Retail Remix

This episode is brought to you by BIgCommerceWhat does it take to become a household name — and why does it matter?In this episode of Retail Remix, host Nicole Silberstein is joined by James May and Barry Thomas from global data and analytics firm Kantar to unpack the findings from the 20th annual BrandZ Report, which ranks the top 100 most valuable global brands. They dive into the forces shaping brand value today, why retail brands are on the rise and what lessons others can learn from this year's leaders. Together, they explore:Why brand is a company's most valuable asset and the common traits of the world's most valuable brands;Whether the era of U.S. economic exceptionalism is nearing an end;Why disruption is such a powerful brand-builder, as evidenced by brands like Amazon and ChatGPT; andHow retailers can follow the playbook of brands like Walmart and Costco to build stronger, more meaningful connections with consumers.RELATED LINKSExplore key takeaways from Kantar's 2025 BrandZ Report Check out the full 2025 BrandZ ReportLearn more about KantarExplore the latest marketing insights from Retail TouchPointsCheck out past episodes of Retail Remix Tired of rigid ecommerce platforms and hidden fees? BigCommerce gives you the flexibility to build and scale your store your way — with no extra fees for using the tools you love. Whether B2C or B2B, BigCommerce powers ecommerce that works for you. Learn more at bigcommerce.com/retailremix

This episode is brought to you by BIgCommerceThis episode is brought to you by BIgCommerceWith tariffs dominating headlines and reshaping global retail strategy, brands are navigating one of the most complex trade landscapes in recent memory.In this episode of Retail Remix, host Nicole Silberstein is joined by Rathna Sharad, CEO and Founder of cross-border logistics platform FlavorCloud. With a background spanning Microsoft, UPS, and three decades of global trade experience, Rathna offers expert guidance on navigating tariffs, streamlining international operations, and building supply chain resilience. Together, they explore:The biggest friction points brands face when scaling internationally — and how to solve them;Key markets and categories showing rapid growth in global ecommerce;Lesser known implications of the de minimis rule change and what it means for U.S. merchants; andWhy now is the time to double down on international expansion, not pull back.RELATED LINKSRead the FlavorCloud 2025 State of Cross-Border reportSee how FlavorCloud is helping brands go globalExplore the latest retail supply chain insights from Retail TouchPointsCheck out past episodes of Retail Remix———Tired of rigid ecommerce platforms and hidden fees? BigCommerce gives you the flexibility to build and scale your store your way — with no extra fees for using the tools you love. Whether B2C or B2B, BigCommerce powers ecommerce that works for you. Learn more at bigcommerce.com/retailremix Tired of rigid ecommerce platforms and hidden fees? BigCommerce gives you the flexibility to build and scale your store your way — with no extra fees for using the tools you love. Whether B2C or B2B, BigCommerce powers ecommerce that works for you. Learn more at bigcommerce.com/retailremix

This episode is brought to you by BIgCommerceAs the retail marketing playbook continues to evolve, staying relevant takes more than just keeping up — it means rethinking how and where you engage your audience.In this episode of Retail Remix, host Nicole Silberstein sits down with Sarah Crockett, Global Chief Marketing Officer at DSW, to talk shop. With experience leading marketing at brands like Vans, REI and Backcountry, Sarah brings a wide-angle lens to what's working — and what's changing — in the world of retail marketing. Together, they unpack:How DSW is navigating the latest shifts in consumer expectations and retail strategy;The challenges of marketing during unpredictable economic periods;How to keep pace with rapid technological evolutions across search and social; andHer secret weapon for staying on top of social trends. RELATED LINKSGet a closer look at DSW's brand in action.Explore the latest marketing insights from Retail TouchPointsCheck out past episodes of Retail Remix Tired of rigid ecommerce platforms and hidden fees? BigCommerce gives you the flexibility to build and scale your store your way — with no extra fees for using the tools you love. Whether B2C or B2B, BigCommerce powers ecommerce that works for you. Learn more at bigcommerce.com/retailremix

This episode is brought to you by BIgCommerceThe retail industry has already packed a decade's worth of disruption into just the first few months of 2025. From bankruptcies and tariffs to shifting consumer behaviors and market volatility, staying ahead of the curve is more challenging — and more critical — than ever.So in this episode of Retail Remix, your new host Nicole Silberstein sits down with Melissa Minkow, Retail Strategist at CI&T, to help retailers make sense of it all. Together, they unpack:The biggest headlines and shake-ups shaping the retail landscape in 2025 so far;How brands are adapting to continued economic uncertainty and evolving consumer habits;Which emerging opportunities retailers should be prioritizing right now; andThe importance of taking a strategic pause to reassess the path forward.RELATED LINKSLearn more about CI&TExplore the latest retail insights from Retail TouchPointsCheck out past episodes of Retail Remix Tired of rigid ecommerce platforms and hidden fees? BigCommerce gives you the flexibility to build and scale your store your way — with no extra fees for using the tools you love. Whether B2C or B2B, BigCommerce powers ecommerce that works for you. Learn more at bigcommerce.com/retailremix

More than 50% of brands plan to increase budget spend on creators in 2025. While brand execs across categories agree that creators help boost awareness and product consideration, their tactical goals and priorities vary. During this episode of Retail Remix, Rodney Mason of LTK and Frank Dudley of Northwestern University dig into their latest research report focused on how brands are tapping creators to:Develop long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships that meet specific goals and objectives;Build their content arsenals for omnichannel engagement;Level up their retail media strategies; andExperimenting with new and emerging channels like Connected TV (CTV) advertising. RELATED LINKSLearn more about LTKDownload a copy of the Annual Creator Marketing StudyWatch the CMO's Creator Guide webinar on-demandSign up for the Influencer Marketing Strategy Course.

