Omni Talk

The lightning round from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, features Chris and Anne's French-themed rapid-fire preferences while broadcasting live from Paris. From pastry choices to historical emperors, it's a fun cultural exploration. 29:21 – Croissant vs pain au chocolat debate 30:02 – Langoustines vs escargot preferences 30:49 – Paris Metro vs London Tube comparison 31:22 – Napoleon vs Genghis Khan emperor choice For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #paris #nrfeurope #french #culture #travel

This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, analyzes PacSun's groundbreaking Youth Advisory Council featuring top influencers. Chris and Anne debate whether this represents genuine youth engagement or clever marketing, and what it means for retail's future. 20:16 – Industry-first youth advisory structure 22:13 – Influencer-as-advisor model advantages 24:20 – CEO Brieane Olson's culture-building success For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #pacsun #youthmarketing #influencers #genz #retail

This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores Walgreens' strategic move into party supplies following Party City's closure. Chris and Anne analyze the $2 billion market opportunity and why former Party City executive Tracey Koller's merchandising expertise makes this expansion particularly smart. 10:22 – The $2 billion party supply opportunity 11:17 – Emergency shopping use cases and convenience factor 13:01 – Tracy Kolder's merchandising background advantage For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #walgreens #partysupplies #partycity #convenience #retail

This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, examines Starbucks' deployment of computer vision technology to track inventory and improve order fulfillment. Chris and Anne discuss how this addresses the chain's persistent speed and stock-out challenges. 15:28 – Computer vision deployment across North America 17:17 – The four-minute order fulfillment challenge 18:07 – Reliability as Starbucks' core value proposition For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #starbucks #computervision #AI #inventory #efficiency

This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores survey data showing nearly half of AI search users prefer these tools over Google. Chris and Anne discuss implications for retail discovery and the coming agentic AI revolution. 25:56 – 45% prefer AI tools over Google for clarity and speed 27:11 – Agentic AI's potential amplification effect 28:19 – Holiday shopping behavior predictions For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #aisearch #google #chatgpt #ecommerce #consumertrends

This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, dives into Kroger's strategic review of its automated fulfillment network. Chris and Anne discuss why interim CEO Ron Sargent is conducting a site-by-site analysis of Ocado-powered facilities and what this means for the future of grocery automation in America. 06:18 – Kroger's automated fulfillment challenges 07:48 – Urban density vs. rural viability analysis 08:54 – Implications for Amazon's grocery strategy For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #kroger #groceryautomation #ocado #ecommerce #retailfulfillment

In this week's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Chris and Anne discussed: Kroger's evaluation of its automated e-commerce fulfillment network (Source) Walgreens dedicating in-store space to party supplies and expanding assortment (Source) Starbucks deploying computer vision technology to track in-store inventory (Source) Pacsun announcing the formation of an industry-first youth advisory council (Source) Nearly half of AI search users preferring AI tools over Google (Source) There's all that, plus croissants versus pain au chocolat, escargot versus languostines, and whether the Paris Metro beats the London Tube. #RetailNews #KrogerAutomation #WalgreensPartySupplies #StarbucksAI #PacsunYouth #AISearch #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #RetailTech #ComputerVision #AutomatedFulfillment

Go behind the scenes at Walmart's New York Fashion Week pop-up with Denise Incandela, EVP of Fashion at Walmart, and designer Brandon Maxwell, Creative Director for Scoop and Free Assembly, and the designer behind his own celebrated luxury brand. Discover how Walmart is democratizing fashion through elevated private brands, exclusive collaborations, and experiential retail moments in the heart of NYC. From 100% inventory growth this season to Free Assembly rolling out in every Walmart store nationwide and Scoop expanding to half the fleet, Walmart's fashion transformation is reaching millions more customers than ever before - all at price points 3–4x lower than comparable brands. Key highlights include: the story behind Brandon Maxwell's limited-edition $98 blazer, Walmart's strategy to double store exposure for Scoop and Free Assembly, and how fashion at Walmart is redefining perceptions… making style accessible to all. Recorded live in the Meatpacking District during NYFW SS25. #WalmartFashion #WalmartStyle #NYFW2025 #BrandonMaxwell #ScoopStyle #FreeAssembly #AccessibleLuxury #StyleForAll #DemocratizingFashion #RetailInnovation #FutureOfRetail #AmericanFashion

The lightning round covers fashion films, Ariana Grande's talent level, and AI-generated movies, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. From Chris's surprising Zoolander pick over Devil Wears Prada to Anne's rating of Ariana Grande as a perfect 10, plus discussion of OpenAI's $30 million AI movie "Critters" and the upcoming Spinal Tap sequel. Quick-hit entertainment takes that connect back to retail and culture.

