The Retail Podcast

In a recent interview, Joe Shasteen from Retail Next provided a comprehensive analysis of Black Friday and Cyber Monday trends in the U.S. retail sector. Retail Next, a technology platform, uses advanced analytics, primarily from in-store cameras, to generate traffic data for brick-and-mortar stores, providing invaluable insights into consumer behavior. One of the standout findings from the data is the resilience of Black Friday as a significant shopping event. Despite the downward trend in customer traffic throughout the summer of 2023, with declines ranging between 1-2% compared to 2022, Black Friday bucked the trend. The data indicated a 0.5% decline in overall traffic for the week of November, but individual days around Black Friday witnessed positive metrics. Significantly, Black Friday itself saw a 2% increase in foot traffic compared to 2022. The health and beauty sector emerged as a big winner during this period, experiencing double-digit growth. This trend aligns with the seasonal pattern where health and beauty products perform well around the holidays. Moreover, the jewelry category also saw substantial growth, especially in the lower-cost costume jewelry segment. Looking ahead, the data suggests that the last ten days before Christmas are crucial for retailers, with traffic intensifying significantly. This period sees nearly Black Friday-level traffic every two days, emphasizing the importance of effective store management and customer engagement strategies during this high-traffic period. Shasteen also noted a shift in shopping patterns post-pandemic, indicating that while traffic has not fully recovered to pre-COVID levels, the dynamics of shopping have evolved. Retailers need to adapt to these changing patterns to capture and convert customer interest effectively. For those interested in more detailed analysis and future projections, Retail Next offers comprehensive reports and dashboards for businesses and media outlets. Shasteen's insights underscore the importance of understanding and adapting to evolving consumer trends in the dynamic retail landscape.

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the transformative power of retail lighting with Stefan Ståhl VP of Lighting & Kristian Renström Head of Lighting at ITAB, a leader in creating innovative store environments. Discover how strategic lighting not only enhances the customer experience but also boosts sales significantly. ITAB Official Website: www.itab.com ITAB Lighting Solutions: https://itab.com/products-and-services/products/retail-lighting ITAB Contact Page: www.itab.com/contact-us Retail spaces hold a secret: the strategic use of light. It's a subtle yet powerful tool that retailers wield to shape shopping experiences and influence consumer behaviour. But is it an artful enhancement or a manipulative ploy? Consider accent lighting: it can spotlight products, creating an illusion of importance and manipulating our desire to purchase. Warm tones invite comfort, while cooler tones spur efficiency. It's psychological, a nudge towards spending. Energy efficiency becomes a moral question. Lighting, a significant energy consumer, has cost and environmental implications. Retailers are at a crossroads: continue traditional practices or adopt sustainable, cost-saving technologies? Lighting as art is another facet. It draws attention, creates ambience, and can even turn a store visit into a sensory experience. Yet, it raises questions about authenticity. Are consumers experiencing a product's true appeal, or is it a light-crafted façade? #RetailLightinh #SalesBoost #LightingStrategy #LEDInnovation #RetailDesign #SustainableRetail #CustomerExperience #EnergyEfficiency #RetailTechnology #EcoFriendlyBusiness

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the transformative power of retail lighting with Stefan Ståhl VP of Lighting & Kristian Renström Head of Lighting at ITAB, a leader in creating innovative store environments. Discover how strategic lighting not only enhances the customer experience but also boosts sales significantly. Links to ITAB: ITAB Official Website: www.itab.com ITAB Lighting Solutions: https://itab.com/products-and-services/products/retail-lighting ITAB Contact Page: www.itab.com/contact-us Retail spaces hold a secret: the strategic use of light. It's a subtle yet powerful tool that retailers wield to shape shopping experiences and influence consumer behaviour. But is it an artful enhancement or a manipulative ploy? Consider accent lighting: it can spotlight products, creating an illusion of importance and manipulating our desire to purchase. Warm tones invite comfort, while cooler tones spur efficiency. It's psychological, a nudge towards spending. Energy efficiency becomes a moral question. Lighting, a significant energy consumer, has cost and environmental implications. Retailers are at a crossroads: continue traditional practices or adopt sustainable, cost-saving technologies? Lighting as art is another facet. It draws attention, creates ambience, and can even turn a store visit into a sensory experience. Yet, it raises questions about authenticity. Are consumers experiencing a product's true appeal, or is it a light-crafted façade? #RetailLightinh #SalesBoost #LightingStrategy #LEDInnovation #RetailDesign #SustainableRetail #CustomerExperience #EnergyEfficiency #RetailTechnology #EcoFriendlyBusiness

