What Just Happened

Christine Russo, host of What Just Happened, sat down with James Denman, a brand strategy and marketing leader for luxury and fashion brands. Russo and Denman explored how brand marketing is evolving, emphasizing modern strategies that break rigid traditional models.Denman pointed to the need for brands to modernize their marketing approaches through a multi-channel, consistent strategy rather than relying heavily on outdated campaign-driven models. He highlighted Burberry's success with its "always Burberry weather" campaign as an example of consistent creative experimentation and drip content across social channels. Denman stressed the importance of clarity, intentionality, and bravery, with clarity being the foundation for building lasting consumer engagement.Kith's Kaka and Adidas campaign kicked of an insightful discussion about the XY Method. Russo and Denman discussed how this strategy simultaneously satisfies two audiences: one axis focused on the brand's product or message and the other creating deeper engagement for fans through insider storytelling. Denman referenced Kith's collaboration with Adidas and the use of layered Easter eggs, like referencing classic soccer culture, to appeal to fans on a deeper level. Russo noted that this method is akin to what brands like Taylor Swift use with Easter eggs, reinforcing that these strategies are powerful drivers of long-term brand attachment. The discussion concluded with a call for broader use of the XY Method, particularly in B2B and brand marketing, to cultivate more meaningful, loyalty-driven consumer relationships.

Christine Russo, host of What Just Happened, sits down with Mike Jacobs to discuss key shifts in marketing strategy and brand authenticity in today's evolving landscape. In addition to these talking points, Russo offers a hard look and counterpoint analysis of Gary Vaynerchuk's Possible presentation, blending sharp critique with balanced insight.Talking points:The Shift from Quantity to Quality and the Need for Authenticity: Russo critiques the oversimplification in modern marketing advice, particularly targeting Gary Vaynerchuk's pivot from promoting high-volume content to emphasizing "quality." Jacob stresses that “quality” must be properly defined—whether it's production value or the depth of strategic thinking—and that authentic brand identity should be the foundation of any content strategy.Balancing Organic Content and Campaign Structure: Jacobs explains the necessity of blending organic, quick-turn content with broader campaign strategies. While organic, lo-fi content can enhance relatability, Russo and Jacob agree that large-scale campaigns remain important for delivering brand positioning and long-term customer engagement. A rigid binary—organic versus high-production—is misleading without contextualizing audience and channel strategies.Marketing's New Complexity: AI, Data Gaps, and the ‘Movable Middle': Russo and Jacobs explore how AI, privacy shifts, and changing consumer habits create confusion but also opportunity. Jacob highlights that marketing success now depends on authentic strategy connected to product value, not just creative flash. They also discuss the "movable middle" concept from MMA research, emphasizing the overlooked importance of mid-funnel engagement—consideration actions that lead to deeper brand loyalty.

Christine Russo, creator of What Just Happened, sits with Matt Merrilees, CEO of Global-e, to explore how cross-border ecommerce is being reshaped by rising tariffs, regulatory shifts, and the demand for profitable international expansion. Merrilees outlines how Global-e helps brands navigate the complexities of global commerce while maintaining customer experience and profitability.Key Discussion Points:Tariffs and Profitability ModelingMerrilees explains how Global-e helps brands assess and manage the impact of changing tariff landscapes by running market-by-market profitability analyses before launching international sales. This helps brands avoid surprises and maintain margins while expanding globally.One Integration, Global ReachThe Global-e platform allows brands to sell into multiple international markets through a single integration, managing everything from duties and taxes to returns, payments, and compliance. This simplifies cross-border selling and supports both DTC and localized fulfillment models.AI for Operational EfficiencyAI is now embedded across all departments at Global-e, from customer service to marketing to tech development. Merrilees notes that AI is being used to streamline operations and enhance scalability, positioning it as a strategic lever alongside tariff navigation.

Christine Russo, creator of What Just Happened, sits down with Shawn Nelson, CEO of Lovesac, to discuss his leadership philosophy, recent strategic hires, and the evolving dynamics of brand identity in retail.Shawn Nelson's Philosophy Toward Business: Nelson emphasizes a "Designed for Life" approach, focusing on sustainability, adaptability, and long-term customer relationships. He believes in creating products that are durable and modular, reducing waste and promoting conscious consumerism. In a break from typical retail cycles of 'Newness', Nelson emphasizes 'Sameness'. This is one of their trusted values and drives product development, strategy, marketing and more.New Hire from Crocs: Lovesac appointed Heidi Cooley, former Chief Marketing Officer at Crocs, as its first Chief Brand and Marketing Officer. Cooley is known for her digital and social-first marketing strategies that transformed Crocs into a cultural phenomenon. Sameness vs. Newness in Brand and Retail: Nelson discusses the balance between maintaining brand consistency and introducing innovation. He stresses the importance of evolving the brand to meet changing consumer expectations while preserving its core identity.

Christine Russo, creator of What Just Happened, sits with Tanger CEO Steve Yalof. In this wide-ranging conversation, Russo and Yalof discuss Tanger's accelerated back-to-school timeline, the company's expansion into full-price, and the critical role of experience in modern retail. Yalof shares that community is a major contributor in all of their strategies. They discuss how knowing the customer, having a digital-physical service, and hands-on leadership approach are driving both traffic and long-term growth. The episode offers a candid look at how Tanger is evolving beyond outlets—and why Yalof believes retail is no longer just about real estate, but about relevance and experience.Covered in the discussion:Back-to-School Strategy to Support CustomersTanger is advancing its back-to-school promotions to June, responding to macroeconomic uncertainty and possible tariff disruptions. By partnering with brands like J.Crew, Adidas, and Crocs, Tanger aims to meet early consumer demand for both value and availability.The holiday selling season has crept earlier, with consumer behavior now shaped by early access and urgency. Tanger capitalized on this trend with successful campaigns like 'Black Friday Every Day' to extend the sales cycle and increase frequency of visits.Tanger emphasizes the social and communal aspects of physical retail, offering more than transactional value. The company curates experiences that encourage family and group engagement, reinforcing loyalty through shared shopping moments.Physical Retail and Digital EngagementDigitally native brands are finding enhanced performance through physical retail footprints. Tanger leverages this omnichannel dynamic to deepen customer engagement and create reciprocal value between online and offline channels.Full-Price PivotTanger is diversifying into full-price with a 'town center' feel and format as outlet acquisition opportunities become scarce. This strategic pivot aligns with consumer demand for mixed-use destinations that integrate retail, dining, and services in open-air environments.Retail Experience PhilosophyTanger positions itself as an experience company, prioritizing ambiance, service, and personalization as opposed to strictly conventional real estate metrics. Its vision emphasizes curated environments that attract and retain customers through emotional and practical value.

In this conversation, Christine Russo, host and creator of What Just Happened, sits with Katie Thomas from the Kearney Consumer Institute. Thomas enlightens a spin on current-day perspectives suggesting that businesses can shift away from rigid, category-based views of shoppers and age-based demographics; and instead focus on the full psychological and lifestyle context of consumers. She explains that uncertainty, lingering from the pandemic and ongoing economic challenges, has made consumers more sensitive, selective, and frustrated, leading to brand skepticism and new behaviors even boycotts. While data and need states can offer valuable insights, Katie warns that brands often underestimate consumer irrationality and should avoid relying too heavily on structured analysis instead of qualitative human understanding. Modern brands must stay grounded in the emotional realities of their consumers if they hope to remain relevant and trusted.5 Key Takeaways:Consumers do not shop in strict category lines; they shop based on lifestyles, emotions, and immediate needs.Brand loyalty is fragile — consumers feel more frustrated and disconnected than ever, especially as prices rise without perceived added value.Psychological insights are crucial, but brands sometimes misuse data by ignoring consumer irrationality.Entertainment and engagement must be authentic and thoughtful — not sensory overload or gimmicky experiences that neglect fundamentals.Brands that want lasting trust must focus less on short-term wins and more on consistent, meaningful relationships rooted in true consumer understanding.