Amina Pasha has been in the CPG space for more than 20 years. While a good portion of that time was with P&G, her career went into new, exciting territory when she joined The Honest Company, a challenger brand that, from the beginning, doubled down on its mission and values. She has spent the last five years applying her learnings with the brand at Thrive Market, which is a values-based, challenger brand in its own right. Now, with the brand reaching its 10th birthday, Amina has some lessons to share. Listen to this episode of Retail Remix to get her thoughts on: The evolution of values-based brands and the influence marketing has on driving brand differentiation; How she balances brand and performance marketing to accomplish organizational goals; Ways to adapt and tailor marketing focal points based on persona behaviors and lifestyles; and What's top-of-mind for Thrive Market for the next five years. RELATED LINKSLearn more about Thrive MarketConnect with Amina on LinkedIn

Mars, Inc. has embarked on a digital transformation that encompasses ecommerce experience and in-store activation. Throughout this journey, which began with the M&M'S brand, the company has successfully embraced experience innovation that has composable technology and agile processes at the center of it all. During this episode of Retail Remix, Kyle Barz of Mars, Inc., shares how he helped drive this new era for the business alongside Casper Rasmussen and the Valtech team. Together they break down:What inspired Mars to begin its transformation journey, and the challenges that Kyle and his team had to tackle early on to ensure success; How composable technology accelerates innovation and empowers teams to better spot and respond to new business opportunities; and The end-to-end transformation process for M&M'S, including the lessons that will be applied for other brands. RELATED LINKSSee the original case studyLearn more about ValtechLearn more about MarsConnect with Casper and Kyle on LinkedIn

You may think shopping online for a car (especially a used car) is overwhelming, even frustrating. But Jim Lyski is trying to change that. As EVP and Chief Growth & Strategy Officer for CarMax, Jim has helped drive the company's AI efforts, which span various touch points and all stages of the buying journey. Listen to get details into how CarMax is: Evolving its value proposition to align with the new needs and expectations of consumers; Investing in chat agents that provide proactive and reactive support to shoppers;Creating opportunities for virtual, high-touch discovery and customization; and Embedding personalization into the entire journey.RELATED LINKSLearn more about CarMaxSee CarMax coverage on Retail TouchPointsDownload the ultimate guide to Gen AI

Livestreaming was said to completely transform retail as we knew it. A commerce staple in Asia, experts claimed it was only a matter of time before it took the west by storm. Although the hype cycle has slowed, companies like Orca are working to turn livestreaming and social commerce into highly effective and scalable sales channels. During this week's Retail Remix, Orca co-founders Max Benator and Lauren Stevens share: How their TV roots inspired the mission and vision for Orca;Details on the Orca business model and how the company supports both brands and creators;   Why brands like e.l.f. Beauty, Samsung and Zappos are working with Orca to level up their social commerce strategies; andHow they are thinking about the evolution of AI and its role in content creation. RELATED LINKSLearn more about OrcaGet the scoop on Orca's SoCom eventRead the latest content on all things social commerce

Over the past year, retail executives have had to navigate many forces: the rise of disruptive tech like generative AI, ever-changing consumer spending patterns and economic volatility. How did these and other issues drive C-level decision-making? And at the end of the day, what really kept retail leaders up at night? To find out how all this impacted retail leader's strategies this year, we went straight to the source at three top brands. Listen to hear executives from BaubleBar, Boisson and Sloomoo Institute discuss:How to balance strategic vision and tactical execution;Challenges with growing and scaling a business; Tips for fostering a culture of innovation; andHow to maintain your brand's position as a category leader or disruptor. RELATED LINKSLearn more about Boisson's journeyGet more details on BaubleBar's expansion strategyExplore Sloomoo Institute's newest location in LA

Anthropologie has developed a truly distinct in-store experience; one that evokes emotional attachment and inspires discovery. How does the brand achieve this as it grows across formats, markets and even into digital channels?During this episode of Retail Remix, Mindy Massey, Global Executive Director of Retail for Anthropologie, shares how her growth and evolution within the company has helped her shape the brand's store design and experiential approach. She shares: How the Anthropologie physical environment has had to evolve with the brand's growth into different markets; Why cross-category curation is key to driving in-store engagement and delight; How the team balances digital connectivity and savviness with the entertainment value of physical stores; How her team collaborates with marketing on shaping pop-up environments; and Ways to use data across store formats and territories to refine and optimize store investments. RELATED LINKSFollow Mindy on LinkedInSee Retail TouchPoints' latest coverage on Anthropologie 

User-generated content (UGC) has become central to brands' marketing and customer experience strategies over the past decade. But as social channels and trends have evolved, so too have brands' methods for collecting, amplifying and monetizing their UGC. In August 2024, the FTC issued a formal ban on fake reviews and testimonials — an effort designed to prevent businesses from purchasing and “growth hacking” inaccurate, malicious or misleading content. During this episode of Retail Remix, Bazaarvoice CMO Zarina Stanford digs into: Why new policies were needed as the social media landscape evolved and expanded; How some businesses monetized, even weaponized, UGC for their own gain, and what the new ruling means for this gray area of the web; What brands can do to comply with new guidelines, and how they need to adapt their UGC strategies moving forward; andThe unknown ways brands could be misleading consumers with UGC, and what they can do to course correct. RELATED LINKSLearn more about BazaarvoiceDownload the company's latest Channel Mix StudyGet more details from Bazaarvoice's authenticity researchRead the article outlining the new ban on fake reviews and testimonials See all the latest coverage on FTC cases and rulingsConnect with Zarina on LinkedIn

