Podcasts about retailers

A simple trip to get your hair cut can instantly make you look years younger — and it may have little to do with the haircut itself. There's a subtle psychological shift that happens in that moment that changes how people see you… and how you see yourself. https://www.youbeauty.com/beauty/psychology-of-hair/ At some point, everyone faces the question: Do I stay, or do I go? A job that feels off. A relationship that's complicated. A place that no longer fits. But discomfort doesn't always mean it's time to leave — and comfort doesn't always mean you should stay. Emily P. Freeman, host of The Next Right Thing (https://emilypfreeman.com/podcast/) and author of How to Walk into a Room: The Art of Knowing When to Stay and When to Walk Away (https://amzn.to/43a6d1p), shares a thoughtful, practical framework for making life's hardest decisions with clarity instead of panic. Some songs don't just climb the charts — they change music. Tracks like “Good Vibrations,” “Rocket Man,” and “What a Fool Believes” didn't just become hits; they shifted the sound, the production, and even the business of rock and pop. Marc Myers, longtime Wall Street Journal contributor and author of Anatomy of 55 More Songs: The Oral History of Top Hits That Changed Rock, Pop and Soul (https://amzn.to/3TrynC4), takes us inside the stories behind these landmark recordings and explains what made them transformative. When you walk into a store, you think you're making rational choices. But before you touch a product or read a price tag, your senses are already at work — especially your sense of smell. Retailers carefully design scents to influence how long you linger, how you feel, and how much you spend. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/12/091214143732.htm PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS QUINCE: Don't keep settling for clothes that don't last! Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://Quince.dom/sysk ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too! SHOPIFY: See less carts go abandoned with Shopify and their Shop Pay button! Sign up for your $1 per month trail and start selling today at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://Shopify.com/sysk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ EXPEDITION UNKOWN: We love the Expedition Unknown podcast from Discovery! Listen wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The recent ruling by the U.S. Court of International Trade has profound implications for the furniture industry, as it potentially paves the way for approximately 300,000 companies to receive refunds for previously paid tariffs now deemed illegal. This decision could result in a staggering $130 billion in refunds, escalating to approximately $175 billion when interest is considered. Such a financial reprieve arrives amidst a landscape marked by evolving sourcing strategies and significant challenges in domestic manufacturing, exemplified by Prepack Furniture's impending closure of its North Carolina facility, which will displace around 200 workers. Furthermore, the retail sector continues to navigate a complex environment characterized by mixed performance metrics, as some retailers report gains in foot traffic while others experience declines. As we delve into these developments, we shall explore how these multifaceted dynamics are reshaping the operational frameworks of furniture retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers alike.Takeaways:The recent ruling by the U.S. court on tariffs could potentially result in substantial refunds for approximately 300,000 companies, including those in the furniture sector.With the closure of Prepack Furniture's manufacturing facility in North Carolina, the industry faces ongoing challenges due to rising production costs and global competition.Retailers are increasingly employing localized marketing strategies to enhance customer engagement and loyalty, demonstrating the importance of understanding regional consumer preferences.Kohl's performance in the fourth quarter illustrates the complexities of inventory management, as they reported a decline in net sales despite an increase in profitability.The evolving sourcing strategies within the furniture industry reveal a shift towards diversification, with companies increasingly relying on manufacturing hubs in Vietnam and India.Overall consumer spending remains resilient, yet the furniture sector must navigate ongoing supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainties to maintain growth.

Dr. Mark Young, the Founder and CEO of Jekyll & Hyde Advertising, a powerhouse agency that's been helping challenger consumer brands break through the noise and scale into household names with billions of revenue and exits for nearly three decades.He's also the host of the CPG insiders podcast, the number 2 podcast in all consumer packaged goods niche.Mark is also the author of a new book 27 Unbreakable Rules of Retail, how to build a $100M+ brand in brick and mortarMark is not your average marketer — his background blends neuroscience, persuasion, and behavioral psychology with decades of hands-on experience in CPG and direct-response advertising. Through his agency, Jekyll & Hyde, he's helped hundreds of emerging brands launch, grow, and dominate retail shelves and online marketplaces.Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Importance of brick-and-mortar retail in the consumer products industry.Challenges faced by e-commerce brands in a competitive market.Strategies for successfully entering physical retail spaces.The significance of product differentiation and authenticity in retail.The impact of traditional media, especially television, on brand awareness and consumer demand.The concept of SKU rationalization and its role in retail product selection.The necessity of creating consumer demand before approaching retail buyers.Understanding the economics of media buying and the Media Efficiency Ratio (MER).The principle of "Who Not How" in building a successful business team.The role of AI as a collaborative tool in enhancing business strategies.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley interviews Dr. Mark Young, CEO of Jekyll and Hyde Advertising. Mark shares his expertise on building $100 million consumer brands in brick-and-mortar retail, emphasizing that 80% of product sales still occur offline. He discusses the challenges of retail entry, the importance of unique, premium products, and the power of TV advertising to drive demand. Mark also highlights the value of expert partnerships and leveraging both human intuition and AI, offering actionable advice for e-commerce brands aiming to succeed in physical retail.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Prove Demand Before Approaching RetailersBuild real consumer pull through DTC + paid media (TV, social, influencers). Retail buyers want evidence of demand, not Amazon screenshots. Come in with a buyer-ready pitch showing how you'll drive traffic to their stores.Position Your Product as a Clear Upgrade or Category ExpanderEnsure your SKU hits at least one winning lever:Premium trade-up (higher-margin, innovative)Demographic expander (brings new shoppers)Category expander (increases consumption)If your product is a “me-too” item, it won't make it onto shelves.Build a Retail-Ready P&L With Strong Margins & Media PlanYou need minimum 5:1 markup and a funded media strategy (TV recommended) to support retail sell-through. Retailers expect marketing that drives velocity—without it, your product risks getting cut during SKU rationalization.Resources mentioned in this episode:Josh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastEmail Josh Hadley: Josh@eCommBreakthrough.comAmazonChatGPTShopifyHelium 10IRI (Information Resources, Inc.)Meta AdsWRTVJekyll+Hyde LabsCPG InsidersThinking, Fast and Slow"Who Not How" by Dan Sullivan and Ben Hardy"The Science of Scaling" by Dr. Ben HardyPrimal IntelligenceWalmartShark TankThe Home DepotDan SullivanSpecial Mention(s):Adam “Heist” Runquist on LinkedInKevin King on LinkedInMichael E. Gerber on LinkedInRelated Episode(s):“Cracking the Amazon Code: Learn From Adam Heist's Brand Scaling Secrets” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Kevin King's Wicked-Smart Tips for Building an Audience of Raving Fans” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast

In less than five years, launching a third-party marketplace has gone from a questionable move to a strategic imperative for many major retailers. Recorded live at NRF 2026, this episode of Retail Remix digs into that shift with Scott Eckert, CEO of the Americas at marketplace operator Mirakl.Scott explains why retailers are embracing curated marketplaces as an offensive growth strategy — no longer just as a defensive reaction to Amazon — and how brands like Ulta Beauty, Best Buy and Lowe's are expanding assortment without diluting brand identity.The conversation also dives into how AI answer engines are reshaping product discovery, and why clean, machine-readable catalog data may soon matter more than traditional SEO. Plus, Scott shares Mirakl's growing role in retail media and the company's vision of becoming an orchestration layer across emerging AI-driven commerce channels.Key TakeawaysHow the proving power of Amazon and, perhaps more importantly, Walmart has completely shifted retailers' attitude toward online marketplaces;Why retail media and marketplace strategies increasingly go hand in hand;The important role marketplaces will play in the world of AI commerce, when done right;Why product data must be optimized differently for different AI platforms like OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic; andThe essential quality of a truly disruptive product or service. Related LinksLearn how Mirakl powers enterprise marketplaces and retail mediaRelated reading: Mirakl CEO: Marketplaces are ‘Arming the Rebellion' of Traditional Retail Against Big TechRelated reading:Best Buy's New Third-Party Marketplace is Now LiveExplore more NRF26 coverage and retail insights from Retail TouchPointsSubscribe so you don't miss more episodes of Retail Remix from the show floor of NRF26

