Podcasts about retailers

In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Neela Montgomery, Board Director at Ahold Delhaize and Logitech and former CEO of Crate & Barrel, about what major shifts in consumer behavior mean for brands and retailers. Drawing on a career spent at the intersection of consumers, retailers, and brands, Neela shares her perspective on some of the most meaningful shifts in consumer behavior today and what they could mean for commerce.From the rapid adoption of GLP-1s to growing attention around women's health and menopause, Neela examines how changing needs and behaviors are showing up across the consumer landscape. She explores the ripple effects these shifts could have across categories, how they may reshape what consumers expect from brands and retailers, and where new opportunities could emerge as a result.Key takeaways:Brands need to look beyond the immediate impact of a consumer trend to understand how it could influence behaviors and demand across categories.Product development and messaging should evolve alongside changing consumer priorities, rather than relying on assumptions about what shoppers value.Retailers have an opportunity to better understand consumers through different stages of their lives and create more relevant experiences around their changing needs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Retailers spend fortunes perfecting the store, then hand the whole experience over to 30 seconds at the counter. In our latest episode, Senior Retail Analyst Lavina Suthenthiran sits down with Jessie Cole, Director of Strategic Planning at Effy Jewelry, and Sandra Ishak, Head of Marketing, Americas at Ingenico, to break down why the physical checkout moment carries as much weight as the first impression, and what it takes to get it right. INSIDE THE EPISODE: - Why the last touchpoint matters as much as the first, illustrated by Effy's cruise ship business, where community-driven checkout experiences bring customers back to the counter even when they're not buying. - How the "peak-end rule" explains why one frustrating moment, like a rebooting terminal or a clunky interface, can erase 45 minutes of great in-store browsing. - Why retailers are now asking Ingenico for operational simplicity and mobile flexibility over raw speed, from managing devices remotely across hundreds of stores to checking customers out anywhere with an NFC phone. - How fixing checkout takes more than new hardware, from Effy's approach of listening to sales associates to Ingenico's emphasis on testing the full workflow before rollout. Listen above to learn how to turn checkout from your store's last afterthought into its strongest loyalty driver.

Amit Chachek spent two decades building award winning visual effects for brands like Walmart and Coke before founding WeR AR, an augmented reality company built to fix the physical retail shelf.His core argument is simple. Retailers know everything about their backroom inventory and everything about the point of sale, but the space in between, the shelf itself, is a blind spot.Amit walks through how WeR AR uses a standard smartphone camera, no robots or fixed shelf cameras required, to let employees detect, verify, and fix shelf issues in real time. He explains the RGIS partnership, how data ownership is split between the platform and the retailer, and why he still believes smart glasses are three to five years from being useful in the enterprise.Listeners get a grounded look at where AI actually helps on the retail floor right now, and where the hype around wearables and robotics still outpaces reality.Website: https://expanio.com/Podcast website: https://expanio.com/commerce-untold-podcast/Eitan Koter's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eitankoter/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@expanioglobalGuest: Amit Chachek, CEO, WeR ARAmit Chachek's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amitchachekWeR AR: https://wer.ioKey Takeaways: • The retail shelf hasn't changed in 100 years, and that gap between backroom and POS data is where retailers are blind • A regular smartphone camera can replace shelf scanning robots and fixed cameras, cutting hardware and ROI headaches • Augmented reality on shelf can cut daily shelf management tasks by fifty to eighty percent • Humans empowered by AR outperform robots because robots can detect problems but cannot execute fixes on the shelf • Vision-language models still can't consistently understand spatial environments from video, which is why smart glasses remain years away from real utility • Winning enterprise retail deals takes one internal champion willing to test in real stores for over a year before wider rolloutChapters:[00:16] Introduction: From VFX to Retail Shelves[01:11] Amit's ADHD Story and the Road to Entrepreneurship[04:20] Leaving Media and Entertainment for Augmented Reality[09:40] How AI Reshaped WeR AR's Roadmap[13:43] Pitching Shelf Intelligence to Store Managers[15:23] Smartphones vs. Shelf Scanning Robots[17:20] The RGIS Partnership and Retail Data Ownership[22:19] Smart Glasses, Qualcomm, and Why Phones Still Win

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Axios reported that Walmart raised its outlook while saying drug price declines pressured pharmacy results. Pharmacy margins are being squeezed by reimbursement terms set by PBMs, generic drug deflation, and the 2024 shift of pharmacy DIR fees to the point of sale. CVS Health and Walgreens Boots Alliance have cited similar headwinds, while Amazon Pharmacy, Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company, and GoodRx are reshaping price transparency and consumer behavior. The Inflation Reduction Act will add Medicare drug price negotiations in 2026 and a $2,000 Part D out-of-pocket cap in 2025, which could shift volumes and reimbursement flows. Rising demand for GLP-1 drugs adds inventory and authorization complexity without guaranteed margin lift. Walmart's 2024 exit from its health clinics highlights how reimbursement pressures influence strategy, pushing focus back to core pharmacy services and OTC products.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Retailers are racing to deploy AI, but what happens when your newest employee knows everything except how your business works? In this edition of 5 Insightful Minutes, Arbor Sejdiji, Founder & CEO of Zenline AI, joins Omni Talk to explain why the key to making agentic AI work in merchandising may come down to one thing: context. Arbor explains why AI agents are like highly educated employees on day one, capable and intelligent but unfamiliar with a company's processes, products, terminology, and decision-making history. He breaks down how “context engineering” can turn years of merchandising knowledge into a company brain, while AI analyzes everything from retail data to TikTok and social media to identify shopper needs, uncover assortment gaps, and accelerate some of retail's most important decisions. Key Topics Covered: • Why an AI agent is like a new employee on day one • What “context engineering” means and why it matters for retail AI • How retailers can turn years of merchandising knowledge into a “company brain” • Why merchandise planning is one of retail's hardest AI problems • How AI can analyze structured data and unstructured sources like TikTok and social media • How Zenline identifies assortment gaps and emerging shopper needs • Why speed matters when turning assortment insights into action • Where retailers can see ROI from AI in assortment planning first • How AI can move from strategic assortment decisions into operational merchandising • Why the hardest retail problems may now be solvable with AI Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content

Phillip and Alicia open the back-to-school season with a modern dichotomy: NRF data shows shoppers playing chicken, while Shopify posts a quarter where agentic traffic tripled. PLUS: After a summer abroad in London, Phillip reflects on behaviors unique to U.S. shoppers. Get ‘Em While They're Young Key takeaways: Retailers are manufacturing visible human effort as a hedge against frictionless AI commerce. Play is a form of consumption. Browsing kids are already converting. Back-to-school splits into two camps: early movers and deal holdouts. Shopify's agentic traffic tripled as answer engines are becoming a back-to-school search surface. U.S. share of wallet favors experience, forcing a fusion of retail and hospitality. [00:17:11] Alicia: "When you create these spaces that are conducive to young people, you're kind of creating this magnet moment that ultimately motivates them to shop." [00:28:18] Phillip: "What's really wild about the mini brands thing is…we all complain about shrinkflation, then also buy the mini of something, which is a premiumization of a per-unit cost…We are irrational by nature, and brands would do well to play at both ends of the spectrum." [00:40:17] Alicia: "[Søstrene Grene] almost feels like it's more high-touch because it's kind of imperfect." 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.

