a spirit of optimism among SMBs. Our conversation is a testament to the resilience and innovation of small businesses, a celebration of their contribution to the economy, and a commitment to keeping you informed on the latest in retail innovation.

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Unlock the secrets of AI's sweeping revolution in the retail world with Ricardo Belmar from Microsoft and Jamie Tenser of VSN Strategies. As we wrap up NRF 2024's electrifying discussions, we share ground-breaking insights about how AI is no longer just futuristic buzz but a practical powerhouse reshaping retail. Imagine store associates liberated from mundane tasks, thanks to AI's magic, and the game-changing evolution of machine learning to sophisticated generative models, all dissected in this episode.

Jamie Tenser & Ricardo Belmar, delve into whether smaller networks can stand strong against the titans of trade. We analyze the seismic shift from traditional advertising to the dynamic world of retail media and its redefining influence on the industry's future. Get ready for a strategic exploration of how retailers balance their merchandising finesse with the burgeoning demand for promotional prowess in the age of retail media networks.

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Ready to unravel the ever-changing world of retail payments? We've got a fascinating conversation lined up with our guest, Tom Burgess from SnippMedia. Together, we'll explore the concept of a Payments Media Network, a potentially game-changing platform that combines purchase data from retailers and banks to create targeted offers for consumers. If that piques your curiosity, join us as we delve deep into the future of retail payments, dissecting how banks are unlocking the value latent in their data.

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Ever wonder how a pet supply company stands out in an overcrowded market? That's exactly what we're unraveling in today’s conversation with Erin DeAngelis and Betsy Weakland from Pet Supplies Plus. As a beacon in the pet industry, Pet Supplies Plus distinguishes itself through an uncommon approach that revolves around infusing local flavor and personal experiences. From shaping the company's ethos around community involvement to valuing customer feedback, Erin and Betsy pull back the curtain on their roles in the company, the strategies they implement, and how they drive the company's private brand products.

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Ready to decode the retail revolution? Join us for a panel discussion with our industry experts Lisa Taylor, Scott Benedict, Ted McCaffrey & Brandon Rael as we navigate the dynamic world of Omnichannel. We promise a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities that this versatile approach presents, with a sharp focus on the significance of coordinated efforts across all touchpoints. With customers at the helm, we'll understand the critical role of digital and social selling, especially against the backdrop of the recent pandemic.

Ever wondered how retailers are adjusting to the changing consumer behavior? We pull back the curtain on this fascinating transition and the critical role of Omnichannel in it all. From seamless returns and reordering processes to personalization enhancing customer experience, we've got it all covered. Hear from our panelists as they discuss the potential of implementing RFID technology, peak season challenges, and the rising consumer expectations for a tailored shopping experience.

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Are you facing the dilemma of balancing sustainability with profitability in your retail business? We've got you covered. This episode is a powerful dialogue with seasoned retail experts - Lisa Taylor, Brandon Rael, Mark Self, Jay Fiske, and Scott Benedict, as we navigate through the complex interplay of sustainability and profitability in retail amidst challenging economic pressures. We delve into the potential of the resale market in providing cost-conscious consumers with affordable sustainability. Stay tuned to unearth practical strategies retailers can implement to harmonize cost savings with sustainable practices.

Our discourse on sustainable retail doesn't end there. We have the pleasure of featuring tech guru and business veteran Jay Walker, who enlightens us on how automation and AI can champion the reduction of carbon intensity and boost cost efficiencies. Here's your chance to learn about digital twins, AR, and AI as groundbreaking technologies in minimizing waste in product design and manufacturing. This is a call for retailers to seize the opportunity of consumers' growing consciousness of sustainability and shed light on the value of efficient processes.

As we round up this captivating discussion, we bring you actionable takeaways for embracing sustainable business practices. With Scott Benedict's wealth of retail experience, we delve into sustainability from the customer and operational perspectives. We'll guide you through the trending refurbished products and the 'right to repair' movement, and explore how companies can ingeniously maximize sustainability without denting profitability. Hold on to your seats as we cast an optimistic eye on sustainable innovation in the retail industry. Be part of the journey to discover how the retail industry is bracing up for the balancing act of sustainability and profitability.

