Retail Unwrapped - From The Robin Report podcast

31:05

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guest: Mita Malhotra, President of Chewy Health Pets are big business; 66% of U.S. households are pet parents. Chewy has been a pioneer in online pet care and is now transforming in-person veterinary care by seamlessly integrating ecommerce convenience with personalized clinical experiences. In fact, Chewy was named a 2024 Crave Retail Radical by The Robin Report. Their digital-first healthcare model has earned high customer reviews by delivering instant access, technological convenience, and exceptional service. Join Shelley and Mita Malhotra, President of Chewy Health, as they explore how Chewy continues to innovate with a revolutionary in-person veterinary clinic practice. With a stress-free, spa-like clinical environment that calms both pets and humans, Chewy is one step ahead of the market that is hungry for modern, predictable, trusted healthcare that connects physical care with digital convenience. Learn how Chewy consistently exceeds expectations with award-winning customer service and reimagining veterinary care with its deep understanding of how to serve pet parents and their pets. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 236: How Forever Chemicals Are Reshaping Retail's Future 39:49

12 days ago39:49

39:49

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guests: Michelle Bellanca, CEO and co-founder of Claros Technologies Arick Wierson, Emmy Award-winning producer and TRR contributor The retail industry faces a transformative reckoning beyond tariffs and supply chain disruptions: PFAS chemicals. These "forever chemicals" are ubiquitous in everything from textiles and cosmetics to food packaging and electronics. What’s more, PFAS compounds have infiltrated 99 percent of all humans’ bloodstreams. Regulatory frameworks are tightening worldwide, with Europe leading aggressive restrictions while the U.S. market remains primarily litigation driven. Guests Michelle Bellanca, CEO and co-founder of Claros Technologies and Arick Wierson, Emmy Award winning producer and TRR contributor join Shelley with a call to action about this $13 trillion threat to the retail industry. The technology exists to detect and destroy these compounds, and innovative companies can lead rather than react to eradicate PFAS. Consumers will also put pressure on manufacturers to provide PFAS-free products. We are at a critical juncture to reverse the PFAS tide. Listen and learn! For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 235: How Flow Fashion Could Save Our Planet and Your Wallet 26:34

19 days ago26:34

26:34

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guests: Ann Cantrell, small business owner and FIT associate professor Liz Alessi, retail supply chain expert We’re celebrating Earth Day Week early! The fashion industry has an environmental crisis on its hands. It uses an astronomical number of resources (a single T-shirt requires 700 gallons of water to manufacture) contributing 10 percent of global carbon emissions. Fast fashion brands are accelerating production cycles while regulatory rollbacks are threatening progress: understanding sustainable alternatives has never been more urgent for both consumers and brands. In this episode of Retail Unwrapped, Shelley and sustainability experts Ann Cantrell and Liz Alessi discuss innovative solutions in the face of global supply chain challenges and economic headwinds ensuring both economic and environmental sustainability. Consumers hold significant power through their purchasing decisions while brands can drive change through innovative approaches like "flow fashion,” which is combining the best business practices of fast fashion with the core values of slow fashion, maintaining sustainability principles. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 234: Retail Media Redefines Customized Marketing 26:24

26 days ago26:24

26:24

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guest: Dominick Miserandino, CEO of Retail Tech Media Nexus Consumer attention is the ultimate currency in today’s disruptive marketplace. Retailers are becoming publishers as a strategy to forge deeper connections with customers through authentic storytelling. Savvy retailers are leveraging first-party data with insights to create experiences that resonate on a personal level, upending the traditional advertising model. Join Shelley and Dominick Miserandino, a retail media mastermind to learn how the retail media network revolution isn't merely about selling ad space; it's about understanding customer journeys and facilitating meaningful interactions that transform browsing into belonging. As press releases and traditional marketing become less relevant, personalized narratives are emerging as the connective tissue between brands and consumers in an increasingly fragmented marketplace. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 233: Store Closures and Lease Structures Are Reshaping Commercial Retail 28:54

5 weeks ago28:54

28:54

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guest: Stephanie Cegielski, VP of Research at ICSC The retail marketplace is in the throes of transformation. Despite the popular narrative of a retail apocalypse, commercial spaces are undergoing a renaissance. If developers and retailers are inventive and bold, store closures offer an opportunity for innovative reinvention. Today, vacancy rates hovering around just 4 percent; there's intense competition for those empty spaces. Scarcity, coupled with high construction costs, has created a competitive marketplace where the retailers that are reimagining traditional can thrive. Join Shelley and Stephanie Cegielski, VP of Research at ICSC as they discuss how successful malls have become vibrant ecosystems as technology hubs, dining spots, entertainment venues, and educational facilities. Listen and learn how retailers can successfully transform by taking advantage of new lease structures that have evolved dramatically, with flexible terms replacing rigid, decade-long commitments. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 232: Urban Outfitters Masters Strategic Innovation 30:49

