Retailistic

Video of this episode is here TakeawaysGilbert Harrison reflects on his 60th wedding anniversary and 85th birthday.He founded Financo after realizing the potential in investment banking.Retail fascinated Gilbert due to its growth potential and dynamics.Successful CEOs possess unique vision and entrepreneurial spirit.Investment banking requires understanding both numbers and people.E-commerce has drastically changed consumer shopping habits.The discount retail sector has evolved significantly over the years.Mergers and acquisitions often fail due to lack of understanding of motivations.Brand aggregators are reshaping the retail landscape but may lack entrepreneurial spirit.Gilbert emphasizes the importance of mentorship and giving back to the community. Chapters 00:00 The Genesis of Financo02:24 Navigating the Retail Landscape05:01 Investment Banking Insights07:27 The Evolution of Discount Retail09:45 The Impact of E-commerce12:10 The Art of Deal-Making14:35 Reflections on Leadership and People16:57 The Future of Retail and Investment Banking24:15 The Sad Fate of Stewart's Company26:23 The Changing Landscape of Investment Banking29:57 Confidentiality in Deal-Making33:44 The Future of Retail and Consumer Preferences35:35 The Rise of Brand Aggregators37:39 The Impact of Brand Aggregators on Competition39:57 Advice for Young Professionals42:43 Building Confidence and Resilience45:39 The Importance of Giving Back

Video of this episode is here TakeawaysThe 2026 sector outlook provides insights into consumer spending trends.Second order thinking is crucial for understanding market dynamics.Walmart's strategic positioning highlights the importance of being a tech company.Sustainability initiatives can lead to profitability in retail.AI is reshaping consumer behavior and retail strategies.Navigating tariffs requires strategic planning and adaptability.Advanced manufacturing techniques are revolutionizing sustainability efforts.Investment strategies must consider timing and market inflection points.Change management is essential for businesses adopting AI technologies.The future market outlook for 2026 suggests potential volatility but also growth opportunities. Chapters00:00 Connecting the Dots: Insights from Experience03:58 The Evolution of Retail: AI and Market Strategies07:54 Navigating Consumer Preferences: Lessons from Starbucks and Beyond10:43 Resilience in Business: Learning from Failures15:09 Cultural Insights: The Impact of Geography on Business18:19 Innovations in Sustainability: The Future of Apparel21:13 Investing in the Future: AI and Market Trends24:52 Beverage Trends: The Shift in Consumer Habits26:39 The Ritual of Chocolate and Consumer Behavior29:52 AI's Impact on Investment and Business Models32:57 Transforming Workflows with AI36:34 Lightning Round: Insights and Reflections41:56 AI's Role in Daily Life and Future Outlook

Video of this episode is here TakeawaysAI is transforming the retail landscape significantly.Jim Keyes' journey exemplifies the American success story.Early jobs, like working at McDonald's, provide invaluable lessons.Understanding consumer behavior is crucial for retail success.Gasoline retail is a unique challenge due to its commodity nature.Technology can enhance decision-making in retail environments.Fresh and Easy's failure highlights the importance of local market understanding.Change in retail is an opportunity for growth and innovation.Imagination is essential for leaders in today's fast-paced environment.AI has the potential to revolutionize industries and enhance human learning. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:36 Early Career and Lessons from McDonald's05:33 Transition to Gulf Oil and Early Career Decisions08:17 Journey to 7-Eleven and Strategic Planning11:17 Understanding Retail Gasoline Business13:50 Insights on Retail Strategy and Consumer Behavior16:32 Technology's Role in Retail19:13 Lessons from 7-Eleven's Success in Japan22:02 Challenges Faced with Fresh and Easy24:49 Conclusion and Future of Retail25:01 The Fresh and Easy Experience29:38 Lessons from 7-Eleven's Reinvention32:42 The Importance of Product Assortment34:58 Lightning Round Insights37:37 The Future of Retail and AI44:43 Harnessing AI for Human Advancement

