Grocery Pulse Podcast by Innovar Marketing Agency | Insights for Retailers

Local grocers don’t need another “awareness-only” social tactic—they need sales. On this episode of GroceryPulse, host George Goodwin (4th-gen grocer & founder of Innovar Marketing) sits down with Oskar Wahlbäck, founder & CEO of Commentsell, to explore how European-style “reserve in comments” deals are transforming social media into a true sales channel.Already powering 250+ stores in Sweden and Denmark—with 85,000+ campaigns and $170M in retailer revenue—Commentsell automates bookable discounts so that every Facebook/Instagram post can turn into guaranteed store traffic. Early U.S. pilots show 20–30% revenue lifts, proving this isn’t just a trend—it’s a powerful way for independents and small chains to compete.You’ll hear:How “comment-to-reserve” campaigns create viral loops and measurable sales.Real examples, from strawberry surpluses to $60K+ energy drink drops.Why automation (not just marketing) solves the biggest pain for retailers.What U.S. grocers can learn from European retail culture.📈 Key takeaway: Every comment can become a customer—and every social post a sales channel..00:00 Introduction to CometSelf and Swedish Innovations03:01 The Birth of CometSelf: Oskar's Journey06:01 Understanding Bookable Discounts and Their Impact09:02 Driving Engagement Through Bookable Campaigns12:10 Success Stories: Real-World Impact of CometSelf15:00 Cost Efficiency and Marketing Strategies for Retailers18:06 Automation and Efficiency in Grocery Marketing20:58 The Importance of Customer Interaction and Personalization23:52 Leveraging Social Media Algorithms for Retail Success27:01 Future of Grocery Marketing: Trends and Innovations30:54 Cultural Insights: Happiness in Sweden34:45 Innovation and Education: The Swedish Approach37:39 Grocery Retail: Comparing Sweden and the US41:46 Expanding into the US Market50:34 Sustainability and Waste Reduction in Retail57:50 Innovative Sales Strategies in Grocery59:53 Regional Differences in Grocery Experiences01:03:06 The Power of Pre-Selling and Promotions01:05:58 Exploring Other Retail Opportunities01:08:58 Engagement and Trends in Social Media for Grocers01:12:00 Cultural Insights and Personal ReflectionsKey Takeaways (with helpful links)Bookable discounts turn engagement into guaranteed foot traffic. → Demo & case studies: https://commentsell.comOperational ease is the unlock. Automation beats after-hours comment wrangling.Start with perishable and vendor-backed deals. Build momentum, then scale daily.Measure comments → reservations → pickups → basket lift. Treat it like a sales pipeline, not “just social.”🎧 Listen to GroceryPulseYouTubeSpotify Apple Podcasts 🤝 Connect with the GuestsOskar Wahlbäck on LinkedInGeorge Goodwin on LinkedIn🌐 Book a Demo with Commentsell → commentsell.com🌐 Explore Innovar Marketing Agency → innovaragency.com🌐 Blog - Turnning Social Media Comments into sales