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

How far would you go to secure your retail store and protect your associates? If you're one of the countless retailers grappling with the growing problem of theft and violence, this episode is a must-listen. We're joined by industry experts Mark Self, Gus Downing, Ted McCaffrey and Pedro Ramos to examine the alarming trend of organized retail crime and its devastating impact on businesses and communities. 

We not only shine a light on the harsh realities of retail shrinkage but also the influence of technology and social media on employee retention and customer experience. You'll discover a variety of strategies retailers are using to secure their stores and the tough reality of needing to add extra time to customers' shopping experiences for the sake of security. Moreover, we tackle the implications of using more militarized language to address theft and discuss the broken window theory, underlining the urgency for proactive measures.

 We delve into the importance of understanding inventory loss as a means to measure results and touch upon the advantages of RFID technology. As our conversation progresses, we explore how different retailers approach inventory counts and stress the need for creating standards to understand what's leaving the stores, helping to differentiate between counterfeit and legit items. Tune in for an insightful and compelling conversation that you won't want to miss.

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Get ready for a riveting discussion about the evolving world of livestream shopping in retail. Our esteemed guests for this episode include Mark Price, Ricardo Belmar, and Sharon Gai, who's got her fingers on the pulse of livestream shopping through her extensive experience at Alibaba. As we unpack the rise of livestream shopping from being a marketplace sellers' tactic to a multi-billion dollar industry in China, we shed light on the elements that make a live stream successful. Buckle up as we navigate the nuances of the presenter, the brand, the content, and the art of selling the product.

Can retailers truly harness livestreaming to drive sales? This is the question we grapple with as we explore the practicality of repurposing video content and using AI chatbot technology for interactive video replays. We encourage you to join us in dissecting the delicate balance between the actual profit of a product and the excitement it generates, while deliberating on the categories that thrive in the livestreaming space. 

The conversation wouldn't be complete without discussing the crucial role of influencers and presenter expertise in live streaming. Brace yourselves for an intriguing comparison of the dynamics between the West and China regarding influencers and MCNs. Walking the fine line between profitability, cannibalization, and incrementality, we ponder the challenges smaller retailers face and how to gauge the success of your livestreaming strategy. So, if you're seeking the answer to higher return rates, don't miss out on this compelling dialogue. Get in on the retail revolution now!

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

What if I told you that the path to innovative retail success involves a Volkswagen bus and a lifelong passion for music? That's the fascinating journey of Sweetwater, the leading e-commerce retailer of musical instruments and audio gear in the U.S. Joined with us today is Mike Clem, the new CEO of Sweetwater, Mike shares his unique transition from musician to retailer, and provides insightful anecdotes about the creation of Sweetwater by founder and professional musician, Chuck Surack, who started his venture from the back of a Volkswagen bus!

Are you ready to tap into the secret sauce behind Sweetwater’s success? Get ready to be enthralled as Mike sheds light on the company's unique relationship-based selling model, their fulfilling workplace culture, and their focus on heart and understanding. He also highlights Sweetwater's innovative strategies used for guitar sales, providing a seamless experience between local and online buying. Moreover, he offers an engaging peek into the future of Sweetwater, including how AI might just be the key to making music creation more accessible. Tune in, get inspired, and learn how Sweetwater strikes a chord not just in music, but in the business of retail too!

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Is the era of department stores finally ending? Join us in a thought-provoking conversation with department store and specialty store expert, Jeff Sward, as we dissect the downfall of department stores from a booming 10% market share to a staggering 2%. We take a hard look at TJ Maxx and similar discount store business models that have successfully capitalized on this downfall, leaving us to wonder - does TJ Maxx have the most bulletproof business model in contemporary retail?

Transitioning customers, dwindling sales, and the struggle to maintain brand image - department and specialty stores are in the fight of their lives. But there's no space for doom and gloom in this episode. Instead, we analyze the transformation strategies that these traditional retailers have adopted to compete with the likes of discount stores. We examine the role of sales and discounts, consumer psychology, and the potential rewards of a business model with fewer sales. Dive into the world of brand reinvention as we shed light on Abercrombie & Fitch and Ralph Lauren's recent brand revamps. We wrap up by exploring the future of department stores, and the inevitable reinventions that need to occur for them to remain culturally relevant. Brace yourself for an intriguing deep-dive into the turbulent tides of retail.