6 weeks ago30:49

30:49

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guest: Sandy Stein, founder of Retail Speak, and TRR contributor What makes a retail brand resilient? It starts with visionary leadership that sees the business holistically balancing merchandising expertise and creativity with financial discipline. Urban Outfitter CEO and founder Richard Hayne has a merchant-first mentality and leads the organization with strategic pivots to align with changing consumer preferences while maintaining brand integrity. Join Shelley and strategic visionary Sandy Stein as they discuss how Urban Outfitters has maintained a customer-centric culture, showing patience in stark contrast to aggressive scaling models that have led many other retailers to overexpansion and subsequent painful contraction. Surviving a series of market disruptions, like Amazon's and Walmart’s fashion plays into the contemporary market, Urban Outfitters has remarkable agility in navigating both headwinds and tailwinds. It stands as a compelling case study in adaptive strategy and vertical integration. Listen and learn how Hayne’s holistic approach to brand management, built on merchandising expertise rather than pure financial orientation, delivers a sustainable future for Urban Outfitters. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 231: Hudson’s Bay's Downfall: Why Richard Baker Failed 32:31

7 weeks ago32:31

32:31

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guest: Mark A. Cohen Former Director of Retail Studies at the Columbia Business School, and Former CEO Sears Canada. Hudson’s Bay, once Canada's proud retail institution, has descended into Chapter 11 restructuring. And the blunt truth is it’s not because of recent trade tensions as the company proclaimed, but rather from years of financial neglect, unpredictable customer experiences, and questionable strategic moves. The department store's inconsistent merchandise assortments across different locations undermined The Bay’s identity, leaving customers confused about what the retailer actually stood for. Join Shelley and retail veteran Mark Cohen as they discuss how CEO Richard Baker's real estate-focused leadership and lack of retail expertise have led to catastrophic outcomes, reflecting the danger of prioritizing deal-making over operational excellence. His ineptitude doesn’t stop at Hudson’s Bay. Saks Global is at risk of long-term survival. It’s the perfect storm for Saks: The large luxe brands are not going to be bullied by Saks 90-day payment terms and Baker's financial engineering will give market share to Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 230: Rethinking Retail Marketing Leadership: AI and the Fractional Revolution 27:40

8 weeks ago27:40

27:40

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guest: Lindsey Scheftic, CMO, Owner and Founder, The CMO Sidekick Fractional CMOs with blue-chip experience are sources of enterprise-level talent accessible even to mid-market companies. Couple that resource with AI tools that are moving at the speed of light, these strategic co-pilots are separating marketing winners from losers. With the explosion of video channel fragmentation creating a measurement nightmare and threatening attribution accuracy, and retail media networks evolving from a "necessary evil" into precision targeting powerhouses – both demand a new level of marketing expertise. Join Shelley and Lindsey Scheftic, CMO, owner and founder of The CMO Sidekick as they explore how marketing expertise is being fundamentally redefined. The traditional career path is dead, yesterday's marketing education is obsolete, and 65 percent of future marketing roles don't even exist today. Listen in to this provocative conversation to get up to speed on the future of marketing. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 229: Consumer Boycotts: A Major C-Suite Headache 26:48

9 weeks ago26:48

26:48

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guest: Warren Shoulberg, Retail Journalist and TRR Writer Consumer spending is increasingly reflecting personal values. In a disruptive, unpredictable marketplace, the rise of grassroots activism presents unprecedented strategic challenges for retail executives. These orchestrated economic blackouts can transform individual purchasing decisions into collective action, triggering a compromised retail brand reputation with financial implications. While any immediate sales impact is difficult to quantify, brands are still vulnerable. Join Shelley and Warren Shoulberg, retail expert and TRR contributor, as they discuss whether these movements are successful and how the true power of these boycotts may lie in the symbolic expression of shifting the public discourse, particularly fueled by social media. The growing tension between consumer activists and retail brands sits at the heart of the strategic calculus of how the C-suite serves its customers and makes decisions. Now more than ever, retailers need to work harder to earn customer loyalty. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 228: When Necessities Become Luxuries: The Bird Flu Economy 18:33

10 weeks ago18:33

18:33

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guest: Phil Lempert, consumer behavior analyst The bird flu outbreak has transcended egg producers in the farming industry to become a critical economic disruptor and potential public health threat. With consumers spending 53 percent more on eggs in January 2025 compared to the previous year, this potential pandemic illustrates the fragility of our food systems despite technological advances. Join Shelley and Phil Lempert, expert analyst on consumer behavior, marketing trends and the changing retail landscape, as they discuss how the bird flu crisis is creating complex challenges for retailers, restaurateurs, supply chain executives, and public health officials alike. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 227: The What-Ifs of Potential Tariffs 23:19