In this compelling episode, we speak with ITAB's leading figures, Leandro Blanc and Chris Bright, about the future of retail. From customer guidance to high-value item protection and breakthroughs in self-checkout fraud prevention, they share invaluable insights into ITAB's mission to redefine the retail landscape. Join us as we explore the balance between customer experience and loss prevention, setting the stage for the next era in retail.

🎙️ Special 3-Part Episode Alert! 🎙️ The evolving landscape of retail is facing one of its most significant challenges yet! U.S. giants like Target, Wal-Mart, and Home Depot grapple with the ever-growing issue of inventory shrinkage - costing the industry a staggering $100 billion, a number that has doubled since 2015. But the dilemma doesn't stop there! Balancing increased security measures with a seamless shopping experience is the topic of heated debate. Over in the UK, we've seen unprecedented levels of retail crime, with a reported 175,000+ incidents in just the first half of 2023. Tune in as we dive deep into: ✨ The complexities of 'loss' in the retail sector ✨ The alarming rise in theft incidents ✨ Solutions retailers can employ to safeguard their businesses I'm excited to be joined by Leandro Blank, straight from the ITAB offices in the UK, as we discuss, debate and dissect this pressing issue. Ready to untangle the web of challenges in the modern retail world? Listen now!

🚀 MUST-LISTEN: New Podcast Episode with Sarah Engel from January Digital! 🎙️ Why tune in? Here are the top reasons: 1. The Evolution of Marketing: TikTok vs. Facebook/Instagram(Meta) Dive deep into the critical transition from traditional to digital marketing and how it has shaped the industry today. Learn from real-life challenges and experiences! 📈 2. Data-Driven Decision Making: Sarah touches upon the importance of harnessing data for more insightful and informed decisions. If you're looking to level up your decision-making skills, this episode is for you. 📊 3. Continuous Testing & Adaptation: Explore why brands should allocate a significant portion of their budgets for testing new strategies and how failure can pave the way for ground-breaking success. A game-changer for marketers! 🎯 4. Navigating Platform Dependencies: With platforms increasingly interconnected, what risks does it pose for brands? An eye-opener on the Metta-Instagram connection and its implications. ⛓️ 5. Resilience in Retail: Get inspired by how the retail industry has withstood challenges, especially during the COVID era. Plus, hear out insights on the mantra of 'doing more with less.' 💪 6. Networking & Growth: Sarah offers golden nuggets on personal and professional development. Perfect for anyone looking to grow their network and career. 🌱 7. Empowering Women in the Industry: A special shoutout to the 'ShopTalk meet up for women' - highlighting the essential role of women in the industry and empowering them further. 🌟 Enhance your marketing strategies, fortify your data-driven decision-making, and stay ahead in the digital curve! #DigitalMarketing #JanuaryDigital #SarahEngel #PodcastRecommendation #SEO #RetailResilience #theretailpodcast #retail