In this episode of the GroceryPulse Podcast, host George Goodwin sits down with Ron Fong, President & CEO of the California Grocers Association (CGA), for an insightful conversation on leadership, advocacy, and the future of grocery.Ron shares his personal journey from growing up in his family’s grocery store to becoming one of the most influential voices for California’s grocery industry. Together, George and Ron explore:- The importance of independent grocers as community anchors- How COVID-19 highlighted grocery stores as essential hubs- The role of legislation and advocacy in shaping grocery operations- California’s influence as a “crystal ball” for future laws nationwide- Why compromise is crucial in the legislative process- Opportunities for technology and innovation in retail- Recruiting and educating the next generation of grocersRon also shares humorous stories from his early days in grocery and sheds light on the challenges—and opportunities—that define today’s grocery industry.👉 Whether you’re a grocer, CPG brand, or industry professional, this episode offers real-world insights on policy, leadership, and growth.📌 Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Ron Fong and CGA01:31 – Growing Up in the Grocery Business04:15 – From Grocer to Lobbyist: A Career Journey10:23 – Experiences and Changes in the California Legislature16:35 – The Importance of People in Business22:32 – Grocery Stores as Community Hubs30:54 – Understanding Lobbying and CGA's Role33:32 – Wacky Laws and Legislative Challenges34:51 – The Evolution of Environmental Legislation43:08 – California's Influence on National Legislation51:11 – Balancing Interests: Chains vs. Independents56:07 – The Future of Grocery: Education and Innovation🔗 Links & ResourcesCalifornia Grocers Association (CGA) – Website: https://www.cagrocers.comContact CGA: https://www.cagrocers.com/about/contact-us/ • Phone: (916) 448-3545 California Grocers Association | Gather California 2025September 21 – September 23, 2025The Westin Rancho Mirage Resorthttps://www.cagrocers.com/events/gather-california/GroceryPulse – Podcast Home: https://grocerypulse.comListen to more episodes: https://grocerypulse.com/podcastRead the GroceryPulse Blog: https://grocerypulse.com/blogWatch all episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@grocerypulseInnovar Marketing Agency – Blog (grocery/CPG marketing insights): https://www.innovarmarketing.comPre-Order Kōbu Kombucha Powder (gut health made easy): https://www.enjoykobu.com👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with the leaders shaping the future of retail & grocery.

What does the future of retail media look like?In this episode of GroceryPulse by Innovar Marketing Agency, host George Goodwin sits down with Chase Binnie, CEO of RetailWire — the leading retail industry thought leadership platform with 1M+ monthly readers and 8 acquisitions under its belt.Chase shares how he went from designing album art in high school to running a 23-year-old legacy media company that curates conversations with over 100 retail thought leaders. Together, George and Chase dive into:🚀 How RetailWire became a trusted voice in grocery & CPG🛒 The role of media & storytelling in shaping retail strategy🤖 Why AI is both an opportunity and a challenge for grocers & brands💡 How authentic, founder-led voices drive trust and customer loyalty📈 Why 67% of retail execs use digital media to guide business decisions (NRF)🌎 The rise of retail roundtables & peer-to-peer knowledge sharingWhether you’re a grocer, CPG founder, retail operator, or marketer, this conversation will give you fresh insight into how media, community, and technology are reshaping the future of retail.00:00 – Welcome to GroceryPulse01:01 – Meet Chase Binnie, CEO of RetailWire03:00 – RetailWire’s 23-Year Journey & 1M Readers06:00 – How Media Shapes Grocery & CPG Decisions09:00 – AI in Retail: Hype vs. Real Value12:00 – Founder Stories & Authentic Branding18:00 – The Rise of Roundtables & Peer Learning23:00 – Pepsi x Poppy & the Power of Founder-Led Brands26:00 – Marketing, Attention & the Human Element30:00 – Leadership, Creativity & What Makes Chase Smile36:00 – The Future of Retail Media & RetailWire’s Next Moves🌐 Learn more about RetailWire → retailwire.com📧 Connect with Chase Binnie → LinkedIn / sales@retailwire.com🎧 Listen to more episodes of GroceryPulse → Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube📧 Be Featured on GroceryPulse → marketing@innovaragency.com🥤 Our Sponsor: Kōbu Kombucha Powder – Fuel your gut health, hydration & energy in one refreshing stick.Preorder now → enjoykobu.com/pages/preorder⏱️ Chapters🔗 Resources & Links