11 weeks ago23:19

23:19

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guest: Jonathan Gold, Vice President of Supply Chain and Customs Policy, National Retail Federation In a year of unprecedented economic uncertainty, the possible implementation of widespread tariffs has far-reaching implications for retail markets and consumer behavior. Beyond the immediate impact on pricing, these trade policies could fundamentally alter supply chain strategies, product availability, and market competition. Join Shelley and Jonathan Gold from NRF as they discuss all-things tariffs and how challenging it is for retailers to plan for sudden, unexpected policy changes. While some retailers advocate bringing manufacturing back to the U.S, the infrastructure, skilled labor, and economic conditions required for domestic production cannot be established quickly enough to counteract imminent, imposed tariffs. From a macro perspective, the current trade environment demands a strategic reassessment of supply chain diversity and risk management to thrive in an increasingly volatile global market. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 226: Beyond the Saks-Neiman Merger: The True Cost of Market Consolidation 34:34

12 weeks ago34:34

34:34

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guests: Mickey Alam Khan, CEO of Luxury Roundtable Pam Danziger, TRR contributor and founder Unity Marketing The shift in luxury retail's competitive landscape through the Saks-Neiman Marcus merger could have a domino effect on the operational synergies of both companies, unlocking fundamental questions about the sustainability of the luxury department store model. At stake is the state of personalized luxury retail when longstanding customer relationships and local market expertise are at odds with the impersonal efficiencies of large-scale consolidated operations. As the evolving dynamics of signature, singular brand stores and large multi-brand retailers unfold, it is evident that luxury brand houses are increasingly gaining control their own destiny through direct-to-consumer channels. Join Shelley, Mickey Alam Khan, CEO of Luxury Roundtable, and Pam Danziger, TRR contributor and founder Unity Marketing, as they dive into Richard Baker's acquisition track record and question whether Saks Global can gain strides against global luxury brands which have become its largest competitors. Or is the Saks model the demise of luxury department store retail? For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 225: How Weather Forecasting Is a Trillion-Dollar Retail Opportunity 21:38

13 weeks ago21:38

21:38

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guests: Evan Gold, EVP of Global Partnerships & Alliances at Planalytics Matt Flentge, Director of Category Marketing at Ace Hardware Inc. Let’s move beyond Punxsutawney Phil's shadow and his Spring 2025 prediction into the sophisticated world of weather-driven retail strategy. The ritual is a convergence of folklore and cutting-edge analytics that has implications for the $7 trillion U.S. retail market. Join Shelley, Evan Gold, EVP of Global Partnerships & Alliances at Planalytics and Matt Flentge, Director of Category Marketing at Ace Hardware as they discuss the weather; last year marked the fifth warmest spring in 130 years, setting a challenging benchmark for 2025 performance comparisons. While Phil's prediction of a late spring captured the headlines, the real story lies in how modern retailers are transforming weather forecasting into actionable business intelligence. Weather influences over $1 trillion in annual retail sales, with spring weather sensitivity affecting retail traffic by up to 5 percent annually. Learn how retailers like Ace Hardware are leveraging hyperlocal weather data to optimize everything from inventory management to digital transformation. Successful retailers are using advanced analytics to transform climate challenges into strategic advantages that optimize forecast accuracy, drive top-line sales, and enhance service levels for physical and digital retail. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 224: The Robin Report Roundtable: Key Forces Reshaping Retail's Future 33:41

14 weeks ago33:41

33:41

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! The Robin Report Experts · Mark A. Cohen, Former Director of Retail Studies at Columbia Business School and Former CEO Sears Canada. · Phil Lempert, SupermarketGuru® expert analyst on consumer behavior, marketing trends, new products and the changing retail landscape. · Jasmine Glasheen, a go-to retail and SaaS content strategist, also well-known for insights on generational purchasing behavior The convergence of geopolitical tensions, technological revolution, and changing consumer behaviors are creating strategic challenges and reshaping retail, all which demand immediate C-suite attention. Join Shelley and her roundtable of TRR contributors (Jasmine Glasheen, Mark A. Cohen, and Phil Lempert) as they discuss how to navigate unprecedented disruption and anticipate the short-term future. Listen in to learn how emerging trends suggest a fundamental restructuring of retail economics that will require agile leadership and innovative approaches to maintain competitive advantage. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 223: Trade Talks: NRF’s Big Show (Part 2 of 2) 31:54

15 weeks ago31:54

31:54

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guests: Dominick Miserandino, CEO Retailwire Beverley Kobe, Chief Executive Officer at Goodwill Industries Ontario Great Lakes Sulabh Jain, Chief Analytics Officer Impact Analytics The future of retail is undergoing a transformation and artificial intelligence is emerging as a powerful partner for humans in the process. Join Shelley with three industry leaders: Dominick Miserandino, CEO of Retailwire; Sulabh Jain Chief Analytics Officer of Impact Analytics; and Beverley Kobe Chief Executive Officer at Goodwill Industries Ontario Great Lakes, as they tackle some of the most complex aspects of the AI evolution that are reshaping traditional retail value propositions. Dominick explores the mindset around how AI is leveraging retail-tech not as a job eliminator, but as an extension of human capabilities -- AI with a humanistic approach. He also discusses the dramatic shifts in consumer behavior defined by immediate gratification and convenience. Bev shares how sustainability initiatives are empowered by insightful analytics that optimize processing 6 billion pounds of goods flowing through innovative reuse and recycling channels annually. Sulabh reveals how forward-thinking retailers are leveraging AI-powered decision systems to remodel traditional pricing and inventory strategies into sophisticated, data-driven operations. And the experts weigh in on the impact of potential global trade policies and tariffs in 2025. The convergence of AI, sustainability, and adaptive pricing strategies represent a fundamental shift in retail operations, amplifying the power of resilience in an increasingly interconnected marketplace. Listen and learn from our experienced experts. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 222: Trade Talks: NRF’s Big Show (Part 1 of 2) 43:56