Target reports quarterly results before the bell on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, offering a read on consumer demand and pricing. Key metrics to watch include comparable sales, traffic, and category mix between essentials and discretionary items. Digital performance through Drive Up, Order Pickup, and Shipt will influence fulfillment economics and labor planning. Gross margin, inventory levels, markdowns, and shrink will shape profitability outcomes. Pricing strategy, Target Circle loyalty activity, and private-label penetration will show how the retailer competes on value. Executives Brian Cornell and Michael Fiddelke are expected to frame the outlook and guidance while highlighting Roundel retail media as a margin lever.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cattle herds are at a national low not seen since the 1950s. That's driving up the price of beef for consumers, but it's also affecting the companies that process cows into steaks and burgers. In this episode, why meatpacking plants are shuttering. Plus: Home Depot stays afloat despite a “frozen” housing market, retailers prepare to release quarterly earnings, and interior design is stuck in a “color recession.”Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.Read the stories in today's episode:Here's why Home Depot calls housing market "frozen"Retailers should be doing well, despite consumer challengesDespite a slow alcohol retail market, this Wyoming distillery is expandingMeatpacking plants close as U.S. cattle herds shrink to a nearly 75-year lowIs the greige wave here to stay?

Cattle herds are at a national low not seen since the 1950s. That's driving up the price of beef for consumers, but it's also affecting the companies that process cows into steaks and burgers. In this episode, why meatpacking plants are shuttering. Plus: Home Depot stays afloat despite a “frozen” housing market, retailers prepare to release quarterly earnings, and interior design is stuck in a “color recession.”Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.Read the stories in today's episode:Here's why Home Depot calls housing market "frozen"Retailers should be doing well, despite consumer challengesDespite a slow alcohol retail market, this Wyoming distillery is expandingMeatpacking plants close as U.S. cattle herds shrink to a nearly 75-year lowIs the greige wave here to stay?

Retail theft is not a new issue, but is indeed a global problem today. With new technology and industry collaboration, retailers can deploy smart tactics to keep their assets and employees safe. Ed Woodall, CEO of the UK's Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), and Michael O'Loughlin of 360 Degrees Retail Limited join Dan Munford to break down why retail crime across UK convenience and forecourt sites has become one of the sector's most urgent operational challenges. With special guests: Ed Woodall, CEO, Associaiton of Convenience Stores (ACS) and Michael O'Loughlin, Managing Director of 360 Degrees Retail Limited and Pay My Fuel Hosted by: Dan Munford

This episode is brought to you by Lightspeed.From fiber maxxing and liver health to GLP-1 support and protein-packed everything, wellness trends are evolving faster than ever. For retailers, the challenge isn't just keeping up, it's helping customers separate hype from lasting habits.In this episode of Retail Remix, Kate Robertson sits down with Sharon Leite, CEO of The Vitamin Shoppe, to discuss the findings from the company's 2026 Health & Wellness Trend Report. Sharon shares how The Vitamin Shoppe is identifying emerging trends through social media, supporting customers with trusted education and curated product assortments and using AI to empower associates with science-backed insights. The conversation also explores how wellness priorities differ across generations and why credibility has become one of retail's most valuable assets. Key TakeawaysHow trends like fiber maxxing, liver health and GLP-1 support are reshaping the health and wellness category Why trust, product quality and science-backed education have become critical differentiators in wellness retail How The Vitamin Shoppe is using AI to equip store associates with better research and customer guidance Why Gen Z and Boomers approach wellness differently — from health FOMO to healthy aging How curated assortments, knowledgeable associates and nearly 50 years of credibility set The Vitamin Shoppe apart in an increasingly crowded market Related LinksLearn more about Lightspeed's commerce platform for retailersExplore The Vitamin Shoppe's wellness products, health resources and trend insightsCheck out The Vitamin Shoppe Health & Wellness Trend Report 2026Read: Torrid, Circana and PwC Executives Discuss How GLP-1s Are Impacting RetailGet more retail industry insights from Retail TouchPointsSubscribe and catch up on all episodes of Retail Remix ----Ready to make smarter inventory, merchandising and buying decisions? Discover how Lightspeed helps retailers streamline operations, manage inventory and stay ahead of changing customer demand at lightspeedhq.com/pos/retail 

Retailers are optimistic a bump in spending will stick around. Latest Stats NZ data on electronic card transactions shows July's core retail spending is up 3.5% compared to the same time last year. Retail NZ says it's an encouraging sign considering the winter months are typically slower for the sector. Communications Manager Denise Garland told Mike Hosking the FIFA World Cup was likely a big factor in the positive hospitality numbers. She says it's been a rocky year for retail, but they're seeing more people out and about and in cafes and restaurants, so there's hope the bounce will continue. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's less than a month until Auckland's City Rail Link opens, but a transport advocate says the city risks not making the most of it. Since April, Auckland Transport has been running a trial to allow cars on some bus lanes around Te Wai Horotiu station after 7pm and before 7am. The idea is that it will improve evening access to key arts and entertainment venues. Business Association Heart of the City pushed for the trial, saying banning general traffic around parts of Queen Street and Wellesley Street was hurting economic recovery. Connor Sharp - from the transport and urban advocacy organisation Greater Auckland - spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss

Retailers want to grow. The question is what they'll pay for the right space.Retailers want more stores. Vacancy remains historically low. And meaningful new retail development is still years away.So what does that mean for the next five years of retail real estate? What are the forces today that are driving the future?At the center of the August What's in Store conversation between CBRE's Karly Iacono and Chris Ressa is a fundamental supply and demand imbalance. Retailers continue to look for opportunities to grow, but the economics of large-scale new development remain challenging. Construction costs, land availability, interest rates and exit values all factor into the equation.But there is one lever that ultimately has to move to make more projects pencil: rent.And that shift is already underway.The question is how far it can go, and what happens along the way.Karly and Chris dig into what rising net effective rents and limited new supply could mean for existing retail real estate, and whether retailers have more room to pay for the locations they really want. They also explore why the physical store has become more valuable to retailers, not just as a place to generate sales, but as a critical part of how brands reach and serve their customers.The changing market is influencing more than rents. Retailers are rethinking the traditional store prototype, using better data to make decisions about where to open, how big to go and which formats make sense in different markets. The result is a much more nuanced approach to expansion, from flagships and large-format stores to smaller concepts, outlets and pop-ups.And as competition for the right space increases, the way deals get done is evolving too. Lease negotiations are changing, retailers are planning their pipelines years in advance, and both sides are looking for ways to move from opportunity to open store faster.Where does all of this lead?The conditions shaping retail real estate today could define the market for years to come. What's changing now, what still needs to change, and what it could mean for the next five years.What You'll HearWhy rents need to rise before meaningful new retail development returnsHow low vacancy is making the right locations more valuableWhy retailers are getting more intentional about where and how they growHow better data is creating more conviction around store decisionsWhy physical stores matter more than the headlines suggestHow the landlord and tenant dynamic is shiftingChapters03:10 - When does new retail development come back?Chris explains why rent, not retailer demand, is the biggest hurdle standing between today's market and meaningful new shopping center construction.05:45 - The rent growth hiding in plain sightFace rents don't tell the whole story as TI packages, retailer investment and net effective rents reshape deal economics.08:36 - Does geography change the development equation?Land availability, Sun Belt growth, interest rates and construction costs determine where new projects have the best chance of penciling.11:12 - The physical store is more valuable than the headlines suggestChris argues that the market still underestimates what stores do for retailers and their relationship with consumers.12:03 - Retail's one-prototype era is overRetailers are using data to make smarter decisions about formats, distribution, clustering and market-specific store strategies.16:41 - What younger consumers reveal about physical retailKarly's New York retail tour with her kids shows how pop-ups, flagships and social media can work together to drive real-world shopping.21:09 - Lease negotiations are moving back toward balanceAfter years of tenant-friendly movement, landlords and retailers are becoming more pragmatic about non-monetary provisions and getting deals done.24:24 - Why the store-opening timeline still needs workRetailers are planning pipelines years in advance because leases, municipalities and multiple decision-makers make timelines difficult to compress.27:02 - The lease provision seeing the biggest shiftUse restrictions have become significantly more flexible as shopping center tenant mixes continue to evolve.29:28 - The local entrepreneur has changedMore founders are thinking about scale, franchising, private equity and monetization before they even open location number one.

The salient focus of our discourse today revolves around the intricate dynamics of tariff refunds within the furniture supply chain, particularly emphasizing the implications of Amazon's recent disclosure regarding the recovery of approximately $600 million in import duties. This substantial sum, while noteworthy, raises critical questions about the distribution and equitable passage of such refunds through the supply chain, a topic that has not been sufficiently addressed by various stakeholders in the industry. We delineate the three distinct categories of vendors in the current landscape: those who have expeditiously passed refunds to retailers, those who offer vague assurances without immediate action, and those who provide no clarity at all, thereby potentially jeopardizing trust in their business relationships. Furthermore, we explore the argument that refunds should rightfully belong to those who assumed the associated risks, namely the retailers, as opposed to merely the entities listed on customs documents. As we analyze these complex issues, we aim to elucidate the broader implications for pricing strategies and consumer trust in an ever-evolving market. The intricacies of tariff refunds and their implications on the furniture retail landscape emerge as a focal point of our discussion. As we delve into the recent revelation concerning Amazon's recovery of approximately $600 million in import duties, we uncover a vital narrative regarding the distribution of financial responsibility throughout the supply chain. It is imperative to recognize that the refund process is not merely a financial windfall for the retailer but rather a necessary rectification of a cost that should never have been borne indefinitely. Retailers face significant risk when determining pricing strategies amidst fluctuating tariff costs, and the decisions they make now will resonate throughout the industry. The episode underscores the criticality of transparency and accountability among vendors, as we categorize them into three distinct camps based on their responsiveness to tariff refunds. Such classification not only reflects their operational ethos but also sets the tone for future collaborations and trust within the industry.Takeaways:The recent podcast episode elucidates the complex dynamics of tariff refunds within the furniture supply chain, emphasizing the need for transparency in financial transactions.Amazon's strategy of absorbing tariff costs rather than passing them directly to consumers underscores a significant shift in retail pricing practices.Retailers must navigate the intricate balance of refund allocations, as the responsibility lies with those who initially bore the financial burden of tariffs.The evolving landscape of consumer behavior reveals that specific explanations for price increases can foster trust, in contrast to vague justifications that may provoke skepticism.

Subscription acquisition may be slowing, but that doesn't mean consumers are falling out of love with subscriptions. Instead, they're becoming far more selective about which services earn a permanent place in their monthly budgets.In this episode of Retail Remix, Kate Robertson sits down with Rachel Sheriff, Chief Customer Officer at Recurly, to unpack the findings from the company's 2026 State of Subscriptions report. Rachel explains why retention has become the industry's biggest challenge, how flexible features like subscription pauses are helping brands reduce churn and why fashion rental services like Nuuly are thriving by delivering affordability, convenience and personalization. The conversation also explores what traditional retailers can learn from subscription-first businesses as they look to deepen customer loyalty and create more predictable revenue streams.Key TakeawaysWhy subscription businesses are shifting their focus from acquisition to retention as consumers become more intentional about recurring purchases How flexible features like subscription pauses help brands reduce churn while keeping customers engaged over the long term Why fashion rental platforms like Nuuly are succeeding through affordability, flexibility and sustainable wardrobe options How traditional retailers are experimenting with subscription models that combine physical products, digital services and exclusive member experiences Why delivering ongoing value, transparency and a strong customer experience has become the key to earning lasting subscriber loyalty Related LinksExplore Recurly's subscription management platform and the latest subscription commerce insightsGet more retail industry insights from Retail TouchPointsSubscribe and catch up on all episodes of Retail Remix

The salient point of this podcast episode revolves around the significant financial implications of recent tariff refunds, amounting to approximately $100 billion, which have begun to permeate the earnings reports of various companies within the furniture industry. We emphasize the critical necessity for operators in this sector to discern their status as the importer of record, as this designation is pivotal in determining eligibility for these refunds. Notably, we discuss the broader ramifications of the Supreme Court's ruling concerning tariffs and the subsequent flow of funds, which, while substantial, may merely represent a temporary reprieve rather than a definitive resolution to ongoing tariff challenges. The conversation further delves into how these financial dynamics not only affect balance sheets but also inform competitive strategies, particularly in the context of pricing and customer relationships. In conclusion, we underscore the importance of vigilance and strategic foresight for both suppliers and retailers navigating the complexities of this evolving financial landscape. A significant topic of discussion within the realm of the furniture industry pertains to the recent financial developments triggered by tariff refunds, a subject of considerable relevance for stakeholders across the sector. The federal government has refunded approximately $100 billion, which constitutes a substantial portion of the revenue collected under tariffs instituted through the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. This episode delves into the implications of these refunds, particularly focusing on the financial positions of various companies within the industry. Industry expert Ray Allegreza emphasizes the necessity for operators to comprehend who qualifies for these refunds, as only the importer of record, the entity recognized on the customs entry, is entitled to these funds. Consequently, companies that procured goods through distributors or wholesalers may find themselves excluded from this financial boon, despite having absorbed the costs of these tariffs in their pricing structures. Moreover, the episode underscores the strategic importance of understanding one's position in relation to these refunds. For example, if a retailer is not the importer of record, it must remain vigilant, as competitors who do qualify may experience an influx of unexpected liquidity, enabling them to bolster their inventory, enhance product development, and engage in aggressive advertising strategies. This dynamic could potentially alter the competitive landscape, making it imperative for retailers to recognize the implications of tariff refunds on their pricing and purchasing decisions. Allegreza presents the notion that this refund process might be an ‘intermission' rather than a conclusive end, as the tariff regime still imposes duties of 10% to 12.5%, along with an additional 50% tariff on certain Canadian goods, indicating that the financial ramifications of tariffs will continue to be felt in the future. Furthermore, the episode provides a detailed analysis of various companies' financial performances in light of these tariff refunds. Bob's Discount Furniture and Our House both reported significant growth in net revenues and net income, attributing part of their financial success to the tariff refunds. However, the conversation extends beyond mere numbers, highlighting the strategic decisions made by these companies in response to market conditions, including pricing strategies and customer engagement initiatives. The episode effectively weaves together economic analysis, industry insights, and strategic considerations, offering a comprehensive overview of the current state of the furniture industry amidst evolving financial dynamics.Takeaways:The recent tariff refunds, amounting to approximately $100 billion, significantly impact furniture industry financials, necessitating careful financial analysis.Understanding one's status as the importer of record is crucial for accessing tariff refunds, which may not automatically benefit all parties involved.Retailers must navigate the complexities of tariff refunds, as suppliers' decisions regarding pricing may affect their competitive positioning.The competitive landscape of the furniture industry is shifting, with successful retailers leveraging tariff refunds to enhance product development and advertising efforts.

