Podcasts about retail trends

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming retail, but are retailers giving away too much decision-making power to algorithms? On this episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc welcomes back retail strategist, educator, speaker and author Carl Boutet to the podcast to discuss his latest book, The Flip. Drawing on more than three decades of retail experience and his work advising organizations around the world, Carl offers a thought-provoking perspective on how AI is reshaping retail strategy, customer engagement and business leadership. The conversation begins with Carl's unique vantage point as a global retail observer. Fresh off another teaching engagement at the Asian Institute of Technology in Bangkok, Carl shares insights from Southeast Asia's rapidly evolving retail landscape. From super apps and mobile commerce to experiential shopping destinations and high-energy retail environments, he explains why emerging markets are often leapfrogging traditional retail models and creating new opportunities for customer engagement. Michael and Carl then explore one of the most important topics facing retailers today: the growing influence of artificial intelligence on decision-making. Carl argues that while AI can dramatically improve efficiency, it also poses the risk that businesses become increasingly dependent on algorithmic recommendations, potentially sacrificing the creativity, differentiation, and strategic judgment that make brands unique. At the center of the discussion is Carl's new framework outlined in The Flip. He introduces the four forces that he believes are fundamentally reshaping commerce: automation, optimization, contextualization and immersion. Together, these forces are changing how retailers attract customers, personalize experiences, manage operations and compete in increasingly digital environments. The discussion extends beyond technology into the future of retail itself. Carl shares observations from his travels across Asia, highlighting how retailers are creating energy-rich destinations that blend shopping, entertainment, food and community. These experiences offer important lessons for North American retailers seeking to remain relevant in a world where consumers increasingly have unlimited digital choices at their fingertips. Michael and Carl also examine the rise of AI-powered customer discovery, the future of search and marketing, the growing importance of trust, and why retailers must think carefully about where human value creation fits inside increasingly automated organizations. Carl explains why curiosity, organizational adaptability and a relentless focus on core business fundamentals remain essential leadership capabilities despite the rapid pace of technological change. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025 and 2026. Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.

In this episode of OFFBounds, Paula Macaggi goes to Singapore for NRF APAC 2026 and sits down with Delphine Dultzin, CEO and Co-Founder of OnTheList, to explore a retail challenge that rarely gets discussed: what happens to the products brands don't sell. What began as a side project in Hong Kong has grown into a business operating across 11 markets, helping luxury and premium brands transform excess inventory into curated shopping events that create value for both consumers and brands. Delphine shares how OnTheList built trust with some of the world's leading brands while creating a model that combines profitability, customer experience, and sustainability.The conversation also dives into the realities of building and scaling a company across Asia and the Middle East. Delphine reflects on launching without a playbook, learning through trial and error, navigating cultural differences across markets, and why understanding local consumers matters more than replicating a formula. From the future of inventory management and AI-driven forecasting to entrepreneurship, resilience, and retail innovation, this episode offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in the evolving world of commerce. Based on the interview transcript you shared.

On Episode 304 of the Remarkable Retail podcast, co-hosts Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc dig into a busy earnings season, the global forces reshaping retail, and the competitive divides separating winners from also-rans. They open with the department store sector, which Steve frames as "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly." Macy's shows incremental progress and Bloomingdale's posts double-digit growth, but Kohl's stays stuck and JCPenney's latest numbers underscore the structural problems dogging traditional operators. The throughline: shifting market share, real estate decisions, and changing consumer behavior keep narrowing the path forward for the format, and the gap between the sector's healthier players and its laggards continues to widen. From there, the hosts turn to retail's brighter turnaround stories. Victoria's Secret keeps building momentum with stronger comps and improved profitability, while Gap Inc. shows how disciplined brand management and sharper product focus can revive a business. They also weigh the intensifying competition among athleisure brands as the category's leaders pull further ahead and the middle of the pack scrambles to keep up. Value retailing is the episode's recurring theme. TJX, Ross Stores, Burlington, and Five Below all posted strong results, reinforcing the durable consumer shift toward value and the treasure hunt. Steve and Michael explore why off-price keeps outperforming while dollar stores wrestle with a tougher customer—and they spotlight Costco, where fuel, membership economics, and traffic-driving loss leaders keep the warehouse club model ahead of much of the sector. Drawing on his recent travels through Portugal and Spain, Steve shares observations on European retail: the distinct dynamics of specialty players, the enduring pull of department stores like El Corte Inglés, and one of the world's most remarkable retail experiences, Livraria Lello in Porto, a bookstore so beloved that shoppers pay admission and book a timeslot just to get in. The episode closes with Walmart's fast-expanding same-day delivery, the rise of faster fulfillment across retail, Saks Global's exit from bankruptcy, and the geopolitical risks looming over supply chains and consumer spending. Michael also previews his visit to T&T Supermarket's first California store—a reminder of how much innovation is still alive in modern grocery. It's a wide-ranging look at a sector where the winners are pulling away and the stragglers are running out of time. Join us at the CommerceNext Growth Show in New York June 23rd and 24th with this exclusive discount code for 10% off general admission tickets and FREE retail tickets: Your code is "REMARKABLE" . See you in the Big Apple! About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling author of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the NRF as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025 and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

AI is everywhere in retail right now — but are you actually using it in a way that's helping your business grow, or could it quietly be working against you?This episode features a free downloadable resource. Go to http://resilientretailclub.com/ai to claim it.Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly. And in this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I'm sharing the honest picture of how independent retailers are actually using generative AI in 2026.According to government data, just 16% of UK businesses are formally using AI — yet surveys suggest up to 80% of SME decision-makers have tried it in some form. The reality? Most people are using it to write emails faster, draft product descriptions, handle awkward customer messages, and generate ideas. And that's where it genuinely shines.But there are pitfalls too. I'm talking through the messy data problem that makes AI-powered sales analysis fall flat, the real concerns around AI imagery and brand trust, what I think went badly wrong with AI content (including something from my own business that I'm still mortified by), and why leaning on AI for big decisions might be giving you confidence you haven't earned.If you want to use AI smarter — and stay distinctly, unmistakably you — this episode is for you.In this episode:• How retailers are really using AI in 2026 — the stats and the reality• Product pages, agentic AI, and why clarity beats fluff• The messy data problem and what to fix first• AI customer service: the triage approach that works• AI imagery — the jury's still out, and here's why• What NOT to use AI for (including fully AI-written content)• The voice note / brain dump method that keeps your content sounding like you• The confirmation bias problem with using AI for decisionsCHAPTERS:00:01:25 How Retailers Are Using AI Right Now00:07:32 Customer Service, Data & AI Imagery00:13:43 What Not to Use AI For — and the Voice Note MethodConnect with Catherine:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherineerdly/Podcast: resilientretailclub.com/podcastMentioned in this episode:Get 50% off at FaireGo to Faire.com and enter code "Resilient50"Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