The payment experience has always been considered a “necessary evil” for ecommerce sites. There's information merchants need to accept, validate and fulfill online orders. But now, technology is turning the payment experience into an opportunity for differentiation. During this week's Retail Remix, two executives embedded in this exciting new world of payment share their thoughts on: What consumers actually expect from the checkout phase of the online shopping journey; How the rise of mobile wallets, accelerated checkout tools and BNPL has set new standards for success; How merchants can best align their current ecommerce experiences with consumer needs to identify key ways to improve; and Why tech players across the ecommerce ecosystem, including BigCommerce and PayPal, are coming together to drive innovation in payments. RELATED LINKSLearn more about BigCommerce conversion solutionsLearn more about PayPal's retail offeringsGet details on how BigCommerce is helping merchants offer FastLane by PayPal on their sitesDownload Retail TouchPoints' deep-dive report on the payment experience

Marci Zaroff coined the term “ECOfashion” in 1995 and has spent decades driving meaningful conversations and tangible change in the fashion industry. Nearly three decades later, she is reflecting on the market's evolution and the work that still needs to be done. During this episode of Retail Remix, Marci shares:Her vision for “ECOfashion” and how she believed it would influence the way all players in fashion and retail collaborate; How evolving consumer behaviors, including their love for resale and more ethical brands, is driving urgency among the C-suite; The making and growth of ECOfashion Corp, and how she's won the support of Nigel Barker, Hilary Swank and other industry superstars; and New innovations in sustainable fashion, sparked by collaborations with Universal Music Group and other adjacent organizations. RELATED LINKSLearn more about ECOfashion CorpConnect with Marci on LinkedInRead Retail TouchPoints' latest content on sustainability

Brandon Rael has decades of retail industry experience. As a member of RetailWire's BrainTrust, a Rethink Retail Top Industry Influencer, and part of Kynryl's consulting team, his daily focus is keeping pace with the new trends driving the retail industry forward. So who would be a better person than Brandon to dig into holiday trends and predictions? During this episode of Retail Remix, he shares: The critical role that social commerce will play in driving product awareness and conversions; How retailers can optimize their marketing and promotions strategies to maximize revenue; and Why personalization and curation are both critical for standing out and setting a foundation for loyalty. RELATED LINKSConnect with Brandon on LinkedInRead this article featuring Brandon's holiday predictionsLearn more about KyndrylCheck out other industry experts' holiday predictions

VICI was founded in 2012, when women were looking for trendy, high-quality fashions on a relatively new platform called Instagram, but were extra wary of their spending. With consumers now in a very similar headspace, it is an optimal time for Co-founder and Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer Aimee Dudum Colorado to reflect on how the business has evolved.During this episode, Aimee chats with host Alicia Esposito about:How the mission and values of VICI have evolved since the company's inception, if at all;How VICI helped shape the “Instagram Brand” model; The distinct role that influencers and creators play in driving marketing and new product creation; andHow the “meme-ification” of marketing is making standing out harder for brands.RELATED LINKSLearn more about VICISee Retail TouchPoints' latest coverage on all things social commerce

To identify new collaborative opportunities, retailers should focus on their distinct business values and how they translate into serving specific customers and communities. That is how Dollar General was able to turn its commitment to supporting households into a successful multi-year partnership with Bayer.For this special episode of Retail Remix, Allen Warch, VP of Food & Fresh Merchandising at Dollar General, gets behind the mic with Jenny Maloney, Global-Americas Strategic Accounts Manager at Bayer, to discuss: How both companies serve local communities by providing access to fresh fruit and vegetables;Why the commitment to feeding communities inspired a new partnership surrounding National School Lunch Week; andThe lessons both companies learned in 2023 and how they've applied them to their 2024 partnership.RELATED LINKSSee details on the 2023 partnership between Dollar General and BayerLearn more about Dollar General's commitment to offering fresh produce in storesDownload Dollar General's “Serving Others” report to see how the retailer is serving local communities

If you want to create store experiences that are not only engaging, but truly immersive, storytelling should be your central design strategy. American Girl is one brand that has taken storytelling to the next level, creating realms where imaginations flourish and brand narratives are celebrated. For this episode of Retail Remix, we're replaying a session from the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo, where Kristina Duncan, Creative Executive at American Girl, and Ted Galperin, Partner & Director of Retail Design at creative studio Mythology, shared how executives can: Explore, imagine or reimagine their brand story; Harness what's happening in pop culture to deliver a highly relevant and curated retail environment; and Identify the right partners to bring their physical storytelling to life. RELATED LINKSLearn more about American GirlLearn more about MythologyGet more insights on how to design spaces for kidsSubscribe to Design:Retail for more retail design trends and insights

Rachel Frederick oversees various aspects of Sur La Table's digital business, from digital marketing to the brand's direct-to-consumer ecommerce site, fraud prevention and even fulfillment offerings. To ensure Sur La Table creates experiences that meet and exceed customer expectations, Rachel and her team rely heavily on customer data. During this episode of Retail Remix, Rachel discusses how audience insights have helped the brand: Adopt new fulfillment offerings and experiences, such as Amazon Today; Understand Sur La Table's key differentiators to strike the perfect balance between high-quality service and convenience; and Embrace a more collaborative, multi-disciplinary culture within the organization.RELATED LINKSLearn more about Sur la TableConnect with Rachel Frederick on LinkedIn

Merchants of all sizes and across categories have heard the call: to survive in an era of heightened expectations, they must empower consumers to buy anytime, anywhere and in any way they want. And oh yeah, they have to get those products to customers' doorsteps faster. Companies like Feedonomics are making it a reality by ensuring product data is accurate, compelling and integrated across all platforms, from marketplaces to social apps. During this episode of Retail Remix, Alicia Esposito sits down with Sharon Gee, SVP of Sales and Partnerships at Feedonomics, to discuss: The evolution of omnichannel and how new platforms like TikTok Shop are making the landscape more complex; The challenges brands are facing as they try to keep pace with the proliferation of new commerce experiences, and why data is central to success; and What instant commerce really is and how Feedonomics is powering it by partnering with Amazon Today. RELATED LINKSLearn more about FeedonomicsRead about Feedonomics' partnership with Amazon Today Get more details on Instant CommerceSee more coverage featuring Feedonomics and BigCommerce Retail Strategy & Planning Series 2024Register for the Retail Strategy & Planning series to get tactical tips and best practices to drive your Q4 and holiday season success.