Office Depot launches a nationwide 15-minute pickup promise with $15 guarantees, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. President Kevin Moffitt positions this as the ultimate convenience play, offering $15 coupons when orders aren't ready in time. Chris worries about operational strain on store teams, while Anne questions whether this is primarily a marketing hook building on their existing 20-minute capabilities.

Kroger unveils its "deli of the future" in a new Kentucky marketplace store, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. The 6,500 square foot prepared food section features open kitchens, made-to-order sandwiches, and premium offerings like Murray's cheese and Snow Fox sushi. Anne sees potential for additional trip occasions, while Chris questions whether this innovation addresses Kroger's real challenges with their existing store base.

Albertsons introduces three new retail media channels with investment matching programs, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. The grocer's Media Collective now offers organic influencers, premium in-store screens, and enhanced on-site placements, plus matching CPG investments with enterprise media dollars. Chris and Anne analyze the competitive implications and strategic hooks for competing against Amazon and Walmart's retail media dominance.

Gap Inc. announces a major beauty and accessories expansion across all brands, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. With Old Navy leading the charge in 150 stores, the company sees beauty as a "sleeper category." Chris and Anne debate whether this diversification strategy makes sense, examining past failures from Lululemon, Athleta, and Zara in beauty, while considering the potential for accessories success.

Sam's Club has rolled out a major app redesign featuring global intent centers, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. The new presentation layer allows customers to choose fulfillment options upfront and offers enhanced retail media capabilities. Chris dives deep into why this strategy perfectly positions Sam's Club for warehouse retail dominance and how it leverages Walmart's fulfillment network for competitive advantage. Anne explores the implications for membership retail and personalized advertising opportunities.

In this week's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Chris and Anne discussed: Sam's Club's brilliant app redesign — Anne and I break down why this move is so genius and what other retailers can and cannot learn from it. Gap's beauty gamble — The company wants to expand into beauty and accessories across all brands, starting with Old Navy. Is this Richard Dickson's next stroke of genius, or are they about to learn why Nintendo doesn't sell makeup? Albertsons' retail media evolution — Three new channels including influencer matching and premium in-store screens. We explore whether this “evolve or die” mentality is what separates winners from losers in retail media. Kroger's “deli of the future” — A 6,500-square-foot prepared food section that's supposed to revolutionize grocery. Anne loves the concept, but I'm asking the hard questions about scalability and architectural debt. Office Depot's 15-minute promise — They're guaranteeing pickup in 15 minutes or you get a $15 coupon but will this idea put too much strain on the store team? There's all that, plus we announce this month's OmniStar award winner Katherine Dela Cruz Paulk from Fabletics in partnership with Quorso, and dive into everything from New York Fashion Week to whether AI-generated movies are worth your theater ticket money. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #SamsClub #GapBeauty #RetailTech #KrogerDeli #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #RetailMedia #OfficeDepot #RetailInnovation #Fabletics #Quorso

Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris and Anne tackle viral grocery shopping trends, discuss Nestlé's leadership chaos, share parenting hacks for school prep, and debate cool-sounding French names. From the "5-4-3-2-1" grocery method to bus ride realities, it's rapid-fire retail commentary at its finest. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #Grocery #BTS #Hack #Parenting #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail

Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Waitrose pilots AI-powered smart trolleys in Bracknell, becoming the first UK supermarket to test the technology. Chris and Anne remain skeptical about customer adoption hurdles and question why retailers are first in the water on unproven smart cart solutions. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #waitrose #trolley #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail

Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Lululemon appoints AI veteran Ranju Das as its first Chief AI and Technology Officer, signaling a major strategic shift. Chris and Anne debate whether putting "AI" in his title shows innovation or reveals that Lululemon is lost from a leadership perspective. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #lululemon #fabletics #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail #leadership

Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Macy's becomes the first major retailer to partner with Amazon's retail ad service, allowing advertisers to buy sponsored product ads through Amazon's platform. Chris and Anne analyze whether this short-term revenue grab compromises Macy's long-term independence. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #macys #amazon #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail #ads #revenue

Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. After eight years, Amazon finally absorbs Whole Foods corporate employees into Amazon teams, eliminating the grocery chain's distinct culture and benefits. Chris and Anne debate whether this signals Amazon Grocery's desperation or sets up bigger strategic moves ahead. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #wholefoods #amazon #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail #Grocery

Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Walmart accelerates marketplace growth with expanded next-day delivery for third-party sellers across major US cities including LA, New York, and Chicago. Chris and Anne discuss how Walmart is "out-Amazoning Amazon" with 95% of the country deliverable in under three hours and their "you win, we win" philosophy for marketplace success. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #walmart #amazon #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail

In this week's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Chris and Anne discussed: - Walmart launching next-day delivery for third-party marketplace orders in major cities like LA, NYC, Chicago, Houston and Atlanta, as the retailer aims to have 95% of the country deliverable in under 3 hours - Amazon's plan to extend new employment offers to Whole Foods' U.S. corporate employees starting November 10th, absorbing their merchandising and marketing teams after 8 years since the acquisition - Macy's Media Network partnering with Amazon Retail Ad Service, becoming the first major retailer to let advertisers buy sponsored product ads through Amazon's platform - Lululemon naming AI veteran Ranju Das as its first Chief AI and Technology Officer, bringing decades of experience from Amazon, OptumLabs, and Swan AI Studios - Waitrose unveiling AI-powered smart trolleys in a UK pilot, featuring clip-on devices from Israeli firm Shopic that track products and enable cart-side checkout - And Julian Mills from Quorso stopped by for 5 insightful minutes on lessons learned from Quorso's recently held Intelligent Store Management Forum There's all that, plus lightning round discussions on grocery shopping hacks, the best French names, back-to-school parenting tips, and whether Vogue's new editor can keep an assistant longer than Murphy Brown. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WalmartMarketplace #AmazonWholeFoods #MacysRetailMedia #LululemonAI #SmartCarts #RetailTech #OmniTalk #RetailPodcast #RetailInnovation

In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, Julian Mills, CEO of Quorso, joins Omni Talk to share key insights from their recent Intelligent Management Forum, where 30 retail executives from major grocery, convenience, and apparel chains gathered to discuss the future of store operations. Julian reveals retail's "iPhone moment" – how intelligent systems are replacing overwhelming task management with personalized, data-driven work prioritization. From detasking stores to evolving field leadership roles, Julian breaks down the practical reality of implementing AI in retail operations. From eliminating redundant tasks across more communication channels than one can count to using data instead of visual checks, Julian explains how retailers are finally focusing associates on what matters most: serving customers and driving results.

Ben Miller shares his Oasis reunion experience, thoughts on Arsenal's 15-year-old sensation Max Dowman, and reveals the ultimate Vegas conference hack for Shoptalk and Groceryshop attendees. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #Oasis #MaxDowman #Soccer #Football #Shoptalk #Groceryshop #Arsenal

Fabletics achieves 95-97% fill rates and 20% sales boosts with comprehensive RFID rollout. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Shoptalk's Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to explore why RFID is becoming the GPS moment for apparel retail and why every retailer should be paying attention. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #Fabletics #RFID #RetailTech #GPS #retailinnovation

Walmart Canada deploys Klarna's buy-now-pay-later service across 400+ stores. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Shoptalk's Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to debate whether BNPL will become ubiquitous in stores within three years or if credit cards will capture this market instead. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #Walmart #Klarna #BNPL #Canada #Creditcards

Best Buy officially launches its third-party marketplace with 500 vetted sellers. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Shoptalk's Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to discuss what Best Buy needs to do right to succeed and how this could create new opportunities for Geek Squad upselling. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #BestBuy #GeekSquad #ThirdParty #marketplace

Hertz Car Sales launches on Amazon Autos, bringing thousands of pre-owned vehicles to the marketplace. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, Quorso, Shoptalk's Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to discuss how this partnership could finally disrupt the car buying experience and what it means for the future of automotive retail. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #retailstrategy #Amazon #Hertz #preownedvehicles