Get ready for a jolt of inspiration as I share a sneak peek into a captivating conversation I had with Pierluigi Gusmani at Euroshop 2023. Pierluigi's transformative approach to retail lighting is not just enlightening but invigorating, making our podcast interview a must-listen! In the whirlwind of the event, Pierluigi's unique perspective was a beacon. The innovative use of lighting in retail, as he described it, went beyond a mere aesthetic accessory. It was a game-changer, showcasing in 13 uniquely designed spaces how lighting can guide retailers to thriving success. But Pierluigi's vision doesn't stop at aesthetics. Lighting, in his eyes, is a fundamental cog in the operational wheel of physical retail. LEDs and other technologies are not just lights; they are tools that enhance the customer experience, create emotional bonds, and optimize operations. This perspective turns the idea of lighting from a cost into a powerful investment. One striking example of this vision in action is our collaboration with a Ukrainian supermarket chain. Here, Pierluigi's philosophy of transforming shopping into a tangible experience comes to life. Each store is designed with a unique theme, turning an ordinary grocery run into an extraordinary memory. At the heart of this visionary approach is the bustling city of Milano, the design capital of the world. Here, Pierluigi and his team continue to innovate, leveraging the rich local resources while ensuring sustainability. This commitment is reflected in their products and components, largely sourced from within 80 kilometers of the factory, minimizing transportation costs. In Pierluigi's world, lighting transcends mere illumination. It sparks emotions, amplifies products, and revolutionizes the retail experience. It shines a light, not just on the products on the shelves, but also on the future of retail itself. So, whether you're involved in a local grocery store or a high-fashion boutique, tune in to our podcast to get inspired. Discover how lighting can lead the way to retail transformation! Thank you for reading. Feel free to drop your thoughts in the comments or connect for more enlightening discussions on retail's future. #RetailInnovation #LightingDesign #FutureOfRetail

🎙️ Welcome to another illuminating episode of The Retail Podcast, where we connect you with the retail industry's thought leaders. Our latest episode features an engaging conversation with none other than Caila Schwartz, Director of Consumer Insights and Strategy, Retail & Consumer Goods at Salesforce. In a world where the retail landscape is rapidly evolving, Schwartz - a previously self-confessed public speaking apprehensive - has flourished into a voice that is both influential and insightful. She shares valuable lessons from her journey, advocating the importance of fostering one's ideas and not shying away from asking hard-hitting questions - a philosophy that's inspiring for today's business leaders. In our fascinating discussion, Schwartz offered predictive insights for the imminent Holiday Period 2023 (Golden Quarter) - the critical period leading up to Christmas - based on Salesforce's extensive data analytics. At the heart of these predictions? A prominent role for AI in shaping retail's future, with a staggering forecasted impact of $194 billion on global sales! But it's not all about technology. Schwartz reminds us of the necessity of customer-centric policies, highlighting the significance of transparent and reasonable return protocols. The retail world is undergoing a shift, moving from transaction-based interactions towards relationship-building and personalized customer experiences. Schwartz noted that 39% of consumers prefer the omnichannel approach, choosing brands that offer "Buy Online, Pick Up in Store" services. An intriguing aspect of this trend is the potential for additional purchases during the in-store pickup. This blend of online and offline retail experiences, particularly popular among tech-savvy Gen-Z and Millennials, presents a game-changing opportunity for retailers. Our conversation didn't stop there. We explored the expanding influence of social media, now driving approximately 10% of all e-commerce, a figure growing by 29% annually. The paradigm is shifting towards in-feed advertisements, emphasizing the need for authenticity in today's digital marketing landscape. A new trend making waves is the growth of the resale market. Driven by cost-savings and sustainability, consumers are increasingly opting for resold goods, making it an area retailers must navigate to remain ahead. This enlightening episode with Caila Schwartz drives home the point: The retail sector is a labyrinth of constant evolution. Survival and success hinge on adaptability, innovation, and a relentless focus on the customer. At Salesforce, the commitment is clear - equip retailers with the tools and insights necessary to navigate this change and seize the opportunities it presents. As we head into the Golden Quarter, let's embrace Schwartz's insights: the future of retail transcends selling goods—it's about creating experiences, forging relationships, and nurturing customers. Retailers who can harness this philosophy will thrive in the coming years. Stay connected for more inspiring conversations on The Retail Podcast. #RetailPodcast #SalesforceInsights #RetailTrends #AIinRetai "Keep Your Loyal Customers Closer: 5 Holiday Shopping Predictions" https://www.salesforce.com/blog/holiday-shopping-predictions/