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Ever wondered how technology is revolutionizing the retail industry? Get ready to discover the transformative power of retail tech innovations you can discover at the NWA Tech Summit, an event designed to keep businesses at the cutting edge of technology.

We sat down with some of the leaders behind the event to bring you a sneak peak at what you may hear (and potentially see) at the summit from as Sam's Club's burger making robot to  Tyson's robotic arm, and of course the autonomous bots at Walmart Store 100. Tune in and get a taste of the exciting innovations shaping the retail universe!

 Buckle up for an exciting journey through the digital and physical aspects of retail technology, and discover how it's changing the way we shop and work!

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Batteries Plus has consistently shattered company sales records this year, leaving many curious about the secret behind their remarkable success. In this insightful interview, we sit down with Jon Sica, the Chief Business Officer of Batteries Plus, to unravel the strategies that have propelled this specialty retailer to new heights in a challenging economic landscape marked by inflation.

Jon provides a compelling narrative about the brand's thriving franchise model. With a keen focus on the unique advantages of franchising, Jon illustrates why Batteries Plus stands out as a powerhouse in the industry.

Delving deep into the business model, we explore Batteries Plus' evolution and its transition into providing tailor-made battery packs for diverse sectors. Jon shares the key ingredients to their success, emphasizing their extensive range of batteries, value-added installation services, and the unparalleled benefits that franchising offers to aspiring entrepreneurs. Through this conversation, gain valuable insights into the captivating realm of batteries and discover how Batteries Plus is empowering individuals to create lasting wealth through franchising opportunities.

In the latter part of our discussion, we shift our attention to Batteries Plus' customer-centric approach. Jon Sica elaborates on their innovative solutions, from seamless key fob replacements and programming to adapting to the preferences of an increasingly hands-off generation. Gain a deep understanding of Batteries Plus' market stewardship program and gain a glimpse into the future of franchise growth, all while appreciating the brand's commitment to enhancing the customer experience.

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Curiosity and a deep understanding of consumer behavior have been the driving forces behind Melissa's journey from working at Target headquarters to her current role as Director of Retail Strategy for digital solutions provider, CI&T. She joins us to shed light on some of the biggest tech mistakes retailers are making today and the potential risks that come along with them. We corner every aspect of retail technology, discussing how many brick-and-mortar stores are falling behind by not leveraging technology to increase efficiency, and the underestimation of the importance of an appealing and efficient online presence by some retailers.

 We grapple with the challenges retailers face, from time and financial investment into the right tech to the fine line of providing just enough information without overwhelming the customer. Melissa shares her experiences and insights on the tug of war between decision-makers on how much to push the consumer into a step-by-step process, the potential loss of shoppers who don't want to follow through, and the implications of providing either too much or too little information to the consumer.

The retail industry is continually evolving, with customer experience, AI, and emerging trends shaping the way consumers interact with technology. In our conversation, we explore how accessibility and experience play crucial roles in technology adoption and how retailers need to stay ahead of the curve by keeping a close watch on consumer behavior and new technologies. It's a deep dive into the complex world of retail technology that you won't want to miss.

Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Are you ready to wrap your mind around the future of retail? Join BrainTrust members, James Tenser and Ricardo Belmar, as they explore the compelling conversations emerging from Grocery Shop 2023. 

Uncover the transformative power of artificial intelligence as it shapes this landscape.  This isn't your typical event recap; we're delving into the nitty-gritty of practical use cases, inflation, pricing challenges, and the rise of private labels. Buckle up for insights that could redefine your understanding of the retail sector!

Ever wondered how robots can optimize white-collar jobs? Join us on this mind-boggling journey into the AI revolution at Grocery Shop 2023. We're not just talking about mundane task automation; we're discussing the exciting potential of AI-enhanced decision making, the elimination of "junk work", and the unprecedented career opportunities arising from this shift. Plus, find out why strong data governance is a non-negotiable for businesses eager to ride the AI wave.