Target names Michael Fiddelke as next CEO in a move that's sparking industry debate. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Shoptalk's Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to break down why this internal succession might be the wrong move for the struggling retailer. Chris argues this could be "The Fiddelke Faux Pas" while Anne offers a contrarian view on why an internal candidate might be Target's only hope. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #Target #CEO #MichaelFiddelke #Debate #Retail #Strategy

In this week's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Shoptalk's Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Target's CEO Succession – Michael Fiddelke named as next CEO, sparking debate about internal vs. external leadership choices (Source) Hertz Car Sales on Amazon Autos – Fleet dealer partnership expands used car marketplace with thousands of pre-owned vehicles in major markets (Source) Best Buy's Third-Party Marketplace Launch – 500 vetted sellers bring tech accessories and seasonal items to expand product selection (Source) Walmart Canada BNPL with Klarna – Buy now, pay later comes to 400+ Canadian stores for purchases over $50 CAD (Source) Fabletics RFID Rollout – Gray Orange's G Store solution achieves 95-97% fill rates and 20% sales boost across 100+ locations (Source: Retail Touchpoints) And AWS's Daniele Stroppa also dropped by to help us hand hand August's award for Retail Startup of the Month to Vody for its AI-optimized e-commerce data solutions. There's all that, plus Ben Miller's Oasis concert review, Arsenal's 15-year-old phenom Max Dohman, and whether coffee should always be “small and purposeful.” P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot P.P.P.S. Get your discounted admission now with Omni Talk! Retailers and brands save 20% with codes: For Shoptalk Fall, use code RBOMNIT20 (Link: https://stfall25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=cmJvbW5pdDIw) For Groceryshop, use code RBOMNIT510 (Link: https://gs25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=cmJvbW5pdDUxMA==) Or save 20% off General Admission with codes: For Shoptalk Fall, use code GAOMNIT20 (Link: https://stfall25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=Z2FvbW5pdDIw) For Groceryshop, use code GAOMNIT799 (Link: https://gs25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=Z2FvbW5pdDc5OQ==) Music by hooksounds.com

In this episode, Karl Bracken, CEO and founder of Ocampo Capital, joins Omni Talk to share his journey to become a venture capitalist and reveals what it really takes to close an investment round in today's challenging market. From his 16-year career at Target to founding his own VC fund, Karl breaks down the brutal realities of fundraising, why consumer brands are struggling to get funding, and how AI is creating a bubble while crowding out other investments. He also shares exclusive details about his portfolio companies that he believes are ones to watch in health, wellness, and sustainability.

AWS's Daniele Stroppa, Worldwide Technical Lead for AWS partners in retail, joins us to announce August's retail tech startup of the month: Vody. Daniele breaks down how Vody makes data ready for AI and AI agents through their intelligent data infrastructure solutions. Unlike typical approaches that tackle product discoverability with chatbots or search improvements, Vody addresses the challenge at its foundation – the data itself. Their sophisticated system transforms messy product catalogs into AI-optimized data using state-of-the-art multimodal large language models specifically fine-tuned for retail.

Chris and Anne tackle the week's quirkiest retail stories in rapid-fire format! Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. From NFL-themed Crocs to Harry Potter donuts and pawn shops becoming back-to-school destinations, discover the unexpected retail trends shaping consumer behavior. For the full episode head here: youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: NFL merchandise, specialty donuts, alternative shopping, fair food trends #retail #trends #NFL #Crocs #HarryPotter #KrispyKreme #backtoschool

Target and Ulta Beauty are ending their successful shop-in-shop partnership in August 2026, shocking the retail world. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris delivers harsh criticism of Target's strategy while Anne worries about the retailer's future without one of its biggest traffic drivers. A must-watch analysis of retail's biggest breakup. For the full episode head here: youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: Target Ulta partnership, retail strategy, beauty category, shop-in-shop concepts #Target #Ulta #beauty #retail #partnership #strategy

IKEA is opening mini showrooms inside select Best Buy stores, focusing on kitchen and laundry products with IKEA designers on-site. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris and Anne disagree on whether this partnership makes sense - is it smart space utilization or an over-engineered branding exercise? For the full episode head here: youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: IKEA Best Buy partnership, retail partnerships, home goods, appliances #IKEA #BestBuy #partnership #retail #homegoods #appliances