Founded in 1980, PacSun is not your average apparel brand. An embodiment of youthful vigor and boldness, PacSun has curated a culture centered on its customer, offering a unique blend of relevant brands and styles to inspire a generation. The brand's unprecedented digital prowess was evident when it doubled its digital sales in 2020 and amplified its social media reach, achieving over 2M followers and 33M likes on TikTok. Such remarkable growth is a testament to PacSun's agile and forward-thinking approach, which has enabled it to thrive in the highly competitive $830 billion Gen-Z retail industry. The maestro behind this digital orchestration is Shirley Gao, the Chief Information Officer at PacSun. Spearheading various digital transformations and business integrations, Gao has been instrumental in evolving PacSun's digital landscape, creating an elevated shopping experience tailored for Gen Z. At the core of Gao's digital strategy is the concept of Unified Commerce. This includes Buy Online, Pickup in Store (BOPIS), same-day delivery via Uber and Doordash, and even the Amazon marketplace. This ensures customer convenience and satisfaction without compromising on speed or efficiency. One of the most noteworthy aspects of Gao's strategy is the attention paid to fulfillment optimization. Gao champions the importance of in-store fulfillment alongside traditional warehouse operations. Inventory accuracy is a top priority, aimed at reducing rejection rates and split shipments while maintaining a positive in-store experience. Next in the digital strategy is improving the return experience. Innovative methods like buying online and returning in-store, along with advanced return refunds, enhance customer convenience and satisfaction. Breaking boundaries in the payment realm, PacSun under Gao's leadership has adopted alternative payment methods such as cryptocurrency, Cashapp, and Venmo. Gao's vision extends to customer service with the introduction of AI-powered chat-bots or digital workers. These advanced bots provide fluent and conversational customer service during off-hours, exhibiting brand and customer awareness, and elevating the brand's customer service experience. A robust Customer Data Platform forms the backbone of PacSun's digital strategy. It acts as a central repository, collating and orchestrating customer data across platforms to inform business decisions and provide better insights into customer behavior. In a move toward sustainable fashion, PacSun also incorporated the pre-loved clothing program in collaboration with Thred Up. Social commerce has been a significant area of focus, as well. Direct checkout options from Instagram, TikTok Shop, and Douyin in China are now available. Livestreams on TikTok during significant events like the Super Bowl and on Douyin and Bambuser further extend the brand's reach and engagement. The tech-stack at PacSun continually evolves. The brand currently leverages AI-powered technology for in-session promotion, automated attribution, and digital fitting. Over four decades into its journey, PacSun remains a leader in the retail industry. It continues to resonate with Gen Z and adapt to their preferences, needs, and interests. PacSun's success is a testament to the effectiveness of its digital strategy, shaped and guided by Shirley Gao's visionary leadership. #PacSun #GenZ #DigitalTransformation #Ecommerce #RetailRevolution #Innovation #ShirleyGao #salesforce

🎧🎙️Have you ever wondered how you can leverage the power of data in your organization? Our latest podcast guest has the answers you're looking for. From repairing Apache helicopters near the Korean DMZ to advising top-tier tech companies like Microsoft and Databricks, Robin Sutara has navigated the high-stress complexities of data-led transformations. With more than two decades in the tech industry, she has consulted with hundreds of organizations, helping them shape their data strategy, nurture a data culture, and build diverse data teams. However, Robin’s journey extends far beyond the realm of technology. She is a survivor of domestic violence, a proud mother, a relentless triathlon/marathon trainee, and an advocate for data-driven decision-making. With every step, Robin is a living testament to the power of resilience and determination, using her experiences to inspire and empower others. In this episode, Robin will be sharing insights from her unique career path, which includes holding technical and business roles in top tech companies and earning multiple academic accolades. You will learn not only about data strategy but also about the criticality of allies, overcoming personal adversities, and building your power. By listening to Robin's story, you will realize that data isn't just numbers on a screen—it's a tool that, when wielded correctly, can drive organizational growth, innovation, and efficiency. So, are you ready to unlock the power of data in your organization and personal life? Click the link to tune in! 🎧