For his latest book, Gary Hawkins wanted to explore the gap between technology's rapid evolution and retailers' slow adoption of it. With Bionic Retail: How to Thrive in an Exponential World, he identifies what's holding retailers back, and how they can adapt their systems, processes and cultures to embrace innovation. During this Retail ThinkTank Ideation Session, Hawkins explores what's happening in retail today...and what's possible in the future, from in-store retail media to wearable commerce. Listen to get a peek into the conversation, and click the link below to watch the full episode.   Click here to watch the Retail ThinkTank Ideation Session Retail Strategy & Planning Series 2024Register for the Retail Strategy & Planning series to get tactical tips and best practices to drive your Q4 and holiday season success.

The beauty and wellness industries are brimming with new trends and growth opportunities. Yuriy Boykiv and his team at Front Row are focused on helping brands in these dynamic markets adapt, innovate and drive growth. During this episode of Retail Remix, Yuriy outlines: How the growth of marketplaces has created new challenges for smaller brands; Why social commerce may reach a tipping point, especially for beauty and skincare brands; Ways brands can harness trend and behavioral data to figure out their next move; and The key traits of a successful, high-growth brand.  Ramping up your holiday plans? Register for the Retail Strategy & Planning series to get tactical tips and best practices to drive your Q4 and holiday season success.   RELATED LINKSLearn more about Front RowConnect with Yuriy Boykiv on LinkedIn Retail Strategy & Planning Series 2024Register for the Retail Strategy & Planning series to get tactical tips and best practices to drive your Q4 and holiday season success.

Bodegas are a fixture in local communities and large cities alike. Rachel Krupa has her own fond memories of local corner stores, which is why she's leveraging her deep CPG experience to reimagine and elevate the experience. During this episode of Retail Remix, Rachel provides insight into why she founded The Goods Mart, and how she has:   Created a distinct space for “good for you” brands to enter physical retail; Embraced local events and community activations to drive foot traffic and engagement; Designed a “test-and-learn" model that drives collaboration with CPG brand partners; and Identified new opportunities for brands to differentiate and grow through retail. Ramping up your holiday plans? Register for the Retail Strategy & Planning series to get tactical tips and best practices to drive your Q4 and holiday season success. RELATED LINKSLearn more about The Goods MartConnect with Rachel Krupa on LinkedIn

The streaming era isn't just giving households one-click access to a seemingly endless supply of content; it's enabling brands and retailers to deliver relevant and impactful advertising to target consumers, making media moments shoppable. Walgreens Advertising Group is capitalizing on this opportunity by testing new connected TV (CTV) advertising offerings through Roku. For this week's Retail Remix episode, we're replaying a session from the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo featuring Caitlin McKnight of Roku and Katie Vogt of Walgreens, who shared: The most important steps for retailers to test and learn TV-driven sales;How to use retail media networks (RMNs) to enhance TV campaigns; andBest practices for calls-to-action and products to promote.Want to dig deeper into what's new and what's next in retail? Subscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of the industry.RELATED LINKSLearn more about Roku AdvertisingLearn more about Walgreens Advertising GroupSee Retail TouchPoints' coverage of this session 

Consumers want to make more thoughtful decisions about what and how they buy. They don't want to just minimize their environmental impact, though. They also want to purchase high-quality goods that are good for them and the individuals they love. Yes, that even includes their pets.During this episode of Retail Remix, we explore Nestlé Purina PetCare's vision and launch of Purina ONE DualNature. Gabriella Herrera joins a dynamic conversation with Andrew Hovells, who's with the brand's key agency partner, Live & Breathe, to discuss:How sustainability is influencing purchase behaviors across categories;The distinct nuances of pet parents and what they really look for in brand marketing and product development;How Nestlé Purina PetCare effectively balances the scientific and emotional aspects of communicating the value of high-quality, sustainable products; and Lessons from the initial launch, and how the brand plans to evolve its omnichannel engagement approach moving forward.Want to dig deeper into what's new and what's next in retail? Subscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of the industry. RELATED LINKSLearn more about Live & BreatheExplore the Nestlé Purina PetCare portfolioConnect with Gabriella and Andrew on LinkedIn

Have you ever walked into such a beautiful store, you couldn't mutter another word other than, “dang”? Well, that was Nicki Gitlin's inspiration when the time came to name her design and architecture business.With years of hands-on experience, including a stint at Theory when she designed stores worldwide, she focuses on “intersecting architecture and interaction with daily life,” including the unique attributes of a space. During this week's Retail Remix, Nicki shares: What she believes makes a “dang”-worthy space;How her experience at Theory helped her identify her unique approach to designing store spaces; Ways to tap into the distinct features of a space, from lighting to materials, to create a space that shines; and Lessons from working with some of the industry's most buzzy brands, from Kith to Billionaire Boys Club.Want to dig deeper into what's new and what's next in retail? Subscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of the industry.RELATED LINKSLearn more about DangConnect with Nicki on LinkedInGet the latest store design news and trend insights at Design:Retail Retail ThinkTank HubSubscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of retail.