Warby Parker is ending its iconic Home Try-On program by year-end, citing that most customers now live within 30 minutes of a store. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris and Anne analyze what this cost-cutting move signals about Warby's growth challenges and whether the Target partnership can fill the gap. For the full episode head here: youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: Warby Parker strategy, home try-on program, eyewear retail, store expansion #WarbyParker #eyewear #retail #directtoconsumer #strategy

Starbucks is shutting down 80-90 mobile-only pickup stores because they lack "warmth and human connection." sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. CEO Brian Niccol's surprising strategy shift prioritizes coffee house "vibes" over efficiency. Chris and Anne debate whether this move makes sense or signals deeper operational challenges at the coffee giant. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: Starbucks strategy, mobile pickup stores, customer experience, retail formats #Starbucks #mobile #pickup #retail #customerexperience #coffeehouse

Amazon launches same-day delivery for perishable foods across 1,000+ US cities - but is it a real threat to Walmart and Instacart? sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris and Anne break down why this might not be the grocery game-changer everyone expects. From infrastructure challenges to consumer trust issues, discover why Amazon's fresh food expansion faces serious headwinds in the competitive grocery delivery space. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: Amazon Fresh expansion, grocery delivery competition, Prime membership value, retail logistics challenges #Amazon #grocery #delivery #retail #freshfoods #Prime #competition

In this week's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Chris and Anne discussed: Amazon adding perishable foods to its same-day delivery offering across 1,000+ U.S. cities (Source) Starbucks abandoning its mobile order, pickup-only store format due to lack of “warmth and human connection” (Source) Warby Parker ending its home try-on program as most users live within 30 minutes of a store (Source) IKEA opening mini-showrooms inside select Best Buy locations in Florida and Texas (Source) The conclusion of Target and Ulta Beauty's shop-in-shop partnership in August 2026 (Source) Chris and Anne also handed out our monthly OmniStar award to Scott Casciato, VP of Global Logistics and Omnichannel Fulfillment at Dick's Sporting Goods, and Ben Miller from Shoptalk dropped by for 5 Insightful Minutes on what to expect at this year's Shoptalk Fall and Groceryshop conferences. There's all that, plus NFL Crocs, Harry Potter doughnuts, pawn shop back-to-school shopping, and whether Chris will ever upgrade from his OOFOS slides. P.S. Get your discounted admission now with Omni Talk! Retailers and brands save 20% with codes: - For Shoptalk Fall, use code RBOMNIT20 (Link: https://stfall25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=cmJvbW5pdDIw) - For Groceryshop, use code RBOMNIT510 (Link: https://gs25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=cmJvbW5pdDUxMA==) Or save 20% off General Admission with codes: - For Shoptalk Fall, use code GAOMNIT20 (Link: https://stfall25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=Z2FvbW5pdDIw) - For Groceryshop, use code GAOMNIT799 (Link: https://gs25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=Z2FvbW5pdDc5OQ==) Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #AmazonFresh #StarbucksStrategy #WarbyParker #IkeaBestBuy #TargetUlta #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #SameDayDelivery #RetailInnovation #ShopInShop #RetailPartnerships

In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, Ben Miller, VP of Original Content and Strategy for Shoptalk and Groceryshop, joins Omni Talk to preview the upcoming Shoptalk Fall and Groceryshop events. From AI deep dives to tariff implications, Ben breaks down the main themes emerging for Shoptalk Fall (September 17-19 in Chicago), plus reveals the brand-new "Test Kitchen" format launching at Groceryshop (September 28-October 1). Discover what's driving retail innovation, efficiency gains in grocery, and why retail media sits at the center of every retailer-brand conversation.

Fashion meets artificial intelligence in the most controversial way possible! This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, explores the backlash Vogue faced for featuring AI-generated models in a Guess advertisement. Chris and Anne debate whether critics need to "take a chill pill" or if high fashion magazines should draw the line at artificial beauty. Discover the complex ethics of AI in fashion and what it means for brand authenticity in the digital age.

Walmart is revolutionizing retail AI with their new "super agent" strategy! In this segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, Chris and Anne dive deep into how Walmart is consolidating dozens of AI agents into four specialized "super agents" for customers, employees, engineers, and suppliers. Discover why this consolidation strategy could be the future of retail AI and how Walmart's CEO-level commitment sets them apart from competitors. Plus, hear Chris's take on whether four agents is too many or just the right stepping stone to the ultimate single super agent.