🔈Calling all retail enthusiasts, fashion mavens and tech aficionados! Join us for our next episode of the Retail Podcast 🎙️ Recorded live at Shoptalk Europe Barcelona 2023! This isn't just another industry podcast; we're going in-depth on the cutting-edge intersection of retail, fashion, and AI. In this exclusive episode, we'll be featuring the trailblazers from Fashable, the company that's revolutionizing digital content creation in the fashion industry. Fashable is not just creating a buzz; they are disrupting the status quo. They're leveraging AI technology to generate original fashion content without copying images or movements. Imagine that!🤯 Fashable's vision is to tackle real-world issues, such as reducing waste by providing accurate forecasts and eliminating unsold items. They're pioneering sustainability in fashion, crafting digital assets for the metaverse before even contemplating their physical existence. And what's more? They enable style testing and validation through e-commerce or social media BEFORE production. If you're interested in where the fashion industry is heading, this is a can't-miss conversation. Fashable is offering an insight into the future of digital content creation, from AI-generated models to bestseller prediction and supporting the circular economy. We invite you to join us, hear from the disruptors, and engage in the conversation. Be a part of the movement towards a more sustainable and efficient future in fashion. See you there! 🎧 🔗Subscribe to our Retail Podcast, follow Fashable, and stay updated on the latest happenings in the retail world. #Shoptalkeurope #Fashable #FashionTech #SustainableFashion #DigitalTransformation #RetailPodcast

🎙️Excited to share our latest podcast featuring none other than Nathan Lomax of Quickfire Digital! This is an episode you simply can't afford to miss. 🚀 In our conversation, Nathan shares his profound insights into the intersection of Globalisation, AI, and eCommerce. Plus, he delves deep into his guiding philosophy - 'If you don't ask, you don't get'. This mantra has not only shaped his approach to business but has also proven instrumental in proactively solving clients' pain points using technology.🔧🚀 As a Shopify Plus specialist and the proud recipient of the European E-commerce Agency of the Year award, Quickfire Digital is at the forefront of maximizing commercial potential for businesses. They're masters at enhancing website performance and optimizing the tech stack with their proprietary tools and processes. 🌐💻 Want to maximize your business's efficiency, scalability, and profitability? Quickfire Digital has a proven track record, with numerous testimonials praising their effectiveness, enthusiasm, and responsiveness. 📈💼 Quickfire Digital also organizes events in the UK for knowledge sharing and peer-to-peer learning. A fantastic opportunity to learn from the best and network with like-minded professionals.🤝📚 Tune in to the podcast, absorb Nathan's insights, and start asking the right questions to get what your business needs. Listen today! 🎧🌐 #Ecommerce #Shopify #AI #Globalisation #Podcast #QuickfireDigital #NathanLomax #DigitalMarketing #SEO #Networking #Learning

Uncover the future of fashion e-commerce in our latest podcast episode with Emma McFerran, the trailblazing CEO of Lyst, recorded during Shoptalk Europe in Barcelona. Emma unveils her strategy to revolutionise the e-commerce landscape using data-driven personalisation, and shares valuable insights for accelerating your career trajectory.Thank you, Matt Brightwell for your support in finding such an awesome location to get the episode recorded.In 2021, Lyst, a globally recognised personalised shopping platform, raised an impressive $85 million in pre-IPO funding. This milestone underscores its ambition to go public and expand its collaborations with high-profile brands. Catering to a diverse customer base, including power shoppers and eco-conscious consumers, Lyst continually evolves to meet and exceed their unique demands.Central to Lyst's ethos is a relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction, fostering user loyalty, and driving sustainable, profitable growth. As the fashion industry witnesses a surge in demand for luxury and premium goods, Lyst positions itself at the vanguard of this transformative trend.Despite economic fluctuations, the robustness of the luxury market remains unscathed. Consumer trends show an unwavering preference for luxury items such as designer footwear and clothing, even amidst reduced discretionary spending.Lyst has recorded a landmark achievement, drawing over 150 million shoppers to its platform, culminating in a Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) exceeding $500 million. Under Emma McFerran's astute leadership, Lyst is set to further personalise the online shopping experience for its users, while providing a nurturing space for its partner brands to thrive.Don't miss this insightful dialogue. Tune in to the podcast today and gain a unique glimpse into the evolving world of fashion ecommerce. #shoptalkeurope #Lyst #FashionEcommerce #LuxuryFashion #SustainableShopping #ecommerce #luxury #leadership #DataDrivenPersonalisation