Christine Russo, host of What Just Happened, sits down with Toby Espinosa, Vice President of DoorDash Ads, to discuss the company's evolution and its growing role in retail media. Espinosa, who has been with DoorDash for a decade, shares how the company expanded from a local restaurant delivery startup into a global, multi-category logistics platform serving 30 countries. Initially created to help small businesses grow through delivery logistics, DoorDash has since launched promotions, advertising tools, and partnerships to support both local entrepreneurs and large brands alike.Espinosa highlights DoorDash's commitment to simplifying complex challenges for small businesses. Recognizing that local business owners often wear many hats, DoorDash developed a CPA-based ad model that removes financial risk from merchants by only charging when an ad converts to a sale. This model has driven significant adoption and trust from local operators while improving ad relevance for consumers. Espinosa emphasizes that the company's strategy is simple—deliver any product to any consumer within 30 minutes or the same day—but executing it and reducing complexity for partners remains a key challenge.The conversation also covers three major announcements: the launch of DoubleDash Ads, a new ad placement that drives incremental sales during the checkout experience; a strategic partnership with TopSort to extend ad reach beyond the DoorDash platform; and DoorDash's entry into the fashion category through its partnership with Designer Shoe Warehouse. Espinosa explains that the broader vision is to unlock local inventory, enabling consumers to access hundreds of thousands of SKUs already available in their neighborhoods. Russo closes by praising DoorDash's thoughtful strategy and consumer-first mindset in tackling the future of last-mile logistics.

Christine Russo, host of the What Just Happenedpodcast, sits down with Peter Pernot-Day Head of Strategic and Corporate Affairs for North America and Europe for a wide-ranging discussion.Pernot-Day shares that Shein's “secret sauce” lies in its ability to match supply precisely with demand—something made possible by their demand-driven model and relentless focus on the consumer. He explains that Shein isstructurally aligned to operate with speed and efficiency, with systems in place to test and scale products based on real-time data. This agility, pairedwith deep consumer insight, enables Shein to avoid overproduction and reduce waste. Pernot-Day also highlights the company's innovative approach to apparelproduction, including small-batch manufacturing and data-informed design processes that differ markedly from traditional fashion retail models.

In this episode of What Just Happened, Christine Russo interviews Sucharita Kodali, VP and Principal Analyst at Forrester Research, to unpack the ever-evolving dynamics of digital transformation in retail. Kodali shares her perspective on how retailers should approach innovation with caution, emphasizing the importance of testing and two-way-door decisions—those you can reverse—especially in areas like generative AI and emerging tech. She advises brands not to blindly follow Amazon's lead, but to embrace its spirit of calculated experimentation and long-term thinking.The conversation explores the cyclical nature of retail brand equity, using Target and Gap as case studies. Kodali argues that strong cultural equity, even when dormant, can be revived with the right leadership and strategy. Target's recent stumbles, she believes, are more operational than existential, while Walmart's recent success is attributed to strategic CapEx and improved store design. She notes that Target's fatigue is reversible, and predicts leadership changes could be a catalyst for revitalization.Russo and Kodali also dive into innovation in physical retail, including Urban Outfitters' Re/Reclectic concept, and the nuanced state of live shopping in the U.S. versus China. Kodali suggests that Americans lean toward short-form, influencer-led, asynchronous content rather than livestream commerce. She highlights Nordstrom's quiet but promising use of vertical video by store associates and the challenge of inventory keeping pace with demand driven by social media. The episode ends with a nod to the importance of automation, retail media, and ongoing trend analysis as retailers navigate what's next.

Christine Russo, host and creator of What Just Happened, sits down with Evan Armstrong of the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) to discuss the organization's role in shaping retail policy. Evan explains that RILA represents the country's largest and most innovative retailers, focusing on public policy, advocacy, and industry events. He highlights key legislative issues affecting the retail sector, including tariffs, trade policy, and workforce regulations, noting how RILA works proactively to support its members in navigating these challenges.The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of workforce policy, particularly in the wake of shifting government regulations. Armstrong discusses RILA's commitment to advocating for policies that support flexibility and career growth within the retail industry. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a broad and diverse talent pool, touching on initiatives such as tuition assistance, leadership development, and skilled trades programs. He also addresses concerns around AI in the workplace, explaining that while technological disruption is inevitable, it also presents opportunities for efficiency and innovation.Russo and Armstrong also explore broader industry concerns, including retail crime, regulatory challenges, and the impact of emerging players like TikTok Shop and Temu. Evan clarifies the distinction between RILA and the National Retail Federation (NRF), explaining that RILA exclusively represents the largest retailers with aligned policy priorities. He underscores RILA's role as a serious policy player, maintaining bipartisan engagement to ensure retail leaders have a voice in Washington. The discussion concludes with an invitation to keep an eye on RILA's events, research, and ongoing advocacy efforts shaping the future of retail.

Christine Russo, Host of What Just Happened, sits down with Hugh Forrest, President and Chief Programming Officer of South by Southwest, to explore how SXSW is the ultimate gathering for creatives and also serves as a melting pot for innovators across industries. From music, film and multi-media, SXSW is where the world's leading brands, marketing, technology, and activations collide with groundbreaking advancements in AI and now, quantum computing. SXSW has solidified itself as a mecca for creative minds, where emerging trends are not just discussed but actively shaped, making it the go-to destination for those looking to stay ahead of the curve.As innovation continues to accelerate, SXSW is doubling down on future-focused content, introducing dedicated programming for quantum computing on March 12th and 13th. With AI now seamlessly embedded into everyday life, quantum computing represents the next frontier—one that is still complex but poised to redefine industries. From immersive brand activations to the intersection of culture and commerce, SXSW remains the epicenter for those who don't just follow trends but create them.

Christine Russo, host of What Just Happened, has Tim Fehr from Happy Returns as her guest. Tim discusses the company's rapid growth and how its partnership with UPS has accelerated automation in the returns process. He explains how Happy Returns successfully integrated robotics into their facilities before the peak holiday season, reducing transit times and loss rates to record lows. The company has doubled its productivity through automation in 2024 and is now developing a new plan to further enhance efficiency in 2025. Fehr also highlights the importance of optimizing outbound transit times and leveraging cross-dock programs to reduce delays, ensuring that retailers receive returned merchandise as quickly as possible.Regarding e-commerce, Fehr believes that consumer expectations for convenience will continue to rise, especially as Gen Z shoppers—who have grown up with digital-first experiences—become a larger share of the market. He notes that practices like bracketing and showrooming, where customers order multiple items with the intention of returning some, are more prominent than ever. While some in the industry express concerns about sustainability and return costs, Fehr takes a pragmatic approach, arguing that returns are an inherent part of modern retail. Rather than resisting this shift, retailers need to develop smarter policies, such as differentiating return policies based on customer behavior, to manage costs effectively.Looking ahead, Fehr acknowledges that the competitive landscape for e-commerce is becoming increasingly challenging, with major players like Amazon setting high standards for delivery speed and convenience. He emphasizes that smaller retailers must leverage technology and partnerships to keep up, as the gap between industry leaders and smaller businesses continues to widen. The conversation also touches on AI-driven shopping experiences and how Happy Returns is providing retailers with valuable data on customer return behavior. With continued innovation in automation and logistics, Fehr believes that Happy Returns is well-positioned to help retailers navigate the evolving e-commerce landscape.

Christine Russo, host of What Just Happened, leads a thought-provoking conversation with Dax Dasilva, CEO of Lightspeed, about the evolution of point-of-sale (POS) systems into comprehensive business solutions. Russo sets the stage by emphasizing how a poor checkout experience can undermine an otherwise excellent store experience. She introduces the idea of rebranding POS highlighting its role in empowering associates to enhance customer interactions. Dasilva elaborates on Lightspeed's evolution into a "light ERP" solution for medium-to-high complexity retailers, integrating inventory management, e-commerce, social channels, and analytics. Russo pitches alternative terms like "point of synergy" and "point of synthesis," which Dasilva thoughtfully considers while underscoring the need for seamless solutions in retail. Throughout the discussion, Russo probes into Lightspeed's focus on specific industries like golf, jewelry, bikes, and apparel. Dasilva speaks of Lightspeed's ability to address operational challenges for retailers managing large inventories and multiple locations. And how Lightspeed integrates appointment management, service scheduling, and real-time inventory visibility to save retailers significant time. DaSilva's take on Gen Z shopping behaviors and loyalty programs. provides a fresh perspective by comparing VIP experiences at festivals or airlines, which resonates with with Gen Z's willingness to pay for exclusivity and self-care-driven experiences.