In this episode of Grocery Pulse, host George Goodwin speaks with Stu Gavurin, founder of Opsense, about the transformative role of smart technology in food safety, compliance, and efficiency within the grocery and consumer packaged goods (CPG) sectors. They discuss the inspiration behind Opsense, the significant issue of food waste, and the importance of real-time monitoring and alerts in grocery operations. The conversation also touches on the challenges retailers face in food safety compliance, the future of food safety technology, and the operational wins experienced by retailers using Opsense. Throughout the discussion, Gavurin emphasizes the need for technology that simplifies processes and enhances customer experience, while also sharing personal insights on maintaining a sharp entrepreneurial spirit.TakeawaysSmart technology is revolutionizing food safety and compliance.Food waste in the U.S. amounts to over $218 billion annually.Opsense was inspired by the needs of mid-sized grocers.Real-time monitoring can prevent significant food loss.Independents are quicker to adopt new technology than corporates.Data collection is crucial for identifying patterns in food safety.Store walks are essential for maintaining operational efficiency.Automation can free up employees to focus on customer service.The metric of 'saves' is vital for understanding operational success.Peace of mind is a key benefit of using Opsense.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Smart Technology in Grocery03:19 The Inspiration Behind Opsens06:30 The Impact of Food Waste10:42 Implementing Technology for Efficiency15:40 Tips for Reducing Food Loss20:32 The Importance of Store Walks24:10 Enhancing Customer Experience through Automation28:08 Challenges in Food Safety Compliance32:37 Future Trends in Food Safety Technology39:00 Predictive Analytics in Retail42:55 Operational Wins and Metrics50:19 The Importance of Non-Negotiables53:52 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments01:03:35 Lessons Learned in Scaling a Business🎧 Listen Now⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ | ⁠More Platforms & Show Notes⁠We’re always looking for leaders in grocery, retail, and CPG with a story to share.🌐 Learn More: ⁠www.opsense.com⁠ 📧 More Info⁠⁠https://www.innovaragency.com/blog/-smart-tech-in-grocery-how-opsense-is-helping-grocers-prevent-loss-boost-compliance-reduce-food-waste⁠What Does Kōbu Mean? The Inspiring Roots Behind Kōbu Kombucha Powder, the Trending CPG Product⁠🚀 Want to Be Featured on GroceryPulse?🖨 📧 Email: ⁠⁠podcast@innovaragency.com⁠⁠Kōbu Kombucha Powder - Clean, science-backed kombucha powder with BC-30® probiotics — bold flavor, no vinegar bite, low sugar, and gut-loving hydration for your ambitious, on-the-go lifestyle.https://enjoykobu.com/pages/preorder

In this episode of GroceryPulse, host George Goodwin sits down with CJ Warstler, the inventor of the Handycart Workstation, to unpack how one simple tool is revolutionizing efficiency in retail environments. With over 30 years of experience in sales and consulting, CJ shares the real-world problems that inspired him to create a smarter, more effective workstation—right from his own garage.Together, they explore the process of prototyping, gathering user feedback, and launching the Handycart into stores across the country. CJ highlights the importance of employee satisfaction, the value of U.S.-based manufacturing, and the growing demand for practical tools that make retail work faster and easier.From improving retention to streamlining in-store resets, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring a purpose-driven product to life—and how a focus on usability, quality, and innovation can lead to game-changing results.🎯 Key Takeaways:✅ Handycart was born from real-world retail challenges✅ CJ’s 30+ years in sales guided the development process✅ Prototyping and user feedback led to continuous product improvements✅ The cart boosts efficiency, saves time, and reduces employee fatigue✅ U.S. manufacturing ensures high-quality and consistent builds✅ It’s being used beyond grocery—in hardware stores, CPG resets, and more✅ Employee satisfaction is a key factor in retention and productivity✅ Positive testimonials are driving organic growth✅ CJ continues to innovate based on customer needs⏱️ Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Handycart Workstation02:55 – The Journey of CJ Warstler06:02 – Designing for Real Retail Challenges09:08 – The Power of Prototyping and Feedback12:00 – Market Launch and Customer Response14:53 – Boosting Employee Efficiency and Morale18:15 – The Case for U.S. Manufacturing20:56 – Handycart in Grocery, Hardware, and More23:48 – User Testimonials and Field Results26:55 – What’s Next: Product Expansion and Innovation📖 Read the Full Write-Up🔗 Smart Tech in Grocery – How OpSense is Helping Grocers Prevent Loss, Boost Compliance & Reduce Food Waste🎧 Listen NowSpotify | Apple Podcasts | More Platforms & Show NotesWe’re always looking for grocery, retail, and CPG leaders with a story to share.📧 Email: marketing@innovaragency.comFuel your gut health, hydration, and daily energy — all in one refreshing powdered drink.🌐 Preorder Now: enjoykobu.com/pages/preorderThe workstation built for retail efficiency — now in grocery, hardware, and beyond.🌐 Visit: thehandycart.com📧 Contact CJ: sales@thehandycart.com🚀 Want to Be Featured on GroceryPulse?🛒 Our Featured Sponsor – Kōbu Kombucha Powder🛠 Interested in HandyCart?