16 weeks ago43:56

43:56

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guests: Suni Shamapande, PwC's Consumer Markets Lead Kimberly Lee Minor, CEO, WOC Retail Alliance Liza Amlani, Founder and Principal of Retail Strategy Group Nikki Baird, VP of Aptos Strategy and Products NRF’s 2025 show was a panoramic view of the retail industry and a preview of its near-term future. Retail Unwrapped took the podcast on the road to gain insights from forward thinking experts about key industry takeaways from the NRF 2025. They weighed in on how the convergence of artificial intelligence, human talent and market insight is fundamentally reshaping the retail landscape. Effective AI implementation is focused on processes to augment systems and human decision-making in all retail operations. Join Shelley for a cross-disciplinary perspective on retail from AI operational integration and implementation (Suni), the need for diversity in retail leadership (Kimberly), merchandising strategy (Liza) and retail tech and the in-store experience (Nikki). These experts reveal how successful retailers are embracing a future where technology enhances human connection, market insight challenges conventional wisdom, and enlightened leadership drives innovation supported by diverse perspectives. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 221: American Giant and Walmart Reshore at Scale 24:04

17 weeks ago24:04

24:04

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guest: Bayard Winthrop, CEO and founder of American Giant Bayard Winthrop, CEO of American Giant, is dedicated to American made and has a transformative partnership with Walmart that could redefine the power of American manufacturing. Winthrop launched his collaboration with Walmart with a $12.98 American-made T-shirt in 2023, expanding to sweatshirts in 2025. The partnership is a compelling story about how premium brands can maintain integrity through mass-market collaboration. Walmart's unprecedented $350 billion, 10-year commitment to American-made products scales up onshoring, supports American jobs, meets customers’ expectations and lowers costs. Join Shelley and Bayard as they discuss global trade tensions, looming tariffs, and provide insights into the broader implications of reshoring for national security, community vitality, and workforce development. He challenges prevailing assumptions about manufacturing costs, believing strategic retail partnerships can democratize access to American-made quality without compromising standards. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 220: Navigating Retail's Next Storm: Technology, Trade, Transformation 31:36

18 weeks ago31:36

31:36

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! As we enter 2025, what’s the imperative for retail going forward? We’ve identified three key shifts that are shaping the future of retail. Join Shelley in a review of Retail Unwrapped podcast highlights that preview retail things to come. In hot topics of the moment, tariffs are top of mind for CEOs and CFOs and retail leadership is anticipating uncertain changes with the new administration. The industry faces a pivotal moment as tariff policies create a complex economic balancing act between manufacturing costs at home and consumer price surging for global sourcing. Discover more with Bayard Winthrop, Founder and CEO American Giant and Arick Wierson, award-winning journalist and TRR contributor in a Post-Election Recap for Retail. AI is raising its head, a sleeping giant with integration emerging as the defining factor separating market leaders from laggards. Its impact on the retail industry will be broad and deep and brands that stay ahead of the technology and implement AI strategies that resonate with their target markets are better positioned to win. Learn more with The Next Frontier: Agentic AI Smart Shopping; The AI-Powered Merchant: Creativity Meets Retail Technology; and the Future of Retail Returns: Automation Meets Human Intelligence. Effective retail leadership will shift as it adopts modern skillsets and strategies to manage a disruptive marketplace. Find out what right stuff is required to win with customers and an evolving workforce: Behind the CEO Curtain: What Modern Leadership Really Looks Like; Succession Planning in Retail…Pepsi Has It Right Four Female CEOs with Unique Retail Strategies; and John Venhuizen, President and CEO of Ace Hardware: A 2024 Crave Retail Radical. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 219: Build-A-Bear Workshop Is a Retail Renaissance 28:02

19 weeks ago28:02

28:02

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guest: Sharon Price John, CEO Build-A-Bear Workshop Build-A-Bear Workshop is the evolution of a metamorphosis of a beloved brand. What began as a mall-centric experiential retailer transformed into a global powerhouse by understanding the shifting dynamics of consumer behavior, digital commerce, and destination retail. Join Shelley and Sharon as they reveal how questioning traditional retail assumptions led to breakthrough insights about tourist locations, hospitality partnerships, and multi-generational appeal. This strategic pivot wasn't about changing direction but rather reinterpreting the mission of founder Maxine Clark who created memorable family experiences. Listen in to learn how experiential excellence has made Build-a-Bear a retail renaissance. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 218: The Next Frontier: Agentic AI Smart Shopping 33:53