It’s almost Christmas and this week’s Five Things cuts straight through the noise.Alex and Simon break down what really happened this Black Friday, why the numbers matter less than the format shift, and what live shopping and brand activations tell us about where retail is heading next.From muted UK retail sales and changing Black Friday behaviour, to why Ralph Lauren’s activations are quietly best-in-class, this episode focuses on what retailers should actually be paying attention to right now — not the headlines.We also touch on:The rise of live, shoppable events and social commerceWhy “Black Friday Month” is now the realityWhat brands are doing instead of discountingHow tech companies are preparing for NRF 2026Why activation, not promotion, is the differentiator heading into the new yearThis is a grounded, honest conversation for retailers, brands, and tech leaders navigating a tough market without losing relevance.

This year, NRF is turning the dial up on everything: AI, interactivity, speakers and scaling a 40,000‑person global audience.In this episode, I sit down with Jill from NRF to unpack how the team is bringing the 2026 global theme “The Next Now” to life at the Big Show in the US – and why this could be one of the strongest speaker lineups yet.We dig into how what’s next is already here for retail – from AI‑driven shopping journeys to a new generation of talent that expects to participate in content rather than sit through one‑to‑many lectures. Jill shares how NRF has re‑engineered parts of the show to serve that next generation without losing what long‑time attendees love.🌐 Visit Retail News.AI, your premium destination for the most relevant, cutting-edge information in the retail sector: https://retailnews.ai/💬 Which of these trends do you think will shape the future of retail the most — and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!✅ Subscribe now and never miss a new episode of The Retail Podcast.https://www.youtube.com/@theretailpodcast?sub_confirmation=1----------------Welcome to the official channel of THE RETAIL PODCAST, the leading community for global retail leaders, innovators, and changemakers.*If you are struggling to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry, looking for insights from major conferences like NRF, Shoptalk, and EuroCIS, or aiming to connect your digital funnels to physical events with measurable ROI, this channel is designed for you.➡️ Hosted by Alex Rezvan and joined by some of the most respected voices in the sector, The Retail Podcast brings sharp, actionable insights from industry veterans with backgrounds at Microsoft and Verizon, where projects worth over $1.5 billion were directed. Our mission is to help retailers and businesses that sell to retailers anticipate change, embrace technology, and unlock new growth opportunities.Here you will discover exclusive interviews with executives and innovators, coverage of global retail conferences, analysis of technology and AI trends, in-depth explorations of fashion, grocery, luxury, and eCommerce, and thought leadership that keeps your strategy relevant all year long. As part of the RetailNews.AI ecosystem, this channel does more than report the news—it shapes the conversation on the future of retail.*Subscribe now and activate notifications so you never miss the strategies, stories, and signals defining tomorrow’s retail.*--------📲 Follow us on LinkedIn to stay connected with daily retail insights and industry updates.https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-retail-podcast/📩 Contact us at: Sofia@theretailpodcast.com--------🔗 References:--------⏱️ Timestamps00:00:00 – Intro: the Big Show is 38 days away00:00:35 – Welcoming Jill back & post‑Thanksgiving catch‑up00:00:56 – Why the show happens after Christmas & representing retailers00:01:17 – Why this year’s speaker lineup feels different00:01:37 – Theme “The Next Now” and the 2026 global framing00:01:58 – One global theme, local flavors & 100+ countries at the Big Show00:02:18 – AI, generative shopping engines & hockey‑stick tech change00:02:40 – Next‑gen retail talent replacing the old guard00:03:03 – What younger audiences want: conversation, not lectures00:03:22 – Designing content for the up‑and‑coming generation00:03:44 – Host reflection: last year’s opener & new‑world expectations00:04:14 – The challenge of serving 4–5,000 people in one room00:04:35 – You can’t please everyone, but you can make them learn00:04:55 – What’s new #1: the dedicated AI Stage in the River Pavilion00:05:17 – General AI vs generative AI content & expert roundtables00:10:09 – Opening tradition: board chair interview & the 107th show00:16:54 – 14 years of conversations and “see you in 38 days”--------#TheRetailPodcast #NRF