More than half of U.S. shoppers are concerned with the quality and legitimacy of the product discovery channels they use most, according to research from Reddit. And yes, that includes social media.That is why, rather than relying solely on social media ratings and reviews, brands need to connect with consumers in context, according to Bob Ferdman, Reddit's Head of Retail.During this week's Retail Remix, we're replaying a panel session from the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo, where Bob sat down with three executives from The Home Depot, Altra Running and PMG Advertising Agency to discuss: What contextual commerce means to them;How the innate design and experience of Reddit inspires authentic conversations and commerce moments;Campaign strategies and advertising formats that resonate most; andMeasuring impact and value of contextual commerce and advertising. Want to dig deeper into what's new and what's next in retail? Subscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of the industry.RELATED LINKSLearn more about RedditSee our coverage of this session in the Retail ThinkTankConnect with Bob Ferdman on LinkedIn Retail ThinkTank HubSubscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of retail.

Although some use the words “membership” and “subscription” interchangeably, 64% of consumers believe there is a distinct difference in these types of programs.   But what do consumers really expect from these commerce experiences? Retail TouchPoints and CI&T collaborated on a survey of 1,000+ consumers to find out. Melissa Minkow, author of the report, sits down with host Alicia Esposito to dig into some of the report's key takeaways, including:  How consumers differentiate membership models from subscription models;  Which categories are seeing the most traction and why;  How the economy is influencing the number of membership programs to which they subscribe; and  The triggers that drive consumers to register (or leave) a membership program.  RELATED LINKS Learn more about CI&T Download a copy of Building a Membership Model That ResonatesConnect with Melissa on Linkedin  Retail ThinkTank HubSubscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of retail.

Rebekah Kondrat has worked for brands known (and loved) for their incredible store experiences: Apple, Starbucks and Warby Parker, among others. She has taken these experiences to start Rekon Retail, a company that helps brands scale their retail operations and set them up for long-term success. During this RetailThinkTank Ideation Session, host Alicia Esposito sits down with Kondrat to discuss the keys to a successful store operation and how Rekon Retail is helping brands like Olfactory and M.M.LaFleur scale their brick-and-mortar strategies to new consumers and new cities. Click here to watch the Retail ThinkTank Ideation Session. Retail ThinkTank HubSubscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of retail.

Milani Cosmetics has been around for more than 20 years. And although plenty of beauty trends have come and gone in that time, the brand has maintained relevance and even acquired new customers by staying true to its core value props — and its distinct marketing approach.During this episode of Retail Remix, we're replaying an episode of Experience Insiders featuring Milani Cosmetics Chief Marketing Officer Jeremy Lowenstein. During their discussion, Jeremy and host Alicia Esposito dig into:How Milani Cosmetics has continued to make luxury beauty products accessible and inclusive for all;Tips for balancing fundamental values (like inclusivity) and more creative marketing tactics to stand out across channels; andLessons from some of Milani Cosmetics' most successful campaigns, such as one recent TikTok-driven initiative for its Fruit Fetish Lip Oil.Want to dig deeper into what's new and what's next in retail? Subscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of the industry.RELATED LINKSLearn more about Milani CosmeticsGet the details on the brand's latest campaignConnect with Jeremy on LinkedIn Retail ThinkTank HubSubscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of retail.

In its early days, Birdy Grey was very much an “Instagram brand.” That means Grace Lee Chen, Monica Ashauer and their entire team looked to social communities (and especially Instagram) to gather feedback and determine what products they should sell in order to grow their business.Birdy Grey has relied on this community to grow and position itself as a disruptor in the wedding industry, which has evolved significantly with the advent of TikTok and other social channels. During this episode of Retail Remix, Chen and Ashauer reminisce, looking back on: How they successfully went from BFFs to business partners; How Birdy Grey built a loyal community across all channels; and How the brand tapped into the evolution of the wedding industry to identify new ways to stand out.Want to dig deeper into what's new and what's next in retail? Subscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of the industry.RELATED LINKSLearn more about Birdy GreyStay up to date with Birdy Grey happeningsConnect with Grace and Monica on LinkedIn

TikTok and Alibaba are just two of many tech juggernauts testing virtual influencers, and these AI-generated personalities are bringing immersive commerce experiences to a completely new level. What is happening in this space today…and what will the future hold? Most of all, what will the rapid evolution and maturation of this space mean for how we build our own digital identities?Alicia Esposito explored this topic with Sharon Gai, an ecommerce expert and author of the book Ecommerce Reimagined, during a recent Retail ThinkTank Ideation Session. Listen to get a peek into the conversation, and click the link below to watch the full episode.   Click here to watch the Retail ThinkTank Ideation Session.