In this episode of GroceryPulse, host George Goodwin sits down with design experts Adam Steinberg and Henry Casanova to explore the evolving world of CPG packaging and grocery retail design. Together, they dive deep into the importance of clarity in packaging, how consumer behavior drives design decisions, and why eco-friendly packaging is more than just a trend.The conversation touches on the power of A/B testing and customer persona research, the balancing act of creative instincts vs. customer feedback, and how AI and digital printing technology are transforming the design landscape for grocery and CPG brands. Adam and Henry also share the critical role of brand consistency, the impact of rebranding on consumer perception, and what it really takes to create packaging that stands out on crowded grocery shelves.Whether you’re a CPG founder, retail marketer, or design enthusiast, this episode is your front-row seat to the strategies, insights, and trends shaping the future of grocery and CPG packaging design.Key Takeaways:✅ Clarity in design is crucial for consumer understanding✅ Brands have only 3–5 seconds to grab attention✅ Eco-friendly packaging is increasingly important for customers and the planet✅ Digital printing technology unlocks innovative design possibilities✅ Color consistency is essential for brand recognition and trust✅ Balancing customer feedback and creative instincts is an art✅ Rebranding can make or break a company✅ Consumer behavior and perception directly influence packaging success✅ The human element in design can’t be replaced by AI✅ Design is not a magic formula—it’s a thoughtful processChapters:00:00 – Introduction to Design in Grocery and CPG02:57 – The Importance of Clarity in Packaging Design05:49 – Trends in Design: Simplicity and Eco-Friendliness09:04 – The Role of Technology in Packaging Design11:49 – Consumer Behavior and Shelf Visibility14:58 – The Human Element in Design and AI18:12 – Creating a Brand Story Through Design20:58 – The Impact of Color and Consistency in Branding31:21 – Understanding Customer Personas and Targeting34:55 – Balancing Feedback and Expertise in Design39:23 – The Impact of Rebranding on Consumer Perception43:09 – Rapid Fire Insights on Design Trends48:13 – Key Takeaways for CPG Founders on Design🎧 Listen NowSpotify | Apple Podcasts | More Platforms & Show NotesWe’re always looking for leaders in grocery, retail, and CPG with a story to share.📧 Email: podcast@innovaragency.comYour trusted partner for high-quality printing solutions — from retail signage to branded packaging.🌐 Learn More: kitprint.co📧 Contact Adam: adam@kitprint.coThe Power of Packaging: How Design Drives CPG GrowthWhat Does Kōbu Mean? The Inspiring Roots Behind Kōbu Kombucha Powder, the Trending CPG Product🚀 Want to Be Featured on GroceryPulse?🖨 Email us podcast@innovaragency.com