Join Russo, host of What Just Happened, as she delvesdeeply into the concept of newness in her conversation with Helen LambertKennedy, founder of Lambert Associates and The Style Pulse. The interview examines the role of newness driving business,department stores, and how newness manifests across different global markets,emphasizing its importance for customer loyalty and retail innovation. LambertKennedy discusses the delicate balance between risk and reward in adopting newbrands, noting how department stores and smaller retailers approach thechallenge differently. She also highlights The Style Pulse's use of technology,such as their AI avatar Julia, which enhances the discovery process for buyers.The conversation underscores how newness is not only aboutintroducing fresh brands but also about rethinking how products are curated and presented to create inspiring retail experiences.

Christine Russo, the host and creator of What Just Happened, hosted Michael Zakkour and Brandon Rael for the retail industry year-end recap. The discussion highlighted many key initiatives and strategies like the evolution of video commerce, which has transitioned from a niche concept to a mainstream strategy, as evidenced by significant contributions to sales during events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Zakkour emphasized the importance of adopting a comprehensive "v-commerce" strategy that integrates various forms of video content, while Rael discussed how consumer behavior has reshaped retail, with influencers and social platforms like TikTok driving engagement and conversions. They agreed that video commerce must be supported by robust supply chain systems and technological infrastructure to sustain its growth. The conversation shifted to the critical role of supply chain resilience amid ongoing disruptions, such as tariffs and geopolitical tensions. Zakkour and Rael stressed the importance of diversifying production and embracing technologies like AI and cloud systems to optimize inventory and logistics. They noted how retailers must adopt a proactive, multi-layered approach to ensure operational stability in an unpredictable global market. The need for adaptability and foresight was highlighted, as companies increasingly face challenges that demand innovative solutions, including nearshoring production and leveraging advanced technologies. Russo concluded the discussion by examining the strategies of major retailers like Walmart, Amazon, Macy's, and McDonald's. The panel explored how these companies have navigated challenges by building ecosystems that blend physical and digital experiences. They also touched on AI's transformative role in retail, from personalization to supply chain efficiency. While companies like Walmart and Amazon have maintained dominance through innovation, the conversation acknowledged the struggles of legacy brands like Macy's, emphasizing the need for agility and customer-centric approaches to remain relevant in the ever-evolving retail landscape.

Christine Russo, host and creator of What Just Happened, engages in an insightful conversation with Mariana Sotinas, President of Hanro USA. The discussion explores the strategic considerations behind Hanro's distribution channels, their focus on quality and customer loyalty, and the importance of a feedback-driven approach to continuous improvement. Mariana shares insights on the brand's transition to Shopify, successful customer-centric initiatives like in-store events, and the launch of their winter capsule collection. They also delve into leveraging Hanro's heritage and luxury positioning to acquire new customers, expand into travel retail, and maintain a loyal, generational customer base. The episode emphasizes innovation and adaptability in preserving a brand's legacy while driving growth.

Christine Russo, the host and creator of What Just Happened, recently welcomed Brian Wright, Director of VolShop at the University of Tennessee, to discuss his approach to campus retail leadership. With a sprawling operation across 14 locations, VolShop handles everything from books and tech supplies to sports concessions and partnerships with renowned brands like Lululemon. To optimize customer experiences during peak demand, such as during product launches, Wright deployed innovative measures like the Wait while system. This system, inspired by pandemic-era shopping adaptations, required customers to reserve shopping slots, ensuring efficient service and inventory management. By emphasizing purpose over profits, Wright aims to align retail operations with the needs of students and visitors, fostering a positive and memorable experience. Wright's leadership philosophy is rooted in servant leadership, a concept he adopted early in his career thanks to a mentor. He views his role as an opportunity to serve and support students, employees, and the broader university community. This approach translates into both professional development and meaningful interactions with his team, enabling them to grow individually. Through a combination of innovation and a people-first mindset, Wright balances the demands of retail fundamentals with the evolving needs of a tech-driven world, positioning VolShop as a model for integrating retail, education, and community impact.

Christine Russo, founder and creator of What Just Happened, sits with Dr. Mark Grether, SVP and GM of PayPal Ads - a pivotal moment in PayPal's venture into advertising. Dr. Grether reflects on the rapid progress since joining PayPal six months ago, launching an advertising platform that leverages its vast network of 400 million active users and millions of merchants. This integration allows advertisers to capitalize on unparalleled transaction insights, optimizing ad effectiveness and consumer engagement. With over 225 billion transactions passing through PayPal's pipeline, Dr. Grether envisions this as a transformative opportunity in the e-commerce space. He emphasizes the differentiation of PayPal's "commerce media" strategy, which unites transaction data across merchants to drive efficiency and impact in retail media. Dr. Grether underscores the importance of AI in advancing PayPal Ads, with applications for personalized ad targeting and creative customization at scale. He discusses leveraging AI to tailor ads and offers, enhancing user experience while maximizing ROI for advertisers. This dual focus on consumer relevance and advertiser performance signals a shift toward maturity in retail media, with PayPal pioneering the transition to commerce media. Additionally, Dr. Grether highlights the role of platforms like Honey in capturing pre-purchase intent, further enriching the ad ecosystem. The strategy also aims to democratize advertising for micro-businesses by enabling them to compete with larger players using AI-powered tools. The inclusion of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) on platforms like Venmo signals PayPal's commitment to serving diverse market segments. Dr. Grether envisions empowering "mom-and-pop" businesses through customized, impactful advertising solutions. PayPal's approach positions it as a leader in commerce-driven advertising, balancing technological innovation with user-centric principles. With the recent onboarding of major brands like Hugo Boss and Verizon, PayPal is poised for significant growth in this space. Dr. Grether's outlook emphasizes that the venture is in its infancy, but the prospects are immense, with 2025 and beyond offering a promising horizon for innovation and market expansion.

Suze Dowling, co-founder and Chief Business Officer of Pattern Brands, discussing her company's unique approach to direct-to-consumer (D2C) business and sustainable growth. Pattern operates a portfolio of seven home goods brands under a unified model to optimize profitability and shared resources. Dowling explained how the D2C industry has evolved, emphasizing the importance of profitability over vanity metrics and focusing on sustainable, customer-centric growth. She also highlighted the transition from cutting out intermediaries to adopting an omnichannel strategy, blending online and offline customer experiences. The discussion delves into the challenges and transformations of the last five years, including the pandemic's impact on e-commerce and rising competition. Also, the importance of connected commerce, meeting consumers across various touchpoints, and designing cohesive brand experiences across channels is emphasized. This approach allows Pattern Brands to serve customers effectively while maintaining profitability. She also spoke about the power of pivoting and evolving business strategies to adapt to new realities while staying true to the company's mission of enhancing daily life at home. The conversation explored the integration of AI within Pattern's operations, primarily for internal efficiencies, creative workflows, and marketing. Dowling shared examples of leveraging AI tools for ad testing, copywriting, and SEO optimization, acknowledging its transformative potential. She emphasized the balance between human creativity and technological advancements, underlining curiosity and openness as core team values. The podcast concluded with Pattern Brands' journey and its commitment to innovation.

The podcast "What Just Happened" features an engaging conversation with Nancy Mair, an expert in the off-price retail industry. Mair emphasizes that the success of off-price retail stems from delivering top brands and surprising deals, creating a unique shopping experience that attracts a loyal customer base. Mair discusses the evolution of the off-price model, focusing on how these businesses now attract significant interest from vendors due to timely payments, streamlined logistics, and strong partnerships. She outlines the complex processes behind inventory management, including acquiring closeouts, made-for-off-price goods, and private labels. These strategies enable off-price retailers to maintain relevance and offer competitive value. Mair also highlights the industry's creativity in adapting to trends, such as using surplus fabrics to craft desirable, affordable products. The conversation explores broader retail dynamics, contrasting off-price flexibility with traditional retail's constraints. Mair underscores the importance of agility in responding to consumer demands and changing trends. She praises off-price retailers for their ability to adapt, unlike some mainstream brands that struggle to stay fresh. The host, Christine Russo, concludes by acknowledging the increasing competition from stores like Target and Walmart, which sometimes offer comparable value. Mair's insights provide a compelling look at the off-price sector's unique strengths and its role in shaping modern retail.