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

Video version of this episode is here TakeawaysPatrick Sobral's journey reflects the importance of connections in professional growth.Transitioning to consulting offers unique challenges and opportunities.Innovation should be a collective effort within organizations.Startups must be patient and strategic when working with larger companies.Foresight methodologies are essential for navigating uncertainty in business.The consumer journey has evolved significantly with the rise of AI.Education is crucial for consumers navigating product choices.Managing information overload is a challenge in the age of AI.Creating memorable experiences is key to successful consulting.Continuous learning and sharing knowledge are vital for professional development. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Patrick Sobral's Journey04:01 Transitioning to Consulting: A New Perspective06:29 Overcoming Innovation Silos in Corporates09:10 Advice for Startups Collaborating with Corporates11:34 Navigating the Innovation Landscape14:07 Upskilling in a Rapidly Changing Environment16:46 The Evolving Consumer Journey in Beauty and Beyond29:40 Memorable Experiences in Consulting32:40 The Importance of Community and Conversations33:56 Mindfulness in Professional Interactions36:32 Insights Beyond Data39:17 Embracing Uncertainty and Future Thinking41:00 Rapid Fire Insights47:29 Advice for Knowledge Sharing and Learning

Video version of this episode is here TakeawaysAgentic AI is set to revolutionize retail by enabling seamless transactions within chat interfaces.The integration of AI in shopping is becoming more prevalent, with major retailers like Etsy and Shopify leading the way.Consumer trust in AI-driven shopping experiences is crucial for widespread adoption.The future of shopping will likely involve personalized agents that cater to individual preferences and needs.AI can enhance the shopping experience by providing tailored recommendations and price comparisons.Drones and advanced delivery systems are emerging as viable options for last-mile logistics.The distinction between GenAI and agentic AI is significant, with the latter capable of executing actions based on user input.Retailers may need to adapt their strategies as AI changes consumer behavior and expectations.The upcoming holiday season is expected to see a surge in agentic shopping as consumers seek value and convenience.Trust and security will be paramount as consumers share personal information with AI shopping agents. Chapters00:00 The Rise of Agentic AI in Commerce03:39 Consumer Behavior and AI Shopping Dynamics05:43 Retailer Integration and Market Competition08:21 Logistics and Delivery Innovations11:05 Understanding Agentic AI vs. GenAI13:27 Personal Shopping Agents and Future Trends16:00 The Role of IoT in Shopping18:11 Dynamic Pricing and Consumer Trust20:54 The Future of Shopping and Consumer Experience

Video version is here TakeawaysElias Oxendine emphasizes the rapid pace at which Tractor Supply operates.The culture at Tractor Supply encourages learning from failures.Communication is crucial for cybersecurity professionals to convey technical concepts in business terms.Trust is essential for maintaining customer relationships in cybersecurity.Elias's journey from military intelligence to cybersecurity showcases the importance of diverse experiences.The role of CISO has evolved significantly, especially in a franchise model.AI is becoming increasingly important in cybersecurity and retail operations.Employee education on cybersecurity must include safe browsing practices.Partnerships with technology providers are vital for innovation and success.The future of retail will be defined by experiential customer interactions. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Elias Oxendine and Nashville's Tech Scene04:14 Understanding Tractor Supply: More Than Just Tractors07:00 Elias's Journey: From Navy to Cybersecurity09:48 The Influence of Military Discipline on Professional Life12:31 Transitioning from GE to Yum: Challenges and Growth15:26 The Evolving Role of CISO in Today's Digital Landscape18:13 Navigating AI and Cybersecurity in Modern Business20:48 Educating Employees on AI Usage and Governance25:36 Engaging Learning Techniques27:23 Establishing AI Governance29:54 Edge Computing in Retail33:11 Enhancing In-Store Experience35:29 Cybersecurity and Trust38:41 Evolving Technology Partnerships45:13 Lightning Round Insights

Video version of this episode is here TakeawaysJosh Horwitz is a serial entrepreneur with a focus on cybersecurity.Bootstrapping businesses can lead to successful exits without external funding.Product-market fit is crucial for entrepreneurial success.Validating product ideas through low-cost market testing is essential.Credential stuffing is a significant threat in cybersecurity.Innovative solutions can turn attack vectors into defensive strategies.The future of authentication is moving towards passwordless solutions.User experience must be balanced with security measures.Adaptive security is becoming increasingly important in technology.Understanding customer needs is vital for product development. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Background02:42 Bootstrapping and Product-Market Fit09:29 Cybersecurity Landscape and Credential Stuffing14:57 The Future of Passwords and Authentication22:49 Balancing Business Needs with User Experience