In this episode of GroceryPulse, host George Goodwin speaks with Blake and Stephanie Alexandre of Alexandre Family Farm, the first certified regenerative dairy farm in the U.S. They share the inspiring story of building a family farm rooted in stewardship, nutrition, and sustainability—and how their mission is reshaping the dairy industry.From the power of regenerative farming practices that restore soil health to the nutritional benefits of A2 milk, the conversation uncovers how Alexandre Family Farm is redefining what dairy can be. Blake and Stephanie reveal the challenges of maintaining transparency in their production process, why they see farming as a partnership with the environment, and how their faith and family values shape everything they do.You’ll also hear about the personal stories from customers whose lives have been transformed by A2 milk, and why partnerships with retailers are essential for expanding this movement. For the Alexandres, it’s not just about milk—it’s about building a legacy of healthier families and a more sustainable planet.Key Takeaways:✅ Regenerative farming improves soil health and biodiversity, leading to healthier cattle and milk.✅ A2 milk offers unique nutritional benefits and easier digestion for many consumers.✅ Healthy soil → healthy cows → healthy people.✅ Transparency and authenticity build consumer trust.✅ Partnerships with retailers are key to growing impact.✅ The Alexandres’ faith and family values are woven into every aspect of their business.✅ Personal stories show how quality milk can truly change lives.✅ Sustainability isn’t optional—it’s essential for future generations.✅ Investing in children’s nutrition is an investment in their future.✅ Their brand is about more than products—it’s about a lifestyle and a mission. Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Alexandre Family Farm03:02 – Building a Strong Partnership05:55 – The Founding Story of Alexandre Family Farm08:59 – The Importance of Soil and Regenerative Farming12:00 – Nutritional Benefits of A2 Milk14:50 – Innovative Practices in Dairy Farming17:53 – The Role of Cows in Regenerative Agriculture20:57 – Challenges and Motivation in the Dairy Industry24:06 – Legacy and Community Impact26:55 – Faith and Purpose in Farming39:36 – The Philosophy Behind the Product44:01 – Building a Legacy Through Nutrition49:51 – Consumer Connection and Personal Stories55:48 – The Importance of Transparency and Quality01:00:38 – Personal Insights and Reflections🎧 Listen Now:SpotifyApple PodcastsWant to be featured on GroceryPulse?📧 Email us at podcast@innovaragency.com⸻Want to Visit or Send Us Mail?Farm & Office:8371 Lower Lake RoadCrescent City, California 95531Farm Store & Egg Ranch:7955 Bailey RoadCrescent City, California 95531

In this episode of GroceryPulse, host George Goodwin sits down with Kelly Damewood, CEO of California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF), to unpack the future of organic farming, certification, and consumer trust. Together, they explore how organic and regenerative agriculture can become the norm—not the exception—through smart certification, clear communication, and authentic leadership.Kelly shares her personal journey from suburban roots to leading the charge for organic integrity, revealing the challenges and triumphs of organic certification and what it really takes to support small farmers, CPG brands, and retailers in this movement.The conversation also highlights consumer behavior trends around organic food, the importance of signage and in-store education, and how CCOF is helping the grocery and CPG industries evolve to meet growing demand for transparency, sustainability, and soil health.Whether you’re a retailer, CPG founder, or just passionate about sustainable agriculture, this episode will help you understand the political, environmental, and personal sides of the organic journey.Key Takeaways:✅ Organic farming empowers small producers to enter the market.✅ Signage in stores can significantly boost organic sales.✅ Organic certification is a tool for trust and transparency.✅ Millennials and families are driving growth in organic demand.✅ Regenerative agriculture is gaining momentum but lacks universal certification.✅ Educational initiatives and scholarships are crucial for the next generation of organic farmers.✅ Visiting farms provides deeper understanding of sustainable practices.✅ Building trust and community is essential for long-term organic growth.✅ “Food is medicine” is a growing movement tied to organic farming.✅ Authenticity and vulnerability are keys to effective leadership.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Organic Farming and Certification02:47 – Kelly’s Journey into Organic Agriculture06:06 – Consumer Trends in Organic Food09:05 – The Role of Signage in Organic Sales11:52 – Navigating Political Landscapes in Organic Agriculture15:08 – Understanding the Ideal Organic Customer17:51 – Certification for Various Stakeholders20:54 – Challenges for CPG Companies in Going Organic24:08 – Educational Initiatives and Scholarships in Organic Agriculture26:57 – Clarifying Organic vs. Other Labels30:41 – The Integrity of Organic Farming32:14 – The Rise of Regenerative Agriculture35:12 – Personal Insights and Practices36:07 – Quickfire Favorites and Rituals39:11 – Leadership Lessons and Authenticity40:27 – Memorable Farm Visits and Experiences42:05 – Connecting with Industry Leaders44:05 – Call to Action and Closing Thoughts🎧 Listen Now:SpotifyApple PodcastsMore platforms & show notesWant to be featured on GroceryPulse?📧 Email us at podcast@innovaragency.com🌿 Learn more about CCOF at 👉 ccof.org