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us!Who, or what, do you trust? Retailers who think moving quickly on generative AI as the winning strategy, may be sacrificing trust for speed driven by board and competitive pressure, not customer demand. Speed without building a trust framework is how brands may lose the very customers they're racing to win. Join Shelley and Alice Pope, author of The Trust Algorithm: How Leaders Build Trust with Generative AI to get up to speed on a current trust recession. Alice says that we are facing more customer data than ever yet have a deeper skepticism about AI than ever. This conversation unpacks why unclear ownership, rushed rollouts, and eroding employee trust are creating governance gaps and quietly undermining the AI strategies retail boards have invested in. Listen and learn how to avoid the trust recession.Guest: Alice Pope, author, The Trust Algorithm: How Leaders Build Trust with Generative AI. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com, where you can read, watch, and listen to content from retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter.

Scott Humphrey, CEO of the World Floor Covering Association, and Kemp Harr discuss the highlights of his organization's Step Up Tour of flooring retailers. Listen to the interview to learn more about where the group traveled and what they learned about what makes some flooring retailers more successful than others.

Enterprise retailers index only 40-50% of their product pages. Joe Doran, Chief Product Officer at Botify, breaks down why LLM crawlers—decades behind Googlebot in sophistication—struggle to render JavaScript-heavy PDPs and confirmation-crawl product data before citing it. Learn why product feeds now demand the same scrutiny as on-page SEO, how OpenAI's Agentic Commerce Protocol reshapes structured data requirements, and why citation rate and crawl volume correlations outperform synthetic share-of-voice metrics for measuring AI search visibility.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

NBC's Rory O'Neill on the start of school and the fall season

Tom Szaky built TerraCycle into a recycling giant, then decided recycling wasn't good enough. His new venture, Loop, aimed to replace disposable packaging with reusable containers for brands like Tide and Häagen-Dazs. Consumers loved it. Retailers loved it. So why did it nearly die in four out of five test markets? Szaky breaks down the hidden flaw that almost killed Loop, and the simple insight that finally made it scale. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by KWI.As AI reshapes the grocery industry, independent retailers face a critical question: will the technology help them compete, or widen the gap between them and national chains?In this episode of Retail Remix, Kate Robertson sits down with Tal Zlotnitsky, Founder and CEO of Breez AI, to discuss why he believes AI represents both the biggest threat and the greatest opportunity for regional and independent grocers. Tal explains why owning the AI that interacts with shoppers will become increasingly important, how Breez AI is helping grocers create more personalized shopping experiences and why the future of grocery shopping will revolve less around shopping lists and more around planning meals, occasions and everyday life.This episode is brought to you by KWI. KWI is the best-kept secret in retail. Find out what the secret is at kwi.com/RTP. Key TakeawaysWhy independent grocers need to “own” the AI relationship with shoppers to preserve customer loyalty and valuable first-party data How Breez AI is shifting grocery shopping from product-based searches to AI-powered meal and occasion planning Why personalized AI experiences — not generic loyalty programs — will define the next generation of grocery customer engagement How AI can help shoppers save time, reduce food waste and stay within budget without sacrificing control over their shopping decisions Why Tal believes AI should strengthen independent grocers — not replace the community relationships that make them uniqueRelated LinksLearn more about Breez AI and its AI platform for independent grocersGet more retail industry insights from Retail TouchPointsSubscribe and catch up on all episodes of Retail Remix ----KWI is the best-kept secret in retail. Find out what the secret is at kwi.com/RTP.

On today’s program, we talk with a senior vice president of the Massachusetts Association of Retailers about the summer so far and the back to school economy. The chief financial officer of the Boston Red Sox looks at the red hot Red Sox during the month of July. The executive editor of the Boston Business Journal shares this week‘s top business headlines, including a new way to get to the airport. And finally, Jim Koch, CEO of Boston Beer, makers of Sam Adams, shares the latest news about his industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the most valuable customer acquisition channel you're ignoring is the one you've always written off as just a discount tool?Agility requires not just adapting to new customer behaviors, but fundamentally re-evaluating long-held beliefs about which channels drive growth and which ones are merely a race to the bottom.Retailers are making big moves into the cashback ecosystem.Today, we're going to talk about the shifting economics of customer acquisition and how they are causing many brands to rethink their channel strategy. To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome, Carolina Paradas, GM, North America at ShopBack.Enjoyed the show? Tell us more at and give us a rating so others can find the show at: https://aglbrnd.co/r/faaed112fc9887f3Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://aglbrnd.co/r/35ded3ccfb6716baCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.comThe Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will your boutique be ready for Fall/Winter 2026—or will you be buying yesterday's trends? Before you head to market, discover the colors, silhouettes, prints, denim, shoes, and styling trends expected to define the upcoming season. After visiting 28 trade shows and working with more than 800 wholesale brands, Samantha Conner shares what's emerging on the showroom floor—and how boutique owners can buy smarter before these trends hit the mainstream. You'll learn: The colors expected to dominate Fall 2026 Ways to merchandise and style trends to increase sales Smart buying strategies for your next market trip How to build collections instead of buying random pieces Join The Boutique Hub  ____________________________ Ashley Alderson: Instagram     The Boutique Hub: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | TikTok | YouTube

Gap Inc. is expanding its creator affiliate program to employees across Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Athleta, allowing staff to earn commissions by becoming brand influencers. Chris Walton and Josh Hahn discuss why employees may be a brand's most authentic creators, how retailers can scale employee-generated content, and whether this could become the future of retail marketing. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/_GsTHL9DBYA