BONUS S6E7 8 retail trends for 2026 including AI-assisted shoppers, why people are the new luxury, and the grey swans most retailers are ignoringCasey Golden and Ricardo Belmar spent two days at The Lead Summit in New York City with the operators, founders, and analysts actually running retail right now, and they walked out with a clear read on the retail trends 2026 will be built on. Instead of a session-by-session recap, this bonus episode pulls out the eight cross-cutting themes that showed up no matter whose stage they were on, from Anthropologie and Talbots to Hey Dude, Olaplex, Loop, and Coterie.The headline: every AI experiment built to replace people was a failure story, and every one built to extend people was a winner. From there the conversation runs through the rewired store, the rise of the AI-assisted shopper, why human connection is becoming the new luxury, and the grey swan events most retailers can see coming but refuse to plan for. If you want the retail trends 2026 leaders are quietly betting on, plus what to do about it Monday morning, this is the episode.In This Episode, You'll Learn•       Why AI augmentation beats AI replacement, and the customer service "40% ticket deflection" stat that fell apart under real measurement•       How the AI-assisted shopper is already changing product discovery, and why generative engine optimization (GEO) is getting 80% of the attention on 5% of the traffic•       Why "people are the new luxury" may be the one theme still defining retail trends 2026 a year from now•       What Talbots' 35-of-100 transactions stat says about store KPIs beyond sales per square foot•       How community beat audience for breakout brands, and why your brand story now has to teach the LLMs who you are•       The grey swans hiding in plain sight: GLP-1, the aging of America, and single-geography supply chain risk•       The Monday-morning move to make before the AI-assisted shopper takes a bigger bite of your holiday trafficNotable Moments & Quotes•       "AI won't sit down and have a cigarette with me." The line that summed up why people still matter.•       "Listening is a capability, but hearing is a skill."•       Rainbow Shops: a vendor's 40% ticket deflection collapsed because customers just hung up and called back for a human.•       Talbots' Concierge clienteling went from reaching 300,000 of 750,000 eligible customers to all of them, while keeping the calls human. AI does the volume, people do the moments.•       Loop Earplugs grew from $1M to $250M in five years, obsessing over one question: where did you first hear about us?•       MoMA Design Store: "We're not Amazon, and we don't want to be."•       Randa Apparel's grey swans: GLP-1 (roughly 8M users today, potentially 100M by 2030), more Americans over 65 than under 18 by 2028, and the warning that "a business built around a single geography isn't lean, it's exposed."Subscribe & FollowIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5‑star rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Goodpods. Subscribe on YouTube so you never miss an episode and check out the other shows in the Retail Razor Podcast Network: Retail Transformers, Blade to Greatness, and Data Blades.Subscribe to the Retail Razor Podcast Network: https://retailrazor.com/Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://retailrazor.substack.comSubscribe to our YouTube channel: https://go.retailrazor.com/utubeChapters00:00 Teaser01:01 Show Intro03:18 The BIG Recap - Our 8 Themes form The Lead Summit05:49 Theme 1 - The Augmentation Imperative09:49 Theme 2 -  People are the New Luxury14:17 Theme 3 - The Rewired Store18:40 Theme 4 - Get Ready for the AI-Assisted Shopper24:19 Theme 5 - Community Over Audience30:57 Theme 6 - Brand Discipline and the Power of Saying No35:22 Theme 7 - Multiplatform & Multigenerational Reality40:23 Theme 8 - Grey Swans: The Conversations Most People Aren't Having45:39 Key Take Aways: What Should Listeners Do Monday Morning?48:53 Show CloseMeet your hostsHelping you cut through the clutter in retail & retail tech:Ricardo Belmar is an NRF Top Retail Voice for 2025 and a RETHINK Retail Top Retail Expert from 2021 – 2026. Thinkers 360 has named him a Top 10 Thought Leader in Retail, a Top 25 Thought Leader in AGI and Careers, a Top 50 Thought Leader in Agentic AIand Management, and a Top 100 Thought Leader in Digital Transformation and Transformation. Thinkers 360 also named him a Top Digital Voice for 2024 and 2025. He is an advisory council member at George Mason University's Center for Retail Transformationand the Retail Cloud Alliance. He was most recently the partner marketing leader for retail & consumer goods in the Americas at Microsoft.Casey Golden, is the North America Leader for Retail & Consumer Goods at CI&T, and CEO of Luxlock. She is a RETHINK Retail Top Retail Expert from 2023 - 2026, and Retail Cloud Alliance advisory council member. After a career on the fashion and supply chain technology side of the business, Casey is obsessed with the customer relationship between the brand and the consumer and is slaying franken-stacks and building retail tech! MusicIncludes music provided by imunobeats.com, featuring Overclocked, and E-Motive from the album Beat Hype, written by Heston Mimms, published by Imuno.

Retail is entering a new era where technology is becoming invisible and human connection is becoming more valuable than ever. In this solo episode of OFFBounds, Paula Macaggi breaks down five major trends shaping retail in 2026 based on conversations with some of the world's leading retail executives. From AI-powered commerce and visual search to the rise of membership models and the transformation of physical stores into emotional destinations, this episode explores how consumer behavior is evolving and what operators need to understand next.Drawing on insights from brands and leaders across the US, Europe, China, and Australia, Paula explains why AI is becoming infrastructure instead of just another feature and why the retailers winning in this next phase will be the ones investing deeply in people, community, and experience. If you want deeper analysis, executive signals, and actionable retail intelligence, subscribe to OFFBounds Intelligence and stay ahead of the trends shaping the future of commerce.

This week on The Food Professor Podcast, our interview is recorded live at SIAL Canada 2026 in Montreal. Michael LeBlanc welcomes one of the most influential executives in global consumer packaged goods: Jessica C. Adelman, Mars Snacking North America. Fresh off Mars' massive $36 billion acquisition of Kellanova, Adelman offers a rare inside look at the strategic thinking behind one of the largest CPG transactions in history. She explains how Mars — now a $86+ billion privately held global powerhouse operating across more than 80 countries — is reshaping itself into a modern snacking giant with iconic brands spanning M&M's, Snickers, Skittles, Pringles, Pop-Tarts, Cheez-It, and more. The conversation dives deep into how large food companies are navigating a radically different operating environment shaped by geopolitical volatility, inflation, climate pressures, AI disruption, and changing consumer behaviour. Adelman shares Mars' approach to resilience, reputation management, and long-term strategic planning in an era where business shocks arrive faster and harder than ever before. She also discusses why Mars continues investing heavily in North American manufacturing, including a recent $180 million investment across Ontario facilities. Michael and Jessica explore the transformative impact of AI across food retail and supply chains, from reducing food waste and optimizing logistics to enabling consumer discovery and personalization. They also examine how GLP-1 weight-loss drugs are changing eating habits, portion sizes, and snack consumption patterns — a growing issue every major food manufacturer is now monitoring closely. The interview also touches on sustainability, food system resilience, consumer affordability, and the evolving role of global brands in helping consumers balance value, convenience, nutrition, and enjoyment. Throughout the discussion, Adelman offers a thoughtful perspective on leadership, agility, and why companies must move beyond simply “playing the hits” to remain relevant in a rapidly changing marketplace. But first, Michael and Sylvain Charlebois tackle another packed week in food and agriculture news. The hosts debate Ontario's emerging “6% milk” trend, the accelerating adoption of GLP-1 drugs across Canada thanks to the launch of a generic pill format, and renewed calls (along with the history and original objectives) to overhaul Canada's confusing best-before date system to combat food waste and improve affordability. They also discuss food theft and organized crime concerns in grocery retail, mounting pressure on Atlantic Canada's oyster industry, mushroom trade tensions with the United States, the definition of food deserts in urban Canada, and the critical importance of grain infrastructure in Atlantic Canada and a world awash in Bourbon. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

This week on The Food Professor Podcast, recorded live from the West Coast, Syvain in Chilliwack, Michael in L.A., begin with a fast-moving roundup of the biggest food, grocery, and agriculture headlines shaping Canada. First, the hosts unpack Dunkin's return to Canada and debate where the iconic brand could fit in a market dominated by Tim Hortons and McDonald's. They also explore major developments in Canada's greenhouse sector, dairy production policy, and the growing demand for dairy proteins as producers respond to changing consumer habits. The conversation then turns to some of the most consequential policy issues impacting food prices and agriculture today, including climate science, industrial carbon pricing, Canadian counter-tariffs, and what new signals from the Bank of Canada could mean for grocery inflation, farm economics, and consumer affordability. Michael and Sylvain offer their unfiltered analysis on government policy, food security, and how unintended consequences continue to ripple across Canadian households. Then, the episode shifts into a compelling long-form interview with Kim Furlong, CEO of Retail Council of Canada. In one of her first major podcast interviews since assuming the role, Kim provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at the realities of modern retail in Canada. She discusses stepping into the leadership role previously held by industry icon Diane Brisebois, and explains why the grocery business remains one of the most misunderstood sectors in the country. Kim breaks down why Canadians often “see the shelf, but not the supply chain,” revealing the upstream pressures—from transportation and labour costs to energy prices and currency fluctuations—that shape food prices long before products ever reach store shelves. She also tackles some of retail's hottest issues, including algorithmic pricing, surveillance pricing concerns, the Grocery Code of Conduct, AI-driven supply chains, domestic sourcing, Buy Canadian momentum, and how retailers are preparing for a future defined by geopolitical disruption, economic volatility, and changing consumer expectations. We also hear about Michael's visit to Laurel Supply, a new bespoke grocery store in West Hollywood that could be the most beautiful grocery store in America, thanks to the amazing work of Kevin Kelley's Shook Kelley retail design firm. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

Key  topics AI Impact Framework in retail Consumer sentiment and spending behavior Tech innovations for business agility   Chapters 00:00 Understanding the Changing Consumer Landscape 04:59 Consumer Sentiment and Spending Trends 07:40 Innovations in Technology and Consumer Engagement    