Hearst is harnessing its expansive portfolio of brands and its highly credible editorial team to take a curated, content-driven approach to commerce. Robert Gash, the company's CTO of Ecommerce, has played an integral role in this new, exciting era for the company, onboarding key partners to support the new experience.During this episode of Retail Remix, Robert shares details into Hearst's mission and vision, as well as how he's working with SoundCommerce to collect, aggregate and leverage data to optimize the experience. He and SoundCommerce CEO Eric Best discuss: Why commerce made sense for the next era of the Hearst business;How the company is designing a strategy valuable for both consumers and advertisers; andHow Robert and his team are building upon its tech stack to develop a differentiated commerce experience.Want to dig deeper into what's new and what's next in retail? Subscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of the industry.RELATED LINKSLearn more about Hearst's commerce transformationLearn more about SoundCommerceFollow Robert Gash on LinkedInFollow Eric Best on LinkedIn

Taking a big leap that drives you — and your business — outside of your comfort zone can be scary. But Steve Dennis believes those leaps are critical to surviving, if not thriving, in this new era of disruption. Host Alicia Esposito has author Steve Dennis back on the show to chat about his latest book, Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption, to discuss the personal and professional experiences that motivated him to put the pen to paper. They also chat about: What's driving the new innovator's dilemma; The “confederacy of meh” that is holding back business leaders, especially in retail; How executives should balance taking big leaps with intentional risk assessment; andA few of the seven leadership mind leaps, including the importance of crushing your ego.Want to dig deeper into what's new and what's next in retail? Subscribe to the Retail ThinkTank hub to get exclusive access to high-value content on the emerging trends poised to shape the future of the industry.RELATED LINKSLearn more about Steve DennisGet a copy of Leaders LeapFollow Steve on LinkedIn

Despite headlines claiming the death of the shopping mall, some developers are reimagining the experience to make it memorable, even unforgettable, for consumers. During this episode of Retail Remix, host Alicia Esposito sits down with someone who is helping shape the future of the mall: Justin Stein, EVP of Leasing at Tanger. During this episode, he shares details on:Tanger's transformation, including thinking more like a curator and less like a traditional operator; His team's approach to tenant mix, ensuring the right combination of retailers, restaurants, entertainment and more are integrated into experiences; How Tanger is thinking of omnichannel experience design to boost traffic and dwell time; andHis advice for helping retailers optimize their presence in shopping malls and centers. RELATED LINKSLearn more about Tanger Read about Tanger's transformationGet more insights on the future of the mall

When Anna Harman wanted to get a new ear piercing, she only had two viable options: an upscale boutique that would charge her hundreds of dollars...or a tattoo parlor. While the latter was just as safe as the former, the experience left her feeling wanting more. Most of all, the experience made Anna realize what a big white space there was in the market, which inspired her to start Studs with Lisa Bubbers. During this episode of Retail Remix, Anna shares Studs's origin story, as well as: The essence of the Studs brand and how it adapts and amplifies across digital and physical channels; Why it's critical for the marketing team to balance fun, entertainment-driven initiatives and borderline-scientific content; How she and Lisa developed a scalable business framework and service strategy; and Entrepreneurial lessons that all retail executives can embrace and apply.RELATED LINKSLearn more about Studs Follow Anna on LinkedIn

Will Eadie is in the world of employee experience, also known as EX. He and his company WorkJam believe that a great EX leads to a great CX. If that's the case, why do so many retailers struggle to invest in the right tools and strategies that drive EX? We had Will on Retail Remix to find out. Listen to this episode to learn: What EX entails and why it matters more than ever; How EX can lead to CX outcomes; How retailers like JCPenney are seeing success with their EX investments; and Tips for finding the right tools and partners to support your EX mission and vision.RELATED LINKSLearn more about how WorkJam supports retailersGet the JCPenney case studyRead our coverage of WorkJam's research with ForresterRead our latest report about employee technologyConnect with Will Eadie on LinkedIn

Alex Weinstein is equally passionate about marketing and data science, and he's putting that passion to good use as Chief Digital Officer of Hungryroot. Although one could easily lump Hungryroot in with other grocery delivery services, the company is investing heavily in artificial intelligence to power customer-facing touch points as well as back-end operations. During this episode of Retail Remix, Alex shares: Hungryroot's key differentiators in the fast-evolving digital grocery space; The company's top customer experience priorities, from personalization to mobile app design;How Hungryroot uses behavioral data and zero-party insights to power back-end operations; and How AI is helping Hungryroot tackle food waste and reduce environmental impact. RELATED LINKSLearn more about HungryrootRead the latest on artificial intelligence (AI) Want to hear from other innovative brands like Hungyroot to learn how they're investing in AI and other cutting-edge technologies? Register for the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo, taking place June 4-6, 2024, in Chicago. Click here to get your ticket and get more tactical tips from her and other forward-thinking executives!

We are taking this week off, but tune in next week for another great episode of Retail Remix! Be sure to subscribe to hear the latest episodes when they launch.

We've all heard about subscription models that give customers monetary perks in exchange for recurring purchases. But brands like IPSY are elevating this concept by integrating compelling content, community and exclusive access to products. IPSY's merchandising team plays a central role in bringing the brand promise to life. Led by Chief Merchandising Officer Kristy Westrup, the merch division tests more than 8,000 products per year to curate the best assortment for customers. During this week's Retail Remix, we dig into this process, as well as: How merchandising collaborates with marketing to create compelling content that drives member acquisition and retention; How the team applies social media insights and other data points to constantly keep a pulse on what's trending; andHow the team integrates customer feedback consistently to refine assortment and expand into new brands and categories.RELATED LINKSLearn more about IPSYRead how other companies are reimagining subscription commerceConnect with Kristy on LinkedInKristy's colleagues from IPSY will dig deeper into the brand's membership model during the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo. Click here to get your ticket and get more tactical tips from her and other forward-thinking executives! 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & ExpoAre you ready to explore the evolved customer journey, where content, community and commerce converge? Click here to register for the 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & Expo today!