What did Adam and Chris get right about retail in 2024?Back in 2024, Chris Ressa sat down with DLC CEO Adam Ifshin in Las Vegas ahead of ICSC to talk about a retail market that was already showing unusual strength. Looking back from 2026, that conversation reads less like commentary and more like an early signal of where open-air retail was headed.At the time, Adam laid out a clear case: open-air retail fundamentals were outperforming the broader narrative. Traffic, sales, occupancy, and rent had all moved above pre-pandemic levels, even while capital markets remained strained. That disconnect was the core tension then, and it remains one of the most important dynamics to understand now.What stands out even more in hindsight is how early DLC was in identifying the structural forces behind that strength. Chris and Adam discussed years of underbuilding, limited new supply, rising construction costs, and the steady removal of retail space for other uses like apartments, healthcare, and self-storage. In 2026, those pressures have not disappeared. If anything, they have become harder to ignore.The conversation also reinforced two themes that have continued to shape the market: the durability of value retail and the strength of suburban, secondary, and exurban demand. Long before those ideas became consensus views, DLC was investing around them. Looking back, the logic still holds. Consumers continue to prioritize value, retailers continue to chase the right space, and owners continue to operate in a market where quality supply is limited.This conversation matters now because it captures a moment when disciplined operators were already seeing what others were still debating. For retail real estate professionals, investors, and retailers trying to understand how we got here, this is a sharp look at the thinking that helped define the last two years of the market.What You'll HearOpen-air retail fundamentals are still too good to ignore - How traffic, sales, occupancy, and rent have all moved past pre-pandemic highs, reinforcing the strength of the sector.Capital markets diverged from fundamentals - How rising interest rates and tighter credit created volatility in financing even while retail performance strengthened.Strong fundamentals matter more than cheap capital - Why disciplined operators prefer a market with solid demand and constrained capital rather than easy money and weak assets.Supply constraints are reshaping retail - How 15 years of underbuilding, rising construction costs, and redevelopment have reduced available retail space.Value is always in fashion - How retailers like Walmart, TJX, and other value-focused brands continue to win with consumers across income levels.Suburban and secondary markets are gaining momentum - How migration, affordability, and remote work have pushed growth beyond major urban centers.Retailers are expanding into smaller markets - How shifting demographics and income growth have opened new opportunities for national tenants.Smart retailers move early on space - How limited supply is pushing tenants to secure locations now before rents climb further.Chapters00:00 — Live from Las Vegas, before the market fully caught upChris opens the conversation with Adam Ifshin from ICSC week in Vegas.01:55 — Why DLC published “Too good to ignore”Adam explains the thinking behind DLC's 2024 white paper and why the timing mattered.02:35 — The fundamentals were already telling a different storyTraffic, sales, occupancy, and rent had all pushed past pre-pandemic highs.04:45 — The big disconnect: strong assets, stressed capital marketsAdam breaks down why financing conditions were not reflecting what operators were seeing on the ground.08:57 — Why strong fundamentals beat cheap capitalChris asks which environment matters more, and Adam makes the case for discipline over easy money.12:05 — Could outside capital really move into retail?They discuss whether groups from other asset classes could compete in open-air retail.15:34 — Rates, cap rates, and timing the marketAdam explains why buying into strong fundamentals matters more than waiting for perfect conditions.17:41 — What constrained supply really meant long termChris and Adam talk through the deeper implications of limited space and rising retailer demand.20:54 — Why new development was still far from a real answerAdam outlines why replacement cost and labor constraints were holding back new retail construction.25:50 — Why value retail was never just a trendAdam explains why value has always been central to DLC's view of the consumer.31:54 — The consumer story behind the retail storyAdam makes the connection between consumer health, policy, and retail real estate performance.33:43 — Why suburban and smaller markets were gaining strengthDemographic shifts, remote work, and affordability made these markets more compelling.42:52 — What smart retailers were expected to do nextAdam lays out why decisive tenants would move early as the supply-demand imbalance continued.

Retail crime in Canada has reached a critical point. In this episode of The Voice of Retail podcast, host Michael LeBlanc welcomes back Rui Rodrigues, a veteran loss prevention leader and advisor working with the Retail Council of Canada, to unpack the rapidly escalating challenges facing retailers across the country. Rodrigues brings more than 30 years of experience in retail security and loss prevention, having worked with major retailers including Staples, Best Buy, Holt Renfrew and Hudson's Bay before launching his consulting practice. Today he works with retailers across Canada helping them address organized retail crime, risk management, and store safety while also collaborating closely with law enforcement and government partners. The conversation begins with a big picture look at how retail crime has evolved since the early days of the pandemic. Rodrigues explains that theft is not new, but the scale, organization, and violence associated with retail crime has increased significantly. Opportunistic shoplifting remains common, but retailers are increasingly dealing with organized criminal networks that exploit weak legal consequences and sophisticated resale channels. One major driver has been the growth of online marketplaces and social media resale channels, which allow stolen goods to be redistributed quickly and anonymously. Criminal enterprises can now move merchandise without the traditional risk of transporting large volumes across borders. Even more concerning is the growing level of violence and weaponization in retail theft incidents, with security teams reporting machetes, firearms, and bear spray being used to intimidate employees and prevent intervention. Retailers have responded by shifting away from physical apprehension policies in many cases, prioritizing employee safety over recovering merchandise. But Rodrigues also shares reasons for optimism. Over the past three years, the Retail Council of Canada has built a national retail crime task force, bringing together more than 30 police services along with retailers and prosecutors to coordinate intelligence and enforcement actions. Initiatives such as Project Retail Blitz focus targeted operations on repeat offenders and organized retail crime groups. The discussion also explores the growing political recognition of the issue. Retail leaders have recently met with federal and provincial governments to push for stronger legislation, including reforms aimed at organized retail theft and repeat offenders. According to Rodrigues, the goal is not only stronger laws but consistent enforcement and a structural approach to retail crime across police and prosecution services. The episode concludes with a preview of the upcoming Retail Secure Conference, where industry leaders, law enforcement, and policymakers will gather to share best practices and strategies for tackling retail crime and improving community safety. 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.

Richard has a breakthrough in his campaign against the Channel Islands tax loophole, saving the UK  hundreds of millions of pounds a year in dodged taxes. But then his story takes a new twist... Music (in order of use) is courtesy of Cherry Red Records: Ease part III by the Suicidal Flowers, Swivel by Kava Kava, Prelude by Moom, Chimera by Jeff Tarlton and Astronoght by Moom. This is a Tax Justice Network podcast with Naomi Fowler of the Taxcast podcast. Produced by Naomi Fowler and Leo Schick and sound designed by Leo Schick.

Walk into a meeting room, classroom, or even your own living room, and chances are you'll sit in the same spot you've chosen before. And if someone else is sitting there, it feels all wrong. But why? It's a small behavior that reveals something surprisingly deep about how humans think. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Place_attachment Every night your brain builds an alternate reality — sometimes magical, sometimes terrifying, often completely illogical. So what are dreams actually for? Are they random noise, emotional therapy, memory maintenance, or something else entirely? Award-winning health and science journalist Karen van Kampen, author of The Brain Never Sleeps: Why We Dream and What It Means for Our Health (https://amzn.to/3ZJwbIs) explains what researchers now understand about dreaming — and why your sleeping brain may be working harder than you realize. Taking care of your health can feel overwhelming — conflicting advice, complicated routines, endless “must-do” lists. But according to Dr. Zeke Emanuel, oncologist, professor at the University of Pennsylvania, and author of Eat Your Ice Cream: Six Simple Rules for a Long and Healthy Life (https://amzn.to/4cyrNU8), most of what truly matters can be distilled into a handful of simple, high-impact behaviors. No extreme biohacks. No punishing regimens. Just practical strategies that deliver outsized benefits. There's only a one-cent difference between $59.99 and $60 — but your brain doesn't process them the same way. Retailers know this. The “left digit effect” tricks your perception. It's a tiny psychological quirk that quietly influences billions of purchasing decisions — including yours. https://academic.oup.com/jcr/article/32/1/54/1797197 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS QUINCE: Refresh your wardrobe with Quince! Go to ⁠⁠⁠https://Quince.dom/sysk ⁠⁠⁠for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too! HIMS: For simple, online access to personalized and affordable care for Hair Loss, ED, Weight Loss, and more, visit ⁠⁠⁠https://Hims.com/SOMETHING⁠⁠⁠ for your free online visit!  SHOPIFY: Sign up for your $1 per month trail and start selling today at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://Shopify.com/sysk⁠⁠⁠⁠ DELL: Dell Tech Days are here. Enjoy huge deals on PCs like the Dell 14 Plus with Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Visit ⁠⁠⁠https://Dell.com/deals⁠⁠⁠ PLANET VISIONARIES: We love the Planet Visionaries podcast, so listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you're listening to this podcast! In partnership with The Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Levy brands the ACCC as a "whimpering" observer of the "feather and rocket" effect, where pump prices skyrocket instantly despite fuel being purchased at pre-war rates. He argues that without real penalties, the petrol station remains the most effective tool for theft in Australia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael McLaren delivered a scathing critique of the Australian fuel industry, labeling the current situation "bunker nonsense" and arguing that the "price cycle" is a system stacked against the average motorist.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Motoring bodies in Australia are accusing petrol retailers of unfairly pushing up prices and taking advantage of the conflict and chaos in the Middle East.They argue while oil supplies have been disrupted in the Strait of Hormuz, that doesn't mean prices should jump up straight away, when fuel stocks haven't been depleted.The federal government's urging the competition and consumer watchdog to keep an eye on prices, while warning retailers not to use the war as an excuse to rip off motorists.The shadow defence minister wants the government to consider sending military planes to the Middle East to help repatriate stranded Australians.It's estimated more than 100,000 Australians are currently in the region including those living and working in the area.The first passenger flights have started to return to Australia since the conflict broke out and it appears Iran's struck a deal with countries with major airport hubs to keep those airspaces out of harm's way.Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's visiting Canberra for a meeting with Australian PM Anthony Albanese.He's delivering a speech to federal parliament after now conceding the US and Israel's war in Iran is likely illegal.He wants all parties involved to seek diplomacy.