How can independent publishers achieve sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive marketplace? In this episode of “Inside Independent Publishing (with IBPA),” AdventureKEEN Publisher and COO Molly Merkle shares advice about the power of niche publishing and the strategies publishers can use to build loyal readers, stronger sales, and resilient businesses. You'll learn practical tactics about: - growing your backlist through publisher acquisitions and mergers - revitalizing older titles through redesign and repackaging - how to build strong relationships with specialty retailers and distribution partners - and more! Whether you're looking to grow your publishing company, strengthen your backlist, increase profitability, or better understand your target audience, this episode is packed with real-world insights and proven publishing strategies you can put into action right away. GUEST BIO Molly Merkle began her career in book publishing nearly 40 years ago as an intern during college, then moved to full-time work for Menasha Ridge Press, one of AdventureKEEN Publishing's now seven imprints. In early 2023, she was named AdventureKEEN's publisher and continues to serve as its COO. Merkle has been key to executing the company's vision for growth, including the acquisition and integration of several independent presses over the years. She's also helped lead the company through hardship and challenges, which are a fact of life for entrepreneurial publishers. Merkle serves on the board of The Publishers Cooperative, a group of established and emerging independent publishers committed to creating a strong, diverse, equitable, and inclusive publishing industry together. Independent Book Publishers Association is the largest trade association for independent publishers in the United States. As the IBPA Director of Membership & Member Services, Christopher Locke assists the 3,900 members as they travel along their publishing journeys. Major projects include managing the member benefits to curate the most advantageous services for independent publishers and author publishers; managing the Innovative Voices Program that supports publishers from marginalized communities; and hosting the IBPA podcast, “Inside Independent Publishing (with IBPA).” He's also passionate about indie publishing, because he's an author publisher himself, having published two novels so far in his YA trilogy, The Enlightenment Adventures. LINKS Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a member of Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) here: https://www.ibpa-online.org/ Learn more about the AdventureKEEN at https://adventurewithkeen.com/ Follow IBPA on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/IBPAonline Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ibpalovesindies/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/independent-book-publishers-association Follow the AdventureKEEN on: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/adventurekeen/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/adventurewithkeen/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@adventurekeen LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/adventurekeen/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@adventurekeen Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/adventurekeen.bsky.social Blog - https://adventurewithkeen.com/blog/ Learn more about The Publishers Cooperative at https://thepublisherscooperative.com/ Learn more about the Book Industry Charitable Foundation at https://bincfoundation.org/ This episode is presented by Total Printing Systems. Learn more at https://www.tps1.com/

Portland, Oregon is making headlines for all the wrong reasons — Keith Wilson was just hauled into court facing 88 separate retail theft charges, with stores across Multnomah County tallying more than $115,000 in total losses. That's not a crime spree. That's a career. And Portland let it run for case after case after case before anyone intervened.Sean breaks down what it actually takes to get arrested in the Pacific Northwest — apparently something north of 87 prior theft incidents. Security footage existed. Repeat-offender records existed. What didn't exist was the political will to act until the case count became too embarrassing to ignore. Wilson now sits on $300,000 bail, which tells you everything about how dangerous repeat offenders become when cities treat shoplifting as a non-arrest offense.Portland's soft-on-crime experiment has a body count — not always in lives, but in storefronts. Retailers across Oregon, Washington, and California have been quietly closing locations for years because insurance won't cover the losses and employees can't safely intervene. Open-air drug markets absorb stolen merchandise within hours. Wilson's 88-case run is a symptom of a policy failure, not an outlier.Subscribe to @reasonablenews and hit the notification bell — Sean will follow up on this one if it moves.#NFRP #Portland #RetailTheftGO PREMIUM WITH REASONABLE+ FOR UNCENSORED ACCESS

Can businesses help solve one of the world's biggest environmental challenges?In this episode of Logistics with Purpose®, hosts Enrique Alvarez and Kristi Porter sit down with Jesse Langley, CEO of Lotus Sustainables, to explore how innovation, purpose-driven leadership, and supply chain collaboration are reducing our dependence on single-use plastic bags.Jesse shares his remarkable journey from serving in the U.S. Navy to leading a global sustainability company that has already diverted more than 6.5 billion plastic bags from landfills. Together, they discuss why changing consumer behavior is so difficult, the role legislation plays in accelerating sustainability, and how businesses can create products that are better for both people and the planet.The conversation also explores leadership during uncertainty, the power of B Corps and Conscious Capitalism, sustainable innovation, resilient supply chains, and why solving environmental problems starts with building better partnerships.Whether you're a supply chain professional, sustainability leader, entrepreneur, or simply passionate about creating positive impact, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring ideas for building a better future.In this episode you'll learn:Why legislation may be the biggest driver of reducing single-use plasticsHow Lotus Sustainables has diverted over 6.5 billion plastic bags from landfillsWhat purpose-driven leadership looks like during uncertain timesWhy innovation should focus on solving real customer problemsHow B Corps and stakeholder-focused businesses create lasting impactLessons from military leadership that translate into business successWhy Europe is leading the way in sustainability and what others can learnAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Jesse: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-langley/Learn more about Lotus Sustainables: https://lotus-sustainables.com/Learn more about Logistics with Purpose®: https://supplychainnow.com/brands/logistics-with-purpose/Subscribe to Logistics with Purpose®: https://logistics-with-purpose.captivate.fm/listenLearn more about Vector Global Logistics: https://vectorgl.com/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comThis episode was hosted by Enrique Alvarez and Kristi Porter. For addtional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/how-why-retailers-replacing-billions-plastic-bags-lwp161

Nick Goad, BCG's global co-leader for retail merchandising, argues that retail's biggest problem isn't a lack of data, it's the gap between data and real customer understanding. He explains how AI and large language models are finally bridging that divide, making it possible to localize assortment, sharpen pricing, and accelerate product innovation at scale. For leaders wondering where to start, he makes the case for codifying the knowledge already in merchants' heads.What You'll Learn:Retailers have more data than ever, but AI finally gives them the tools to turn it into action merchants can actually trust.The biggest near-term opportunities are in assortment localization, smarter pricing, and AI-accelerated product innovation.The new data advantage for retailers isn't raw data — it's codifying the knowledge already in their merchants' heads.Learn More:BCG's Latest Thinking on the Retail Industry: https://on.bcg.com/4bYoe8xMerch AI by BCGX: https://on.bcg.com/3RxTfJFChapters(0:00) Has Retail Lost Its Personal Touch?(1:13) Serving Customers Before the Digital Age(2:33) The Internet's Impact on Retail(3:11) Does More Data Mean Better Customer Understanding?(4:12) Why Are Retailers Drowning in Complexity?(5:32) What Can AI Do to Help Retailers?(7:02) Will AI Create a New Data Overload?(7:54) What Are Retail Leaders Hopes and Fears for AI?(9:02) Will AI Get Products to the Shelf Faster?(9:57) Will AI Influence Product Design?(10:37) Can AI Create More Personalized Loyalty Programs?(11:34) How Will AI Shape the Shopping Experience?(12:02) Is Physical Retail Here to Stay?(13:36) Will AI Make All Our Shopping Decisions for Us?(14:23) Where Can Retailers Make the Biggest Changes?(15:00) Where Should Retailers Apply AI First?(15:48) What New Data Advantage Can AI Create?Meet the Expert:Nick Goad, BCG Managing Director & Senior Partner: https://on.bcg.com/4wuIlU0Listen to Other Episodes of The So What from BCG podcastPunch Cards, Frequent Flyers, and the Future of Loyalty: https://lnk.to/so-what-BCG-Crouch-Loyalty09YouTube | https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJgyXjV5gMI9JV-GcF_D1Y6zyf1Eab_0&si=plXqe7-YNzbG56U8Apple | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-so-what-from-bcg/id1591194141Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/2NSVR7qrAyZ4CaGsnknbBk?si=1d846c2af8784923Other platforms | https://lnk.to/so-what-general-show12Follow BCGhttps://www.bcg.com/LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/boston-consulting-groupThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Ukrainian President Volodmyr Zelensky and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sit down with President Donald Trump for separate high-stakes meetings. The US Geological Survey says southern Japan was rocked by a 6.8 magnitude earthquake. The northeastern US is on high alert for flooding today. Retailers are staying away from produce coming from part of Central Mexico – we'll tell you why. And President Trump wants the Supreme Court to consider his plan to reshape mail-in voting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