The podcast features an interview with Charlie Youakim, CEO of Sezzle, discussing the company's journey in the competitive "buy now, pay later" (BNPL) space. Charlie highlights the strategic milestones of Sezzle, including its recent listing on NASDAQ and a notable sponsorship with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Sezzle's growth is marked by its innovation and adaptability, moving from traditional merchant partnerships to introducing subscription services like "Premium" and "Anywhere," allowing users more flexibility to shop across various retailers. Youakim explains the development of Sezzle's direct-to-consumer (DTC) approach, which emerged from listening to customer feedback about wanting to use Sezzle's services at more locations. This led to the introduction of virtual cards and a subscription model that improved user engagement and revenue. By leveraging data and extensive marketing tests, Sezzle identified successful channels like SEO and in-app ads while also experimenting with novel strategies, such as bar coaster ads near universities. The company's advertising efforts aim to increase customer touchpoints, including in stadiums and concert venues, which could be a key to expanding their customer base. Looking ahead, Youakim emphasizes Sezzle's focus on responsible financial services, credit-building tools, and enhancing the shopping experience. By aligning its offerings with customer needs, Sezzle hopes to expand beyond BNPL by adding features like price comparisons, fast checkouts, and more. The company sees opportunities in areas such as credit-builder loans and secured credit cards, positioning itself to compete not just with BNPL peers but also with financial service providers like credit card companies. Youakim's forward-thinking approach emphasizes continuous growth and innovation, inspired by industry leaders like Jeff Bezos, with a focus on adapting to market demands and regulatory changes.

In this conversation, two luxury experts, Marie Driscoll and Sylvia Coleman, discuss the evolving luxury market and its complexities. Marie, with her background as an equity analyst and current roles in academia and luxury market analysis, reflects on how luxury brands, once driven by exclusivity and craftsmanship, are now facing challenges such as post-pandemic economic pressures, changing consumer behavior, and an over-reliance on high-net-worth individuals. Sylvia, also a former equity analyst, emphasizes the importance of customer experience and the current trend towards experiential luxury, noting that brands need to rethink their value propositions as consumer expectations shift. Both experts agree that luxury brands are at a crossroads, needing to refocus on core values, while also adapting to the demands of younger generations. The conversation touches on how the pandemic accelerated changes in the luxury sector, with an increase in spending on high-end goods during a time of limited experiences, but also how this created challenges, such as rising prices and a lack of innovation. Sylvia and Marie discuss the dichotomy between quiet luxury, represented by brands like Hermès, and the more accessible luxury goods that became popular during COVID. They also explore the issues around creative director turnover in luxury houses, likening it to short-termism and lack of brand loyalty in today's market. As they delve into trends such as the democratization of luxury, both experts emphasize the need for luxury brands to balance innovation with heritage to remain relevant and maintain long-term value.

In this "What Just Happened" podcast episode, Christine Russo hosts Matt Powell, an industry expert in sports retail. The discussion covers e-commerce, physical retail, particularly multi-branded stores for Sports Retail and that still plays a vital role in the sports retail ecosystem.   Key Discussion Points: -          “Malls are Not Dead – But there are Dead Malls” – Powell -          Nike's challenges -          Foot Locker's probability of success -          Wholesale/DTC -          Branding and Product   The discussion covers brand integrity and the importance of maintaining product quality. Matt points out that many brands, like Nike, have shifted focus from licensing and peripheral activities back to their core product offerings. The conversation also touches on the growing resale market and how brands are beginning to engage with it directly to maintain product longevity and authenticity. Both Christine and Matt emphasize the need for brands to stay true to their values and invest in quality to sustain customer loyalty and long-term success.

Christine Russo hosts "What Just Happened" and welcomes Eric Schoch from NCR Voyix, who oversees the retail business. Schoch emphasizes the importance of the checkout experience in stores, highlighting the role of point-of-sale (POS) systems in enhancing customer interactions and operational efficiency. He discusses how data and insights derived from POS systems are crucial for retailers to make informed decisions regarding inventory, pricing, marketing, and overall store management. Schock further elaborates on the "upgrade imperative" facing retailers, driven by the need for modernized store systems that can handle contemporary challenges such as inventory management, labor issues, and shifting consumer demands. He explains NCR Voyix's approach to transforming their business model to a platform-based software and services model, which includes next-generation POS and self-checkout software. This transformation aims to provide enhanced capabilities, streamline operations, and support retailers through their digital transformation journey. Schock underscores the importance of continuous operation, advising a pragmatic path to upgrades that minimizes risk while delivering tangible benefits. The discussion also delves into the technological advancements NCR Voyix has made, particularly in self-checkout systems. Schoch highlights three core principles: speed, intelligence, and innovation. These principles drive the development of self-checkout systems that are future-compatible, leveraging artificial intelligence, computer vision, and other advanced technologies. He describes how the company's edge software enhances store operations by providing real-time insights and enabling rapid deployment of new features. This edge capability serves as a critical differentiator, allowing NCR Voyix to support both in-house and third-party applications, ultimately aiming to redefine the retail store architecture and deliver superior consumer engagement and operational efficiency.

Sit Down with Christine Russo as she hosts a key technology provider in the ever-evolving ways Gen AI will help retailers and brands. Eric Best, CEO of SoundCommerce, explains the challenges of measuring order profitability due to dispersed data sources. In his experience with Richer Poorer, he found that while they could measure site traffic, conversion rates, and ad campaign performance, they struggled to answer basic questions about profitability after converting a shopper. This issue drove the creation of SoundCommerce to address the industry problem with a commercial product. Eric describes the complexity of calculating profitability by accounting for various costs: the cost of goods sold, acquisition discounts, digital marketing expenses, and variable costs like storage, fulfillment, and shipping. With data scattered across different systems, such as digital marketing platforms and parcel carriers, it becomes difficult to consolidate and analyze this information effectively. Brands may use systems like NetSuite ERP to integrate data, but more detailed calculations, like customer lifetime value, require tracking shopper identity and purchase history over time. Understanding order profitability offers a clearer picture of business performance compared to customer lifetime value. Eric points out that repeatability in customer behavior indicates successful customer service. However, many businesses fail to identify why some customers are not loyal, potentially due to pricing or return issues. Comprehensive data analysis of orders, including hidden costs like returns processed through different platforms, provides retailers with crucial insights for making informed decisions and improving overall profitability.

Russo sits down with Simon Langevin of Coveo and here are some hightlights Introduction and Background: Simon Langevin, VP of product at Coveo, manages the e-commerce side of the business, which includes B2C and B2B search engine functions. The conversation covers the impact of generative AI on search and Coveo's approach to using large language models for content summarization and smart snippets. Challenges in Search and AI: The interview discusses the conflict between algorithmic product recommendations and business concerns, emphasizing the need for balance. The future of AI is highlighted as becoming more personalized, transparent, and controlled by humans. Intent Detection: Simon explains that intent detection involves understanding user behavior and language. Coveo uses product embeddings and tracks user interactions to predict intent, aiming to create a more refined and personalized search experience over time. Future of AI in E-commerce: The vision for AI includes integrating product discovery with expert guidance and support. This would create a seamless experience akin to a brick-and-mortar store, providing holistic support and advice to customers. Simon stresses the importance of investing in effective search technology to enhance the overall user experience.

In a lively exchange, Christine Russo, host of What Just Happened, Kristi Argyilan SVP Retail Media Albertsons, and Brian Gleason CRO Criteo discuss the evolution and potential of retail media networks. Kristi, with a background in media strategy and experience at Target and Albertsons, highlights the transformative impact of recognizing the value of retailer-owned assets, particularly first-party data. She emphasizes the shift towards proving outcomes rather than just impressions. Brian, drawing from his diverse career spanning publishing, technology, and agencies, underscores key moments that illuminated the growing significance of retail media, such as the revelation of Amazon's ad revenue and Walmart's projected profits from retail media surpassing those from physical goods.The discussion delves into the challenges and opportunities of integrating digital experiences seamlessly into physical stores, emphasizing the importance of enhancing customer experience while balancing monetization efforts. Both Kristi and Brian stress the necessity of maintaining trust and alignment with customer expectations in navigating the expansion of retail media networks. They also touch upon the role of platforms like Criteo in facilitating this evolution, offering scalable solutions for both established retailers and emerging networks, thus contributing to the ongoing rise of retail media.