Jan Rogers Kniffen goes inside out on the retail sector. “I'm solidly optimistic on 2026,” he says, noting many earnings beats (despite market reactions). He thinks the current economy creates a recipe for a strong consumer, and there's “nothing on the horizon” to stop them. He argues that recent changes in tariff policy won't impact shoppers. He believes the top five retailers in the country are Walmart (WMT), Costco (COST), Home Depot (HD), TJX Companies (TJX), and Dick's Sporting Goods (DKS). Tom White offers an example options trade for Costco.======== 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

Disney Petit, founder of Liquid Donate, discusses her passion for sustainability and the innovative solutions her company provides for donating excess inventory and bulky items. She explains the matching algorithm that connects retailers with nonprofits, the impact of their work on reducing waste, and the future trends in sustainability, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). The discussion also touches on the growing focus on sustainability among retailers and the importance of community engagement in donation efforts.TakeawaysLiquid Donate helps retailers donate excess inventory to nonprofits.The company has developed a matching algorithm for donations.Over 12 million items have been donated to date.Sustainability is becoming a priority for retailers.EPR legislation will shift responsibility to producers.Community engagement is key in donation efforts.Logistics for bulky donations are complex but manageable.Reducing transit distance by 90% is a significant achievement.Retailers are increasingly focused on sustainability initiatives.Asking friends for excess items can foster community support.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Liquid Donate and Passion for Sustainability02:37 Innovative Solutions for Bulky Donations05:32 The Matching Algorithm and Logistics Coordination08:25 Expanding Donation Opportunities for Retailers11:18 Impact on Sustainability and Environmental Statistics13:57 Future Trends in Sustainability and EPR Legislation16:36 Retailer Trends and the Influence of Tariffs19:31 Closing Thoughts and Community Engagement

“I do think as a founder of a small business, if you can get face to face with someone, you sell them on the story, not the product”. On this episode of eCom@One, host Richard Hill sits down with Fran Gresswell, the dynamic founder of Riviera Iced Tea, a premium drinks brand she launched while still at university. Fran's journey is nothing short of inspiring: from bootstrapping her business and overcoming a devastating £12,000 loss to a manufacturer, to landing her product in over 400 independent retailers and major venues, including the Co-op and prestigious spots like Chatsworth and Holcombe Hall. This conversation dives into the realities of building a brand in the tough world of physical products without the cushion of huge funding or sugarcoating the setbacks. Fran shares her honest experiences hustling for retail listings; literally walking into cafes and stores, selling her story face-to-face, and building relationships with buyers through persistence and timing. We hear how Riviera repositioned itself as a premium non-alcoholic alternative, leveraging TikTok and personal branding to drive growth and turn viral moments into wholesale success. Fran opens up about navigating tight margins in food and drink, the impact of rising costs, and the strategies she's using to stay resilient as a founder including email campaigns, guerrilla marketing, and adapting to changing consumer habits. If you're a founder or marketer navigating retail, D2C, or just curious about what it takes to build a brand from scratch in today's market, this episode brings grounded advice, practical insights, and a hefty dose of real talk from someone who's living it every day. 00:00 Local Spotlight: Riviera Iced Tea 04:15 Lessons from a Costly Mistake 06:29 "Overcoming Doubt in Business" 11:45 "Flavors Drive Iced Tea Success" 13:24 "Securing Retail Listings Journey" 16:16 "Festival Sales Strategy Insights" 21:06 "Expanding into Ideal Venues" 23:57 TikTok Boosted My Business 28:26 "Rewarding Loyal Customers First" 29:46 "Subscription Plan Discussion Insights" 33:10 Small Business Challenges Persist 35:57 "What Keeps You Up?" 39:09 Learn from Business Failures

Retailers talk about UX. They talk about conversion. But too many still ship digital experiences that a huge part of the population simply can't use.In this episode of the Wonderful Retail Podcast, Marion Ranvier (Executive Director, @Contentsquare Foundation) explains why digital accessibility is not a marginal issue—and why it directly affects conversion, retention, brand trust, and revenue.Marion breaks down:The real scale of accessibility needs (and why the web still fails users)What “inaccessible checkout” actually looks like in the real worldWhy accessibility gaps are often execution problems, not “awareness” problemsHow to build a credible 90-day accessibility plan (audit → training → prioritization → transparency)What businesses can measure today to connect accessibility to ROIWhy inclusive design often becomes “standard UX” for everyone (the TV remote control example)Where AI + inclusive user testing can move accessibility forward—if foundations are accessible firstIf you build or manage ecommerce experiences, this is the episode that forces a hard question:What revenue are you losing because users can't complete your journey?Guest: Marion Ranvier — Executive Director, Contentsquare FoundationTopic: Digital accessibility, ecommerce checkout, compliance, UX execution, ROI, AI + inclusive testing00:00 — Why inaccessible websites lose audiences for good00:23 — Welcome + why inclusion must be part of digital thinking01:19 — The question: why should retailers care about inclusivity?01:40 — Who Marion is + what the Contentsquare Foundation does02:06 — The scale: disability worldwide + “80% of the web” problem02:35 — Ecommerce example: when “Add to bag” becomes unusable03:08 — Research: inaccessible checkout flows + minimum requirements04:19 — Why the Foundation exists + Marion's dyslexia and motivation05:08 — Turning awareness into action: mission pillars (education/research/advocacy)06:34 — Research partnership + studying real behavior (not assumptions)07:36 — Findings: zoom 200%+, keyboard navigation, longer time-to-click08:37 — Business impact: bounce rate, time on site, basket value09:34 — European Accessibility Act + where to start if you're behind10:01 — A practical 90-day plan: audit, training, prioritization11:32 — The seriousness signal: publish an accessibility statement12:25 — The hardest question: proving accessibility ROI14:01 — Inclusive design wins for everyone (TV remote control)14:54 — The future: AI potential + why accessibility must be built in16:24 — Include disabled users in testing + AI personas and insights17:18 — Closing thanks

 With host retail coach Wendy Batten   https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/   Episode Overview In this first Mystery March episode, I'm sharing a fictional case study about a thriving yarn shop that begins to see a quiet decline in sales after the owner steps back into her CEO role. On the surface, everything looks fine: is it the economy? What is going on? Instead of blaming the economy or foot traffic, I'll reveal what really happened. This episode explores how small, overlooked shifts in standards can slowly erode customer experience and impact profitability, even in a strong, established business. Our Key Topics What to look at before making assumptions about the economy and foot traffic How to identify when creep sets in Why you must fix small customer experience breakdowns and shop standards inconsistencies right away The difference between customer service and shop standards Writing down, teaching, and reinforcing standards Key Takeaways around Shop Standards and Shop "Creep" Sales can decline quietly when standards are not clearly defined and reinforced. What feels obvious to you isn't necessarily obvious to your team.   Small, repeated inconsistencies can lead to customers slowly dropping off. You know that dead plant in the window? Your customers notice it.   Shop standards must be written down, taught to staff, and reinforced. Be sure everyone is on the same page so that even the smallest things are consistent, like the shop's playlist.   You can step into your CEO role without sacrificing the experience inside your shop. Do not use shop creep as an excuse to be in the store more. Take a moment this week to look at your shop through the lens of standards and ask yourself what might need to be written down, taught, or reinforced. Resources Mentioned and Related Episodes: Shop Standards Masterclass: (for Inner Circle members) Does your shop run 100% as you imagine in your dreams? Everything is sailing along, smooth, you and your team have systems in place, the shop looks, feels and is 100% as you want it and had a vision for?    Join my Love List!   Episode 268: Awesome Isn't Accidental: Raise the Retail Standards in Your Shop   Episode 256: Retailers in the Wild: Elevate Your Retail Shop Using These Observations From My Time in New Zealand Episode 144: How to Create a Customer Journey Map About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven't met…I'm Wendy Batten. I've been a small business owner, coach, and mentor for over 25 years. I help thoughtful, established entrepreneurs step into their role as CEO and build businesses that are profitable, meaningful, and supportive of the lives they want to live. My work blends real-world strategy with a life-first philosophy, shaped by lived experience, not theory. I've been there! Through honest conversations and practical insight, I invite you into bigger thinking about leadership, possibility, and how to build both business and life on purpose. For more support from Wendy Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG All of Wendy's current programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE.  Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer.Click here to subscribe to iTunes!  Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!

Sally Lyons Wyatt, Circana's Global EVP & Chief Advisor, Consumer Goods & Foodservice Insights, joins the podcast to explore the fascinating dynamics of today's unprecedented multigenerational marketplace. Building on CEO Stuart Aitken's recent emphasis on the importance of life stages in the modern market, Sally dives into key trends and actionable insights for brands looking to connect with their customers. In this episode, she unpacks: How an unprecedented seven generations are making this market the most demographically diverse Why brands must adopt multi-layered approaches that respect generational diversity Opportunities for innovation to meet the needs of younger consumers who are spending more on food and beverages The emergence of AI as a co-creator that accelerates innovation, optimizes formulations, and personalizes consumer experiences Stay tuned for regular episodes packed with insights to keep you informed, inspired, and ready to shape the future with confidence.

Resale may be having a mainstream moment on the consumer side — but behind the scenes a much larger B2B engine has been quietly evolving for nearly two decades.Recorded live from the show floor at NRF 2026, this episode of Retail Remix features Nicole Silberstein in conversation with Marcus Shen, CEO of B-Stock, a technology platform and marketplace that helps major brands and retailers efficiently sell excess and returned inventory to a network of small business buyers.Marcus shares how the resale landscape is shifting, why brands increasingly need tighter control over where their excess inventory lands and how AI is helping both sellers and resellers manage volatility, pricing and profitability. The conversation also explores how inflation and changing consumer attitudes have reduced the stigma around secondhand goods, fueling downstream growth in the resale ecosystem.Key TakeawaysHow B-Stock connects major retailers and brands with small business resellers to reduce the financial impact of returns and overstock;Why brands now demand more discretion and control over secondary market distribution;How AI is helping normalize messy inventory data and predict resale value;Why volatility in inventory mix makes technology essential in B2B resale; andHow inflation and shifting consumer sentiment are accelerating resale adoption.PLUS Hear about the craziest products Marcus has seen come through the platform recently.Related LinksLearn more about how B-Stock powers B2B resale and liquidationRelated reading: A Better Return on Returns: How Data is Redefining B2B Resale StrategiesExplore more NRF26 coverage and retail insights from Retail TouchPointsSubscribe so you don't miss more episodes of Retail Remix from the show floor of NRF26

Elie Y. Katz, President & CEO of National Retail Solutions (NRS) a provider of a point-of-sale network and credit card processing ecosystem which services over … Read more The post National Retail Solutions continues to grow to help small retailers appeared first on Top Entrepreneurs Podcast | Enterprise Podcast Network.