As CTO and Global General Manager for Zenni Optical, David Ting plays a critical role in determining the company's key technology investments and experience priorities. It should come as no surprise, then, that artificial intelligence (AI) has been at the top of his priority list. During this week's Retail Remix, he shares how he researched, tested and optimized AI investments for the business. He shares insights on:  How consumers search and browse on the Zenni Optical site, and how these behaviors have dictated the company's technology decisions; Different AI applications and how they have supported operational efficiency and ecommerce performance; Workforce and company policies that have had to evolve with AI adoption; andLessons he has learned testing and implementing different AI-powered solutions, and the advice he would offer to peers. RELATED LINKSVisit Zenni Optical to see the site experience firsthandRead more about Zenni Optical's innovation on Retail TouchPoints Download our Special Report on how generative AI is driving ecommerce transformationDavid's colleague, Dennis Maxwell, Senior Director of Performance Marketing, will be speaking at the 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & Expo, taking place June 4-6, 2024, in Chicago. Click here to get your ticket and get his insights on how brands can use AI practically to drive performance. 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & ExpoAre you ready to explore the evolved customer journey, where content, community and commerce converge? Click here to register for the 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & Expo today!

Jill Pavlovich and Francisco Fram work very closely on shaping the customer experience for Albertsons shoppers. Together, they collect, integrate and analyze rich customer insights and then transform this information into compelling experiences across all channels. During this episode of Retail Remix, they share more details on: How their teams collaborate to shape omnichannel strategies and prioritize new tech investments; How Albertsons consumers shop today, and how Albertsons is creating experiences that drive efficiency and delight; The role that generative AI currently plays in the Albertsons experience, and how the company plans to invest in the technology moving forward; and  Insights into how the retailer is using data (especially from loyalty members) to craft immersive and personalized marketing campaigns. RELATED LINKSLearn more about AlbertsonsListen to Retail Remix, featuring Harvey Ma of Albertsons Media CollectiveRead the latest news and content about AlbertsonsRegister for the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo Claire Wyatt, VP of Business Strategy and Marketing Science for Albertsons Media Collective, will be speaking at the 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & Expo, taking place June 4-6, 2024, in Chicago. Click here to get your ticket and learn how you can tap into Albertsons' highly loyal customer base.  2024 Retail Innovation Conference & ExpoAre you ready to explore the evolved customer journey, where content, community and commerce converge? Click here to register for the 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & Expo today!

Dr. Marcus Collins isn't just a professor. He is an author, a marketing strategist who has worked with some of the world's top tech brands and musical acts, and a cultural translator. It is this rich career history that has inspired his latest book, For the Culture: The Power Behind What We Buy, What We Do, and Who We Want to Be, and is why he's taking the stage at the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo this June. Host Alicia Esposito sat down with Marcus to discuss: How the culture of brands has evolved, and how culture impacts commerce; What commerce brands can learn from Beyoncé and other musical artists that are embedded into culture; and How brands like Patagonia are embracing cultural proximity to drive relevance and foster customer loyalty.RELATED LINKSLearn more about Dr. Marcus CollinsGet your copy of For the Culture: The Power Behind What We Buy, What We Do, and Who We Want to BeSee more insights from Dr. Marcus CollinsRegister for the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo to join Jack on the Store Tours around ChicagoDr. Marcus Collins will be the headline keynote speaker during the 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & Expo, taking place June 4-6, 2024, in Chicago. Click here to get your ticket and learn how you can embrace culture to drive commerce.

As Head of Trends for Insider Trends, Jack Stratten has toured some of the world's newest, and most innovative, retail stores. Through these tours, he has been able to uncover how consumer behaviors have shaped storytelling techniques, technology integration and more. During the NRF Big Show, Jack sat down with host Alicia Esposito to discuss the key trends he's uncovered in his tours around the world, as well as what he loves most about some of the Big Apple's top shops. Listen to learn: Why Glossier is a great model for innovative brick-and-mortar storytelling; How brands can incorporate surprise and delight effectively in stores; and How to do innovation right in physical retail spaces. RELATED LINKSLearn more about Insider TrendsRegister for the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo to join Jack on the Store Tours around ChicagoCheck out a recent webinar featuring Jack and his friend Ian Scott, as they discuss the evolution of store spacesJack will be hosting Stour Tours around Chicago during the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo, along with fellow brick-and-mortar nerd Ian Scott. Click here to get your ticket and get more tactical tips from her and other forward-thinking executives! 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & ExpoAre you ready to explore the evolved customer journey, where content, community and commerce converge? Click here to register for the 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & Expo today!

Boisson was created to make it easier for consumers to discover and learn about non-alcoholic beverage brands. The company helped jumpstart the market, which is projected to have a 25% compound annual growth rate through 2028. Founder Nick Bodkins had a vision where Boisson was “the Sephora of NA,” bringing together the power of an immersive ecommerce experience, neighborhood-style stores with passionate employees, and a wholesale strategy that drove growth for new brands. Although Boisson recently announced it would be undergoing a restructuring and immediately shuttering its stores, Bodkins' vision, and the innovation within the Boisson business, showed what is truly possible for the NA market. Listen to this episode of Retail Remix to: Hear Nick's perspective on the evolving NA market;Learn how Boisson is thinking long-term about wholesale distribution and growth;Get insights on how the VC market could influence the current state, and future, of NA; and Understand why Boisson's approach to brick-and-mortar was so innovative—and what your brand can learn from it. RELATED LINKSConnect with Nick on LinkedIn See what's next for BoissonDig deeper into the Boisson storyDo you want to hear more from Nick Bodkins on founding and scaling an omnichannel business? He will share more candid perspectives (and lessons) during the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo, taking place June 4-6, 2024, at McCormick Place in Chicago. He will join other senior executives from brands such as Michaels, Pinterest, Petco, Zenni Optical, Adore Me and many others. Get your ticket today and join the brightest minds in retail. 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & ExpoAre you ready to explore the evolved customer journey, where content, community and commerce converge? Click here to register for the 2024 Retail Innovation Conference & Expo today!