In this episode, recorded at MAPIC in Cannes, we sit down with Shane Eldstrom, CEO of United Developers, the company behind Place Vendôme in Qatar – a project that has already become the #3 shopping centre for high-end fashion in the entire Middle East, just a few years after opening. Shane breaks down what makes Qatar’s retail market so distinctive, how Place Vendôme has scaled from opening to regional leader, and what international brands need to know before entering the Middle East.🌐 Visit Retail News.AI, your premium destination for the most relevant, cutting-edge information in the retail sector: https://retailnews.ai/💬 Which of these trends do you think will shape the future of retail the most — and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!--------Welcome to the official channel of THE RETAIL PODCAST, the leading community for global retail leaders, innovators, and changemakers.*If you are struggling to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry, looking for insights from major conferences like NRF, Shoptalk, and EuroCIS, or aiming to connect your digital funnels to physical events with measurable ROI, this channel is designed for you.➡️ Hosted by Alex Rezvan and joined by some of the most respected voices in the sector, The Retail Podcast brings sharp, actionable insights from industry veterans with backgrounds at Microsoft and Verizon, where projects worth over $1.5 billion were directed. Our mission is to help retailers and businesses that sell to retailers anticipate change, embrace technology, and unlock new growth opportunities.Here you will discover exclusive interviews with executives and innovators, coverage of global retail conferences, analysis of technology and AI trends, in-depth explorations of fashion, grocery, luxury, and eCommerce, and thought leadership that keeps your strategy relevant all year long. As part of the RetailNews.AI ecosystem, this channel does more than report the news—it shapes the conversation on the future of retail.*Subscribe now and activate notifications so you never miss the strategies, stories, and signals defining tomorrow’s retail.*--------📲 Follow us on LinkedIn to stay connected with daily retail insights and industry updates.https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-retail-podcast/📩 Contact us at: Sofia@theretailpodcast.com--------🔗 References:--------⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Cold open: Place Vendôme hits top 3 for luxury in the Middle East00:19 – Welcome from MAPIC Cannes & intro to Shane Eldstrom00:44 – Who are United Developers & what is Place Vendôme, Qatar?01:11 – Why MAPIC? Learnings, innovation & global retail connections01:41 – Is the Middle East one market? Busting the “single region” myth01:59 – Qatar’s demographics, Doha, and World Cup–driven infrastructure02:25 – Local luxury demand and what makes Qatar’s shoppers unique02:42 – Opening on 15 April 2022 & Place Vendôme’s growth story02:59 – Thinking of entering Qatar? What retailers should consider03:35 – New ownership laws & direct entry for international brands03:56 – The future of retail at Place Vendôme: service, authenticity, sustainability04:35 – VIP lounge, social-media-powered styling & curated experiences05:12 – Where to find more info on United Developers & Place Vendôme--------#TheRetailPodcast #PlaceVendome #Qatar #RetailRealEstate #MAPIC #FashionTrustArabia #LuxuryRetail #MENA