Recorded live at the NRF Big Show in New York, this episode of The Voice of Retail features Matthew Guiste, Global Retail Technology Strategist at Zebra Technologies, for a strategic discussion on how AI, RFID, and frontline enablement are redefining modern retail. Zebra Technologies, a $5+ billion global enterprise and pioneer in barcode scanning, now powers retail operations through mobile computing, RFID, computer vision, and AI-driven solutions. Guiste explains how Zebra's evolution is centered on enabling frontline associates with embedded intelligence — delivering AI capabilities directly into handheld devices and wearable tools used in-store. A core theme of the conversation is what Guiste calls increasing “technology density” — ensuring more associates have access to connected devices, task engines, communication platforms, and real-time data capture tools. Retailers that invest in frontline enablement see measurable productivity gains and improved employee retention. According to Zebra's 18th Annual Global Shopper Study, nine out of ten associates feel more positive about employers who provide modern digital tools. The discussion explores major operational friction points, starting with inventory accuracy — one of retail's most persistent blind spots. With industry-wide accuracy rates often hovering between 60–70%, omnichannel promises like buy online, pick up in store (BOPIS) become vulnerable. RFID adoption, fueled by lower tag costs and retailer mandates, is emerging as a transformative lever, enabling real-time inventory visibility and smarter checkout experiences. Self-checkout also comes under scrutiny. While consumer acceptance has grown significantly since 2019, execution gaps remain. Guiste outlines how the next phase will combine RFID and computer vision to reduce scanning errors, shrink loss, and move toward seamless self-checkout experiences. Returns management is another strategic priority. With return fraud estimated in the tens of billions annually, AI-powered computer vision tools can now assist associates in disposition decisions — determining whether items return to shelf, warehouse, or liquidation — all in real time. Looking ahead a decade, Guiste predicts fewer paper-based processes, disappearing physical receipts and credit cards, and wearable AI tools guiding associates dynamically through tasks — shifting retail from humans using machines to intelligent systems supporting human expertise. For retailers navigating AI adoption, omnichannel complexity, and workforce productivity challenges, this episode delivers clear, operationally grounded insight from one of retail technology's leading strategists. 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.

Bonjour et bienvenue dans la revue de presse hebdo et audio du secteur retail / e-commerce en France proposée par Les Digital Doers.

Als retailer is er altijd wel wat aan de hand. Hoge huurprijzen, hoge lonen en anders is het wel de regeldruk vanuit de overheid. Wat moet er gebeuren zodat het voor de retailer weer aantrekkelijk wordt? En: zit de concurrentie tegenwoordig niet nog wel in dezelfde straat, of in China? Jan Meerman, directeur van brancheorganisatie INretail is te gast in BNR Zakendoen. Macro met Boot Elke dag een intrigerende gedachtewisseling over de stand van de macro-economie. Op maandag en vrijdag gaat presentator Thomas van Zijl in gesprek met econoom Arnoud Boot, de rest van de week praat Van Zijl met econoom Edin Mujagić. Ook altijd terug te vinden als je een aflevering gemist hebt. Blik op de wereld Wat speelt zich vandaag af op het wereldtoneel? Het laatste nieuws uit bijvoorbeeld Oekraïne, het Midden-Oosten, de Verenigde Staten of Brussel hoor je iedere werkdag om 12.10 van onze vaste experts en eigen redacteuren en verslaggevers. Ook los te vinden als podcast. Ondernemerspanel Mensen met schulden hoeven steeds vaker niets terug te betalen, melden werkgeversorganisaties VNO-NCW en MKB-Nederland afgelopen dinsdag. De Nederlandse brancheorganisatie voor schuldhulp NVVK geeft aan zich niet te herkennen in de kritiek. En: ondanks geklaag, leveren veranderende fiscale regels het mkb geen extra rompslomp en kosten op, blijkt uit onderzoek van Panteia. Dat en meer bespreken we om 11.30 in het ondernemerspanel met: Arko van Brakel, Chief Inspiration Officer bij Infocaster. Ondernemer en auteur van het boek 'Ondernemen met impact', en voorzitter van Schuldhulp Stichting 155 en Hans Biesheuvel, directeur-eigenaar van Habest Holding, commissaris bij meerdere bedrijven, en mede-oprichter van ONL. Luister l Ondernemerspanel Zakenlunch Elke dag, tijdens de lunch, geniet je mee van het laatste zakelijke nieuws, actuele informatie over de financiële markten en ander economische actualiteiten. Op een ontspannen manier word je als luisteraar bijgepraat over alles wat er speelt in de wereld van het bedrijfsleven en de beurs. En altijd terug te vinden als podcast, mocht je de lunch gemist hebben. Contact & Abonneren BNR Zakendoen zendt elke werkdag live uit van 11:00 tot 13:30 uur. Je kunt de redactie bereiken via e-mail. Abonneren op de podcast van BNR Zakendoen kan via bnr.nl/zakendoen, of via Apple Podcast en Spotify. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is 2026 about to be the biggest year for retail real estate in decades?Retail real estate doesn't move in a vacuum. It moves when consumers have a reason to act. 2026 is shaping up to be one of the strongest demand environments in decades because three massive global catalysts are converging at the same time: the World Cup, the Winter Olympics tailwind, and America's 250th anniversary.Major live events compress consumer hesitation. They create urgency. They create moments. And moments drive spending.The data already supports this. Global events generate massive marketing exposure, elevated brand awareness, and increased physical activity in retail corridors. But the real impact isn't just tourism, it's domestic behavior. People travel, gather, host, celebrate, and spend in ways they otherwise wouldn't. Retailers, restaurants, and physical destinations become the center of those moments.At the same time, the fundamentals of retail real estate remain exceptionally strong. Supply is constrained. Leasing velocity is accelerating. Tenants are competing aggressively for physical space, recognizing that stores do more than produce four-wall profit, they lower customer acquisition costs and drive digital growth.The narrative that retail is “technology resistant” completely misses the point. The physical store isn't fighting technology, it's enhancing it. Retailers are discovering that their digital performance improves when they open physical locations. Stores are no longer just revenue centers; they are strategic growth engines.This shift has fundamentally changed the leasing environment. Landlords are no longer chasing tenants to fill space. Tenants are racing to secure locations before competitors do.Retail isn't surviving. It's expanding. 2026 could be remembered as the year physical retail reasserted its full strategic value, not just as a place to transact, but as a critical platform for brand growth, customer acquisition, and long-term market share.What You'll HearWhy global events are creating a 2026 retail tailwind - How the World Cup, America 250, and stacked spending moments are driving incremental tourism, domestic travel, and real-world consumer activity.How live moments accelerate spending behavior - Why major events compress hesitation and push consumers from waiting to acting.The leasing velocity surge happening right now - What rising deal volume, stronger economics, and tenant expansion signal about retail confidence.Why retailers are in a land grab for physical space - How constrained supply has shifted the market and intensified competition for prime locations.Why physical stores power digital growth - How brick-and-mortar lowers customer acquisition costs and makes omnichannel performance more efficient.Why retail isn't tech resistant—tech needs retail - The strategic shift from clicks versus bricks to clicks because of bricks, and what that means for long-term real estate value.Chapters00:01 - Why I'm bullish on 2026The macro retail real estate fundamentals and why the outlook is stronger than the narrative suggests.02:08 - The olympics spending tailwind has already startedHow marketing exposure and brand promotion drive spending beyond the event itself.04:25 - Why the world cup will be a massive retail catalystTourism, domestic travel, and gathering behavior will drive incremental retail demand.06:36 - America 250 and the stacking of spending catalystsPatriotism, celebrations, and event sequencing create sustained spending momentum.08:51 - Leasing velocity is accelerating rapidlyReal-world leasing activity confirms strong tenant demand and economic confidence.10:41 - The myth of technology-resistant tenantsWhy framing retail as resistant to technology misses the real strategic shift.10:59 - Why stores drive digital growthPhysical locations lower customer acquisition costs and enhance overall brand performance.11:54 - The tenant land grab has begunRetailers are aggressively securing space before competitors lock in key locations.13:09 - Why physical retail is more valuable than everThe strategic role of stores is expanding beyond traditional revenue metrics.

Recorded live in the Narvar Podcast Studio at NRF Big Show, Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc sit down with Dan Frommer, the iconic tech journalist and Founder of The New Consumer, to explore the forces reshaping retail and consumer behavior. Frommer challenges the prevailing “vibecession” narrative, arguing that despite low consumer sentiment readings, spending remains resilient. Drawing on proprietary survey data from 3,000 U.S. consumers, he outlines a nuanced picture: younger consumers are increasingly digital-first, deeply connected to creator culture, and entering their peak earning and spending years. Millennials show the highest trust in AI, while Gen Z is more skeptical about automation's impact on work and identity. GLP-1 medications are seen as a game changer, driving shifts in spending. Health and longevity also take center stage, with more than 40% of Gen Z and Millennials in “health optimization mode.” Frommer highlights TikTok Shop's explosive rise as creator-led commerce flips marketing economics. In the news segment the hosts discussion how the Supreme Court's IEEPA tariff ruling triggers chaos for retail. With up to 70% of tariffs affected, pricing and supply chain uncertainty now dominate. Retailers face refund confusion, volatility, and political storms. Walmart posts strong earnings but signals a slowing trend. Half of its e-commerce orders ship from stores, three-hour delivery reaches most Americans, and retail media surges ahead. Wayfair gains share in a struggling home market, but staying unprofitable raises tough questions. In the “Remarkable Story of the Week” of the week, Aritzia acquires Fred Segal's intellectual property, as plans to resurrect the storied West Coast fashion retailer. On the radar: sneaker wars intensify as New Balance nears $10B in revenue and Nike navigates turnaround pressures at Converse. QVC also is reportedly mulling a Chapter 11 filing. Link to Dan's 2026 The New Consumer report here.  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.