More retailers are offering buy now pay later services to meet shopper demand, but an industry association says a significant number remain unconvinced the lay-by payment options are actually worth it. Retail NZ chief executive, Carolyn Young spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.

This episode is brought to you by KWI.Instacart recently crossed $1 billion in quarterly revenue, and alongside its impressive marketplace growth, it's also evolving into a powerful technology partner for retailers while continuing to redefine the digital grocery experience.In this episode of Retail Remix, Kate Robertson speaks with Ryan Hamburger, Chief Commercial Officer at Instacart, about the company's expanding role across marketplace services, enterprise technology, retail media and AI. Ryan explains why trust has become the foundation of digital grocery, how Instacart is helping retailers modernize their digital infrastructure and why the future of grocery depends on connecting online and in-store experiences—not choosing between them.  Key TakeawaysHow Instacart's marketplace, enterprise technology, retail media and AI businesses work together to fuel long-term growth  Why trust—from accurate substitutions to reliable fulfillment—is the biggest driver of customer loyalty in digital grocery  How AI is improving both the customer experience through shopping assistants and store operations through computer vision and shelf monitoring  Why retailers should focus on building connected omnichannel experiences instead of treating digital and physical stores as separate businesses  Why Instacart believes enterprise technology represents one of grocery retail's biggest opportunities over the next several years Related LinksLearn more about Instacart's platform and enterprise technology solutions for retailersDon't miss RTP's latest reports on Instacart: CEO Chris Rogers Shares AI and Ad Strategy as Instacart Revenues Reach $1 Billion in Q1; Instacart Acquires Arpalus Shelf-Scanning TechnologyGet more retail industry insights from Retail TouchPointsSubscribe and catch up on all episodes of Retail RemixKWI is the best-kept secret in retail. Find out what the secret is at kwi.com/RTP. ----KWI is the best-kept secret in retail. Find out what the secret is at kwi.com/RTP.

Pat Maher, CEO of Atkins Ranch, discusses how Atkins Ranch has created a differentiated, yet high-quality lamb product that justifies premium shelf placement -- and is putting more money back in the pockets of the 100-plus New Zealand sheep farmers who are part of the cooperative.

The recent imposition of new tariffs on imports from 60 countries, effective as of 12:01 AM today, constitutes a pivotal development that necessitates our immediate attention. With rates ranging from 10% to 12.5%, the complexities surrounding these duties extend far beyond the headline figures, as they often compound existing tariffs, thereby significantly impacting the cost structure of various products within the furniture industry. This episode delves into the multifaceted consequences of these tariffs, drawing upon a recent study that quantifies the financial burden placed upon households in the Midwest, revealing an estimated cost of approximately $2,000 per household due to last year's trade disruptions. Furthermore, we shall examine the paradoxical consumer behavior wherein spending continues to rise despite eroding savings, thereby compelling retailers to adapt their strategies in response to shifting economic pressures. Additionally, we will explore the critical role of online reviews in influencing consumer decisions, underscoring the necessity for businesses to maintain an exemplary digital reputation amid these turbulent times.Takeaways:The recent implementation of tariffs on imports from sixty countries significantly complicates the cost structure for the furniture industry.Despite rising costs due to tariffs, consumer spending continues to reach unprecedented levels, highlighting a paradox in economic behavior.A recent study indicates that the trade war has had a profound financial impact on Midwest households, costing them approximately $2,000 each in 2025.Retailers must acknowledge that the current economic environment has led to increased reliance on credit, which complicates consumer purchasing power.Store experiences have improved, with high satisfaction scores; however, price perception remains a critical area needing attention.Online reviews play a pivotal role in consumer decision-making, necessitating that businesses actively manage their digital reputation.

Today's episode is a short excerpt from a previous conversation I had with one of our amazing Paper Camp students.I really love using this podcast to spotlight the incredible things that our students are doing because there is so much value in hearing how other product brands are navigating wholesale in real time. These episodes are also a great reminder that there is no singular path to success when it comes to selling wholesale. You get to decide what works best for you and your brand. Today you're getting an inside look at how one brand does things which will surely spark ideas for you. You can listen to the full episode with Alex Gagné of Chez Gagné here: http://prooftoproduct.com/106 Quick Links:Free Wholesale Audio SeriesFree Resources LibraryFree Email Marketing for Product MakersPTP LABSPaper Camp

I've had retailers with 18 years in business tell me the same thing after just a few months working with us — and it isn't what you'd expect.Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly.Most of us are convinced we're on top of our numbers. Shopify pings with every sale, we know our best sellers by heart, and we watch the sales roll in. But in this episode I dig into the uncomfortable gap between looking at your numbers and actually understanding what they're telling you to do next — the difference that quietly decides whether your stock is working for you or slowly working against you.I walk through the questions most retailers never stop to ask. Is your best seller selling fast enough, or should you be buying twice as many? Are you carrying twice the stock you actually need? Is one category — or even one supplier — secretly funding your whole business, or quietly trapping your cash? If you've ever felt like you're “all over your numbers” but still can't confidently answer what to buy, what to clear, or what to plan for next, this one is for you.I also share the shift that's helping retailers get more sales from less stock, free up cash they didn't know was trapped, and walk into their busiest months without panic-buying — plus how to tell whether you need a Stock Doctor, an accountant, or both. By the end, you'll know exactly why collecting data isn't the same as making decisions, and what to do about it. Press play to hear how.In this episode00:00: The confession every experienced retailer makes02:36: Rear-view mirror vs sat nav: how to actually read your numbers04:53: What we look for when we analyse your stock07:52: Stock Doctor vs your accountant — and who this is really forUseful linksFind out more about Stock Doctor: https://stockdoctor.netConnect with me on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/catherineerdlyMore episodes & resources: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast/