20 weeks ago33:53

33:53

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guests: Bridget Johns, co-founder and CEO at To&From, John Andrews co-founder and CEO of Cimulate. The future of retail is being fundamentally transformed by artificial intelligence, moving far beyond basic search functionality to create intuitive, personalized shopping experiences. Learn how AI is evolving from simple keyword matching to sophisticated understanding of consumer context and intent. The key to success lies in striking the perfect balance between AI automation and human expertise. Join Shelley, Bridget and John as they discuss how the emergence of Agentic AI -- autonomous shopping assistants that can understand complex requirements and preferences -- represents the next frontier in retail technology. The human element will remain crucial, particularly when deep product knowledge and curation are required. The most successful implementations will combine AI's processing power with retail domain expertise to enhance rather than replace the human touch in shopping experiences. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 217: Denise Incandela, Walmart Fashion EVP: A 2024 Crave Retail Radical 22:03

21 weeks ago22:03

22:03

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! In a bold reimagining of mass-market fashion, Walmart is spearheading a transformation that challenges traditional retail paradigms. A 2024 Crave Retail Radical, Denise Incandela, EVP of Walmart Fashion U.S. declares, "Disruption enables breakthrough ideas and redefines standards." This strategic evolution isn't about changing perception – it's revolutionizing how America can access and experience fashion. Join Shelley and Denise in our Retail Radical podcast as they explore how Walmart has transformed its role as a fashion destination. Denise underscores Walmart’s commitment to democratizing fashion without compromising style. The transformation extends beyond product to encompass a reimagined store experience, with over 600 modernized locations featuring branded shops and discovery zones that position fashion as a halo for the brand. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 216: John Venhuizen, President and CEO of Ace Hardware: A 2024 Crave Retail Radical 22:50

21 weeks ago22:50

22:50

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! John Venhuizen’s leadership and radical innovation over the past decade have fueled Ace Hardware’s growth. His strategy is a masterclass in scaling up while maintaining brand integrity and strong community ties. His success in attracting experienced retailers to its cooperative model demonstrates the enduring value of combining local expertise with global resources. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 215: The AI-Powered Merchant: Creativity Meets Retail Technology 31:12

22 weeks ago31:12

31:12

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guest: Ken Pilot of Ken Pilot Ventures, a retail advisory and technology investment firm. The convergence of traditional retail expertise with technological innovation is at a critical juncture for industry leaders. The retail-tech landscape is rapidly advancing beyond basic digitization into practical applications that directly impact the bottom line. Join Shelley and Ken as they dive into the next-gen technologies that are changing the retail landscape. They discuss how conversational commerce is revolutionizing the way customers discover products and how new technologies are transforming in-store operations by empowering associates with AI-driven styling tools and inventory insights. What will define the next level of retail success? The ability to harness retail-tech tools while maintaining brand authenticity and merchant creativity. Listen in to a tech-infused, stimulating conversation. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 214: The Future of Retail Returns: Automation Meets Human Intelligence 21:27

24 weeks ago21:27

21:27

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guest: Tim Fehr, COO of Happy Returns The complexities of modern returns management include processing hundreds of thousands of SKUs and demand both technological precision and human insight. As retail continues to evolve, the ability to efficiently manage returns while preventing fraud has become a critical factor in maintaining profitability and customer loyalty. As a pioneering force in returns management, Happy Returns has revolutionized the industry through its innovative approach to combining human verification with robotics automation. Join Shelley and Tim as they discuss how the Happy Returns system achieves a remarkable 35 percent improvement in processing speed while maintaining rigorous fraud prevention standards and how their automated processing centers ensure rapid inventory recovery for retailers. Their returns process is also netting a lifetime 93 Net Promoter Score. Their acquisition by UPS has further enhanced their capability to provide enterprise-level returns management solutions and the ability to scale innovation efforts. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 213: Why Circular Store Design Will Redefine Resilient Retail 32:00

25 weeks ago32:00

32:00

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guest: Rebekah L. Matheny, NCIDQ, IIDA, Associate Professor | Interior Design | Department of Design, The Ohio State University; Founder & Director | REBEL Sustainable Futures Lab The retail industry stands at a pivotal crossroads where sustainability, inclusivity, and profitability are converging to create a new model for growth. As consumer preferences evolve and environmental consciousness continues to rise, traditional retail operations are being challenged by a more circular, purpose-driven approach that promises both economic and environmental advantages. Circularity also includes store design with compelling supporting data: Circular retail models can generate up to four times higher profits per item while reducing environmental impact by 80 percent. Join Shelley and Rebekah as they unpack why circular design is not just about sustainability, it’s about creating a resilient business model. The imperative for change is clear: As Gen Zers and Alphas gain more purchasing power, their expectations for sustainable and inclusive retail experiences will reshape the industry. Retailers who pivot now will be better positioned to capture this growing market while contributing to a more resilient retail future. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 212: Post-Election Recap for Retail 29:28