In this Retail Technology Spotlight Series episode from Omni Talk Retail, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga welcome back Grocery Dealz co-CEOs Matt Goynes and Micheal Waldroup to unpack the rapid national expansion of their real-time grocery price comparison app. Now live in 40 states, Grocery Dealz enables consumers to compare grocery prices across retailers in real time before they shop and even push their lists directly into Instacart for delivery. The conversation dives into how the platform works, how pricing data is sourced, why retailers are paying attention, and what price transparency means for the future of grocery. From over-the-counter medicine and alcohol price swings to retail media monetization and API partnerships, this episode explores how comparison shopping could reshape consumer behavior... just as it did in travel and gas. With grocery bills rivaling plane tickets in weekly spend, is price transparency the next major retail disruption? Key Topics Covered: •What Grocery Dealz is and why it exists •The 3-step user experience: search, substitute, compare •Categories covered beyond center store (including OTC meds & alcohol) •How real-time grocery pricing data is sourced •Retailers' response to price transparency •The Instacart integration and delivery convenience factor •How Grocery Dealz makes money (affiliate + retail media model) •Consumer adoption metrics and time spent in app •What's coming next: live coupons and national growth •Can price comparison truly change grocery shopping behavior? Connect with the Guests: Matt Goynes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-goynes-65921368/ Micheal Waldroup: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheal-waldroup-3a74b82b7/ #retailtech #grocerytech #pricetransparency #retailmedia #ecommerce #omnichannel #retailinnovation #retailpodcast #OmniTalkRetail

Likefolio's Andy Swan shares social sentiment data on TJX Companies (TJX) ahead of their earnings Wednesday morning. He thinks it's the “best in the niche by far” among the discount retailers. The consumer cohort who “loves to treasure hunt” is growing and he thinks TJX is the best at finding the items people want. “This company's executing and they have tailwinds.”======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Subscribe 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 – / schwabnetwork Follow us on Facebook – / schwabnetwork Follow us on LinkedIn - / schwab-network About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

"It's not just about selling more; it's about selling smarter and more sustainably."Oscar Rundqvist, CEO, eComID.Summary:High return rates are a significant challenge in fashion ecommerce, leading to financial losses and environmental harm. This podcast explores how innovative technology like eComID is helping the industry by reducing returns, personalising customer experiences and promoting sustainability.The problem...Returns are costly; retailers face expenses from shipping, inspecting and repackaging returned items. Additionally, unsellable returns often end up in landfills, contributing to environmental damage. It's estimated that returns cost retailers between $21 to $46 per item, highlighting the need for effective strategies to minimise them.Change is neededRetailers need better metrics to understand customer behaviour.Traditional metrics like average order value (AOV) can be misleading. Instead, brands should focus on "kept order value," which reflects the revenue retained after returns. This shift in focus can lead to more accurate assessments of profitability and customer loyalty.Emerging solutions like eCom ID offer innovative ways to tackle return issues. By creating a digital shopping passport, eComID stores individual preferences related to size, style and fit. This enables precise pre-purchase guidance and personalised size recommendations, reducing the likelihood of returns.Data from post-purchase behaviour and return reason codes are invaluable for improving size accuracy and product fit. Brands like H&M have learned that systemic issues, such as inconsistent sizing, drive return rates. By incentivising detailed feedback, brands can refine their offerings and policies.Innovative brands are experimenting with personalised return fees based on shopper history. This approach encourages mindful purchasing and supports sustainability by reducing unnecessary returns.Reducing returns is not just about cutting costs; it's a step toward a more sustainable fashion industry. By utilising personalised, data-driven tools, brands can enhance customer experiences and build lasting loyalty.Chapters:[00:30] Introduction to Tech and Sustainability in Fashion[02:40] Understanding eCom ID and Its Solutions[07:10] Insights from H&M: The Returns Challenge[12:45] Data Accuracy in Returns Management[15:35] The Role of Size and Fit in E-commerce [20:20] Measuring Success: Average Kept Order Value[24:15] The Environmental Impact of Returns[29:50] Future of Ecommerce: Agentic Commerce and Virtual Try-Ons

S6E2 The Retail Growth Strategy Retailers Need for 2026 with Today's Economic Realities, Tariffs, Fed Moves, and Consumer ShiftsIn this powerful episode of The Retail Razor Show, Dr. Rebecca Homkes, London Business School lecturer, Duke faculty member, high‑growth strategy advisor, and author of Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times, joins Ricardo and Casey to break down what retailers must understand about the economic outlook in 2026, shifting consumer behavior, and the strategic moves that separate winners from laggards.Rebecca explains why uncertainty is not a threat but a catalyst for growth, and how her Survive, Reset, Thrive (SRT) framework helps leaders stabilize quickly, reset strategy intelligently, and execute a retail growth strategy that works even in volatile conditions. She also unpacks the realities behind sticky inflation, tariffs, the no‑hire/no‑fire labor market, and the rise of the K‑shaped consumer economy.If you want to build a retail growth strategy that thrives in the face of market shocks, this episode gives you the playbook.What We CoverWhy the economic outlook in 2026 is full of contradictions, and what that means for retailHow the SRT loop helps leaders stabilize, reset, and thriveReal‑world examples of companies using SRT to turn crises into growthWhy averages hide the truth about consumer sentimentThe rise of the K‑shaped economy and the death of the “everyman” consumerValue vs. price: why consumers will still pay more for what they truly valueHow retailers should think about store formats, assortment, and experimentationThe must‑win battles for 2026Where AI actually moves the needle in a retail growth strategyKey TakeawaysUncertainty is the best time to grow: because customers, partners, and employees are more honest about what they value.Value ≠ price. Consumers want their dollar to go further, not necessarily cheaper products.The middle of the market is the danger zone. Retailers must choose: differentiated premium or true value leadership.Retail growth strategy in 2026 requires testing, iteration, and abandoning legacy assumptions.Economic outlook in 2026 signals a decoupling between GDP strength and consumer reality: leaders must plan accordingly.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe 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/utubeAbout our GuestRebecca Homkes, https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-homkes/https://www.rebeccahomkes.comAuthor, Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times. https://a.co/d/0aXECIB2Rebecca Homkes, is a high-growth strategy specialist, CEO and executive advisor. After more than a decade of advising her clients on developing, executing and innovating on strategy, Rebecca is sharing her proven and practical playbook in Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times. She is a Lecturer at the London Business School, Faculty at Duke Corporate Executive Education, Advisor and Faculty at the Boston Consulting Group focused on AI and Climate and Sustainability, and a former fellow at the London School of Economics Centre for Economic Performance. A global keynote speaker and recognized thought leader, she is also the global Faculty Director of the Active Learning Program with the Young Presidents Organization (YPO), leads several fintech accelerators, and serves on the boards of many high-growth companies. She earned her doctorate at the London School of Economics as a Marshall Scholar and is now based in Miami, San Francisco, and London.Chapters00:00 Teaser01:10 Show Intro04:40 Welcome Dr Rebecca Homkes05:46 The Survive Reset Thrive Framework08:04 Real World SRT Success Stories12:55 Macro Economic Outlook for 202617:38 Understanding the K Shaped Economy19:39 Value vs Price Strategy24:06 Differentiation and Competitive Advantage26:41 Store Strategy and Expansion30:37 Consumer Experience and AI32:34 B2B Software Experience Gap34:04 Financing and Inventory Strategy36:28 Supply Chain Robustness38:10 No Regret Moves40:40 Defining Right to Win43:45 Hard Reset Strategy45:51 Strategic Center of Gravity48:24 Must Win Battles49:34 Closing and Contact Info51:36 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 AI and 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.