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand. Today, we explore how e-commerce is evolving beyond transactions into personalized experiences that truly connect with customers. Joining us is Connor Delaney, General Manager of Wayfair Canada. Connor shares how large scale retail can still deliver meaningful, tailored experiences while supporting Canadian businesses. Key Highlights Canadian Market Insights: Connor explains how customer behavior in Canada is evolving. Wayfair Rewards Launch: Connor shares how loyalty programs strengthen long term customer value. Opportunities for SMEs: Connor highlights how Canadian businesses can grow through Wayfair's platform. Scaling with Personalization: Connor discusses balancing efficiency with customer experience. Retail Trends 2026: Connor outlines key trends shaping the future of online retail. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Andrew Youderian joins Phillip and Brian to break down the 2026 eCom Trends Report: a decade in the making, 300 brands surveyed, and a lot of conventional wisdom overturned. The data reveals a diverging landscape where gross margins are climbing but net margins are shrinking, Amazon's dominance is quietly unwinding, and AI's productivity promise hasn't quite arrived – yet. Key Takeaways: Paid advertising isn't the problem, but your P&L structure might be Amazon's share of community revenue has fallen to 2017 levels, despite record seller counts AI adoption isn't moving the financial needle. 2026 may be the inflection point Lean operations (sub-20% overhead) consistently separate the optimistic from the pessimistic Raising prices remains the fastest, highest-impact lever operators chronically underuse Andrew's thesis: we're entering the era of the small, durable brand — slower, sturdier, built to last Key Quotes: [00:12:14] "Quality product is no longer the moat. Attention is the moat. But the problem is attention is expensive and easily diverted." — Brian [00:14:22] "The future is going to be the era of the small, durable brand — fewer brands that scale quickly, more brands that build slowly the old-fashioned way." — Andrew Youderian [00:27:24] "I think 2026, 2027, we're going to see those AI-adopting brands start to pull away — but I don't think it has delivered yet on what it's promised." — Andrew Youderian [00:35:34] "There's nothing I have done across multiple businesses that has ever had as much impact, as quickly, and that I have regretted waiting as long to do, as raise prices." — Andrew Youderian In-Show Mentions: eCommerceFuel 2026 eCom Trends Report (Blueprint) eCommerceFuel Associated Links: Check out Future Commerce on YouTube Check out Future Commerce Plus for exclusive content and save on merch and print Subscribe to Insiders and The Senses to read more about what we are witnessing in the commerce world Listen to our other episodes of Future Commerce Have any questions or comments about the show? Let us know on futurecommerce.com, or reach out to us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. We love hearing from our listeners!   This episode is sponsored by Criteo. Get $1,500 in free ad credit with Criteo Go now! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to World Retail Signals, the podcast from World Retail Congress, hosted by Ian McGarrigle, Chairman at World Retail Congress, and Niamh Stone, Programme Director at World Retail Congress.In this episode, the conversation spans Europe, Asia and the US, exploring the retail signals shaping decision-making right now. The discussion covers the reinvention of physical stores, the rise of data and loyalty ecosystems, how AI is being applied across retail, the growing importance of customer-first innovation, and the evolving impact of recommerce, demand planning and consumer behaviour.Key themes in this episode include:Why the physical store must evolve beyond a transactional spaceHow retailers are rethinking store formats and omnichannel experiencesThe growing role of loyalty, retail media and AI-driven personalizationWhy retailers must balance personalization with consumer trustWhat leaders in Asia are signaling about the future of AI in retailHow AI could help tackle overproduction and wasteWhy every AI decision should be measured against customer valueRetail insights from the US, including GLP-1-driven consumer behaviour shifts, recommerce, and the future of demand sensingIf you work in retail leadership, strategy, innovation, stores, ecommerce, customer experience, supply chain or brand growth, this episode gives you a sharp view of the ideas shaping the sector now.Hosts:Ian McGarrigle – Chairman, World Retail CongressNiamh Stone – Programme Director, World Retail CongressSubscribe for more global retail insight from World Retail Signals.Chapter Timestamps00:00 Welcome to World Retail Signals00:01 Meet Niamh Stone00:01 Meet Ian McGarrigle00:02 Europe signal: reinventing the physical store00:03 Ikea and the shift to smaller city-centre formats00:04 Loyalty ecosystems, data and retail media00:05 Asia signal: AI and the future of retail00:06 Project B, lifestyle and sport-meets-retail00:07 Using AI to reduce overproduction and waste00:08 The customer-first test for AI in retail00:09 US retail signals from Shoptalk00:10 GLP-1s, consumer behaviour and recommerce00:11 Personalized stores, changing formats and demand sensing00:12 Closing thoughts#Retail #RetailTrends #AI #WorldRetailSignals #RetailInnovation #Omnichannel #RetailMedia #Loyalty #Recommerce #PhysicalRetail

Retail is evolving fast and this week's UK retail breakdown covers the strategies brands are using to stay relevant, drive footfall, and win customers.We unpack five key retail stories shaping the industry right now:Selfridges' Golden Goose pop-up turning retail into theatrePrada activating experiential retail in LondonPeachy Den expanding with a strong community-led strategyNew Look investing in omnichannel “omni hub” storesDyson entering outlet retail to capture value-driven shoppersFrom experiential retail and community-first brands to outlet strategy and in-store tech, this episode breaks down what's actually working—and why.If you're in retail, eCommerce, or brand strategy, this is your weekly signal check on where the industry is heading.

Vivek Pandya spotlights Easter shopping trends as consumers hunt for deals and time purchases more carefully. He sees an uptick in spending around the holiday, explaining why shoppers seem to be willing to spend more than usual this year. He cites a 1000% uptick in buying plastic eggs, though a lower rate of growth for candy. Vivek discusses which segments consumers are willing to pay more for, and which they're pulling back on.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Options involve risks and are not suitable for all investors. Before trading, read the Options Disclosure Document. http://bit.ly/2v9tH6DSubscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Phillip and Brian get deep on a week when everything felt a little unhinged: Shopify's AI sidekick started building custom apps, Iran allegedly took out AWS data centers mid-Claude-outage, and the McDonald's CEO went mega-viral just days after Phillip prophesied it. Underneath the chaos, a throughline emerges: the things we've used to measure value (view counts, credit card rewards, third-party apps, and AI contracts) are quietly expiring. Culture is first. Then comes commerce. This SKU Is Delicious Key takeaways: Shopify Sidekick can now build one-off apps on demand, raising real questions about the future of third-party SaaS. AI geopolitics is here: data centers are now strategic infrastructure, and the "human in the loop" question has military stakes. Meta's move to invoicing ends years of free credit card rewards for brands running paid social,  — and that party's been winding down anyway. MrBeast's long-form view counts are down 50% YoY, even with heavy paid promotion; the algorithm has shifted to interest-based, not subscriber-based. Media buyers optimizing for CPMs are chasing non-real traffic. — Rrecovering a sense of propriety is the only way back. In-Show Mentions: How MrBeast Dominated 2025 Using Advertising Phillip's Big Arch burger virality prediction Get on the list for the Future Commerce x Shoptalk After Party Associated Links: Check out Future Commerce on YouTube Check out Future Commerce Plus for exclusive content and save on merch and print Subscribe to Insiders and The Senses to read more about what we are witnessing in the commerce world Listen to our other episodes of Future Commerce Have any questions or comments about the show? Let us know on futurecommerce.com, or reach out to us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. We love hearing from our listeners! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Reach out and touch us: shiftlesslive@gmail.comIn this episode, the hosts delve into various topics including the potential rise of 32-inch wheel bikes and their advantages in different terrain and bike categories such as mountain biking and gravel riding. They discuss upcoming events and speculate on which brands and components will adopt the new wheel size. The conversation also touches upon bike gear tech, such as Wolf Tooth's adjustable Q factor pedals, Shimano's market presence, and thoughts on racing formats including drop bar mountain bike races. Discussions are enriched with insights from industry insiders and past experiences, offering a comprehensive look at the emerging trends and future directions in the biking world.00:00 Introduction and Weather Talk00:27 Episode Number Confusion00:59 Guest Introduction: Caleb Wills01:19 Hanging Out at Dusty Roads01:55 Axe Troubles and Solutions02:54 Fat Biking in Winter04:30 Winter Riding Gear Discussion05:42 Flat Pedals vs Clipless Pedals21:39 Retail Trends in Pedals31:06 Shimano's Market Strategy32:17 The Future of Bike Components36:31 The Rise of 32-Inch Wheels37:57 Industry Disruptions and Innovations47:17 Market Predictions and Speculations49:56 Sea Otter and the 32-Inch Wheel Debate53:52 Top Bike Brands and Market Shares01:00:07 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts01:03:00 Road Trip Enthusiasm01:03:07 Market Analysis and Retailer Stops01:03:22 Ingrid Components Discussion01:04:46 Crank Length and Efficiency Debate01:07:11 Dylan Johnson's Insights01:09:19 North Carolina Road Trip Plans01:10:08 Drop Bar Mountain Bike Race01:24:17 32-Inch Wheels Speculation01:30:03 Wrapping Up and Shop Dogs