26 weeks ago29:28

29:28

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guest: Arick Wierson, Emmy award-winning television producer, political analyst and Robin Report Contributor There is much speculation about how the recent election will impact the economy, shape the future of America and direct its influence throughout the world. Join Shelley and Arick in a wide-ranging conversation about the potential after-effects of the national election on the American consumer, retail and the business world. They also discuss how retailers can learn lessons from the campaigns about how to use strategic marketing and media to best resonate with consumers, and how research and polling can be misleading. Arick cautions the need for businesses to adapt to a new socio-political landscape, suggesting hiring geopolitical analysts and better understanding how to manage broader geopolitical dynamics as a result of a breakdown of separation between business and politics. There is a lot to unpack in the first days of a President-Elect Trump administration. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

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EP 211: De-Risking the Intelligence Gap in Retail Analytics 17:47

27 weeks ago17:47

17:47

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guest: Jay Hakami, CEO and Founder, Skypad, CEO, SkyIT Group What’s a retailer’s worst nightmare? Not having the right retail insights and analytics to manage inventory. In an era where retail success hinges on speed to insight, the industry faces a critical intelligence gap stemming from outdated data sharing practices between retailers and brands. Operational efficiency can be crippled by inventory misalignment, yet so many businesses still struggle with the lack of accurate, granular and timely visibility into inventory levels that leads to stock discrepancies. What’s more, inefficient communication and lack of transparency between brands and retailers causes delays in inventory replenishment and excess stock in some locations while others face shortages. Join Shelley and Jay as they take a deep dive into the critical role of data transparency and communication between brands and retailers, examining how top performers are bridging the information divide. Speed to insight is the new currency in retail performance. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

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EP 210: Retail Store Transformation and Holiday 2024 24:11

28 weeks ago24:11

24:11

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guest Tom McGee, President and CEO of ICSC, the International Council of Shopping Centers Physical stores still function as strategic assets in today’s era of retail store transformation. New research from ICSC shows 92 percent of consumers plan in-store purchases this holiday season, reflecting the resilience and attraction of physical retail. Join Shelley and Tom as they explore what’s up for Holiday 2024 and how the in-store experience can create a powerful connection with shoppers. Despite the popularity of digital commerce, what may surprise you is there's an acute shortage of physical retail space, particularly in suburban markets. Listen and learn about the future of physical store planning and retail’s ongoing transformation. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 209: How Two Giants Are Disrupting Circularity with Sustainable Fashion Initiatives 28:07

29 weeks ago28:07

28:07

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guests: Kim Kitchings - Senior Vice President, Consumer Marketing, Cotton Incorporated Anna Copilevitz – Lead Program Manager, Zappos for Good In a global consumer marketplace where sustainability is no longer optional, two unexpected partners are redefining sustainable fashion initiatives. Join Shelley, Kim, and Anna as they unveil how Cotton Incorporated and Zappos are turning sustainability rhetoric into tangible action, challenging the status quo and setting new benchmarks for industry collaboration. Discover how these industry giants are transforming post-consumer denim into valuable resources, leveraging ecommerce infrastructure to make sustainability accessible to all consumers, and educating the next generation about circularity and its impact on their future. This isn't just another conversation about sustainability—it's a masterclass in innovative partnerships, consumer engagement, and future-focused business strategies. For retail executives looking to stay ahead of the curve, listen in and learn how to harness collective industry power, align in sustainable fashion initiatives and turn potential competitors into powerful allies for global impact. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

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EP 208: What's the Port Strike Impact on Retail? 24:46

30 weeks ago24:46

24:46

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guests: Jonathan Gold, Vice President, Supply Chain and Customs Policy, National Retail Federation. Sonja Chapman, Associate Professor International Trade and Marketing at Fashion Institute of Technology. What’s the aborted port strike impact on the retail industry? Although the strike may be over, the real battle could be beginning. Beyond the longshoremen’s passalong salary hikes, a sticking point with the union is protection against automation. They are threatened by technology that can help build a more productive and profitable business model at the expense of union jobs. Join Shelley, Jonathan and Sonja as they look at the post-port strike landscape and discuss how CEOs can stay afloat for the all-important holiday selling period and beyond. Retail businesses and brands should be prepared for the next round of challenges with forward-thinking strategies for supply chain solutions to anticipate port closures, cargo piracy, labor disputes, and weather disruptions like hurricanes. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 207: Home Furnishings Trends: Why 2025 Will Re-energize the Industry 42:28

31 weeks ago42:28

42:28

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guests: Warren Shoulberg, TRR contributor, award-winning journalist, consultant for the retailing and home furnishings industries. Brian Delp, President of Sales and Licensing, Himatsingka America. The pandemic reshaped the home industry, with a shift towards home upgrades over new purchases. Join Shelley, Warren, and Brian as they discuss shifting consumer and market trends, supply chain disruptions and their impact on the current state of the home furnishings and retail sectors. Driven by high interest rates and a tightening housing market, revenge travel is out, home decor is in, and traceability is more important than ever. Consumers are now more focused on smaller, more affordable home décor updates. The conversation also addresses looming port strikes, which could significantly disrupt the already strained supply chain and disrupt Holiday 2024. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 206: Mastering the Circular Economy in Retail 26:06