In a dynamic discussion on the evolving landscape of retail, Liza Amlani and Roz Griner shed light on the pressing challenges and opportunities facing the retail brands. Liza emphasizes the importance of organizational effectiveness and increasing profitability through better go-to-market strategies, assortment planning, and reducing overdevelopment, while Roz pivots towards leveraging social media and content creation for branding and consulting. Both agree that the retail sector is navigating uncharted waters, with traditional retail fundamentals lagging the rapid evolution of consumer preferences. A key issue identified is the industry's reactive nature, relying on band-aid solutions rather than proactively addressing the core needs and desires of their customers. The conversation also touches on the shift back to physical stores amidst the collapse of direct-to-consumer brands, highlighting Nike's reversal from a DTC-only approach as a notable example. The dialogue underscores the importance of engaging directly with customers, utilizing social listening, and integrating feedback throughout the product creation and go-to-market processes. Furthermore, it calls for retail teams to reconnect with fundamental practices, like engaging with customers on the shop floor, to better understand and adapt to the rapidly changing retail environment, emphasizing the need for a more responsive, customer-focused approach in contrast to the traditional, inventory-heavy strategies of the past. The conversation goes on to highlight brand strategic missteps in marketing and product development, such as heavy discounts and a lack of alignment with the preferences and shopping habits of Gen Z. The critique notes that Gen Z's aversion to shopping in physical stores, particularly malls, exacerbates the brand's challenges in engaging with this demographic. The conversation critically examines the identity and market positioning challenges faced by Gap and Banana Republic, two prominent retail brands. For Gap, the core issue highlighted is its ambiguous brand identity and unclear customer demographic, a problem exacerbated by inconsistent strategies and a failure to reclaim dominance in categories such as denim and basic colorful apparel, which were once synonymous with the brand. The discussion suggests that Gap's attempt to cater to a broad audience without a defined focus or updated assortments has led to a dilution of its brand identity. This challenge is compounded by seemingly misaligned collaborations and an unfocused expansion into various categories, such as intimate apparel, without first solidifying its core product offerings. The conversation underscores the need for Gap to revisit and clarify its brand identity, potentially by leveraging its historical strengths in offering generational and colorful clothing options, to regain relevance and market share.

Possible Miami 2024 https://possibleevent.com/ In a dynamic exchange, Christian Muche, co-founder and CEO of Beyond Ordinary Events and one of the architects behind the event Possible, introduces his venture to host Christine Russo, host and creator of What Just Happened. Launched in Miami, this event was designed to address the contemporary challenges and agendas facing the marketing industry, a multi-billion dollar realm poised for innovation and growth. Muche emphasizes the importance of creating an event that merges technology, marketing, and culture into an immersive experience, diverging from traditional conferences by engaging thousands of industry leaders, celebrities, and talents in a business-to-business environment. This initiative aims to redefine networking and professional development in the marketing sector by fostering a platform for significant industry advancement. Russo outlines the event's three critical pillars: consumer marketing and communication, business and society, and technology and innovation. According to Muche, these pillars were crafted after extensive deliberation to encapsulate the essence of current consumer behaviors, societal impacts, and technological advancements, thereby offering a comprehensive overview of the industry's landscape. The inclusion of e-commerce, augmented and virtual reality, retail within gaming, and AI showcases an ambitious attempt to cover the vast scope of modern marketing tactics and strategies. The event stands out as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and forward-thinking in the face of marketing's fast-paced evolution. By prioritizing content that looks ahead rather than dwelling on past case studies, Muche and his team aim to inspire and equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed for future success. The event's focus on consumer perspectives, coupled with its inclusive approach to both established brands and startups, fosters a rich environment for creativity and innovation. Muche's passion for the potential of the marketing industry is palpable, as he emphasizes the importance of curating a diverse and impactful agenda that challenges the status quo and encourages a collective push towards a more dynamic and inclusive future. Through The Event Possible, Muche aspires to cultivate a community where the power of possibility is not just a concept, but a driving force for tangible change and growth. Further, the conversation touches on the critical role of startups and the broader spectrum of marketing, with AI being a part, but not the sole focus. This inclusive approach facilitates networking, learning, and the initiation of substantial business opportunities among participants. Emphasis is placed on the e-commerce and retail media components, acknowledging their significance within the marketing ecosystem and the diverse perspectives and innovations brought in by various partners. The event's structure is designed to cater to the evolving expectations of today's attendees, offering a multifaceted experience that spans beyond traditional conferences or networking sessions. This approach not only sets a new standard for future events but also reflects the dynamic nature of the industry, where flexibility and comprehensive engagement are key to staying ahead.

In this insightful discussion with Joe Corbin, CEO and founder of Jumpmind, Christine Russo explores the evolution of retail technology and its impact on both customer experience (CX) and associate experience (AX). Corbin's extensive background in retail, including his time at Abercrombie & Fitch during its international expansion, informs Jumpmind's approach to addressing the complexities of modern retail operations. Reflecting on the challenges faced during the heyday of brick-and-mortar retail, Corbin emphasizes the importance of understanding the distinct needs of large enterprise merchants with multinational deployments. The conversation delves into the transformation of point-of-sale (POS) systems into point-of-service solutions, highlighting the shift towards enhancing associate-customer interactions. Corbin introduces the concept of AX (Associate Experience), emphasizing the pivotal role of associates in bridging the gap between digital and physical retail experiences. By empowering associates with intuitive and seamless technology solutions, such as tablets or handheld devices, retailers can streamline operations, improve customer engagement, and drive sales. Additionally, Corbin discusses the significance of data synchronization in the context of cloud migration and AI adoption. Through Jump Mind's Symmetric DS platform, retailers can efficiently move and synchronize data across various environments, enabling agility and scalability in today's data-driven landscape. Furthermore, Corbin shares insights into innovative initiatives, such as CX Connect, which enhances the checkout experience by integrating personalized recommendations and loyalty programs. Overall, the conversation underscores the critical role of human-centric design in shaping the future of retail technology and driving meaningful outcomes for both retailers and customers alike.

In this conversation between Christine Russo and Brandon Singer, CEO and founder of Retail by Mona, Singer discusses the inception of his company during the pandemic and its unique positioning in the real estate market, particularly in New York City. He highlights the resurgence of retail activity in the city, particularly among luxury brands, and delves into the trend of luxury brands purchasing their real estate rather than leasing, as a long-term investment strategy. The discussion also touches on the evolution of neighborhoods like Meatpacking District, driven by factors such as tourism, office presence (notably Google's), and the appeal to both locals and visitors. Singer further discusses Retail by Mona's innovative approaches, such as utilizing text messaging for communication and leveraging social media presence for property marketing. He emphasizes the company's collaborative internal structure, contrasting it with the traditional competitive model in the industry. Russo acknowledges the significance of Retail by Mona's approach, praising its ability to adapt to modern business practices and foster a more inclusive and effective work environment. Singer concludes by highlighting the practical success of these strategies and expressing gratitude for the insightful conversation. www.retailbymona.com

In this episode of "What Just Happened," Christine Russo interviews Pano Anthos, the Founder and Managing Director of XRC Ventures. Pano emphasizes the consumer-centric approach of their venture, highlighting their focus on startups at the intersection of consumer behavior and technological advancements. With a team of 12, they support around 140 startups across three funds, prioritizing innovations that directly impact consumers rather than enterprise-focused solutions. Pano discusses the current state of venture capital, noting the apprehension among VCs due to concerns about inflated valuations and market volatility. He emphasizes the importance of unique solutions addressing significant problems in today's market, as investors are becoming increasingly risk-averse. Despite the challenges, Pano remains active in early-stage investing, particularly in the retail sector, where he sees significant opportunities for technology-driven solutions. The conversation delves into various topics such as the evolution of AI, retail technology trends, and the importance of data-driven decision-making. Pano shares insights into the future of personalization, retail operations, and sustainability in commerce. He discusses the potential of AI-powered virtual assistants and the need for businesses to adapt to changing consumer behaviors and technological advancements. Additionally, Pano highlights innovative approaches to sustainability, including reusable packaging solutions and on-demand manufacturing, as part of their investment strategy in sustainable commerce.