Finally, we turn our gaze to the Instacart IPO and its profound implications. Ponder on how Instacart could redefine the retail media network with its unique access to customer data across multiple brands. Then, imagine the thrilling possibilities of streaming services and connected TV in the retail media landscape. As we wrap up, don't forget to visit RetailWire.com and join the conversation. The future is here, and it's more exciting than we ever imagined!

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Ever wondered how a hilarious misstep in placing a manual order could lead to some serious career development? Well, our guest Neil Saunders, Managing Director of Global Data Retail, did just that. Neil shares his journey through the retail industry, from his humble beginnings at John Lewis to his current role, and highlights a memorable ordering blunder that changed his perspective and fueled his passion for improving retail systems.

We've all been told the importance of honesty, but have you ever considered the power of speaking your opinion in the world of retail? Neil stresses the value of transparency and open dialogues, a philosophy that has led both to his personal growth and to advancements in the industry. Listen as we delve into the importance of understanding data for businesses and how storytelling plays a crucial role in data analysis.

What does the future hold for AI and technology in retail? We explore this intriguing topic, touching on the pros, cons, and the potential this tech holds to revolutionize the consumer experience. We even delve into the implications of Amazon One's palm recognition technology. Rounding off our discussion, we ponder on the importance of living in the present and how growing older impacts one's perspective. This insightful conversation is sure to provide you with a new lens to view the dynamic world of retail. Don't miss out!

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Connect with Neal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilretail/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Strap in for an enlightening dialogue with the dynamic Allison McCabe, a respected member of our BrainTrust. Allison's retail journey, which started from Allied Department Store's executive training program, has culminated in her becoming the Director of Retail Technology at Invista. Prepare to be inspired as we unpack her personal life, transition from executive training to consulting, and her global experiences in different retail cultures. 

As we peel back the layers in the second segment, Allison's insights on the importance of understanding customer needs and embracing change in the retail industry will leave you enlightened. Learn from her mantra of avoiding the "that’s not the way it’s been done before" mindset and discover the importance of trying new things in this ever-evolving industry. Listen closely as she shares her consulting experiences and how she leverages her unique background to breathe fresh perspectives into her work.

We proceed to traverse through exciting retail trends with Allison, where she reveals her favorite brands and the importance of inventory investment. Tackle the challenge of returns head-on with Allison's practical solutions. To those just starting out in the industry, there's a nugget of wisdom she leaves for you: "Don't try to do it all alone, and never hesitate to ask for help". And don't rush off after the interview - stick around for some thrilling updates and sneak peeks into our upcoming episodes!

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Connect with Allison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonnevinmccabe/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

What happens when you mix the passion for pets and the power of retail? Meet Kristin Shane, Chief Merchandising Officer at PetSmart, who's going to share her insights on this compelling synergy. With her rich career history, including consulting at Accenture and running diverse departments at Target, Kristin unveils some powerful narratives on the resilient pet industry during the pandemic. Did you know that people's emotional bond with their pets led to an increased demand for pet accessories and travel products? Interesting, right?

Now, imagine entering a store where your furry friend is more than welcome to choose their own treats or toys. That's the immersive in-store pet experience that PetSmart has to offer. Kristin and I discuss the strategic benefits of having 1600 store locations, the valuable services they provide to pet parents, and how they've adapted amidst the volatile market. We also explore the world of quality pet products and how PetSmart is committed to delivering value for money while resonating with pet owners' values.

But that's not all! Kristin will also shed light on PetSmart's footprint in the community. Their active role in supporting pet care, through initiatives like PetSmart Charities and the Chance and Lucky line of stuffed animal toys, is truly admirable. Plus, get ready to dive into the future of PetSmart and their proprietary brand Arcadia Trail, designed for adventurous pets and pet parents. So, plug in your headphones and join us on this fascinating journey into the world of pets and retail.

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Follow Kristin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinshane/

Learn more about PetSmart, including how to join their 60million+ Treats Rewards members, here: https://www.petsmart.com/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Welcome to our latest podcast episode where we're thrilled to present Liza Amlani, a powerhouse in the retail industry, who brings with her a wealth of experience from working with big-league brands such as Nike, Holt Renfrew, Ralph Lauren, and Accenture. Now leading her own organization, The Retail Strategy Group, Liza brings her sharp insights and retail acumen to our conversation. We kick off with a deep dive into Liza's journey, peppered with personal anecdotes of her London upbringing, which sowed the seeds of her retail passion.
 