Every January, I take a step back and talk about trends in independent retail. But this year, I'm doing it differently. Instead of a long list of what's "in" or "out," I'm sharing the six lenses I use to make sense of retail trends and decide what actually matters for a real, independent store. In this episode, I look back at past trend conversations, explain how these six lenses emerged, and walk through real examples, like AI and short-form video, to show how the same trend can be a yes for one store and a no for another. If you're tired of chasing trends and want a steadier way to think about 2026, this episode is for you. For show notes, including links to the documentary and resources I mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode267 Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here: Website: Savvy ShopkeeperInstagram: @savvyshopkeeperMastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers  

Haunts nationwide are experimenting with immersive Valentine's formats, while new retail data suggests a resilient outlook for the 2026 Halloween season. This week: Queen Mary's Dark Harbor Launches "Dark Masquerade"; Cinema of Horrors' "Hearts of Horror"; Brass Ring Excellence Award Finalists; Universal's Fan Fest Nights Doubles Down on Core Fans; Halloween Retailers Expect a Slight Increase in Business in 2026; Haunted Attraction Association to Add New Paid Administrator Role; Creep I.E. Con Returns This Weekend. Read more here

Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc kick off their annual predictions episode with a fast-moving review of the retail news of the week. They begin with the long-delayed U.S. TikTok deal finally reaching resolution, noting how deeply TikTok now influences product discovery, cultural trends, and transactional commerce through TikTok Shops. While the platform remains critical for retailers, both hosts raise concerns around privacy, political influence, and how algorithmic control may evolve under new ownership.The conversation then turns to tariff volatility and geopolitical uncertainty, highlighting how unpredictable trade policy continues to make planning difficult for retailers. Steve points out that Amazon is already seeing tariff-driven price increases creep into both its first-party and marketplace businesses, reinforcing how global policy decisions are now flowing directly into consumer pricing. They also discuss Gap's creation of a Chief Entertainment Officer role, using it as a signal that retailers are increasingly seeking growth through media, licensing, and brand-driven content ecosystems rather than traditional merchandising alone.From there, Steve delivers his provacative 2026 retail predictions. He argues that the “Great Concentration” will continue, with Amazon, Walmart, and Costco capturing a disproportionate share of both sales growth and profits. This concentration fuels a powerful investment flywheel that makes it increasingly difficult for mid-tier retailers to compete. He predicts a mixed year for major turnarounds, with some traction at Gap and Nike, limited progress at Macy's, and deeper structural challenges for Target.AI emerges as one of the most consequential themes, with Steve describing 2026 as a truly “agentic” year. Search, shopping, and discovery are rapidly shifting toward AI-driven experiences, creating massive innovation but also high risk of disintermediation for brands that fail to adapt. Physical stores, he argues, will matter more for experiential brands and less for undifferentiated ones, accelerating the bifurcation between meaningful store concepts and those that lack a clear role.Steve also predicts intensifying competition in last-mile delivery, as Amazon and Walmart push same-day and narrow delivery windows even further, especially in grocery and essentials. Luxury faces an uneven future, with Saks Global likely emerging from bankruptcy smaller and fragile, and growth concentrated among a few elite brands. Resale, however, finally appears poised for breakout momentum, driven by affordability pressures and improving business models across the sector. Wellness and longevity become a new growth frontier, extending far beyond groceries into subscriptions, services, and lifestyle ecosystems.The episode closes with their “remarkable” stories of the week and a look around the corner, led by Lululemon's latest product misstep involving see-through apparel and a tone-deaf customer response. Michael highlights the promotion of former guest Chris Nicholas to lead Walmart International, while Steve flags growing bond-market volatility as a key macro signal to watch.   About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling authro of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fourth year in a row, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.

n our first series of 2026, Kyle sits down with Kevin Moss, a retail broker at CBRE in Cleveland, shares his insights on navigating the commercial real estate industry, particularly for young brokers. He emphasizes the importance of saying yes to opportunities, the benefits of teamwork, and the evolving landscape of retail brokerage. Kevin discusses the significance of social media in building a personal brand and the impact of AI on the industry. He also highlights the importance of morning routines for productivity and maintaining a balance in the fast-paced world of real estate.Connect with KevinLinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinmoss24/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/kevinmosscre/Xhttps://x.com/KevinMoss216Follow CRE School on SocialLinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/commercial-real-estate-school/?viewAsMember=trueInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/creschoolshow/

Eleven successful founders reveal their exact playbooks for 2026. Discover AI commerce strategies, slow content that converts, gamified loyalty tips, and community-first growth tactics. Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

It's the beginning of the year, and for independent retailers, knowing what consumers are buying is half the battle. In this episode of Rooted in Retail, Crystal Vilkaitis sits down with Anjarae Hamilton, Head of Retailer Sales and Account Management at FAIRE, to break down the highly anticipated 2026 Faire Forecast.Anjarae reveals the four major data-backed trends shaping consumer behavior this year, all centered around the theme of "self-expression". From the rise of "Well-Read" retreats to the maximalism of "More is More," this conversation provides a roadmap for what to stock to stay relevant. Beyond the trends, Anjarae shares crucial strategies for staying profitable amidst economic uncertainty, the importance of agility in buying, and how FAIRE is leveraging AI to simplify the search process.This episode is your ultimate guide to a successful year.[2:19] Anjarae's journey from small-town Tennessee to leading sales at FAIRE[4:43] The 2026 Forecast theme: Investing in the truest self[5:56] Trend 1: Well-Read—Why books and reading retreats are booming[6:00] Trend 2: Fanfare—Preparing for the Olympics and World Cup watch parties [7:08] Trend 3: More is More—The return of maximalism and bold prints [8:50] Trend 4: Witching Hour—Magic, manifestation, and astrology[14:53] How successful retailers are adjusting buying habits to stay profitable[18:08] Using AI and Natural Language Search to find the perfect inventory [22:25] The "iTunes model" of wholesale: Testing consolidated shipping [23:44] FAIRE Direct: How to get commission-free orders with existing brand relationships [26:12] "Point of Slay": Saving time with POS integrations Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation Join our newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch! Go to http://indera.co/prompt to access the prompt

In this episode of The Food Professor Podcast, Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois deliver a wide-ranging discussion on the forces reshaping food, retail, and consumer behaviour—before sitting down with one of Canada's most dynamic food entrepreneurs, Suzie Yorke, CEO and Founder of The Little Cacao Company.The episode opens with insights from New York City, where Michael reports from NRF Big Show, highlighting how retail continues to blend hospitality, entertainment, and commerce. From Tecovas' in-store bar concept to Printemps' alcohol-free champagne experience, the hosts explore how experiential retail is redefining consumer engagement. The conversation then shifts to quick-service restaurants, where McDonald's decision to freeze value meal pricing underscores growing pressure on restaurant traffic amid economic uncertainty. Sylvain explains why this price war reflects defensive strategy rather than growth, while noting the strain rising costs place on supply chains—from coffee to beef.Broader macro themes follow, including climate data, forest fires, and their often-misunderstood impact on agriculture and food policy. The hosts debate alarmist climate narratives, the reliability of long-term data, and the risks of poorly designed policies that can penalize farmers and processors. The episode also touches on Aldi's aggressive U.S. expansion, Amazon's underestimated grocery scale, and Canada's evolving trade posture with China—particularly as agriculture remains entangled in geopolitics and tariff negotiations.The heart of the episode is a candid, high-energy interview with Suzie Yorke, a veteran brand builder turned founder on a mission to fundamentally rethink chocolate. Yorke traces her journey from engineering to senior marketing roles at major CPG firms, to launching breakout brands like Love Good Fats, and ultimately founding The Little Cacao Company. She explains why cacao is one of the world's most powerful antioxidant superfoods—and how decades of sugar, poor fats, and aggressive processing stripped it of its nutritional potential.Yorke also shares hard-earned lessons from scaling food startups through the volatile pre- and post-COVID investment cycles, including the importance of founder-led execution, disciplined economics, and authentic consumer connection. She discusses how protein, fibre, and low-sugar formulations position her chocolate for a world shaped by GLP-1 drugs, health-driven indulgence, and changing cravings. Equally compelling is her perspective on leadership, resilience, and representation—using her platform to champion inclusivity while proving that innovation doesn't have an expiration date.  About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

In this episode of The Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor discusses grocery retail trends and insights with Brittain Ladd, a recognized expert in the field.   They explore the impact of Amazon's acquisition of Whole Foods, the challenges facing Kroger, and the potential political aspirations of Walmart's Doug McMillan.