Brands and retailers that specialize in formal events and big “life moments” (think weddings, proms and the like) need to think about customer loyalty — how to win it and how to keep it — in a completely different way.For example, David's Bridal has leaned into community and crowdsourcing to create programs that allow consumers to build beautiful life moments. During this episode of Retail Remix, Kelly Cook, the President of Brand, Technology and Finance for David's Bridal, shares how the brand has: Developed the Diamond Loyalty Program to reimagine the way friends and family members can contribute to weddings; Applied trends and learnings from the Diamond program to develop a prom iteration that has supported its partnerships with schools; andCollected data and insights about Gen Z consumers to refine its approach to retention marketing and content creation across key channels such as TikTok. RELATED LINKSVisit the David's Bridal website Follow David's Bridal on TikTokConnect with Kelly Cook on LinkedInDownload Retail TouchPoints' latest loyalty researchKelly Cook will be speaking at the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo to share more insights into how David's Bridal is rewriting the loyalty playbook. Click here to get your ticket and get more Payment Experience ReportGet your copy of this special report, courtesy of our friends at PayPal, to learn how you can turn the payment experience into a competitive differentiator.

Brian Librach has held leadership positions at various retail brands, from Old Navy to Pacific Sunwear and Urban Outfitters. So needless to say, he's faced his fair share of hardships and lessons learned. The one big thing he has found is that many retail leaders are “stuck halfway up the ladder.” This reality ultimately inspired him to write his book: The Retail Leader's Roadmap. During this episode of Retail Remix, Brian shares:The big lessons he learned during his rich career in retail;What he learned from his industry peers while writing the book; andHow retail leaders can get “unstuck” and embed learning, development and inspiration into their days. RELATED LINKSLearn more about Brian LibrachConnect with Brian on LinkedInGet a copy of The Retail Leader's Roadmap Payment Experience ReportGet your copy of this special report, courtesy of our friends at PayPal, to learn how you can turn the payment experience into a competitive differentiator.

Connected TV (CTV) is becoming a central marketing and advertising channel for brands as streaming networks bolster their subscription offerings. They're becoming a conduit for delivering engaging, personalized campaigns that drive brand awareness, product discovery, in-store traffic and conversions. Roku is helping drive this new era of shoppable content by providing the streaming devices consumers need to access content across apps and devices. Plus, through partnerships with companies like Walmart, it is helping shape the future of the category. During this episode of Retail Remix, Sarah Monahan, Roku's Head of Verticals, shares: How the streaming wars will continue to drive the evolution of CTV; Tips to help retailers align their CTV decisions and tactics to specific business objectives and success measures; and Details on how Roku is partnering with brands, retailers and even streaming services to support innovation in CTV advertising and creative storytelling.RELATED LINKSLearn more about Roku's Advertising servicesSee more CTV coverage on Retail TouchPointsRead the deep-dive report on CTV best practices Payment Experience ReportGet your copy of this special report, courtesy of our friends at PayPal, to learn how you can turn the payment experience into a competitive differentiator.

Retailers know that digital influences the customer journey, from initial awareness to post-purchase. So why is there still such a staggering divide between consumers' digital and physical brand experiences?We explore the gaps, challenges and opportunities on this week's Retail Remix with Justin Racine and Zach Zalowitz of Perficient. Together with host Alicia Esposito, they explore: The key digital influencers for in-store traffic and activation; The increasingly central role of inventory visibility and omnichannel inventory management in the customer experience; Why retailers should place more emphasis on the post-purchase experience; andHow different retail teams and functions can support the bottom of the funnel, which is becoming a new “battleground” for retailers.RELATED LINKSLearn more about PerficientDownload Retail TouchPoints' research on retailers' omnichannel challenges and prioritiesRead our coverage of the post-purchase experience Omnichannel & Fulfillment Benchmark ReportDownload the Retail TouchPoints Omnichannel & Fulfillment Benchmark report, sponsored by Deposco, to learn how your peers are investing in creating a cohesive customer experience.

Juxtapose positions itself as a “creation-oriented investment firm,” which means their investment process is based on businesses that don't exist yet. Focusing on industries that are under-served, Juxtapose's team then harnesses the power of entrepreneurialism and an investment firm's diligence to identify and invest in new business opportunities.During this week's Retail Remix, Ben West, Partner at Juxtapose, digs into the company's investment process and how this approach shapes his perspectives on: What makes a successful brand; How businesses should balance brand building and scaling their business; andThe state of the investment market, and what emerging consumer brands need to know.RELATED LINKSLearn more about JuxtaposeRead more about VC-related topics and trends on Retail TouchPointsRegister for the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo, taking place June 4-5 in Chicago, to explore the evolution of the customer journey. Hear from executives at Babylist, IKEA, Liquid Death, Rebecca Minkoff and more, about how they're embracing the convergence of content, community and commerce. Omnichannel & Fulfillment Benchmark ReportDownload the Retail TouchPoints Omnichannel & Fulfillment Benchmark report, sponsored by Deposco, to learn how your peers are investing in creating a cohesive customer experience.

Four years and 200 episodes later, we're celebrating how far the retail industry and the Retail Remix podcast have come! What better way to do that than to listen back to the conversations that sparked some of the show's top geek-out moments?Listen to find out which guests drove some of our most thought-provoking conversations on: Omnichannel strategy;The evolution of store design;The future of digital communities; Branded content strategy; and The unique role of mobile apps. AtDataThis episode is brought to you by AtData, which helps brands and retailers get to know the person behind the email address to ensure customer journeys are meaningful, consistent and ultimately drive conversions. Click here to learn more.