Unpacking Liza's experiences, we venture into a candid discussion around a failed private label program she was part of, which underlined the importance of the consumer voice. This narrative unfurls into a thought-provoking discussion about the need for brands to form meaningful connections in an ever-saturated retail market. Stay tuned as Liza elaborates on the vital role of consumer insights in the product creation process, and how these insights can lead to products that truly resonate with customers.

Finally, we touch base on the dynamic landscape of the retail industry, where Liza stresses the necessity of assortment planning, and staying responsive to shifts in trends and buying behavior. She also highlights her belief in the need for innovation in retail processes and the potential of AI and machine learning to revolutionize retail. Listen in to Liza's perspective on the exciting developments in material innovation, and the potential of breaking down silos within the retail industry. Don't miss out on this enlightening chat, brimming with actionable insights for everyone in the retail industry.

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Connect with Liza on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizaamlani/

Learn more about Retail Strategy Group: https://www.retailstrategygroup.com/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Are you ready to unlock the mysteries of the retail world? We certainly are! This episode is a fascinating exploration of the industry, featuring a candid conversation with retail tech advisor Ricardo Belmar. Ricardo's insights from his own journey into the retail industry, which he amusingly stumbled upon, are genuinely enlightening. Let's buckle up and appreciate the significance of good wi-fi in stores through Ricardo's experiences, and understand why executives need to step from their ivory towers into the retail environment.

As we navigate the bustling streets of the retail landscape, we find ourselves in the heart of the diverse establishments in the DC area. It's fascinating how the pandemic has laid bare the concentration of certain retail establishments, shedding light on the essential need for right-sizing stores in strategic locations. From Walmart's sprawling presence across the US to Macy's acquisition strategy that resulted in a surplus of stores - we cover it all. We even take a detour to explore why some areas are surprisingly Apple Store-free.

The episode takes a riveting turn as we dive into the world of AI technology in retail, particularly its role during the pandemic. Ricardo guides us through the labyrinth of AI's use in retail, from how it was leveraged by retailers to how tools like Microsoft Teams were used for innovative solutions. He beautifully illustrates the use of AI and machine learning in creating new products and services, and delves into the potential of influencer partnerships. Ever wondered about the impact of AI on jobs? We've got you covered. As we bring the episode to a close, we dwell on the importance of relationships in retail. Trust us, you don't want to miss this one!

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Connect with Ricardo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rbelmar/

Check out Ricardo's podcast, The Retail Razor Show, co-hosted with Casey Golden: https://redcircle.com/shows/retailrazorshow

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Prepare to be enlightened as we spend some quality time with Dave Wendland, a recognizable figure in our BrainTrust. This fascinating individual, born and raised in Green Bay, Wisconsin, has journeyed through a noteworthy career trajectory. From a humble beginning as the Director of Marketing for Applied Computer Research to the illustrious position of VP of Strategic Relations for HRG Group, Dave's story is rich with valuable insights. We delve into his life, exploring his passion for technology, his profound understanding of the retail industry, and how his hobbies shape him into the person he is today.

As we tread further, you'll get an exclusive front-row seat to the evolution of retail and technology over the past three decades, as narrated by Dave. His experiences, challenges, breakthroughs, and ‘don’t say no’ attitude are motivational. Dave's father's wisdom has been a guiding light for him, illuminating his path to success. His ability to embrace change and innovation has not only helped him navigate the ebb and flow of the retail industry but also redefine his career along the way.

In the final act of our dialogue, we analyze the pandemic's influence on the beauty and pet sectors, and how retail titan Walmart is reacting to the ever-changing landscape. We'll also discuss the leadership traits of Walmart CEO Doug McMillon, and how seemingly unrelated experiences like group activities, waiting tables, and improv can mold successful leaders. So buckle up and join us as we navigate the future of retail, underscoring the importance of agility and innovation in this dynamic industry!

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Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davewendland/

Check out Hamacher Resource Group: https://hamacher.com/

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