Our analysts (or “bakers”) will compete in a Great British Bake Off–style episode, discussing how the digital shelf for ecommerce will adapt to speak to AI audiences and how retailers will counter AI's rise by connecting with customers IRL. Listen to the discussion with Vice President of Content and host Suzy Davidkhanian, Principal Analyst Sky Canaves, and Senior Analyst Blake Droesch.   Subscribe to EMARKETER's newsletters. Go to https://www.emarketer.com/newsletters   Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/emarketer/ For sponsorship opportunities contact us: advertising@emarketer.com For more information visit: https://www.emarketer.com/advertise/ Have questions or just want to say hi? Drop us a line at podcast@emarketer.com    For a transcript of this episode click here: https://www.emarketer.com/content/podcast-reimagining-retail-trends-2026-how-ai-will-change-digital-shelf-irl-customers-interactions   © 2026 EMARKETER

Nokukhanya Mtambo speaks to Tracy Ziman Jacobs, Intimacy and relationship coach, about how adult stores in South Africa are moving beyond niche markets into mainstream retail. As social attitudes toward sexuality evolve, these shops are finding a wider customer base, and owners say the shift reflects growing interest in sexual wellness and acceptance of adult products as legitimate consumer goods. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the final episode of Rooted in Retail 2025, where Crystal Vilkaitis, the Wolf of Main Street, reflects on the year and shares exactly what retailers should bring into 2026—and what to leave behind. From elevating in-store experiences to mastering live selling, paid ads, and AI, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help your retail business thrive in the new year.Crystal breaks down practical strategies to make 2026 your most successful year yet![2:18] - Events are exploding as people crave connection.[5:28] - Consistency in customer experience starts with employee support & training[9:04] - Organic reach isn't enough; strategic ads grow visibility, foot traffic, and email lists.[17:21] - A fast-growing retail channel; plan ahead with product themes, pre-ads, and post-event marketing.[19:20] - Posting imperfect content builds trust, connection, and consistency.[24:46] - AI is here to stay—tools for automation, customer insights, and efficiency.Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation Join our newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch!

For Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc's final episode recorded live at the CommerceNext Growth show, they welcome two visionary leaders from Tapestry, the global house of brands that includes Coach and Kate Spade: Pooja Chandiramani, VP Global Media Strategy & Planning, Marketing Analytics, Operations and Transformation, and Avinash Kaushik, Brand Strategy & Marketing Transformation.Pooja and Avinash unpack Tapestry's ongoing transformation, which embeds analytics as a core pillar of brand growth. For Coach in particular, analytics isn't just incremental—it's a complete transformation journey. By using data to generate insights that directly drive business impact, Tapestry ensures marketing investments are accountable, measurable, and tied to outcomes.Avinash, a globally recognized thought leader and author, explains how Tapestry embraces intent-centric marketing to connect authentically with consumers. Moving beyond the outdated “accessible luxury” positioning, the company has shifted toward "expressive luxury"—a modern framework that reflects values-driven, authentic consumer engagement, particularly resonant with younger audiences.The conversation dives into the cultural foundations necessary for analytics to thrive. Avinash emphasizes that “culture is more important than data,” crediting Tapestry's CEO Joanne Crevoiserat and senior leadership for creating an environment where data can challenge assumptions and guide decisions. This culture enables bold experiments, including measuring the incrementality of brand marketing—one of the toughest questions in retail.Pooja highlights how creative pre-testing has become a critical unlock. By partnering with Human Made Machine, Tapestry tests campaigns with real audiences before investing media spend. This approach ensures that creative—responsible for up to 70% of marketing impact—delivers measurable results in driving brand awareness and incremental sales. It's a cultural shift, moving from subjective opinions about creative to decisions grounded in data.The episode also explores the role of AI and machine learning in accelerating agility, simplifying decision-making frameworks, and enabling global scalability. Both leaders stress that outcomes-based planning—rather than activity-based planning—keeps Tapestry aligned with its ambitious growth goals.  About UsJennifer MarloHead of Content, CommerceNextJennifer Marlo drives industry-leading programming at CommerceNext, drawing on experience from Ascendant Network and iMedia Connection, where she spearheaded content strategies to inspire retail, brand and agency marketing leaders. Guided by the belief that “a rising tide lifts all boats,” Jennifer uses in-person and digital platforms to educate and foster industry collaboration. Steve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling authro of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, top retail influencer, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.

Michael Berry chats with Houston icon Mattress Mack to discuss life after open-heart surgery, retail shifts, and the power of community. Plus, candid takes on ivermectin, Texas laws, media bias, and a salute to America’s truckers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This podcasts explores the evolution of performance marketing in 2025 with Josh Duggan, co-founder of award-winning agency Vervaunt. With over 14 years of experience, Josh shares his expertise on how digital marketing optimisation has changed, focusing on measurement and the impact of new technologies.Key reasons to listen:Expert insights: gain valuable knowledge from Josh, who has worked with globally recognised brands like Doc Martens and Mulberry. Latest trends: understand the current trends in performance marketing, including the shift towards profitability and the importance of data-driven decisions.Technology advice: learn about Northbeam's new deal with Google, providing 30-day impression data, a game-changer for marketers.Key discussion points:The evolution of Black Friday from a weekend event to a month-long shopping period. The importance of measurement tools like Triple Whale and Northbeam in understanding customer journeys and optimising ad spend. The role of geo-based testing in enhancing brand awareness and measuring incremental ROI. Strategies for leveraging customer lifetime value (LTV) to drive profitability. The significance of aligning KPIs across teams to ensure cohesive marketing strategies.Josh emphasises the need for brands to focus on tangible profitability and to use 3rd party tools effectively. For example, with the introduction of Northbeam's 30-day impression data, marketers can now gain deeper insights into customer interactions, paving the way for more informed decision-making.Tune is for your roadmap to navigating the complexities of digital marketing. Chapters:[00:30] Introduction to Performance Marketing Trends[03:15] Black Friday Insights and Retail Trends[06:05] Shifts in Consumer Behaviour and Discount Strategies[09:50] The Importance of Measurement in Marketing[12:30] Evolution of Measurement Tools and Technologies[15:25] Understanding Customer Lifetime Value (LTV) and CAC[18:35] Geo-Based Testing and Incrementality[21:10] The Role of Third-Party Tools in Measurement[24:20] The Future of Measurement in Performance Marketing

The shopfront of retail is about to change—will you be on the right side when the robots come knocking? With thanks to this episode's sponsor Faire (https://faire.com/) Use the code 'GamePlan25' to claim 50% off and free shipping with your first order!Hi, I'm Catherine Erdly. This week on the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I'm laying out the four seismic shifts set to hit independent retailers by 2026. Think agentic AI that shops for your customers, TikTok Shop turning the high street digital, trust as your most valuable currency, and the resale boom rewriting what “new” means. With 25 years of retail trenches behind me, I'm sharing not just the what, but the how—so you can cut through the noise, strengthen cash flow for retailers, and make sure your product business survives (and thrives) in the new landscape. Grab your notebook and come behind the counter—these are the independent retailer tips that matter.Make sure you grab my freebie at http://resilientretailclub.com/freebieEnjoy the episode? DM me your lightbulb moments or next guest wish list @resilientretailclub on Instagram. Please rate, follow, and review this podcast in your app—it helps more indie founders decide to give us a try!00:00 "Top Retail Trends for 2026"06:05 "Future of Shopping: AI & Shoptainment"10:07 "Shoppable Live Streams on TikTok"14:16 TikTok Shop: Creator-Brand Strategies16:33 "AI Pets and Trust Issues"18:42 Building Trust for Small Businesses22:44 "Building Trust Through TikTok"Mentioned in this episode:Freebie downloadStock FreebieFaire 50% offerUse the code GamePlan25 to get 50% off and free shipping with your first order at faire.comFaire 50% off - use code 'GamePlan25'