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

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

Video version of this episode can be viewed hereTakeawaysHuman capital is the best asset any company's got.The customer was family to us; it's very personal.Store experience is way under invested in today's environment.Get relevant, and stay relevant without losing your heritage.It's a tale of two halves in retail; careful planning is essential.The world changes all the time; adapt to consumer expectations.There's a lack of ability to plan in the current market.Capitalize your business appropriately for your goals.The inclusive market is complicated but has significant demand.You can't just expand into being a general doctor; specialization is key. Chapters00:00 Michael Kaplan's Journey in Retail and Technology07:40 Understanding the Underserved Customer13:47 Challenges in the Inclusive Size Market19:50 The Future of Inclusive Design25:47 Marketing Evolution in Retail33:50 The Evolution of Retail Strategies34:46 Impact of Tariffs on Retail Planning41:21 The Bifurcation of Retail Success41:48 Historical Perspectives on Retail Changes58:23 Capitalization and Business Strategy58:55 Lightning Round Insights

Video version of this podcast is here. TakeawaysRetail is currently in the spotlight due to changing consumer behaviors.The evolution of retail requires looking at historical trends to predict future changes.Convenience has shifted from traditional stores to online delivery services.Consumer loyalty is declining as shoppers become more comfortable with multiple retailers.The role of employees is crucial in enhancing customer experience in retail.Membership models can create loyalty but may not be the only solution for retailers.Owning real estate can provide long-term benefits for retailers compared to leasing.Private equity plays a significant role in unlocking real estate value for retailers.The future of commercial real estate is influenced by high interest rates and economic conditions.Data centers are becoming increasingly important as businesses leverage technology. Chapters00:00 The Evolution of Retail and Real Estate03:07 Consumer Behavior and Retail Dynamics05:56 The Impact of Convenience Stores09:01 Retailer Identity and Consumer Loyalty12:05 The Role of Employees in Retail14:51 Membership Models in Retail17:39 Strategic Location Planning in Retail20:53 The Future of Retail and Real Estate23:52 Unlocking Real Estate Value in Retail29:54 The Value of Real Estate Transactions32:05 Regrets in Real Estate Monetization35:11 Asset Class Perspectives39:28 Demographic Shifts and Migration45:36 Commercial Real Estate Challenges49:18 The Future of Real Estate Innovations

The video version of this podcast is here TakeawaysShoptalk Fall focuses on immediate retail needs for the next six months.Retail media is a significant topic but should not overshadow other strategic points.The grocery industry is facing unique challenges compared to other retail sectors.Generative AI is seen as a transformative technology for retail.Supply chain agility is crucial in the current economic climate.RFID technology is becoming essential for inventory management and loss prevention.Retailers must balance short-term needs with long-term strategic planning.The emotional connection with customers can drive brand loyalty.New technologies are changing the landscape of retail, making old solutions relevant again.Curiosity and openness to new ideas are vital for retail success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shop Talk Fall 202301:53 What's New at Shop Talk Fall04:05 Expectations of Retailers and Brands08:11 The Role of Retail Media10:20 Retail Media Evolution in Grocery12:18 Impact of New Technologies on CPG15:39 Earnings Season Insights19:20 Generative AI in Retail24:01 Supply Chain Challenges and Innovations30:23 Reviving Old Technologies in New Ways33:47 Generational Shifts in Retail Engagement36:03 Navigating Retail Choices and Consumer Preferences36:42 Lightning Round: Buzzwords and Retail Recognition39:57 Spotlight on Retail Turnarounds43:52 Innovative Startups in Retail46:05 Cities as Retail Inspiration48:51 Defining Retail in a Changing Landscape49:33 Memorable Moments in Retail Events52:50 Personal Reflections on Career Paths