32 weeks ago26:06

26:06

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guest: Rebekah L. Matheny, NCIDQ, IIDA Associate Professor | Interior Design | Department of Design and Founder & Director | REBEL Sustainable Futures Lab Savvy retailers and brands already have a strategy to respond to the ongoing climate crisis. Join Shelley and Rebekah Matheny, an expert in sustainable design at The Ohio State University, as they discuss the implications of consumers’ impact on the planet. They cover sustainable solutions by making incremental changes despite the popularity of fast fashion and excessive consumerism. With circularity in mind, retailers should rethink store design and product life cycles, from raw materials sourcing to post-consumer reuse and recycling. While some brands, like Zara, are starting small by launching second-hand services, a more systemic change is needed. Gen Z and the Alphas can spot greenwashing a mile away and their priority for authentic sustainability may be just the catalyst for a viable circular economy in retail. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 205: Rewriting the DEI Rules in Retail 33:20

33 weeks ago33:20

33:20

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guest: Kimberly Minor, CEO of Women of Color Retail Alliance The growing significance of the multicultural population, which will become the majority in the U.S. by 2050, will drive brands to integrate DEI authentically into their practices. Millennials, Gen Z and Alphas expect companies to reflect their values and are increasingly directing their spending toward those that do so. Join Shelley and Kimberly Minor, CEO of WOC Retail Alliance, as they discuss how to rethink DEI by understanding why embracing diversity isn't just a social cause but a business imperative. Listen in as they debunk myths around DEI initiatives and urge brands to reclaim a DEI culture for both customers and employees. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 204: Behind the CEO Curtain: What Modern Leadership Really Looks Like 26:20

34 weeks ago26:20

26:20

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! The C-suite is undergoing a transformation with modern leadership becoming digitally savvy and keyed into the importance of customer behavior and mindsets. Join special guest Brenda Malloy, CEO of Herbert Mines Associates, and Shelley as they sit down to discuss leadership in the retail industry, focusing on stakeholders’ evolving expectations of CEOs and the critical attributes CEOs need for success in today's dynamic market. There is pressure to increase diversity and representation in the C-suite, particularly for women and BIPOC leaders. Brenda also provides insights into why some executives, including Mary Dillon and Brian Connell, are crossing over to retail from other sectors. And not to mention, but Gen Alpha is entering the workforce: Are retail leaders ready? For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 203: The Importance of Retail in Urban Development 31:39

35 weeks ago31:39

31:39

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guests: Jennifer Peterson Community Engagement Chief at Edwards Companies and Brian Bernstein, Principal of REALM Collaborative Mixed-use spaces have been reshaping urban development, and retail plays an essential role in the vibrancy of these public spaces. Jennifer Peterson and Brian Bernstein join Shelley to talk about trends in commercial real estate and urban development, and how collaborative partnerships can transform the success of these projects. Learn about the vital role community engagement plays in these projects, the benefits to cities, and what brands and retailers can do to tap into this trend. Hear real-world examples of the challenges and opportunities for retail in urban development and how public spaces can shape customer experiences and bring value to owners. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 202: Our Guest, CEO of Ace Hardware, John Venhuizen 23:50

36 weeks ago23:50

23:50

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Ace Hardware is on a roll. It just debuted its new store concept Elevate Ace, designed on input from its suppliers, store owners, and shareholders. Reflecting shifts in consumer shopping behavior, the new store focuses on enhanced customer service with branded in-store experiences. Join special guest John Venhuizen, CEO of Ace Hardware, and Shelley as they discuss how the company has transformed from a family-owned business to a global cooperative. Celebrating 100 years with a community focus, Ace’s unique business model allows entrepreneurs to become local store owners and shareholders of Ace Hardware Corporation. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

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EP 201: From CX to EX: The Retail Revolution Starts with Your Employees 29:53

36 weeks ago29:53

29:53

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Are you ready to revolutionize your approach to employee engagement and customer loyalty? A new wave is growing of the critical importance of focusing on employee experience (EX) as the foundation for creating exceptional customer experiences (CX). Join special guest Matt Mueller, a retail renegade devoted to creating retail experiences that electrify, and Shelley as they shake up everything you thought you knew about today’s retail workforce. Learn how to flip the script on how stores innovate and operate. Special Guest Matt Mueller, globally recognized retail innovation strategist and author of best-seller “The Mindful Innovator.” For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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Ep 200: Saks-Neiman Marcus Merger: No Merchant Leadership, No Success 24:37