In this action and insight-packed episode of The Food Professor Podcast, Michael LeBlanc and Sylvain Charlebois sit down with Hugo Magnan, President of Groupe MAG, the Quebec-based culinary innovator behind some of Canada's most delicious mayonnaise, salad dressings, dips, and sauces. Hugo shares the company's origin story — founded in 1989 by his father Jacques — and explains how Groupe MAG carved out a loyal following through premium ingredients, bold flavours, and a commitment to craft. Michael even reveals his own culinary experiments using MAG mayonnaise in a Texan-style potato salad, highlighting the brand's versatility and taste advantage over mainstream competitors. The conversation explores the future of condiments, how regional producers scale nationally, and why MAG's formula resonates with consumers craving authenticity and umami-rich flavours.The second half of the episode pivots to the newly released Canada's Food Price Report, featuring a detailed breakdown of projected food inflation for 2026. Using AI-driven forecasting, Sylvain's research team anticipates grocery price increases of 4–6% next year — adding nearly $1,000 annually for a family of four. Meat, centre-aisle pantry goods, and restaurant meals are expected to drive most inflation, while coffee prices are entering what Michael calls “eye-watering levels” due to global supply constraints. Sylvain warns that restructuring by major food manufacturers may lead to fewer product choices, reducing competition and elevating prices, particularly in packaged foods.Yet, amid affordability challenges, the report identifies positive shifts. Canadian consumers are entering 2026 more informed, intentional, and empowered than during the pandemic inflation wave. Shopping trips per household have risen from five to more than seven per month, as families comparison-shop, loyalty surf, and embrace food rescue apps, private label alternatives, and price-matching codes. Structural forces — from discount grocer expansion in Quebec to declining alcohol consumption in restaurants — are also reshaping the retail landscape. Restaurants, facing lower bar revenues, will need to reinvent profitability while consumers lean more into at-home dining.Whether you're a food lover curious about better mayonnaise, a retailer navigating shifting economics, or a policy-watcher tracking food affordability, this episode blends culinary storytelling with hard-hitting data, offering both delicious inspiration and serious insight into the year ahead. The Food Professor #podcast is presented by Caddle. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Professor in food distribution and policy in the Faculties of Management and Agriculture at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University. Before joining Dalhousie, he was affiliated with the University of Guelph's Arrell Food Institute, which he co-founded. Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. Google Scholar ranks him as one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability.He has authored five books on global food systems, his most recent one published in 2017 by Wiley-Blackwell entitled “Food Safety, Risk Intelligence and Benchmarking”. He has also published over 500 peer-reviewed journal articles in several academic publications. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, including The Lancet, The Economist, the New York Times, the Boston Globe, the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, BBC, NBC, ABC, Fox News, Foreign Affairs, the Globe & Mail, the National Post and the Toronto Star.Dr. Charlebois sits on a few company boards, and supports many organizations as a special advisor, including some publicly traded companies. Charlebois is also a member of the Scientific Council of the Business Scientific Institute, based in Luxemburg. Dr. Charlebois is a member of the Global Food Traceability Centre's Advisory Board based in Washington DC, and a member of the National Scientific Committee of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in Ottawa. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fourth year in a row, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.

In the latest episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc sits down with Liza Amlani, Chief Merchant and Principal of Retail Strategy Group, who returns to the podcast to share timely insights from her new book, "The Material Life: Process Innovation for Retailers and Brands" Recognized globally as a retail thought leader, Amlani brings her two decades of merchandising expertise to a provocative argument: the retail industry has been obsessed with what products it sells, while neglecting how those products are made—a blind spot costing brands both time and money.Amlani illustrates how process innovation begins long before a product hits the shelf. Traditional apparel development starts with a design concept, hunting for materials to match. Her materials-first model flips that dynamic, accelerating time to market, reducing over-development, and eliminating redundant fabric, trim, and colour decisions. She cites examples where retailers were creating thousands of unnecessary material variations—like zippers—without realizing the margin erosion and operational chaos this creates.Throughout the conversation, Amlani explains how silos between merchants, sourcing, materials, design, and marketing teams create a “butterfly effect” where one late-stage decision can unravel deadlines, sample production, and vendor negotiations. Breaking those silos strengthens governance, reduces waste, and aligns teams around measurable outcomes including her Material Adoption Rate (MAR) framework—an accountability tool that tracks how many material developments actually make it into assortments.The episode also explores the rising influence of AI in fabric research and digital product creation, the impact of sourcing regulations emerging in North America and Europe, and how leading brands like lululemon are quietly reshaping their operating models through materials-led go-to-market roles. Amlani argues that brands embracing transparency, vendor partnership, and digital material workflows will unlock significant margin upside at a time when inflation, tariffs, supply chain friction, and fast-fashion disruptors are redefining consumer expectations.Finally, the discussion turns to the road ahead. As retailers prepare for 2026, Amlani urges leaders to rethink the fabric of product creation itself, invest in consumer-centric assortments, and treat materials not as an afterthought but as a strategic asset. For retailers, merchants, product developers, and sourcing teams eager to future-proof their business, this episode is a masterclass in modern merchandising excellence. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.

Scott Hoyt joins the podcast to provide a look into the holiday retail season and to discuss the state of the U.S. consumer more broadly. The team reviews the downbeat data on consumer confidence, the labor market, inflation and housing, and contemplates the implications for consumer spending this Christmas. The team remembers to take a listener question on income inequality and the mood gets even darker. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!Hosts: Mark Zandi – Chief Economist, Moody's Analytics, Cris deRitis – Deputy Chief Economist, Moody's Analytics, and Marisa DiNatale – Senior Director - Head of Global Forecasting, Moody's AnalyticsFollow Mark Zandi on 'X' and BlueSky @MarkZandi, Cris deRitis on LinkedIn, and Marisa DiNatale on LinkedIn Questions or Comments, please email us at helpeconomy@moodys.com. We would love to hear from you. To stay informed and follow the insights of Moody's Analytics economists, visit Economic View. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode The Remarkable Retail Podcast's co-host Michael LeBlanc's guest is with Lauren Price, Senior Vice President, E-Commerce & Digital Marketing for COS North America discussing her impressive career trajectory and work positioning the H&M-owned brand for growth in a competitive, fast-moving fashion retail landscape.Lauren's career began in the early days of luxury e-commerce at Createthe Group, building first-generation online stores for high-end brands . Her path included consulting with Demandware and L2 (Scott Galloway's firm), leading to her first in-house brand role at J.Crew before joining COS—a globally recognized fashion brand known for exceptional quality, timeless style, and meticulous craftsmanship.At COS, Lauren oversees North American marketing and digital commerce, a key growth market. She explains how COS benefits from the resources of a global parent company while operating with the agility of a smaller regional business. This unique position allows for strategic experimentation while maintaining the brand's commitment to premium quality.A highlight from the conversation is COS's viral marketing moment: a $45 T-shirt compared on TikTok to a $15 Uniqlo tee, with the influencer praising COS's superior quality and construction. This sparked organic buzz and significant new customer acquisition, prompting Lauren's team to launch a targeted influencer gifting campaign. The lesson: seize authentic, organic momentum quickly and amplify it with campaigns that focus on authenticity, craftsmanship, and product education—especially to win over savvy Gen Z shoppers.Lauren also tackles the emerging challenge of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), advising brands to prepare product catalogs for AI-driven search while maintaining current SEO performance. She predicts AI search adoption will accelerate faster than previous digital shifts, urging retailers to run both short-term and long-term optimization in parallel.As the discussion turns to holiday planning, Lauren offers several pieces of practical, results-focused advice. About UsJennifer MarloHead of Content, CommerceNextJennifer Marlo drives industry-leading programming at CommerceNext, drawing on experience from Ascendant Network and iMedia Connection, where she spearheaded content strategies to inspire retail, brand and agency marketing leaders. Guided by the belief that “a rising tide lifts all boats,” Jennifer uses in-person and digital platforms to educate and foster industry collaboration. Steve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling authro of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, top retail influencer, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.

Mina Fader, Managing Director of the Baker Retailing Center at the Wharton School, offers insights on how inflation, inventory strategy, consumer spending habits, and the renewed importance of in-store experiences are shaping the outlook for holiday retail performance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taylor Riggs joins the show to break down the major internet outage caused by a filtering platform glitch and its ripple effects on businesses and online operations. She discusses broader cybersecurity concerns, including vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure like the power grid, pipelines, and water systems, and how advanced AI and foreign actors are increasing the risks. Taylor examines how the stock market responds to cyber incidents, the importance of healthy pullbacks, and what recent corrections mean for big tech and AI driven stocks. She also compares retail trends at Target and TJ Maxx, talks consumer affordability pressures, and weighs in on the social and political flashpoints tied to brand controversies, including LGBTQ friendly merchandise.