In this episode of GroceryPulse, host George Goodwin sits down with Deborah Sanchez, an HR consultant with nearly 20 years of experience advising C-suite leaders at one of California’s largest utility companies. From her beginnings as a young mom seeking stability to now shaping corporate HR strategy, Deborah shares powerful insights on employee retention, mentorship, workplace culture, and leadership grounded in compassion.Whether you're managing a growing grocery team, launching a CPG brand, or navigating hiring and retention in a post-COVID world—this conversation delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories that apply across industries.🔥 Topics We Cover:• How mentorship drives professional growth• Balancing AI with the human side of HR• Why experience > education in many hiring decisions• The ROI of compassion and appreciation in leadership• Building workplace cultures that support inclusion and retention• What grocery and CPG leaders can learn from corporate HR🎯 Key Takeaways:✅ Compassionate leadership increases loyalty & productivity✅ Experience often outweighs credentials in hiring✅ AI is a tool—not a replacement—for human interaction✅ Employee growth, not just evaluations, builds culture✅ Family-oriented culture improves morale & retention✅ Transparency, benefits, and recognition matter more than ever✅ Hiring local builds community connection & workplace diversity🎧 Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to HR and Deborah’s Journey03:07 – The Power of Mentorship in Career Growth05:54 – Hiring: Why Experience Beats Credentials08:57 – What Really Drives Employee Satisfaction12:09 – Evaluations and Feedback that Actually Help15:10 – Work-Life Balance: Retaining Your Best People17:57 – Post-COVID Return to Office Trends21:09 – The Role of AI in Modern HR24:00 – Diversity, Inclusion, and Innovation26:53 – HR Trends Shaping the Future43:06 – Cultivating Diversity with Integrity45:15 – Aligning Company Values with People Needs46:37 – Meeting Employees Where They Are49:20 – Empowering Diverse Talent51:49 – Traits of High-Performing Team Members54:45 – Compassion in the Workplace57:27 – Fire Chat Round: Rapid HR Wisdom01:03:00 – How Data & Analytics Drive Better HR Decisions📌 Don’t Miss These Fire Chat Topics:Self-checkout vs. the human touchHybrid vs. remote recruitingHigh-performing team member traitsThe impact of small gestures (like keychains!)Compassion as a business strategy💼 About the Guest:Deborah Sanchez is an HR strategist, mentor, and leadership consultant with two decades of hands-on experience helping teams thrive. Her work focuses on bridging generational and cultural gaps in the workplace through inclusion, authenticity, and data-backed leadership.🧠 Sound Bites to Share:"Employees want to grow.""Compassion is pretty important.""A team can make you or break you.""Diversity can push a company’s innovation.""Appreciation and compassion go a long way."🎯 Keywords / Tags for SEO (YouTube):HR, employee satisfaction, workplace culture, mentorship, leadership in HR, AI in HR, employee retention, grocery industry, CPG team building, diversity and inclusion, remote hiring, team dynamics, HR podcast, HR strategy, GroceryPulse Podcast, George Goodwin, company culture, data analytics HR, compassion in leadership, hybrid teams, employee growth, post-COVID workplace📬 Want to be featured or sponsor an episode?Email: podcast@innovaragency.com🔔 Subscribe & Follow for more insights from grocery, CPG, and leadership innovators.