Christine Russo hosts Cara Smyth, Global Senior Managing Director ESG, Responsible Retail at Accenture, on "What Just Happened." The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of sustainability terminology, such as ESG, corporate social responsibility, and sustainability itself. Cara highlights the risk of drifting away from profitability and stresses the importance of chasing waste out of the system to enhance efficiency and profitability. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities for businesses, especially in the retail sector, to align with changing regulatory landscapes and effectively engage with suppliers to drive positive change.   Cara addresses the challenges faced by small and large brands in navigating the sustainability journey. Larger companies, having already committed to science-based targets and ESG goals, are on the path to remediation and change. Smaller companies are encouraged to learn from the lessons of larger ones and leverage their agility to implement sustainable practices. The discussion underscores the necessity of collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and responsible retail practices for a more sustainable future in the retail industry. Christine raises concerns about the risks faced by smaller companies, particularly suppliers, in the evolving landscape of sustainability regulations. There is a perceived challenge for smaller suppliers to keep up with compliance requirements and sustainability standards, potentially putting them at a disadvantage compared to larger, more professionalized companies. The risk is accentuated by the possibility of bigger companies consolidating around suppliers that can efficiently manage data exchange and meet sustainability needs.   The conversation then shifts to the complexities of regulatory compliance, especially in the "messy middle" where the specifics of evidence and requirements for sustainability practices are not yet clear. The speaker emphasizes the need for a transparent and evidence-based approach to demonstrate compliance, particularly in areas such as labor conditions and environmental impact. The evolving regulatory landscape is noted, with government bodies, including the Securities and Exchange Commission, showing interest in sustainability reporting.   The emphasis is on the need for a multidisciplinary approach to drive responsible business practices across different sectors.   In the latter part of the conversation, the speaker reflects on the global landscape of sustainability, suggesting that Europe, driven by regulatory pressures, is ahead of the United States. The importance of a global baseline for sustainability practices is stressed, with the hope that European initiatives will catalyze change worldwide. The discussion concludes with insights into the Fashion Conveners report, which aims to address the fragmentation and lack of alignment within the non-profit sustainability community, ultimately working toward more effective collaboration and support for industry leaders.

In this podcast episode, Christine Russo welcomes New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, who has been voted the 2023 Staten Island Power 100. Senator Scarcella-Spanton's bill is aimed at making assaults on retail workers a Class D felony. This is for all retail workers; however, at the heart of it, is the small business. The Senator shares the inspiration behind the bill, recounting an incident during her campaign where a deli worker was assaulted during a robbery. She collaborated with a group called C.A.P.S. (Collective Action to Protect Our Stores) to address the increasing concern of assaults on retail workers across New York State. The proposed legislation seeks to make assaulting a retail worker a Class D felony, aligning them with other frontline workers' protections. The Senator emphasizes the importance of safeguarding those who were deemed frontline workers during the pandemic, drawing parallels to protections already in place for bus drivers and other essential workers. Additionally, the podcast touches on a broader legislative approach to address organized retail crime, including bills targeting repeat shoplifting offenses and the sale of stolen goods online. The Senator emphasizes the need for nuanced solutions and an educational campaign to deter potential offenders. Listeners are encouraged to visit Senator Scarcella-Spanton's Senate website and social media for more information and support for the proposed legislation. https://www.nysenate.gov/senators/jessica-scarcella-spanton Bill: https://tinyurl.com/fb3dphcx @nysenator_jss

In this interview with Assemblyman John McDonald on "What Just Happened," the focus is on his bill addressing organized retail crime in New York. The bill proposes the creation of a retail organized crime task force, acknowledging the widespread issue of organized retail theft, amounting to $100 billion nationally and $4.4 billion in New York alone. The task force, with a bipartisan composition, aims to bring together various stakeholders, including representatives from the governor's office, Retail Council, Retail and Wholesale Union, and law enforcement, to collaboratively address the problem.Assemblyman McDonald emphasizes the impact of organized retail theft on businesses, taxpayers, and employees, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach. The bill seeks to bridge the gap between different levels of government and stakeholders, fostering communication and cooperation to find effective solutions. McDonald also addresses concerns about the urgency of action and the potential effectiveness of proposed measures, highlighting the importance of evidence-based decision-making.The fate of the bill hinges on Governor Hochul's decision to sign it by the week, with McDonald advocating for a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to address organized retail crime in the state.

In this episode of "Fad, Trend and Strategy on What Just Happened," Christine Russo hosts David Marcotte from Kantar Consulting and James Tenser from VSN Media to discuss various trends and strategies in the retail and supply chain industry. The conversation begins with a focus on the challenges in the supply chain, particularly the impact of weakened demand. David Marcotte highlights the ongoing chaos in the supply chain, attributing it to unexpected disruptions like the Panama Canal issues. He emphasizes the return of challenges similar to those faced two years ago, with disruptions in rail, seaports, and altered supply chain timelines. The discussion then shifts to the failure of the trend towards digitalization of the supply chain, with various solutions, including blockchain, not living up to expectations. The persistence of paper-based documentation and a lack of trust in digital solutions are identified as obstacles. Russo steers the conversation to delve into the issues of sustainability regulations in the apparel industry, pointing out the contrast between genuine efforts and challenges in implementing effective controls across the supply chain. The conversation touches upon the lack of uniform regulations and the need for companies to stand up and enforce ethical practices. The episode concludes with a discussion on the concept of near shoring as a strategy to address supply chain challenges. Tenser sees it as a moderate trend that gained traction in response to lessons learned from the early days of COVID-19 disruptions. The hosts express varying views on the effectiveness of near shoring, emphasizing the need for a more resilient and adaptable supply web. The conversation also briefly explores the concept of "Just Walk Out" technology, considering it a fad in certain contexts, while self-checkouts are viewed as a growing trend with potential iterations to come. The hosts touch upon concerns related to organized retail crime, changes in retail store structures, and the potential shift towards a membership-based system. In the end, Christine Russo thanks the guests for their insights, highlighting the engaging and informative nature of the discussion, and expressing her desire to continue such conversations in the future.

In this conversation between Christine Russo and Giovanni Zaccariello, Giovanni discusses the Coach's approach to physical experiences and emphasizes the importance of localization, adapting formats for different regions, and using modularity to design for longevity. Giovanni provides examples, such as the Tabby pop-ups and the Coach Play stores, where experimentation and testing of new ideas occur. Giovanni elaborates on the Coach Play stores' purpose as testing grounds for new concepts, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and localized experiences and highlights the success of Coach Play stores in terms of increased traffic and extended customer stay. The discussion also touches on Coach's celebrity endorsements and a "constellation approach,". Christine draws parallels to the beauty industry's strategy. Giovanni explains the uniqueness of Coach Play stores, their flexible design, and the emphasis on creating a central community hub. Giovanni addresses sustainability within the brand, detailing initiatives like Tomorrow's Vintage, Coach Reloved, and Coachtopia. He shares the brand's circular ecosystem in Coachtopia, where stores are made from scrap materials, creating a unique and sustainable retail experience. Lastly, the conversation explores Coach's approach to apparel and its regional variations. Giovanni explains how the brand balances its core identity as a handbag company while expanding into other categories like apparel and footwear based on regional preferences. He also highlights the importance of omni-channel strategies, especially during the pandemic, and the success of live streaming in China. In summary, the conversation provides insights into Giovanni's role, Coach's innovative approaches to physical experiences, sustainability efforts, and the brand's strategic expansion into different product categories and regions.

In this discussion, Christine Russo hosts Andy Lautato, COO of The Vitamin Shop, and Chris Silver, a Customer Technology Executive, to explore various topics within the retail industry. Both Andy and Chris bring valuable insights from their extensive experience, emphasizing the significance of understanding the retail environment and the challenges faced by employees in stores. They underscore the idea that success in the retail sector hinges on empathizing with the team, listening to their experiences, and recognizing the integral role of the people within the organization. One central theme that emerges is the importance of agility and adaptability. Both guests acknowledge the rapidly changing landscape of the retail industry and advocate for being responsive to customer needs and market trends. They highlight the need for flexible strategies that can evolve with the business. Andy and Chris argue for the incorporation of innovation throughout the company, as opposed to isolating it within a separate department. They suggest that fostering a culture where innovation is part of everyone's role, alongside embracing risk-taking and learning from failure, can lead to successful, continuous innovation. Moreover, the discussion highlights the power of leveraging the wealth of knowledge and experience within the organization. Chris shares examples of how some of the most innovative ideas at Urban Outfitters originated from employees working on the front lines. These individuals, with their deep understanding of the business's daily operations, were best positioned to identify areas for improvement and innovation. By involving employees from various departments and actively listening to their insights, companies can harness the creative potential of their workforce and drive meaningful change. In conclusion, the conversation underscores the vital role of employees and team collaboration in shaping a company's strategies and success within the ever-evolving retail landscape. It highlights the need for a dynamic and adaptive approach to meet customer demands and adapt to changing industry trends while maintaining a strong focus on the people who drive the business forward.