The fun finale! In this Lightning Round from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, Chris and Anne rapid-fire through the week's quirkiest stories. From Aldi's "Summerween" products and chicken wing preferences to party attendance data and celebrity gossip, discover the lighter side of retail trends and consumer behavior. Plus, find out which host prefers drumsticks vs. flats and who they think "leveled up" in the Katy Perry-Justin Trudeau dinner drama!

The home goods giant is back! In this segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, Chris and Anne analyze Bed Bath & Beyond's return to Brick x Mortar retail, complete with their iconic coupons. But is nostalgia enough to succeed in today's crowded home furnishing market? Hear why Chris is "selling hard" on this comeback and Anne's take on whether there's still room for middle-tier home goods retailers.

Strategic partnerships are reshaping retail! In this segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, Chris and Anne explore Macy's new partnership with Abercrombie Kids for back-to-school season. With 3x the distribution for Abercrombie and a traffic driver for Macy's, this partnership could signal a new trend of department stores becoming "mini malls." Discover why both hosts love this strategic move and what it could mean for the future of retail.

She's back! In this segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, Chris and Anne dive into Ty Haney's dramatic return to Outdoor Voices with a "confident, bold, and sexy" rebrand. From wiping Instagram clean to positioning the brand as the "uniform for doing things," is this founder comeback genuine innovation or just marketing spectacle? Plus, learn when it's the right time to bring back a founder and when it's time to move on.

In this week's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart's overhaul of its AI agent strategy, consolidating dozens of agents into four “super agents” for different user groups Vogue magazine's AI model backlash after featuring an AI-generated model in a Guess advertisement Bed Bath & Beyond's brick-and-mortar return on August 8th in Nashville, complete with legacy coupon acceptance Ty Haney's comeback at Outdoor Voices with a “confident, bold and sexy” relaunch strategy Macy's partnership with Abercrombie Kids for back-to-school merchandising There's all that, plus Buffalo wings, which Halloween candy they would most like to see in stores year-round, and who leveled up more – Katy Perry or Justin Trudeau? Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WalmartAI #VogueAI #BedBathBeyond #OutdoorVoices #AbercrombieMacys #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #RetailTech #AIAgents #RetailInnovation

Returns are no longer just a cost center - they're a $1 trillion opportunity waiting to be unlocked. In this episode of Omni Talk's Ask An Expert series, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with David Morin, VP of Customer Strategy at Narvar, to reveal how leading retailers are transforming their returns operations from a liability into a competitive advantage. David shares exclusive data showing over 55% of retailers now charge for returns "at some point in time" - but it's not what you think. Learn how brands are using personalized return policies, leveraging customer data for fraud detection, and creating frictionless experiences that actually increase customer loyalty. Key topics covered: - Why charging for returns doesn't hurt conversion (when done right) - How retailers save 50%+ on shipping costs through smart consolidation - The shocking reality of returns fraud (52% of consumers admit to it) - Real-world examples from Urban Outfitters, Sephora, and other major brands - AI-powered tools that identify high-risk vs. high-value customers - The chandelier story that perfectly explains returns psychology Whether you're an e-commerce leader, operations manager, or retail executive, this conversation provides actionable strategies to reduce costs while improving customer experience. Music by hooksounds.com #RetailReturns #ecommerce #RetailOperations #CustomerExperience #RetailTech *Sponsored Content*

This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Clear Demand, Chris and Anne tackle rapid-fire retail topics in their signature Lightning Round. From influencer marketing apps to airline policy changes and restaurant relocations, get quick takes on the week's most interesting retail and consumer stories that are shaping industry trends.

Target price matching policy, retail pricing strategy, target vs walmart, competitive pricing retail, target brand perception, retail customer loyalty, pricing policy changes, target strategic decisions, retail price wars, customer value proposition. This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Clear Demand, Chris and Anne debate Target's controversial decision to eliminate price matching. Analyze whether this move strengthens Target's position or drives customers to competitors like Walmart and Costco. Get expert insights on the real reasons behind this policy change and its impact on Target's already challenged brand perception.

This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Clear Demand, we explore Tesco's groundbreaking 8-week advance delivery scheduling. Chris and Anne discuss how this UK innovation could transform grocery shopping in the US, enabling better family planning and operational efficiency. Learn why extended scheduling represents the true definition of omnichannel retail convenience.