In this episode of GroceryPulse by Innovar Agency, host George Goodwin welcomes James W. Keyes, former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, and Chairman of Wild Oats Marketing LLC. James brings decades of leadership experience from some of the most iconic brands in retail, and today, he shares his unique insights on leadership, innovation, and the future of the retail industry.The conversation delves into James’s leadership journey at 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, where he played a pivotal role in driving technological advancements and scaling the companies globally. James discusses the importance of building strong company culture, balancing innovation with tradition, and the power of networking in retail. He also opens up about one of his most notable innovations—the introduction of the aluminum beer bottle to the U.S. market—and the challenges he faced in launching a new product that would forever change packaging trends.Listeners will gain invaluable knowledge about how to navigate the fast-evolving retail landscape, build meaningful relationships, and innovate product offerings to stay ahead of trends. Plus, James shares his vision for the future of retail, including the rise of e-commerce, the role of AI, and what it takes to succeed in a rapidly changing market.Key Takeaways:Leading with a balance of tradition and innovation.The power of networking and mentorship in retail.Insights into launching new products and staying ahead of trends.The future of retail: e-commerce, AI, and sustainability.Learn more about James W. Keyes and his work at jameswkeyes.com.Host: George Goodwingeorge@innovaragency.comQuestions: podcast@innovaragency.comGuest: James W. KeyesFollow James: @jameswkeyesSubscribe to GroceryPulse and stay tuned for more industry insights!

In this episode of Grocery Pulse by Innovar Agency, host George Goodwin sits down with Bob Reeves, Executive Vice President and Associate Publisher at Shelby Publishing. As a grocery media expert and USC Food Industry Management Program alumnus, Bob shares insights from over two decades of documenting and influencing the grocery industry. The conversation dives into the critical role of grocery media in shaping industry trends and decisions, exploring: Bob’s journey from grocer to media professional and his passion for elevating the industry. The Shelby Report’s impact on connecting manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers through regional insights and trend forecasting. Why staying informed through industry media is essential for grocers aiming to adapt to market changes and drive growth.Listeners will gain actionable advice on leveraging grocery media for better decision-making, building partnerships, and staying ahead of industry trends as we approach 2025.Key Takeaways:- Engage with trade publications like The Shelby Report to stay informed. - Use media insights to navigate challenges, spot opportunities, and drive innovation. -Don’t underestimate the power of industry events and networking.Shelby Reports Article mention in the podcast: https://theshelbyreport.com/2024/10/02/goodwin-sons-market-reopens-in-crestline-ca/Emails us:Host: George Goodwingeorge@innovaragency.comQuestions: podcast@innovaragency.comGuest: Bob Reveesrreeves@shelbypublishing.comExecutive Vice President, Associate Publisher, West Regional DirectorSubscribe to https://theshelbyreport.com/

In this episode of Grocery Pulse by Innovar Agency, host George Goodwin, a fourth-generation grocer and retail strategist, sits down with Austin and Brennen, co-founders of Sleke. Sleke is revolutionizing workplace productivity with its “smart dumb phone,” designed to eliminate distractions and enhance focus. The conversation explores the impact of smartphone distractions on grocery and retail operations, with eye-opening stats like $600 billion lost annually due to workplace distractions. Austin and Brennen share how Sleek’s B2B solutions are tailored to improve communication, streamline operations, and boost productivity for grocery teams. This episode is packed with actionable insights, rapid-fire fun questions, and expert advice for grocery leaders ready to embrace focused communication tools. Don’t miss this deep dive into how technology is pushing the grocery industry forward! Visit https://www.sleke.io/ website or email austin@sleke.io to explore their B2B solutions and schedule a free consultation. Subscribe to Grocery Pulse for more insights, and share this episode with fellow grocery and retail professionals!