In this conversation between Christine Russo and Barbara Thau, Editorial Director at Co. by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Barbara discusses her publication's unique approach to journalism and their focus on small businesses. Co. by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is an independent publication, separate from the Chamber itself, and it emphasizes providing insights and support to small businesses. Barbara highlights their recent achievement of hosting the first America's top small business gala, with thousands of applicants, regional finalists, and one winner. She also mentions a panel discussion with Meta and Walmart on how large businesses are supporting small businesses in scaling, reflecting a broader industry trend of big businesses seeking growth through partnerships with small businesses. Barbara elaborates on how platforms like Walmart and Meta are providing opportunities for small businesses to grow by leveraging their resources and ecosystems. These platforms offer marketing, marketplaces, and other tools for small businesses to expand. She also notes the changing dynamics in the retail industry, with a focus on local and small businesses becoming increasingly popular, especially in light of the pandemic. Finally, Barbara discusses her role in bridging the gap between big and small businesses, sharing insights from executives of large companies to help small businesses learn and compete effectively in the market. In summary, Barbara Thau and Co. by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce are dedicated to supporting small businesses and promoting their growth by facilitating connections with major corporations and sharing valuable insights on the evolving business landscape, particularly in the retail industry.

In this conversation between Christine Russo and Simeon Siegel, they discuss various aspects of the retail industry, particularly its presence in the stock market. Siegel emphasizes the importance of agreement between retailers and consumers regarding service and value.Siegel also delves into the concept of gross margin as a measure of a brand's health and value, contrasting it with revenue. He discusses the challenges of publicly traded retail companies, which are heavily influenced by consumer spending, and highlights the need for a balance between short-term and long-term financial strategies.Furthermore, the conversation touches on distribution strategies, with Siegel advocating for the importance of wholesale and the need to carefully consider various channels for reaching customers. Overall, the discussion centers around the dynamics of the retail industry and its complex relationship with the stock market.

On What Just Happened Managing Director of International Association of Department Stores - IADS (International Association of Department Stores) Selvane Mohandas du Ménil and I discuss the history and transformation of department stores. He highlights how IADS started as a research-focused organization in the 20th century but adapted to modern challenges by transitioning from being a club to a more practical and relevant tool for its members. Salvane emphasizes the importance of collaboration among department stores globally, addressing common challenges, and staying ahead of industry trends. He also touches on the role of technology and the challenges and opportunities department stores face in the ever-changing retail landscape, emphasizing the need for a clear purpose and a strong digital presence. Selvane also discussed the concept of an omnichannel strategy, where physical flagship stores remain at the core of an ecosystem while leveraging digital tools and channels for enhanced customer engagement. Overall, Selvane's insights revolve around the transformation and adaptation of department stores in response to modern retail challenges, focusing on the importance of clear purpose, collaboration, and a strong digital presence.

Christine Russo hosts a podcast, "What Just Happened," discussing the distinctions between fads, trends, and strategies in retail, with guests Brandon Real and Michael Zakkor. A fad is seen as observational, something seemingly worth following due to its popularity. Trends are analytical, requiring consideration on their integration and potential impact on operations. Strategies are integrations that have tangible results and drive innovation in retailing practices. A significant focus is placed on how these concepts influence retail innovations, with discussions on the operationalization of these innovations and their actual impact on retail businesses, emphasizing the importance of tangible results. The conversation evolves around recognizing innovations worth integrating and identifying those merely riding the wave of popularity, without significant value. The discussion digs deeper into the evolution of retail practices, examining various aspects such as live shopping, unionization, loyalty programs, and the increasing importance of immersive commerce and shoppable content, given that 83% of all internet content consumed is video. The conversation underscores the significance of companies' operational adaptability and the effectiveness of their back-end infrastructures to meet real-time demands. It addresses the implications of unfulfilled promises post-pandemic and delves into the pressing issue of income disparity, with the stark contrast between CEO pays and frontline workers becoming more pronounced. The dialogue wraps up focusing on the value and execution of loyalty programs, stressing the importance of brands maintaining promises and the necessity of execution in maintaining consumer relationships. The interaction between the host and guests offers nuanced insights into the dynamic world of retail, hinting at the necessity for adaptability, consumer loyalty, and innovation in sustaining relevancy in the market. Thank you to guests: Brandon Rael: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonrael/ Michael Zakkour: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-zakkour-150b865/

Arnie Cohen, CEO of J. Peterman, was welcomed to discuss the transformation of the company's operations and the resurgence of catalog marketing. Cohen spoke about his time at J. Crew and how the experiences and mentorship he received there helped shape his career and influence his leadership and mentoring roles today. He highlighted the significance of catalogs in the current retail environment, citing their essential role in the brand and product messaging. He believes in the 360-ecosystem, where brands need to dynamically impart their messages and offerings to customers as they like and prefer. The discussion also shed light on the constant evolution in the consumer-retail relationship, emphasizing the resurgence of catalogs as an essential medium for brands to impart their brand messages and product offerings. Even in an age dominated by digital media, catalogs have maintained their significance, offering a tactile experience to consumers and serving as reliable, tangible reminders of a brand's offerings. The conversation transitioned to more operational aspects, with Cohen elucidating on the changes and improvements made in J. Peterman's warehouse operations and the incorporation of Cart.com into their tech stack. He detailed the challenges encountered during this transition, including labor and system upgrades, and the practical solutions provided by Cart.com's technological infusion, which drastically improved efficiency, reducing labor requirements and increasing order processing speed. Cohen emphasized the hybrid model proposed by Cart.com, which allowed J. Peterman to maintain their warehouse while implementing Cart.com's systems and processes. This resulted in increased efficiency and reduced costs, allowing J. Peterman to focus more on enhancing their service levels and customer relationships. Arne ended the conversation by reflecting on the industry's challenges, the continuous need for adaptation and innovation, and his optimistic outlook on leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

In this conversation on "What Just Happened," Christine Russo welcomes Benoit Koenig from Veesion, a company using AI to combat retail theft. Benoit discusses the urgent need to address the rising issue of retail shrinkage due to factors like inflation and increasing theft. He highlights the limitations of traditional security measures like security agents, cameras, and RFID tags, emphasizing that these methods haven't effectively curbed shrinkage. He distinguishes between shrinkage and organized retail crime, noting that Vision's AI technology focuses on gesture analysis using deep learning, specifically targeting shoplifting behaviors. Benoit explains that the technology can detect suspicious gestures associated with shoplifting and alerts store personnel in real time, enhancing the response to potential theft incidents. He also mentions their upcoming shift towards generative AI to further improve detection and generate training data more efficiently. The conversation delves into the practical implications of Vision's technology for retailers. Benoit explains that the AI system provides insights about sensitive areas, days, and times prone to shoplifting, helping retailers tailor their security measures and operational strategies. He shares examples of how their technology has already helped retailers reduce shrinkage by identifying internal theft as well as client theft. The discussion touches on the competitive landscape in AI for retail and the potential of generative AI to revolutionize data-driven decision-making by providing detailed insights into customer interactions with products in physical stores. Overall, the conversation highlights Vision's innovative approach to tackling retail theft and the transformative potential of AI in the retail industry.

In this conversation, Christine Russo interviews Andy Rubin, the executive chairman and founder of Trove, discussing the growth of the resale market and its impact on brands. Trove is a pioneering player in the resale space, helping brands create and manage their resale programs. Andy Rubin highlights that the resale market is gaining momentum, with more brands recognizing the value of retaining control over their secondary market and sustainability efforts. Andy emphasizes the importance of brands being involved in the resale of their products, especially those known for high-quality craftsmanship. Brands like Patagonia and Lululemon have successfully integrated resale into their strategies, reaping benefits in terms of customer loyalty, brand equity, and sustainability. Andy also discusses Trove's role in providing technology and tools for brands to manage their resale programs effectively. They talk about the challenges of grading and authenticating items, and how Trove's technology supports this process. Andy acknowledges the increasing competition in the resale space, highlighting the positive impact it has on the industry's growth and innovation. He mentions Trove's position as a forerunner in the industry, having gained a significant head start and considerable scale. Andy also addresses the shift in consumer behavior towards valuing pre-owned items, driven by the demand for sustainable and unique products. He talks about the evolution of branding through storytelling and customer experience in the resale market, providing brands with more opportunities to shape their narratives. Overall, the conversation explores the rapid growth and potential of the resale market, as well as Trove's role in supporting brands' efforts to navigate this evolving landscape and maintain control over their brand equity.