Depuis quelques années, le prêt-à-porter féminin change de visage. Les clientes arbitrent davantage. Les plateformes d'ultra fast fashion comme Shein ou Temu déplacent les repères prix. Le cadre réglementaire se renforce.Dans cet environnement, certaines marques subissent. D'autres se structurent.Sud Express fait partie de celles qui ont choisi d'investir dans leur organisation avant d'accélérer. Fondée en 1977, l'enseigne compte aujourd'hui 175 points de vente et réalise environ 75 millions d'euros de chiffre d'affaires.Benjamin Bellaiche revient sur la transformation engagée depuis son arrivée à la tête de l'enseigne : professionnalisation du réseau, investissements IT, pilotage par la marge, montée en puissance du digital. Il partage également les coulisses de la transmission familiale officialisée fin 2024, et la feuille de route des prochaines années.Un échange concret sur la manière de piloter une marque française dans un marché devenu plus exigeant.Bonne écoute, toujours sans coupure !Pour suivre Les Digital Doers :LinkedIn | Insta | Facebook | Tiktok | WhatsApp | Site webHébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

 With host retail coach Wendy Batten   https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/   Episode Overview In this episode, I'm sharing a practical look at the power of a monthly business debrief. Sparked by a coaching client who resisted the process at first, this conversation walks through what a debrief actually is, why it matters, and how it can be done in as little as 15 minutes per month. We all have that kind of time! For experienced shop owners who feel profitable but unclear, busy but reactive, this episode offers a grounded structure for closing out the month with intention. Wendy explains how reviewing key numbers, marketing efforts, operations, and priorities can help you move from running on memory and mood to leading with clarity. If you want to feel more in control of your shop and less overwhelmed by it, this episode outlines a simple habit that can shift how you lead your business: the monthly debrief. Our Key Topics What a monthly business debrief is and why it matters The difference between rolling into the next month and intentionally closing one out Reviewing key performance indicators such as sales, profit, margin, inventory, and marketing metrics Evaluating marketing, events, and promotions to see what translated into revenue Looking at financial health through a profitability lens Using an operational checklist to assess team energy, customer feedback, and flow in the shop Identifying the "big rocks" that deserve focus next month Aligning monthly reflection with 90-day planning Moving from reactive decision-making to pattern recognition Key Takeaways about the Monthly Debrief A monthly debrief can be a simple 15 minute CEO activity that builds clarity over time. We have a tendency to just keep rolling from one month to the next, but the truth is you don't need a ton of time to do a debrief. Take 15 minutes and do it. Looking at patterns in pricing, marketing, and operations can help you identify and stop potential issues before they start. What KPIs do you want to track? What metrics are important to you? (Sales, profit margin, average order value, foot traffic, etc.)   Sales alone do not equal success; profits and clarity matter more. Where did your PROFITS come from this month? How can you replicate that in future months?   Measuring what you worked on shows whether your efforts actually translated into revenue and profits. Which events worked? Which didn't? Did you advertise on a billboard or elsewhere? Did it bring in new customers? Did you send out weekly emails that brought new customers in?   Consistency over several months builds confidence and a greater sense of control. You don't have to keep "remembering" month after month. You'll have it all on paper so you can refer back and begin making decisions based on the patterns the monthly debriefs reveal.   "Stop running your shop on just memory and mood." -Wendy Batten If you have been moving from month to month without stopping, this is your invitation to pause, reflect, and give yourself that simple monthly date with your business. Resources Mentioned and Related Episodes: Profit Planning Masterclass: (free for Inner Circle members and Mastermind members) Go from not knowing the RIGHT numbers to easily finding more profit in your business using my simple "back of the napkin" training.   Join my Love List!   Episode 263: Why CEO Time Isn't Optional in Your Retail Business Episode 197: The Monthly Debrief: A Simple Activity All Retail Shop Owners Should Be Doing About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven't met…I'm Wendy Batten. I've been a small business owner, coach, and mentor for over 25 years. I help thoughtful, established entrepreneurs step into their role as CEO and build businesses that are profitable, meaningful, and supportive of the lives they want to live. My work blends real-world strategy with a life-first philosophy, shaped by lived experience, not theory. I've been there! Through honest conversations and practical insight, I invite you into bigger thinking about leadership, possibility, and how to build both business and life on purpose. For more support from Wendy Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG All of Wendy's current programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE.  Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer.Click here to subscribe to iTunes!  Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!

What makes a great store in 2026? Sometimes, it's not clarity — it's curiosity.Recorded live from the show floor at NRF 2026, this episode of Retail Remix features host Nicole Silberstein in conversation with Jack Stratten, Director at Insider Trends and one of the industry's most well-traveled retail observers. Jack spends his time visiting stores around the world, identifying what works, what doesn't, and, most importantly, why.From a wellness-meets-retail concept in Soho to immersive flagships in Paris, Jack breaks down the common thread between standout store experiences: a clear ambition, commitment and, sometimes, a willingness to prioritize discovery over efficiency. The conversation also explores why ecommerce's continued growth is forcing stores to raise their game — and why legacy department stores are having such a difficult time evolving.Key TakeawaysThe most interesting new stores you need to check out;Why the best stores succeed by meeting their ambition, not chasing trends;How discovery, trial and serendipity differentiate physical retail from ecommerce;Why Paris (not New York) is the most exciting city for retail experiences right now;How global markets and historic shopping experiences still influence modern store design;Why the growing ubiquity of ecommerce is having a positive effect on store experience;Why department stores are having such a difficult time tapping into their legacy of innovation today; andTravel hacks from someone who travels the world for a living.Related LinksExplore global retail insights and store safaris from Insider TrendsExplore more NRF26 coverage and retail insights from Retail TouchPointsSubscribe so you don't miss more episodes of Retail Remix from the show floor of NRF26

Another call to do away with Michigan's bottle bill law as Governor Gretchen Whitmer prepares for her final State of the State address. WWJ's Jackie Paige and Chris Fillar have your Monday morning news. (Photo credit: WWJ)

Jharonne Martis says the consumer is "relatively healthy" but very "discerning." She says shoppers are looking for promotions or discounts before making a bigger purchase. Jharonne says AI assistants are helping consumers make decisions, citing Walmart's (WMT) Sparky AI enabling a "seamless omnichannel experience." For remainder of 2026, she says consumers are showing signs of gravitating towards experiences rather than goods. On the retailers, Jharonne is watching Dillard's (DDS) and Five Below (FIVE) as names that could outperform in the year ahead. ======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Subscribe 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 – / schwabnetwork Follow us on Facebook – / schwabnetwork Follow us on LinkedIn - / schwab-network About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Local government and business leaders are weighing in and making plans, as the Supreme Court strikes down far-reaching tariffs. WBZ's Madison Rogers reports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In This Episode of Business Lunch: Roland Frasier breaks down simple, practical ways to grow by buying the right businesses.He explains the difference between horizontal integration (buying competitors to grow fast) and vertical integration (buying suppliers, distributors, affiliates, or outsourced partners to capture more profit). He also talks about using acquisitions to add recurring revenue and smooth out seasonal cash flow, plus how buying intellectual property can spark innovation and create a competitive edge.The core message: identify where money is leaking in your supply chain or distribution, find who owns it, and consider acquiring them.Chapters:00:00 Introduction 00:23 Vertical Integration Overview 00:47 Horizontal vs. Vertical Integration 01:31 Acquiring Suppliers and Manufacturers 04:30 Supply Chain Diversification 05:27 Acquiring Distributors and Retailers 06:44 Distribution for Digital Products 08:18 Recurring Revenue Strategy 09:27 Finding Recurring Revenue Opportunities 12:03 Intellectual Property Acquisitions 13:24 Benefits of IP Acquisition 14:01 Finding Intellectual Property 15:32 Conclusion 15:34 OutroConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube

Retail's future winners aren't defined by hype. They are defined by where consumers actually go. In this Omni Talk Ask An Expert episode, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Ethan Chernofsky, Chief Marketing Officer at Placer.ai, to break down the retailers, sectors, and strategies poised to shape 2026. Drawing from real-world foot traffic data and consumer behavior insights, Ethan shares which brands are gaining momentum, which are in turnaround mode, and how shifting expectations around health, value, and experience are redefining retail success. From fitness to grocery to coffee to digitally native retail, this conversation uncovers where physical retail is headed next. Key Topics Covered: • Why the fitness sector, including brands like EōS Fitness, is benefiting from long-term health and wellness shifts • How grocers like H-E-B are winning through localization and innovation • The competitive momentum behind specialty retailers like Michaels • The “bounce-back” potential of Starbucks and its third-place strategy revival • Where Home Depot and Target stand on the recovery spectrum • Grocery's evolving battleground: quality vs. value vs. unique differentiation • How retailers like Kroger are experimenting to stay competitive • The future of digitally native brands and physical retail after pullbacks from players like Allbirds • Why partnerships with retailers such as Nordstrom may reshape DTC expansion • The industry debate around “value” and why it may be retail's most misunderstood concept Whether you're building your 2026 retail strategy, evaluating growth sectors, or tracking competitive momentum, this conversation delivers data-backed insights to help you understand where consumers are spending their time and why. Connect with Ethan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethan-chernofsky-16ab4519/ Visit Placer.ai: https://www.placer.ai #RetailTrends #RetailersToWatch #RetailAnalytics #FootTrafficData #RetailStrategy #FitnessIndustry #GroceryRetail #Starbucks #DTCBrands #ConsumerBehavior #OmniTalk #RetailInsights