In this episode of the CRE with CBC Worldwide podcast, host Dan Spiegel engages with James Cook, America's Director of Research of Retail at JLL, to explore the evolving landscape of retail real estate as the holiday season approaches. They discuss consumer behavior trends, the impact of inflation on spending, the resurgence of quick service restaurants, and the contrasting dynamics between urban and suburban retail. The conversation also delves into the rise of experiential retail, the challenges faced by traditional drugstores, and the strategies employed by major retailers like Walmart. Additionally, they highlight the importance of data in site selection and the influence of social media on consumer choices, culminating in predictions for the upcoming holiday shopping season.

Video of this episode is hereTakeawaysModell's was started by my great grandfather in 1889.Our whole business was centered around the customer.Nike's shift to direct-to-consumer changed the landscape.Private labels became essential for survival.Under Armour struggled to break into footwear.Customer loyalty is built through community engagement.Facing bankruptcy taught us valuable lessons.Health and wellness trends are reshaping retail.Adaptability is crucial in the retail industry.The most precious thing we have is time. Chapters00:00 The Legacy of Modell's Sporting Goods03:10 Adapting to Change in Retail05:49 Challenges in the Sporting Goods Industry08:13 The Rise and Fall of Under Armour10:48 Dix's Dominance in the Market13:08 Facing Financial Challenges15:49 Lessons Learned from Bankruptcy18:24 The Importance of Community and Culture22:47 Customer-Centric Retailing25:17 The Importance of In-Store Experience26:33 Health and Wellness Trends in Retail28:45 The Role of YPO in Business Growth32:13 Personal Resilience and Health Awareness36:03 Lightning Round: Insights from a Retail Leader

In this episode of the Closet Disco Queen podcast, Queenie and TT engage in a casual conversation about Queenie's recent trip, exploring historical landmarks and sharing humorous anecdotes. The hosts discuss various aspects of cannabis use, including the benefits of buying in bulk, storage tips, and personal preferences. They introduce a fun game segment, 'Could Have Been High,' where TT has to determine if scenarios are true or fiction. The podcast also covers the introduction of THC-infused drinks in certain Target stores in Minnesota and the political climate surrounding cannabis legalization. Finally, the episode ends with a poetic call to action for peaceful protest and civic engagement.Welcome to the Closet Disco Queen Pot-Cast, a comedy podcast with music and pop culture references that keeps you laughing and engaged. Join our hosts, Queenie & TT as they share humorous anecdotes about daily life, offering women's perspectives on lifestyle and wellness. We dive into funny cannabis conversations and stories, creating an entertaining space where nothing is off-limits. Each episode features entertaining discussions on pop culture trends, as we discuss music, culture, and cannabis in a light-hearted and inclusive manner. Tune in for a delightful blend of humor, insight, and relatable stories that celebrate life's quirks and pleasures. Our Closet Disco Queen Pot-Cast deals with legal adult cannabis use and is intended for entertainment purposes only for those 21 and older Visit our Closet Disco Queen Pot-Cast merch store!Find us on Facebook and Green Coast RadioSound from Zapsplat.com, https://quicksounds.com, 101soundboards.com #ToneTransfer

The episode begins with a deep dive into the latest retail and economic headlines that are shaping the landscape. Steve and Michael dissect the U.S. government shutdown, its ripple effects on employment, and how cost-cutting in Washington could further weaken an already fragile job market. They then examine new tariffs on furniture, cabinets, and agricultural exports, highlighting how the policies are squeezing retailers and farmers alike—particularly soybean producers, who have been hit hard by China's retaliation.The hosts also analyze the latest on TikTok's uncertain U.S. future, as political maneuvering opens the door to a controversial joint venture involving major tech and media figures. In retail performance, Costco's continued dominance and Nike's early turnaround efforts take center stage, as both giants adapt to shifting consumer sentiment and inflationary pressure. The segment concludes with a discussion of AI's growing impact on the workplace, holiday hiring trends, and how discretionary spending and de minimis trade rules could redefine retail economics on both sides of the border.Then, in a wide-ranging interview, David Kahan, President & CEO Birkenstock Americas delivers a masterclass in brand stewardship and retail strategy. He traces Birkenstock's roots from a humble German cobbler to a global fashion phenomenon—revealing how the brand's success rests on “never deviating from its DNA.” Every product begins with the footbed, he says, making comfort, health, and purpose inseparable from style.Kahan credits Birkenstock's ongoing cultural resonance—from the Barbie movie to red carpet collaborations—to disciplined brand management and “engineered distribution.” He explains how each Birkenstock store is a unique community experience, blending tactile engagement with hyper-local curation. The conversation also touches on leadership philosophy, emphasizing humility, trust, and an unwavering focus on brand equity over short-term sales.     About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling authro of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fourth year in a row, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.

Video version of this episode is hereTakeawaysThe team is excited about upcoming grocery reports and innovations.AI tools are transforming the way retail professionals work.Holiday shopping is expected to grow by 3-3.5%.Consumer sentiment is cautious due to rising prices.Consumers are pulling holiday purchases forward to October.Supply chain disruptions may affect product availability.Weekly consumer surveys help gauge holiday spending expectations.Retailers are preparing for potential shortages this holiday season.CoreSight's reports are accessible to both members and non-members.Chapters00:00Introduction to Isla Meldon and Her Journey03:31The Role of AI in Graphic Design06:37Upcoming Reports and Innovations in Retail10:28Introduction to Holiday Retail Trends12:10Consumer Sentiment and Spending Expectations14:44Supply Chain Dynamics and Product Availability17:48CoreSight Research Insights and Reporting

This week, we're using NotebookLM, Google's AI-powered research tool, to share insights from Alice Ponti's on-the-ground experience at Shoptalk Spring in March. This conversation is a comprehensive, insight-rich overview of the conference, organized around ten core themes transforming retail. From the rise of Agentic AI and multimodal search, to the fast-evolving world of retail media, this episode captures the pulse of where commerce is headed, and what brands need to do next. We're excited to share this POV on key trends spotted last spring, as Alice prepares to take the stage at Groceryshop next week, where she'll moderate a conversation on Embracing Agility and Innovation featuring Emily Xu, Chief Digital & Information Officer, Republic National Distributing Company, Alastair Dorward, CEO, Dropps and Harshad Agashe, VP Data Products, Albertsons. Visit Groceryshop.com to learn more. .

TakeawaysCoresight Research provides insights from major retail events.AI and tariffs are the two main topics in retail discussions.Retailers are adapting to tariffs by innovating their supply chains.Generative AI is changing content production in retail.Retailers are focusing on data-driven decision-making.Physical stores are regaining importance for younger consumers.Innovation thrives in challenging environments.Boards are increasingly educated about AI's potential.Private label demand is rising due to tariffs.E-commerce growth is expected despite tariff uncertainties. Experiential retail is essential for modern consumers.Digital enhances the tactile experience of shopping.Supply chains must adapt to the rapid changes in consumer behavior.Gen Z values sustainability in their shopping habits.Loyalty programs need to evolve beyond traditional models.Live streaming is becoming a significant marketing tool.The attention economy is reshaping how brands engage with consumers.Retail media is increasingly becoming the dominant form of media.Emotional connections with customers are crucial for brand loyalty.AI will play a pivotal role in the future of commerce. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Retaili$tic and Shoptalk Fall04:14 Key Themes: AI and Tariffs in Retail14:00 Exploring AI Opportunities in Retail19:33 Innovation Under Pressure in Retail20:48 Experiential Retail: The New Paradigm21:44 Transforming Supply Chains for Gen Z24:19 Evolving Loyalty Programs and Customer Experience27:10 The Rise of Live Streaming in Retail30:22 Navigating the Attention Economy32:11 Innovations in Retail Technology36:31 The Future of AI in Commerce

In a retail landscape obsessed with speed and conversion, Anthropologie has mastered something far more elusive: cultural alchemy. How do you transform a fleeting TikTok trend into a cross-category empire spanning everything from ceramic lamps to cashmere sweaters? COO Candan Erenguc reveals the operational artistry behind turning cultural moments into commerce gold, and why connection always trumps conversion. The Genius Behind That Viral DressKey takeaways:Community over conversion - Building authentic customer relationships drives long-term success more than short-term sales optimizationCultural instinct beats data - When responding to viral moments and cultural trends, intuition often signals opportunities before data can catch upChoice trumps speed - Customers value optionality in how, when, and where they receive products more than just fast deliveryLocalized curation wins - Store-specific assortments based on neighborhood demographics and customer needs drive expansion successCross-category trend application - Scaling cultural moments across diverse product categories (from eccentric lamps to dog sweaters) maximizes trend participation[00:03:13] "[Our merchant teams] are ahead of the curve, predicting trends. And if I may be so bold, they're influencing trends." - Candan[00:05:53] "It's symbiotic. Our goal is to give customers what they want. But I think …sometimes they don't know yet what they want." - Candan[00:20:04] "Connection over conversion. You build the connection, everything else will come." - Candan[00:16:41] "I don't think that the most important thing is speed. I think the most important thing is choice." - Candan[00:19:43] "We're also at a time where people are much more savvy than we give them credit for." - PhillipIn-Show Mentions:Listen to Mindy Massey, Anthropologie Global Director of Stores, on the latest season of Step By Step.Associated Links:Check out Future Commerce on YouTubeCheck out Future Commerce+ for exclusive content and save on merch and printSubscribe to Insiders and The Senses to read more about what we are witnessing in the commerce worldListen to our other episodes of Future CommerceHave any questions or comments about the show? Let us know on futurecommerce.com, or reach out to us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. We love hearing from our listeners!