In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, we sit down with Michael Potter, Partnerships Director at Bikeflights, fresh off the NBDA Retailer Summit Central in Bentonville, to discuss the latest shipping trends shaping the bike industry, including common e-bike shipping misconceptions, and insight into shipping trends with events and bike travel.Michael also unveils Bikeflights' new RFID tracking label program, a game-changer for shops dealing with transit delays or lost packages, and shares how retailers can start leveraging shipping as a competitive advantage.Support the show

The recent imposition of a 50% tariff on a wide array of Canadian imports, including furniture, represents a significant development within the industry, prompting urgent reflection among retailers regarding their sourcing strategies. This tariff, set to take effect on August 19, directly challenges the previous assumption of Canada as a safe haven for sourcing, compelling stakeholders to reassess their inventory and pricing structures in light of potential margin pressures. Additionally, the episode delves into the ramifications of Sleep Number's acquisition by Sleep Country Canada, following its Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, which may redefine competitive dynamics in the bedding sector. The discussion further encompasses the evolving marketing strategies employed by manufacturers of adjustable bases, emphasizing the necessity for retailers to enhance their sales techniques to better convey the health benefits of these products. As we navigate this complex landscape, it becomes evident that the interplay of tariffs, corporate acquisitions, and innovative selling approaches will significantly shape the future of the furniture industry. The podcast delves into the implications of the recent imposition of a significant tariff on a wide spectrum of Canadian imports, including furniture, which has been a surprise to many within the retail sector. This new regulation, which is set to take effect imminently, comes at a time when many retailers had strategically shifted their sourcing to Canada to circumvent tariffs on Asian goods. The speakers elucidate how this unexpected tariff demonstrates the volatility of international trade relations, particularly emphasizing that businesses must remain vigilant and adaptable to such changes. They underscore the importance of assessing one's supply chain in light of this new duty, urging retailers to evaluate their Canadian-sourced products and anticipate potential margin pressures that may arise in the coming months. This analysis is not only essential for immediate operational adjustments but also critical for long-term strategic planning as the industry navigates these tumultuous waters. Moreover, the conversation transitions to the recent developments regarding Sleep Number's Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, culminating in the announcement of a buyer, Sleep Country Canada. The speakers provide a comprehensive overview of the implications of this acquisition for the broader bedding market, highlighting how a stabilized Sleep Number brand, backed by a financially robust parent company, poses a renewed challenge to competitors. They thoughtfully consider the ramifications of this transaction, noting how it may influence market dynamics and consumer perceptions, especially as Sleep Country seeks to leverage Sleep Number's innovative technologies in their expansion efforts. This segment of the podcast serves to inform industry stakeholders about the evolving landscape of competition and the necessity for proactive strategic responses. Lastly, the discussion shifts to the retail environment, characterized by dwindling foot traffic amidst a backdrop of uneven sales performance. The speakers analyze the current consumer behavior patterns, illustrating a dichotomy between premium buyers and value-seeking shoppers. They articulate that even in a challenging market, the quality of demand remains robust among those who do venture into stores, emphasizing the importance of enhancing the customer engagement experience. The podcast suggests that retailers ought to focus on optimizing their sales strategies and training their staff to capitalize on the high-stakes nature of each customer interaction, thereby maximizing revenue per visit. In conclusion, the episode encapsulates a series of critical insights into the complexities of the furniture industry and the multifaceted challenges that retailers must adeptly navigate in this evolving landscape.Takeaways:The recent imposition of a 50% tariff on Canadian imports, including furniture, significantly alters sourcing strategies for retailers, necessitating immediate reassessment of cost structures.The acquisition of Sleep Number's assets by Sleep Country Canada marks a pivotal transition, with implications for market competitiveness, particularly in the bedding sector.Manufacturers of adjustable bases are advocating for a paradigm shift, asserting that these products should be perceived as essential components of sleep systems rather than mere upgrades.Retailers are urged to enhance their sales techniques by focusing on the health benefits of adjustable bases, thus optimizing customer engagement and sales conversion rates.The remodeling market remains robust despite challenges in new home construction, suggesting a strategic avenue for furniture retailers to capitalize on existing homeowner investments.Artificial intelligence is poised to transform supply chain visibility and efficiency, yet it is crucial for organizations to ensure data integrity and interconnectivity across platforms to maximize its potential.

Why can we track a meal traveling across town almost minute by minute, yet an international parcel can seemingly disappear between checkout and delivery? In this episode, I speak with Dieter Van Putte from Crossborder Global, a division of Bnode that provides global commerce and logistics services. Dieter oversees technology and operations across Landmark Global and Apple Express, giving him a close view of what happens when retailers attempt to sell and deliver products across international markets. Dieter explains why cross border delivery remains so difficult to track despite years of investment in supply chain technology. A domestic shipment may involve one main carrier, but an international order can pass between warehouses, road carriers, airports, airlines, customs authorities and final-mile delivery companies. Each participant may record events differently, operate at a different level of technical maturity or provide information at a different speed. We discuss why the customer rarely sees this complexity. They simply expect to know when their order will arrive, what duties and taxes they must pay, plus what will happen if the product needs to be returned. When retailers cannot provide those answers, the problem quickly becomes one of trust rather than logistics alone. Dieter also describes the less visible cost of manual reconciliation. Teams can spend hours checking carrier websites, comparing rates, reviewing spreadsheets, correcting customs information and translating inconsistent tracking events. Mistakes create further work through delayed parcels, billing disputes, customer inquiries and complaints. The direct labor cost matters, but the effect on repeat purchases and customer reviews may prove even more expensive. Our conversation then turns to the role of automation and AI. Dieter explains how technology can support product classification, customs documentation, landed-cost calculations and exception handling. We also examine logistics control towers, which combine data from multiple parties to provide an end-to-end view of an order. With enough reliable information, these systems can detect patterns, predict delays and recommend or initiate corrective action before the customer is affected. There is plenty of promise here, but good software cannot remove every customs rule, carrier handoff or data-quality problem. Retailers still need the right partners, accurate product information and a clear understanding of the promise they are making at checkout. Could better use of data finally make international delivery feel as dependable as domestic shipping, and what would need to change first? Listen to the conversation and share your thoughts with me.