The video version is available here. TakeawaysRick Brindle emphasizes the importance of customer service learned from his early retail days.The transition from retail to CPG requires understanding both sides of the business.R&D in CPG is about anticipating consumer needs, not just product development.On-shelf availability is crucial for maintaining customer loyalty.Social media has transformed consumer-brand relationships, allowing for direct interaction.Personalization in shopping experiences is more valuable than gamification.The future of grocery shopping is influenced by technology and consumer preferences.Online grocery shopping is growing, but challenges remain in product quality.The retail industry offers diverse career paths beyond traditional roles.Building relationships in retail is key to success and collaboration. Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: From Retail to CPG08:56 Navigating the CPG Landscape: Insights from P&G to Nabisco16:10 R&D and Packaging: The Art and Science of Consumer Products24:25 The Future of Retail: Technology, Media, and Consumer Relationships29:13 The Evolution of Brand Loyalty31:42 Consumer Behavior in Grocery Shopping35:28 Personalization vs. Gamification in Retail38:09 The Future of Online Grocery Shopping42:02 The Complexity of Grocery Retail45:16 Innovations in Product Development49:07 The Role of Food Safety and Health52:39 Advice for Future Retail Professionals

The video version of this podcast can be seen here. TakeawaysKrystina transitioned from journalism to event management, finding commonalities in storytelling and connecting people.The pandemic forced events to become more technology-driven and data-focused, enhancing attendee experiences.In-person events are evolving, with a focus on meaningful interactions rather than just networking.AI is rapidly changing the retail landscape, and many professionals are still figuring out how to adapt.Building community is essential for success in retail, fostering authentic connections among individuals.Resilience is key in overcoming professional challenges, as demonstrated by Krystina's experience with Tribe.AI can be used in personal and professional contexts, helping individuals streamline tasks and enhance productivity.The future of retail will involve integrating AI into various business models and strategies.Authenticity in conversations helps build lasting relationships in business.The pace of innovation requires continuous adaptation and learning in the retail industry. Chapters00:00 From Journalism to Event Management04:04 The Evolution of Events Post-Pandemic06:32 The Changing Landscape of In-Person Events09:17 Navigating AI in Retail and Events11:51 The Importance of Community in AI Adoption14:32 Leveraging AI for Personal and Professional Growth17:01 Real-World Applications of AI in Retail27:24 The Importance of Case Studies in Tech28:46 Navigating Challenges and Community Support32:08 Resilience and Personal Growth33:28 AI's Impact on Information Overload35:50 Democratization of Business Opportunities40:20 The Future of Retail and AI Integration45:13 Lightning Round Insights

The video version of this podcast can be viewed hereTakeawaysStaying informed is crucial in retail.Kevin transitioned from investment banking to entrepreneurship.Pet ownership surged during COVID, creating market opportunities.Building a brand from scratch involves emotional investment.Education is key in promoting new pet nutrition products.Innovating in pet nutrition can fill gaps in the market.Digital marketing is challenging for new pet brands.AI can enhance marketing and content development.Exploring alternative sales channels is essential for growth.Networking and building a team is vital for entrepreneurs. Chapters 00:00 Kevin's Journey: From Investment Banking to Entrepreneurship03:23 The Rise of Pet Ownership and Market Opportunities05:43 Building a Brand from Scratch: The Emotional Journey08:45 Innovating Pet Nutrition: The Case for Bone Broth13:44 Navigating the Digital Marketing Landscape18:39 Exploring Alternative Platforms for Growth22:15 Leveraging AI in Business Operations26:53 Future Growth: Omnichannel Strategies and New Product Development35:30 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Video version of this episode can be viewed hereTakeawaysLori emphasizes the importance of teaching and helping others in her career.Setting communication boundaries is crucial in a fast-paced work environment.Doing what you love is essential for career satisfaction.Lifelong learning is a continuous journey that should be embraced.Self-driven motivation is a key trait employers look for in candidates.Building character often comes from facing challenges without safety nets.Having supportive friends is invaluable during tough times.It's important to balance personal and professional life effectively.Managing distractions is vital for maintaining productivity.Adapting to life's changes is necessary for personal growth. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Retaili$tic Podcast02:05 Lori Schaper's Journey in Tech and Education09:00 Career Beginnings and Early Influences11:31 Learning to Work with Others12:31 The Importance of Lifelong Learning13:49 Managing Distractions in a Digital Age18:18 Establishing a Morning Routine19:08 Balancing Physical and Mental Health21:30 Reflections on Life Decisions23:54 Advice for Graduating Students