After 33 years of redefining retail, Anthropologie has mastered creating stores that serve communities rather than just selling to them. Mindy Massey, who oversees stores across North America and the UK after 26 years with the brand, reveals how they've shifted from conversion to connection—empowering 10,000+ employees as community curators while maintaining authentic relationships at scale. Her insights offer a masterclass in why this approach matters more than ever as younger generations reshape retail expectations.The Multi-Gen EffectKey takeaways:Amplification over transformation: Anthropologie didn't reinvent their service strategy—they amplified 33 years of authentic relationship-building with better tools and deeper community integration. "I would say more than transformation. It's been like amplification... Our service strategy has always been built on a foundation of genuine connection." - Mindy [02:52]Wide lanes, strong guardrails: Success requires high accountability and clear brand standards while giving local teams wide creative latitude to serve their specific communities. "We do provide guardrails. But the lanes are kind of wide open for a localized approach." - Mindy [06:41]Authenticity drives KPIs, not vice versa: The brand prioritizes genuine relationships over metrics, trusting that real connections naturally generate better business outcomes. "The authenticity of the relationships is what drives the KPIs versus the KPIs driving the relationships." - Mindy [09:26]Ordinary to extraordinary: Every element, from yarn window displays to finance team creativity, embraces the philosophy of transforming simple materials into unexpected beauty. "So much of our heritage is steeped in making the ordinary extraordinary. You find something really simple and you make it super innovative." - Mindy [13:36]In-Show Mentions:Tricia Smith (CEO, Anthropologie)Rockefeller Center store holiday displayAssociated Links:Learn more about EndearCheck out Future Commerce on YouTubeCheck out Future Commerce+ for exclusive content and save on merch and printSubscribe to Insiders and The Senses to read more about what we are witnessing in the commerce worldListen to our other episodes of Future CommerceHave any questions or comments about the show? Let us know on futurecommerce.com, or reach out to us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. We love hearing from our listeners!

Retail is thriving! Join Michael Bull, CCIM and Tom McGee, President and CEO of ICSC, as we they dive into current market trends, consumer behavior, and the future of retail spaces.    C5 + CCIM Global Summit 2025 - The premiere commercial real estate conference for networking, dealmaking, and investment opportunities, September 16-18th in Chicago: https://c5summit.realestate/ Bull Realty - Customized Asset & Occupancy Solutions: https://www.bullrealty.com/ Commercial Agent Success Strategies - The ultimate commercial broker training resource: https://www.commercialagentsuccess.com/ Watch the video versions of our show on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/c/Commercialrealestateshow

One of the topics I love to dive into on the show is retail. This is where the rubber meets the road because it's the telling sign if a brand or category is alive or dying. I'm excited to welcome Chris Blandford back on the show. He holds the title of Adult Beverage Field Specialist for Kroger. He's right there on the front lines of consumer trends, and he's got some amazing insights into the changing landscape of bourbon, and he's also the content development lead for the bourbon and culinary stage at Bourbon & Beyond, a music festival right here in Louisville you've heard us talk about before. We talk about evolving consumer tastes because there is a trend back towards lower proof whiskey and some hilarious stories about those high-potency THC infused drinks that are making waves. Chris also shares his inspiring personal journey of health transformation, which is a fantastic parallel to his work. Plus, you'll get a sneak peek into the exciting experiences waiting for everyone at Bourbon & Beyond. Show Notes: Who is Chris Blandford and his role at Kroger? Insights on rising trends among bourbon consumers. Discussion on the interest in lower-proof, approachable bourbons. Unique bourbon blend produced for Bourbon & Beyond. Reactions to various bourbons tasted and discussed. Chris's health and fitness transformation journey. Kroger's partnership significance with Bourbon & Beyond. Resources for aspiring bourbon distillers and entrepreneurs. Humorous exchanges surrounding bourbon experiences. Support this podcast on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest episode of the Remarkable Retail podcast, co-hosts Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc return with Part Two of “The Analysts," which featues three of the retail industry's most respected thought leaders—Sucharita Kodali (VP & Principal Analyst, Forrester Research), Neil Saunders (Managing Director, GlobalData Retail), and Simeon Siegel (Managing Director, BMO Capital Markets).But first, Michael and Steve unpack a news cycle packed with volatility. They begin by exploring the ripple effects of renewed Middle East conflict and its impact on oil prices, inflation, and economic sentiment. From there, the duo tackle the Trump administration's intensifying immigration enforcement and its chilling effect on the U.S. labor force—particularly in agriculture, hospitality, and retail. Shoppers are anxious, workers are disappearing, and companies are bracing for cost spikes.The episode then zooms into earnings season, with fresh data from RH (Restoration Hardware), Inditex (Zara), and Victoria's Secret. RH defies expectations with revenue gains despite a sluggish home goods sector, while Zara and Victoria's Secret warn of tariff-related turbulence ahead. Steve and Michael also sound the alarm on a string of cyberattacks, including the Victoria's Secret hack and a Whole Foods supplier breach, painting a stark picture of retail's digital vulnerabilities.Then it's time for “The Analysts” segment. Sucharita Kodali explains the hype—and the misunderstanding—around Agentic AI, warning retailers of its disintermediating potential if shopping bots take hold. The panel weigh in on the future of department stores, urging traditional retailers to rethink their value proposition, especially as beauty shifts to standalone players like Sephora, Blue Mercury, and Ulta.From TikTok's uncertain future to retail media network fatigue, the lightning round keeps the insights flowing with wit and depth. The panel also lifts up up-and-coming remarkable brands like Vuori, Alo Yoga, and Eleventy as ones to watch. Here is a 10% off code for the CommerceNext Growth Show exclusive to Remarkable Retail listeners: REMARKABLE. About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling authro of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fourth year in a row, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.

SUMMARYIn today's Weekly Business News episode, hosts Ryan Alford and Chris Hansen discuss the current economic climate, focusing on a significant decline in consumer sentiment revealed by a University of Michigan survey. They express concerns about inflation, government policies, and their impact on consumer behavior. The hosts also explore retail trends, noting the closures of stores like Forever 21 and GameStop, and the rise of e-commerce platforms such as Shein and Temu. They emphasize the need for better communication from the administration and highlight the importance of adapting to changing consumer preferences in a digital age.TAKEAWAYSDecline in consumer sentiment as reported by the University of Michigan survey.Concerns about the overall economic climate and inflation.Impact of government policies on consumer behavior and the need for better communication.Retail sector challenges, including store closures of brands like Forever 21 and GameStop.Shift in consumer shopping habits towards e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu.GameStop's strategy to invest in Bitcoin as a response to retail challenges.Emotional aspects of investing and the volatility of GameStop's stock.Nostalgia for physical media and the transition to digital formats in entertainment.Importance of understanding consumer preferences and emotional drivers in business.The need for businesses to adapt to the changing economic landscape and consumer behavior. If you enjoyed this episode and want to learn more, join Ryan's newsletter https://ryanalford.com/newsletter/ to get Ferrari level advice daily for FREE. Learn how to build a 7 figure business from your personal brand by signing up for a FREE introduction to personal branding https://ryanalford.com/personalbranding. Learn more by visiting our website at www.ryanisright.comSubscribe to our YouTube channel www.youtube.com/@RightAboutNowwithRyanAlford.