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1273: GM is staying lean to outmaneuver the next sales slowdown. AI's appetite for memory chips could spark a new supply squeeze across autos and tech. Retailers are proving that telling better stories sells.Show Notes with links:General Motors is rewriting its inventory playbook, running 30–40% leaner and hoping that tighter supply, stronger cash flow, and faster decision-making could turn the next cycle into a competitive advantage.S&P Global Mobility forecasts U.S. sales down 2.5% to 15.8M units as affordability and softer EV demand weigh on the market.GM is targeting a 50–60 day supply versus the pre-pandemic 100+ days.Leaner inventory gives GM more flexibility to adjust incentives in a downturn without crushing profitability.Dealers have felt the squeeze, especially on affordable models, prompting GM to stage select Trax and Trailblazer units at ports to speed delivery.CFO Paul Jacobson summed up the strategy: “It's easier to do when you have less inventory in the system because you can just respond much more quickly.”Just when the auto industry thought it survived the chip crisis, here comes round two—this time powered by AI. Data centers are devouring global memory supply, forcing automakers to brace for tighter supply, higher costs, and potential production headaches.AI data centers are soaking up global DRAM and memory production, with Western Digital and Seagate already sold out of most 2026 capacity.Memory chip prices have jumped 90% quarter-over-quarter, prompting PC makers like Dell to raise prices 15–20%.Tesla's Elon Musk says the solution may be vertical integration: “We're going to hit a chip wall if we don't do the fab.”Retailers are doubling down on something we at More Than Cars know well—storytelling sells. Brands are shifting from simply stocking products to crafting narratives that spark emotion, build loyalty, and turn casual shoppers into long-term fans.Nordstrom says department stores no longer “introduce” brands—they help tell their story and build deeper consumer connection.Five Below credits curated social storytelling—merchandising and marketing working together—for stronger engagement with younger shoppers.Under Armour's Kevin Plank says brands must inspire emotion: “The world does not need another capable apparel and footwear manufacturer. The world needs hope and they need a dream.”Today's show is brought to you by ESi-Q. ESi-Q measures employee satisfaction and provides actionable insight into what's driving employee engagement and turnover - before employees leave.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Welcome to Omni Talk's Retail Daily Minute, sponsored by Grocery Dealz and Mirakl.In today's Retail Daily Minute, Omni Talk's Chris Walton discusses:Walmart's grocery penetration hits a record-breaking 72%, as Dunnhumby data reveals mass retailers have now matched traditional supermarket reach for the first time ever.The pricing truce is over, as companies from Levi Strauss to McCormick to Columbia Sportswear roll out new high-single-digit price increases driven by tariffs, rising wages, and surging health insurance costs.Burger King president Tom Curtis takes the customer feedback playbook to a new level, personally fielding unfiltered calls and texts from guests for four hours a day over two weeks.The Retail Daily Minute has been rocketing up the Feedspot charts, so stay informed with Omni Talk's Retail Daily Minute, your source for the latest and most important retail insights.Be careful out there!

Frictionless checkout has become one of the most discussed topics in retail technology. But for enterprise retailers, the real question is not whether checkout can be frictionless. It is whether it can perform consistently under pressure. Checkout is where throughput, labor efficiency, compliance, and shrink converge. It is the operational control point of the store. In a conversation hosted by Emily Crowe, Editor-in-Chief at Progressive Grocer, Matt Redwood, VP Retail Technology Solutions at Diebold Nixdorf, joined Zara Ngouen, VP Information Technology at Lidl US, to examine what modern AI-enabled checkout requires at scale. The discussion explores how retailers are applying AI-powered age verification to reduce associate interventions while strengthening regulatory compliance. It addresses how real-time behavioral analytics can proactively identify risk patterns and support shrink reduction strategies. And it examines how retailers are redesigning front-end environments to balance automation with human oversight, preserving both efficiency and customer trust. A key theme throughout the conversation is that frictionless checkout is not about removing people or layering in disconnected technology. It is about intelligent retail infrastructure. AI, software, hardware, and services must work together to optimize front-end performance across diverse store formats. As labor volatility continues and cost pressure intensifies, front-end optimization has become a strategic priority. Retailers are rethinking checkout architecture not only to improve customer experience, but to strengthen operational resilience, reduce shrink exposure, and scale modernization efforts across large store estates. For retail executives evaluating AI checkout solutions, loss prevention technology, and automation strategies, this episode offers practical insight into how leading organizations are approaching front-end transformation today.

In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, Maia Josebachvili, Chief Revenue Officer of AI at Stripe, joins Omni Talk to break down what retailers are really saying about Agentic Commerce — and how the conversation has shifted dramatically in just six months. From fraud concerns to discoverability challenges, Maia explains how Stripe is helping merchants navigate the AI agent landscape with the tools they need to stay in control, stay competitive, and sell through AI agents without rebuilding their entire commerce stack.

Mark Allan, CEO of FTSE 100 property giant Landsec, tells Will Bain that much of the narrative around the UK's commercial property market isn't quite right. Demand for office space is robust: businesses are signing 15 to 20 year leases, and firms that downsized after COVID are reversing course. Even the fear that artificial intelligence will trigger mass job losses isn't materialising just yet in leasing behaviour.He is bullish on the future of retail. Allan believes the shopping centre is firmly “back”, with sales and rents climbing again at major destinations such as Liverpool ONE and Bluewater. Retailers, he says, have become more selective - closing weaker sites while doubling down on the biggest and strongest locations. And with no new centres being built, the most successful ones are only becoming more valuable.But Allan is blunt about the challenges facing large scale development in the UK. The affordable housing market won't improve until private development becomes financially viable again. Rising construction costs, slow and unpredictable planning processes and persistently high interest rates are making major projects far harder to get off the ground. His sharpest criticism, though, is for Westminster. Allan argues that political instability is damaging investor confidence and making long term planning extremely difficult. Allan says the business rates system is "crazily out of date". He welcomes the government's ambition for planning reform, but says the UK keeps being dragged back into cycles of “permanent drama” that undermine efforts to fix the system.Presenter: Will Bain Producer: Jeevan Nerwan Editor: Henry Jones00:00 Sean and Will start pod 01:35 Mark Allan joins BBI 03:09 What does Landsec do? 04:56 Diversification into residential property 10:02 Gentrification 13:15 Investment outside of London and the South East 16:15 Affordable housing & planning 22:39 Demand for office space & AI 32:48 Shopping centres & the future of retail 39:43 Business rates 41:09: Government decision making & political instability 50:16 End of pod

The salient theme of this episode revolves around the imperative integration of artificial intelligence within the furniture industry, underscoring that AI is no longer a mere option but a necessity for contemporary retail practices. As articulated by industry leaders, the future of retail is not solely reliant on automation; it is fundamentally anchored in the preservation of the human touch, ensuring that sales representatives remain integral to the consumer experience. The discourse highlights the pressing need for retailers to adopt a strategic approach to technology, advocating for the establishment of formal AI policies that delineate its application and governance, thereby fostering a structured and effective integration process. Furthermore, we delve into the current landscape of market consolidation and evolving consumer preferences, which together illuminate the complexities of navigating financial and operational challenges within the industry. As we progress through this nuanced examination, we shall explore how these interconnected elements of technology, consumer behavior, and market dynamics are poised to shape the trajectory of the furniture sector in the forthcoming year.Takeaways:The imperative nature of integrating artificial intelligence into retail operations is undeniable; it is now essential rather than optional.As consumer preferences evolve, retailers must provide a more personalized experience without sacrificing the human element in sales interactions.The current market landscape is characterized by consolidation, where strategic acquisitions enhance operational efficiency and brand strength within the industry.Retailers must avoid the pitfalls of hastily adopting technology without a coherent strategy, as this can lead to fragmented and ineffective implementations.Financial restructuring continues to affect the furniture sector, highlighting the need for vigilance regarding tax claims and operational efficiencies.Lastly, as housing market dynamics shift, furniture retailers must adapt their promotional strategies to align with consumer expectations for relevant and personalized offers.