Video version can be viewed hereTakeawaysAmazon Prime Day saw a significant increase in consumer spending compared to previous years.Retail media plays a crucial role in helping brands get noticed on Amazon's marketplace.Consumers are increasingly focused on basic needs rather than luxury items during shopping events.Retailers are managing prices strategically to absorb costs and maintain consumer interest.Membership programs like Amazon Prime and Walmart Plus are becoming essential for retailers.Customer service quality is a key differentiator for retailers in a competitive market.The trend of comparison shopping is growing among consumers, especially between Amazon and Walmart.Retailers are leveraging technology and AI to improve efficiency and customer experience.The impact of tariffs on consumer prices is a concern for retailers and consumers alike.The future of retail may see tiered membership programs to cater to different consumer segments. Chapters00:00 The Dynamics of Prime Day Discounts07:27 Retail Media and Brand Visibility09:37 Innovations in Delivery: E-bikes and Instant Needs11:59 Consumer Behavior: Shifts in Purchasing Trends14:35 Retail Strategies: Managing Prices and Inventory17:28 The Competitive Landscape: Walmart vs. Amazon20:05 Customer Service: The Key to Retention23:06 The Future of Grocery and E-commerce25:49 Membership Models: The Next Frontier31:08 Final Thoughts and Predictions

This is a video episode which you can watch here.TakeawaysFeinman transitioned from Bloomingdale's to Goodwill for a mission-driven role.Goodwill's technology was outdated, requiring significant upgrades.AI has transformed Goodwill's e-commerce operations, increasing efficiency.The demographic of Goodwill shoppers has shifted towards younger consumers.Goodwill uses data analytics to optimize store locations for donations and sales.E-commerce sales at Goodwill have increased by 25% year-over-year.The return rate for Goodwill's e-commerce is impressively low at 0.26%.Michael emphasizes the importance of testing new technologies before full implementation.Goodwill is exploring international shipping to expand its market.Leadership and innovation are crucial for adapting to retail challenges.Chapters00:00 This Week in Research: New Reports and Data01:37 Feinman's Journey in Retail04:05 Technology Roadmap at Goodwill08:36 E-Commerce Strategy and Operations12:19 The Future of E-Commerce and AI Innovations18:25 Challenges and Opportunities in Retail Technology25:00 Consumer Behavior and Returns Management30:48 Innovation and Leadership in Retail37:15 Conclusion and Future Outlook This is a video podcast episode, which you can watch here.  Read Coresight Research reports on sustainability and AI in retail. Visit the Retail Technology Hub to explore reports, data and competitive landscapes on technology.

TakeawaysBTS is the second largest retail season after winter holidays.Total BTS spending is set to total around $38 billion this year.Families are focusing more on essential items and discounts for BTS shopping.Retailers are adjusting strategies to capture budget-conscious shoppers.Economic indicators show mixed signals but overall consumer spending remains resilient.New tariffs are significantly impacting retail pricing and supply chains.Retailers are diversifying sourcing to mitigate tariff impacts.Category-specific strategies are crucial for navigating the BTS season.Communication of value and pricing transparency is key for retailers this season.Retailers should remain agile and data-driven to adapt to changing consumer behavior. Chapters00:00 This Week in Research: New Reports and Data02:03 The Importance of BTS for Retailers03:35 Consumer Spending Trends and Categories07:12 Economic Indicators and Consumer Behavior11:51 Impact of New Tariff Regime on Retail20:53 Retail Strategies Amid Tariff Challenges24:08 Category-Specific Retail Strategies34:11 Final Thoughts and Future OutlookCheck out the Coresight Research US Back to School series of reports to dive into US consumers' shopping expectations for the BTS season in more detail.