Retailers have no shortage of data. But what if the most valuable insights aren't coming from sales reports or demand forecasts, but from what's happening on store shelves in real time? In this edition of 5 Insightful Minutes, Caitlin Allen, SVP of Market at Simbe, joins Omni Talk to discuss the latest findings from the Simbe Index and why shelf data is quickly becoming one of retail's most powerful leading indicators. Drawing from more than 45 billion shelf images captured across retailers worldwide, Caitlin explains how real-time shelf intelligence is revealing shifting shopper behavior, exposing supply chain pressure before it's reflected in sales data, and helping retailers respond faster during volatile seasons like back-to-school. She also makes the case that despite billions invested in retail technology, many retailers are still missing the foundational data needed to make those investments pay off. Key Topics Covered: • Why the shelf has become retail's most important source of real-time intelligence • What the latest Simbe Index reveals about this year's back-to-school shopping season • How tariffs, inflation, and supply chain disruptions first show up on store shelves • Why observational shelf data can be more valuable than transactional sales data • Where retailers are still losing billions due to in-store execution challenges • Why shelf digitization should come before other store technology investments • How leading retailers are improving inventory availability, fulfillment, and associate productivity • Why the future of retail starts with understanding what's happening at the point of customer decision Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content

The White House has proposed new tariffs on 60 countries that allegedly aren't doing enough to ban forced labor. Domestic businesses, already burned from last year's trade war, are bracing for more hurt. In this episode, companies weigh early orders against rising costs. Plus: Recent positive inflation data could convince the Fed to hold interest rates steady, Kroger buys Giant Eagle in ongoing effort to unseat Walmart as the supermarket market-share king, and parents sacrifice to put their kids through youth sports.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.Read the stories from today's episode: Retailers map out tariff strategiesThe Fed digests an optimistic week for economic dataTraditional supermarkets are struggling. Kroger hopes its Giant Eagle merger will helpBusiness Botox: What it takes to sell a luxury homeYouth sports have turned into a five-figure-a-year commitment for many parents

The White House has proposed new tariffs on 60 countries that allegedly aren't doing enough to ban forced labor. Domestic businesses, already burned from last year's trade war, are bracing for more hurt. In this episode, companies weigh early orders against rising costs. Plus: Recent positive inflation data could convince the Fed to hold interest rates steady, Kroger buys Giant Eagle in ongoing effort to unseat Walmart as the supermarket market-share king, and parents sacrifice to put their kids through youth sports.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.Read the stories from today's episode: Retailers map out tariff strategiesThe Fed digests an optimistic week for economic dataTraditional supermarkets are struggling. Kroger hopes its Giant Eagle merger will helpBusiness Botox: What it takes to sell a luxury homeYouth sports have turned into a five-figure-a-year commitment for many parents

Retailers quietly deduct three to five percent of a brand's invoice for compliance mistakes that have nothing to do with the product itself: a label an inch out of place, a carton that breaks the routing guide, a shipping notice the retailer's scanner can't read. Across the US that's roughly $40 billion a year, and it comes off the top line, not the cost line. You made the product, you shipped it, and you simply don't get paid for part of it.Rick Watson sits down with Elle Smyth, cofounder and CEO of RetailReady, and Art Nimbley, IT Director at Pierre Fabre USA, to work the chargeback problem from both sides. Ellie built an AI-native compliance platform that ingests the 399-page Walmart routing guide so warehouse operators don't have to memorize it. Art rolled it out during a 3PL switch and watched technical chargebacks fall to near zero on the very first order.They get into what a routing guide actually is, why an ASN transmitted at 12:55 and 55 seconds still isn't always enough, how one Pierre Fabre employee was losing 40 hours a month building shipping notices by hand, and why Art keeps challenging billion-dollar retailers when he's convinced they're wrong. He's three for three so far. If you sell into retail and you've been writing off chargebacks as the cost of doing business, this conversation is worth your time.The Watson Weekly interview is sponsored by Radial and Avalara.

Hear how Target's Roundel is helping brands navigate AI, retail media and the changing consumer journey, while proving the impact of every advertising investment. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to the Rethink Roundup. Your weekly brief to help retail leaders decode the biggest news in retail, AI, and commerce—and understand what those developments mean in practice. To kick us off, VP of Editorial & Insights Jeremy Goldman, CEO Marie Chevrier Schwartz, and Senior Retail Analyst Lavina Suthenthiran break down a massive structural shift: the transition from tech experimentation to real-world deployment, the growing value of digitally native leadership, and why smaller brands must abandon corporate copycat strategies to survive. Inside This Week's Episode: AI: From Experimentation to Practical Deployment - Retail AI has moved past superficial pilots into live, shopper-facing tools focused on solving real customer friction: buying certainty, listing friction, and automated cart building. - While brands are rushing to adopt AI, few have restructured their operations around it. Adoption is currently outpacing true business transformation. "More than 75% of companies are now using AI in their business functions, but only 21% actually redesigned their workflows around it, and only 16% have scaled it enterprise-wide." - Lavina Suthenthiran Rise of the Digitally Native Leadership - The traditional pipeline to top executive leadership is being disrupted. - Boards are now selecting leaders based on digital ecosystem thinking, media literacy, and community building. - Modern fields like retail media are so new that universities don't yet teach them. Retailers have to train their own future leaders internally. “While merchandising and store operations experience still matters, you know, I would say that we have to be really focused on where commerce is headed.” - Marie Chevrier Schwartz How Smaller Retailers Fight Back - Walmart's multi-billion-dollar acquisitions of Vizio and Vibe.co show how retail giants are linking TV viewing data directly to what customers buy. - Smaller retailers must focus on hyper-specialized product categories, authentic storytelling from real experts, and building passion-driven communities. "Whatever you see Amazon and Walmart doing, you don't try to do the same thing because you're not going to be successful. You have to find other ways to kind of compete in a David and Goliath-like manner." — Jeremy Goldman Click play above for the full conversation on the trends shaping retail.

Retailers rarely manage to scale new storefront technology beyond a basic pilot phase. Demo modes simulate perfect conditions, but they completely ignore the chaotic reality of a live store. This operational gap kills widespread rollouts. Mark Propes, Chief Business Development Officer at Vusion, and Hitha Herzog, Chief Retail Analyst at H Squared Research, join Jeremy Goldman to pinpoint exactly why these retail trials hit a wall, and how brands can actually make in-store tech work. “Are you really building something that's durable enough and rugged enough for what happens in the aisle?" From fragile lab environments to a cracked data foundation, they break down the roadblocks stalling retail innovation. INSIDE THE EPISODE: - Why teams must build store tools for physical durability rather than treating them as fragile science experiments - How central strategic alignment solves the 95% failure rate of AI pilots - Why you must clean up baseline inventory metrics before touching advanced AI - How to shift evaluation metrics away from abstract vendor marketing and toward real operational numbers Stop blindly throwing disconnected tools at your tech stack. Listen to the full conversation above to see how teams turn experimental pilots into operational realities.

More traffic won't fix a boutique that's speaking to the wrong customer. Ashley sits down with Josh Orr, CEO of Capital Commerce, to break down what separates seven-figure boutique brands from everyone else. They discuss why identifying your perfect customer changes everything—from your website and social media to your product selection and marketing strategy. If you've been creating content, posting consistently, and still struggling to grow online, this conversation explains why attracting the right customer matters far more than attracting more customers. You'll learn: Josh's framework for building a high-converting website Why successful boutiques know their customer inside and out Why boutique owners need to think like media companies How to attract your ideal shopper while repelling the wrong one Join The Boutique Hub Get Swym Josh Orr & Capital Commerce: Instagram:@retailjosh Website: madebycapital.com                  ____________________________ Ashley Alderson: Instagram     The Boutique Hub: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | TikTok | YouTube