This Day in Legal History: Bruno Hauptmann ConvictedOn February 13, 1935, a New Jersey jury convicted Bruno Hauptmann of kidnapping and murdering the infant son of famed aviator Charles Lindbergh. The crime had transfixed the nation for nearly three years and was widely labeled the “Crime of the Century.” The child was taken from the Lindbergh home in 1932, and despite a ransom payment, was later found dead. Public outrage was immediate and intense, with newspapers covering nearly every development in the investigation and trial.Hauptmann's prosecution relied heavily on circumstantial evidence, including ransom notes and expert testimony linking his handwriting to those notes. The government also introduced evidence tying marked ransom bills to Hauptmann's possession. The trial raised early concerns about the reliability of forensic handwriting analysis and the influence of media attention on jury impartiality. Critics then and now have questioned whether the intense publicity compromised due process protections.The case also reshaped federal criminal law. In response to the kidnapping, Congress enacted the Lindbergh Law, formally known as the Federal Kidnapping Act. The statute made it a federal offense to transport a kidnapping victim across state lines, expanding federal jurisdiction over what had traditionally been a state crime. That shift reflected a broader trend during the early twentieth century toward increased federal involvement in criminal enforcement.Today, the Hauptmann conviction remains a staple in criminal law courses, not only for its tragic facts but also for its lasting procedural and constitutional implications.Goldman Sachs' chief legal officer, Kathy Ruemmler, resigned after newly released Justice Department documents detailed her past communications with Jeffrey Epstein. CEO David Solomon announced that he accepted her resignation, which will take effect on June 30. Ruemmler said the media attention surrounding her prior legal work had become a distraction. The disclosures showed she exchanged numerous emails with Epstein between 2014 and 2019 and received gifts from him, including luxury items. Some emails revealed that she advised Epstein on how to respond to press inquiries about his treatment by prosecutors.The documents also noted that Epstein attempted to contact her by phone on the night of his 2019 arrest on sex trafficking charges. Ruemmler stated that she knew Epstein only in her capacity as a defense attorney and denied any knowledge of ongoing criminal conduct. Before joining Goldman, she led the white-collar defense practice at Latham & Watkins and previously served as White House counsel during the Obama administration.The broader document release has drawn attention to Epstein's connections within major financial institutions, including UBS and JPMorgan. Ruemmler's departure marks one of the most prominent banking exits linked to the renewed scrutiny of Epstein's network.Top Goldman Sachs lawyer Ruemmler resigns after Epstein disclosures | ReutersA federal judge in Minnesota ruled that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement improperly interfered with detainees' access to their attorneys during a recent enforcement operation. U.S. District Judge Nancy Brasel found that ICE's practices during “Operation Metro Surge” effectively denied thousands of people meaningful legal access. The order requires ICE to stop quickly transferring detainees out of Minnesota and to permit attorney visits and confidential phone calls. The ruling will remain in effect for 14 days while the case proceeds.The class action lawsuit was filed on January 27 on behalf of noncitizen detainees. According to the court, many individuals were moved out of state without notice, making it difficult or impossible for lawyers to locate them. In some instances, detainees were transferred so often that ICE itself lost track of their whereabouts. Judge Brasel concluded that while ICE did not formally deny the right to counsel, its actions in practice severely limited that right.The court also cited evidence that detainees were given limited phone access, sometimes sharing a small number of phones among dozens of people, with calls occurring in nonprivate settings. One asylum seeker with a valid work permit was held for 18 days despite a court order requiring his earlier release and was transferred across multiple states without explanation. The judge rejected ICE's claim that it lacked sufficient resources, noting that the agency had committed substantial personnel and funding to the enforcement effort.ICE blocked detainees' access to lawyers in Minnesota, judge finds | ReutersPresident Donald Trump announced four new judicial nominations, including a White House attorney selected for a seat on the U.S. Court of International Trade. The nominee, Kara Westercamp, currently serves as associate counsel in the White House and previously worked at the Justice Department. If confirmed, she would join a nine-member court that handles disputes involving U.S. trade laws, including challenges to tariffs. Her nomination comes as numerous companies contest Trump's sweeping global tariffs and seek refunds on duties already paid.Retailers and manufacturers such as Costco, Goodyear, and Revlon have filed lawsuits arguing that the tariffs exceed presidential authority. Earlier rulings from the trade court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit blocked most of the tariffs, and the U.S. Supreme Court is now reviewing the matter. Trump has publicly criticized the earlier decisions.In addition to Westercamp, Trump nominated Katie Lane to a federal district court in Montana, Sheria Clarke to a district court seat in South Carolina, and federal prosecutor Evan Rikhye to a 10-year term on the District Court of the Virgin Islands. All nominees must be confirmed by the Senate.Trump nominates White House lawyer to court hearing tariff cases | ReutersFormer CNN anchor Don Lemon is scheduled to appear in federal court in Minnesota to enter a plea related to charges stemming from his coverage of a protest at a St. Paul church. The protest targeted President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement surge in the state. Lemon, now an independent journalist, livestreamed the January 18 demonstration, which disrupted a worship service at Cities Church.Federal prosecutors charged him with conspiring to violate civil rights and with obstructing access to a house of worship under a statute also used in cases involving abortion clinic protests. His attorney argues that the prosecution infringes on Lemon's First Amendment rights and characterizes the case as an attack on press freedom. Trump publicly supported the charges, while Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that authorities would protect the right to worship without interference.The protest occurred during broader demonstrations against federal immigration actions in Minnesota, where thousands had gathered to oppose the crackdown. Lemon was seen on video speaking with activists before and during the disruption and interviewing participants and congregants inside the church. Another journalist, Georgia Fort, faces similar charges and has denied wrongdoing, stating she was reporting rather than participating.Journalist Don Lemon to enter plea in Minnesota ICE protest case | ReutersThis week's closing theme is by Johann Sebastian Bach.Bach stands as one of the central figures of the Baroque era, revered for the structural clarity and spiritual depth of his music. Born in 1685 into a long line of musicians, Bach spent much of his career serving as a church organist and cantor in German cities such as Arnstadt, Weimar, and Leipzig. Though not widely celebrated outside musical circles during his lifetime, his reputation has since grown to near-mythic status. His compositions balance intellectual precision with emotional resonance, blending intricate counterpoint with lyrical expression.This week's closing theme is his Cello Suite No. 1 in G major, BWV 1007, likely composed around 1720 during his tenure in Köthen. The suite opens with one of the most recognizable preludes in all of classical music, built from flowing arpeggios that unfold with quiet inevitability. Written for unaccompanied cello, the piece demonstrates Bach's ability to imply harmony and depth through a single melodic line. The suite follows the traditional Baroque dance structure, moving from Prelude through Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, Menuets, and Gigue.For many listeners, the Prelude evokes clarity, order, and calm—qualities that make it a fitting close to the week. Its simplicity is deceptive; beneath the surface lies careful architecture and subtle harmonic movement. The work fell into relative obscurity until the twentieth century, when cellist Pablo Casals famously revived it and brought it to concert stages worldwide. Today, it remains a cornerstone of the cello repertoire and a touchstone of Baroque artistry. As a closing theme, it offers both reflection and renewal, ending not with flourish but with quiet confidence.Without further ado, Johann Sebastian Bach's Cello Suite No. 1 in G major, BWV 1007–enjoy! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

A.M. Edition for Feb. 12. The GOP-led House rejects President Trump's Canada tariffs, but backs him up on his voter-ID push. Plus, Elon Musk announces a shakeup at xAI as it merges with SpaceX. And WSJ's Aimee Look and CI&T's Melissa Minkow discuss how years of rising prices have left consumers increasingly cost-conscious – a trend clearly on display in recent retail earnings. Luke Vargas hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Retailers say they're selling out of the new state flag since ICE has been in town. Have people's opinion's changed? Or is this just another proxy battle?

Feb. 10, 2026- New York State Office of Cannabis Management Chief Equity Officer Simone Washington discusses an effort to create a more level playing field for marijuana dispensary owners coming from marginalized communities.

In the late 2000s, two French mountain athletes set out to build a running shoe that captured the feeling of flying. Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas “Nico” Mermoud had spent decades inside the innovation engine at Salomon—where product was obsession. In 2007, as Nico recovered from a brutal ultramarathon around Mont Blanc, the founders fixed on a problem that Big Footwear didn't care about: downhill running was destroying bodies. Their solution: make the shoe bigger, softer, and shaped like a rocker.At first, their prototypes looked like clown shoes. Runners who preferred minimalist footwear laughed at them. Retailers said no. But the founders kept doing the one thing that they knew could reverse things: they made people try them.HOKA went from under $3M in sales in 2012 to more than $2B a year—and in this episode, you'll hear how it happened: the risky design, the early cash crunch, and the strategic partnership that helped them win the U.S. market.What you'll learn:How to think of a shoe as a machine, not just a piece of apparelThe go-to-market weapon that worked: relentless demo-ing Why outside money can't always solve a cash flow bottleneck (and what does)How HOKA used performance proof to avoid being dismissed as a gimmickWhy HOKA partnered with Deckers—and why it wasn't just about capitalHow to keep a “rebel” mindset as competitors start copying youTimestamps:(Timecodes are approximate and may shift depending on platform.)[07:12] George Salomon's leadership lesson: the CEO who sought advice from an intern[11:11] Nico's first day at Salomon: testing ski prototypes on a glacier[18:42] The ultramarathon race where Nico's legs crumbled (and why)[21:29] A breakthrough insight: performance changes with surface (leaves, lava, snow)[31:25] Designing a sneaker as if it were a car: engine, tires, seat[40:00] The “clown shoe” prototype—and the first successful run [47:22] Elite runners kickstart the brand [49:02] The hard part nobody glamorizes: factory minimums, bank demands, anemic cash flow[53:31] Deckers enters: the minority investment that unlocks the U.S. (without killing the brand)Hey—want to be a guest on HIBT?If you're building a business, why not get advice from some of the greatest entrepreneurs on Earth?Every Thursday on the HIBT Advice Line, a previous HIBT guest helps new entrepreneurs work through the challenges they're facing right now. Advice that's smart, actionable, and absolutely free.Just call 1-800-433-1298, leave a message, and you may soon get guidance from someone who started where you did, and went on to build something massive.So—give us a call. We can't wait to hear what you're working on.***This episode was produced and researched by Rommel Wood with music composed by Ramtin Arablouei.It was edited by Neva Grant. Our engineers were Patrick Murray and Kwesi Lee. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ray Reddy is VP of Retail at Shopify, leading the company's retail business and championing local entrepreneurs. With a career focused on leveraging technology for commerce, he previously co-founded Ritual, a mobile commerce platform supporting local restaurants, and PushLife (acquired by Google), where he later led mobile product management for shopping and commerce. Ray is passionate about building products that simplify complexity and create new opportunities to help local entrepreneurs win. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. Retailers are entering a modern renaissance where AI and rapid innovation make entrepreneurship easier than ever. 2. Shopify POS Hub delivers near-perfect reliability by solving the long-standing pain of iPad-peripheral incompatibility. 3. Expanding delivery and payment capabilities, like Uber Direct and global Tap to Pay, helps merchants offer world-class customer experiences. Learn more about Shopify's retail solutions and the Winter '26 Edition - Shopify Winter '26 Edition Sponsors HighLevel - The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies. Learn more at HighLevelFire.com. Intuit QuickBooks - Transform your cash flow and your business this year. Check out QuickBooks money tools today! Learn more at QuickBooks.com/money. Terms apply. Money movement services are provided by Intuit Payments Inc., licensed as a Money Transmitter by the New York State Department of Financial Services.

In this episode, I sit down to talk about how retailers can take advantage of the current "attention world" we live in. I start by discussing the metrics that actually matter for retail, criticizing the industry's addiction to "silly reports" and subjective opinions, like brand lift studies. I argue that we are now in an era of Relevance Warfare and introduce the single most important metric for every retailer: Views Achieved. I dive deep into why your best organic creative is the key to winning with paid media and share my strong conviction that live social shopping, with platforms like Whatnot and TikTok Shop - is a colossal opportunity that too many are ignoring.You'll learn about:The biggest mistake Fortune 500 companies made in the last 20 years.Why brand loyalty is about to become more important than ever with AI.Why you need to shift your mindset from "Social Media" to "Interest Media".How to use your top-performing organic content for "Performance Selling".The profound, often underestimated, value of being on LinkedIn.My thoughts on AI influencers and how they will affect the market.