Paul Foulkes Arellano, Circularity Educator at Circuthon® Consulting - Non-Exec Director - Fundraiser for Bioeconomy Pioneers, is welcomed in this discussion. The conversation begins by acknowledging Paul's strong presence on LinkedIn and his unique approach to sustainability within the retail and fashion industry. Unlike many sustainability influencers who focus on specific aspects like packaging or manufacturing, Paul takes a holistic view, addressing various sustainability facets. He shares how his perspective was shaped by Dr. Chris Sherwin's teachings, emphasizing that every decision impacts nature, drawing parallels to fashion's impact on the environment. Paul critiques the fashion industry's weak defenses for unsustainable practices and calls for a scientific, data-driven approach to sustainability, involving experts and scientific officers within companies. Paul highlights the need for comprehensive change in the industry, urging businesses to integrate sustainability into their entire organization, from supply chain decisions to work policies. He cites financial institutions like EY and NatWest as examples of training their employees in sustainability, a practice absent in fashion. He stresses the importance of training and retraining people within the industry, signaling hope for change through new expertise. Paul's view on the future sees a transition toward more sustainable practices in the coming years, with businesses adopting transparent metrics and embracing circularity. The conversation then shifts to Paul's role as the founder of Circuit On, a consulting firm guiding billion-dollar companies in achieving circularity. He addresses opposition from industry associations like the British Retail Consortium to measures like extended producer responsibility. Paul also shares insights about emerging initiatives in fashion, like software to track garment lifecycles. The discussion ends on the importance of reshaping fashion education to incorporate sustainability from the start, both in universities and businesses. The interview concludes with gratitude for sharing these insights and fostering awareness on sustainable practices.

In this interview, Christine Russo speaks with Scott Case, the Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability at the National Retail Federation (NRF). They discuss the progress and challenges of sustainability in the retail industry. Scott acknowledges that while there has been significant progress, it is not happening fast enough. He highlights a generational shift in executive leadership, with new leaders recognizing the interconnectedness of sustainability issues and embracing organizational change to address them. The conversation delves into the complexity of sustainability challenges in retail, such as packaging, resource usage, oversupply, and materiality, among others. Scott emphasizes the need for collaboration and systemic thinking within retail organizations to integrate sustainability into their core operations. Instead of having separate sustainability departments, Scott advocates for embedding sustainability thinking in all aspects of the business, turning employees into sustainability contributors. He emphasizes that continual improvement and incorporating sustainability considerations are crucial for the future of retail.

Brian Hennessy, CEO of Talkoot, a process management system for retail and brand teams, discusses how AI has impacted Talkoot and the copywriting industry in general. He notes that while AI can be effective at repackaging existing language, it struggles to explain why consumers should buy trend-leading products and still requires human writers. Talkoot uses a specialized model based on high converting product copy and offers professional editing tools that allow customers to use AI while staying on brand. Additionally, the company offers a brand check tool that ensures content aligns with a brand's language. The article discusses the importance of regulatory and legal language in e-commerce and the need for brand language checkers to ensure that the language used is compliant with regulations and does not violate any platform policies. The article emphasizes the importance of building trust with customers through honest and transparent communication, and the need for brands to focus on delivering products that meet the needs of their customers rather than relying on loyalty programs or shortcuts. Hennessy notes that while some brands may not be ready to embrace this approach, it is becoming increasingly important for building lasting relationships with customers. He also discusses the importance of product storytelling and imagery in reducing customer confusion when shopping online. With the removal of many other frictions in e-commerce, companies are realizing the need to communicate correctly to build trust with their clients and create a long-term relationship that prevents returns. Brands are using AI to generate multiple versions of product descriptions to find the most effective wording, but the quality of the output tends to decline after three generations. Learn how the platform was developed to provide deep product stories using language that creates authority and trust. The tool is getting traction in the food and beverage industry, where changing content seasonally can increase sales, but using humans is too costly and time-consuming. AI can be used to change content quickly and rank higher in Amazon and Google search engines, ultimately driving traffic and sales. Companies can also use machine learning to adapt web content based on who is coming to their website.   www.talkoot.com

Deloitte believes that consumers and consumer companies are moving towards a more utopian future, despite the dystopian impacts that exist today. Consumers are demanding reliable, safe, convenient, sustainable, socially just, and personalized goods and services, and companies are responding by leveraging technology to build more powerful and relevant consumer connections while making commitments to a broader set of stakeholders. Together, they are "buying into better," which means fusing profit with purpose and addressing all of the things that are important, including impacts on the environment and society. Deloitte's approach to understanding the future of the consumer industry involved engaging individuals and having over a thousand conversations to identify the market shifts that will have consequences on businesses in the next five to ten years. Instead of taking a crystal ball approach, they focused on the next five to ten years and identified three primary business dimensions impacted by six forces with nine implications. Deloitte recognizes that human centricity is critically important, and that a lot of what's important to humans goes beyond the products and services provided. The impact that companies make on the environment and society is also important to consumers, who are looking to place their dollars where they can have an impact on change. The framework for thinking about the future across three business dimensions: markets, models, and mechanics has been developed. The six forces impacting markets, models, and mechanics are shifting and broadening consumer bases, diversifying life journeys, exponential technology and AI, everything-as-a-service climate change, and geopolitical turmoil. Models and mechanics serve the market by delivering the unique customer experience or the unique product. The three Msms have emerged as an easy way to engage client executives and identify opportunities. The implications of the three business dimensions, buried throughout the three dimensions, affect organizations. Mass-to-micro is an example of how the three Msms are related.   The report emphasizes the importance of organizations outsourcing parts of their business to increase efficiency and meet demand. It also highlights the need for long-term strategic plans as current business models may not work in the future. The six forces in the marketplace are rapidly changing and converging, creating new risks and opportunities for organizations. Digital goods and services are growing exponentially, and organizations must be mindful of these changes to take advantage of growth opportunities. The report suggests that organizations need to focus on the markets, models, and mechanics of their business to respond effectively to the changes in the marketplace. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJt2wp2C09Y&t=1s  

Lectra develops state-of-the-art solutions that combine software, equipment, services and data. Premium solutions and technologies for fashion, automotive & furniture markets worldwide. Industry 4.0 - The 4th Revolution in Production. We also touch on near-shoring and on-shoring. Lectra helps customers plan better so they're not producing. Product that won't sell and they have to destroy it or write it down. Companies now are focused on not just a sustainable process, but producing a sustainable product to last. analyzing sales and understanding what the assortment is and making sure the right assortment is there and the pricing is in line with the competition. Lectra helps clients and their sustainability ecosystem because clients are reducing material waste, reducing labor, and educing electrical footprint of production. Also, this allows for data to be passed with that value stream in an efficient way so there's less waste.

Listen to Micky Larosse - Head of Content the Fabricant who oversees and creates the Fabricant brand narrative and storytelling and the philosophy. -The Fabricant spirit and attitude has always been to be a disruptor, but a disruptor with intention. - Their mission is always been at the forefront when they were founded in 2018, nothing like has existed and everything they stood for and still stand for was swimming against the tide of the traditional fashion industry. Just declaring that garments didn't need to be physical to exist four years ago when this conversation wasn't being had by anyone was quite a radical position to take.¬¬¬ And we've always stood by what we believed in which is a big, rich perspective of what they believe in. This idea of building an industry that's more sustainable, more democratic more equitable for everybody that participates. And really elevating creators in this space to give them power and make it a creator led industry. And hear about Wholeland - A new multi chapter digital fashion storytelling project, which builds on this huge story, which is based around the idea of embracing your shadows to become whole. So really digging deep into who we are via digital fashion and exploring who we can be via the virtual space. According to Larosse: Wholeland is about "using the digital world in ways that probably we wouldn't use in the physical world. Maybe things that we'd be shy of talking about or exploring or expressing in the physical world where creating this environment through Wholeland, where you can really kind of dig deep into who you are, maybe look around in the, the darker corners of your personality and really bring those into the lights. It's a world building project."