38 weeks ago24:37

24:37

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Guest: Mark A. Cohen, former Director of Retail Studies at Columbia Business School and former CEO of Sears Canada. What’s the back story on the Saks-Neiman Marcus merger? Will it survive? Could it be retail’s next colossal failure? Mergers and acquisitions in the retail industry have a high failure rate, which begs the obvious question if this deal is a viable strategy for the two luxury brands. Join Mark and Shelley as they debate the leadership decisions at Hudson Bay and Saks Global and if this is another desperate example of the last-man-standing rationale rather than a visionary move. The absence of strong merchant leadership in both companies may be its ultimate downfall. While the FTC shouldn’t have a problem with the merger, there are growing concerns about the financial integrity of Saks, most notably since the company isn’t paying its vendors, the lifeblood of a luxury designer brand. Listen in and get the full story about the turmoil behind the merger. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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Ep 199: The 2024 Election Will Impact Retail. Here’s How. 35:31

39 weeks ago35:31

35:31

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! The results of the national election will impact retail in a multitude of ways: immigration policies, economic stability, labor markets, new regulations, and trade and economic policies. Join TRR reporter Arick Wierson and Shelley as they explore consumerism, the struggles of the middle class, and the unique perspectives of Gen Z that frame the bigger picture about the state of our nation, now and post-election. Their conversation also touches on the different needs and challenges faced by small local retailers compared to large corporations in an uneven retail landscape. Listen and learn from our provocative predictions! For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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Ep 198: How Spatial Intelligence Accelerates Retail Decision-Making 26:52

40 weeks ago26:52

26:52

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guest: George Shaw, CEO and Founder, Pathr.ai Spatial intelligence is supercharging merchandise and marketing teams. How? By transforming data into dollars. In-store teams are still at a disadvantage when it comes to knowing how their shoppers behave, compared to online retailers with unprecedented visibility into customer behavior. Join special guest George Shaw, CEO and Founder of Pathr.ai, and Shelley as they discuss how spatial Intelligence captures data to reveal a deeper understanding of how customers shop in-store. AI-powered technologies can drive store layout optimizations, product placement, and marketing promotion effectiveness. Find out how Pathr uses a retailer’s existing cameras to provide merch and marketing teams with real-time, actionable insights that help drive key business decisions. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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EP 197: Supply Chain Becomes the Cool Kid in Retail 32:21

41 weeks ago32:21

32:21

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Our Special Guests, MG2 Principals Melissa Gonzalez and Matthew Goelzer, AIA, LEED AP Consumers now expect seamless, unified commerce experiences where they can access products and information anytime, anywhere. This fluidity is reshaping how brands build loyalty and manage supply chains, with a focus on responsiveness to meet these high expectations. Join Shelley and guests Melissa Gonzalez and Matthew Goelzer, Principals of MG2, as they discuss the pivotal role of supply chain management in modern retail. Their conversation highlights the importance of agility, the rise of unified commerce approaches, the potential of AI, and innovative strategies that are reshaping the industry. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

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Ep 196: Why Ulta Beauty’s Joy Project Is Important 30:04

42 weeks ago30:04

30:04

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special Guest: Michelle Crossan-Matos, Chief Marketing Officer, Ulta Beauty We’re experiencing a deficit in joyfulness; 85 percent of people wish they felt a high level of joy in their lives, but only 58 percent report feeling that way. Ulta Beauty’s mission is to bring joy to millions of people, so they developed The Joy Project and enlisted the help of motivational speaker and podcast host Mel Robbins to empower customers and their workforce of 53,000 to embrace and experience joy. Join Shelley and Michelle Crossan-Matos, Chief Marketing Officer of Ulta Beauty as they discuss how Ulta Beauty has prompted a national conversation about the barriers to joy and how to overcome them. Their discussion reveals how the program can transform a negative, self-criticism conversation into a supportive, connected community. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

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Ep 195: Lenovo’s CMO on Building a Community of Committed Fans 21:27

43 weeks ago21:27

21:27

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! As the world’s number-one PC manufacturer, Lenovo’s mission is to deliver smarter technology for everyone. The company journey has transformed from a wholesale business to a DTC model supported by rich data and analytics delivering world-class experiences for its users. How did they do it? Join Shelley and Jennifer Downes, Lenovo’s CMO of Global eCommerce, as they discuss how attracting repeat customers for a business based on infrequent purchases requires innovative thinking. The new Lenovo customer-centric approach has resulted in a 28 percent increase in digital orders. Listen and learn! For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

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Episode 194: Bayard Winthrop, Founder and CEO American Giant 29:49

44 weeks ago29:49

29:49

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us! Special guest Bayard Winthrop, Founder and CEO of AmericanGiant has spent the last 13 years on a mission to change the world with American made high-quality sportswear and strengthening small-town manufacturing communities. Bayard inspired Steven Kurutz’s book American Flannel as a passionate entrepreneur facing the challenges of American-made production. Join Shelley and Bayard as they talk about his epic start-up journey and the new partnership between American giant and Walmart with the just-released line of American Made T-shirts. How do you change the conversation about the future of domestic apparel production? Listen and find out. For more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com , where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .…

Retail Unwrapped - from The Robin Report

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Episode 193: Nexite’s Breakthrough Innovation 27:18

45 weeks ago27:18