Olympic Insights for Grocery Leaders: Krysta Palmer on Grit, Goals & Shopping Trends | GroceryPulse Vol. 9In this exciting episode of the GroceryPulse Podcast, George Goodwin welcomes Krysta Palmer, Olympic Bronze Medalist and USA Diving National Team member, to explore what grocery leaders and store owners can learn from athletes. Krysta shares her journey from earning medals on the global stage to preparing for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, all while balancing a Kinesiology degree and an MBA.Grocery executives and teams will be inspired by Krysta’s lessons in grit, goal-setting, and overcoming odds, as well as valuable insights into athletes’ shopping habits. Did you know that athletes shop 2-3 times more than the average American? They prioritize quality foods and healthy trends that impact grocery decisions. Learn how to apply these insights to better serve health-conscious customers. 🛒 ⁠Learn more here⁠.

In this episode of the GroceryPulse Podcast, George Goodwin is joined by Ron Bonacci, Vice President of Marketing and Merchandising at Big Y Foods. With over 20 years of experience in the grocery and retail industry, Ron shares his expertise in crafting innovative marketing strategies and driving customer engagement. The conversation delves into the evolving role of marketing in the grocery sector, the importance of understanding customer behavior, and the strategies Big Y Foods has implemented to stay ahead in a competitive market. Ron also offers actionable advice for retailers looking to build stronger connections with their customers. Whether you're a retail professional or simply curious about the future of grocery marketing, this episode is packed with valuable insights and forward-thinking ideas. Tune in now! 🛒 ⁠Learn more here⁠.

In this episode of the GroceryPulse Podcast, we sit down with Kevin Coupe, the host of the renowned MorningNewsBeat and a grocery industry veteran with over 40 years of experience. Kevin shares his invaluable insights into the evolving world of grocery retail, offering advice on how retailers can stay relevant, embrace technology, and create a unique store identity. From the rise of e-commerce to the power of customer feedback, Kevin provides actionable strategies that grocery professionals can apply to future-proof their businesses. 🛒 Learn more here.

Join George Goodwin on Grocery Pulse as he talks with Amir Hosh, founder of Ayoub’s Dried Fruits and Nuts. Learn how Ayoub’s is transforming North America’s snack culture with fresh, healthy options. They discuss overcoming challenges, fostering positive team energy, and building a family legacy. Tune in to hear how Ayoub’s is shaping a tastier future. Sponsored by Innovar Marketing Agency! 🛒 Learn more here.

In this podcast, millennial mothers candidly share their grocery shopping habits, followed by a lively fireside chat discussing why they choose to shop where they do. Gain valuable insights into consumer behavior and trends in the grocery industry. Stay tuned for more. 🛒

🛒 Uncover the Secrets of Mom-Powered Grocery Shopping! 🛒 Mothers do about 60 to 80% of the grocery shopping for their family! Dive into the minds of influential moms who steer the course of family grocery decisions! 🌟 In our recent webinar, a dynamic panel of savvy moms spilled the beans on what really goes on behind the aisles of their grocery shopping escapades. More questions? email us at Marketing@InnovarAgency.com Let’s connect: Like, Comment, Subscribe and Share

In this episode of Grocery Pulse, we sit down with Paul, one of the family owner of Super G Mart, a thriving family chain of international supermarkets. Paul shares his journey in defining a unique store identity, fostering successful vendor partnerships, optimizing real estate space, and creating a welcoming shopping experience for a diverse customer base. Learn how Super G Mart adapts to market trends, manages inventory challenges, and engages with the local community. Whether you’re a seasoned grocery store owner or an aspiring entrepreneur, you’ll gain valuable insights into the grocery business’s ever-evolving landscape. Join us for a deep dive into the world of international grocers. 💻 Questions? email us at Marketing@InnovarAgency.com

Join Grocery Pulse host George Goodwin as he interviews founder Galen, delving into the evolution of grocery shopping with a focus on health-conscious choices, differentiation for independent stores, environmental responsibility, loyalty factors, transparent price tagging, and affordability of healthier choices. Tune in for insights into the crucial aspects of differentiation, environmental responsibility, and health-conscious decisions.