Black Friday isn’t a day anymore. Singles’ Day now stretches across weeks. Quick commerce promises groceries in 15–30 minutes. In this APAC edition of Five Things Friday, co‑hosts Ngai Yuen Low & Ryf Quail break down how peak season is changing across China, Southeast Asia, Australia and Japan – and what it really means for consumers, retailers and retail property.Joining from WP. Kuala Lumpur and the Greater Sydney Area, Ngai Yuen and Ryf compare how Singles’ Day has turned into a multi‑week promotion machine, why Black Friday lands very differently in Singapore vs Malaysia, and how Australia now treats November as a long sprint into Christmas.🌐 Visit Retail News.AI, your premium destination for the most relevant, cutting-edge information in the retail sector: https://retailnews.ai/💬 Which of these trends do you think will shape the future of retail the most — and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!✅ Subscribe now and never miss a new episode of The Retail Podcast.https://www.youtube.com/@theretailpodcast?sub_confirmation=1--------*Welcome to the official channel of THE RETAIL PODCAST, the leading community for global retail leaders, innovators, and changemakers.*If you are struggling to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry, looking for insights from major conferences like NRF, Shoptalk, and EuroCIS, or aiming to connect your digital funnels to physical events with measurable ROI, this channel is designed for you.➡️ Hosted by Alex Rezvan and joined by some of the most respected voices in the sector, The Retail Podcast brings sharp, actionable insights from industry veterans with backgrounds at Microsoft and Verizon, where projects worth over $1.5 billion were directed. Our mission is to help retailers and businesses that sell to retailers anticipate change, embrace technology, and unlock new growth opportunities.Here you will discover exclusive interviews with executives and innovators, coverage of global retail conferences, analysis of technology and AI trends, in-depth explorations of fashion, grocery, luxury, and eCommerce, and thought leadership that keeps your strategy relevant all year long. As part of the RetailNews.AI ecosystem, this channel does more than report the news—it shapes the conversation on the future of retail.*Subscribe now and activate notifications so you never miss the strategies, stories, and signals defining tomorrow’s retail.*--------📲 Follow us on LinkedIn to stay connected with daily retail insights and industry updates.https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-retail-podcast/📩 Contact us at: Sofia@theretailpodcast.com--------🔗 References:--------⏱️ Timestamps • 0:00 – Intro: Five Things Friday APAC & on‑the‑road check‑in • 1:06 – Singles’ Day & Black Friday turn into full “seasons” • 2:03 – Black Friday in Singapore vs Malaysia • 2:39 – Australia’s Black Friday “monster” & Christmas build‑up • 3:40 – Spend forecasts, per‑capita estimates & retail optimism • 4:36 – Promo email overload, time‑bound offers & Cyber Monday as one festival • 5:53 – Hockey weekend, 16‑year‑old daughter & shopping plans • 6:12 – TikTok’s “last time” parenting trend and emotional moments • 7:18 – MAPIC recap: retail property finally turns a corner in Europe • 8:12 – Asian retailers (kidswear, Mr DIY) reshaping European high streets • 8:40 – Quick commerce scepticism: infra, riders and margin erosion • 10:03 – India’s BigBasket & the race for shorter delivery promises • 11:25 – Don Don Donki: favourite retailer in Asia & SE Asia juggernaut • 13:07 – Yen weakness, retail tourism & destination Don Don Donki stores in Japan • 14:17 – Store autonomy, non‑traditional management & wrap‑up--------#TheRetailPodcast #FiveThingsFriday #APACRetail #BlackFriday #SinglesDay #QuickCommerce #DonDonDonki #MrDIY #RetailTrends #ecommerce

Recorded live at MAPIC 2025 in Cannes, this episode features a rare deep-dive with Ian Sandford, President of Eurofund Group, one of Europe’s most influential retail property operators. With more than €2B in assets across Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany and the UK, Eurofund sits at the centre of the sector’s biggest shifts.--------*Welcome to the official  channel of THE RETAIL PODCAST, the leading community for global retail leaders, innovators, and changemakers.*If you are struggling to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry, looking for insights from major conferences like NRF, Shoptalk, and EuroCIS, or aiming to connect your digital funnels to physical events with measurable ROI, this channel is designed for you.➡️ Hosted by Alex Rezvan and joined by some of the most respected voices in the sector, The Retail Podcast brings sharp, actionable insights from industry veterans with backgrounds at Microsoft and Verizon, where projects worth over $1.5 billion were directed. Our mission is to help retailers and businesses that sell to retailers anticipate change, embrace technology, and unlock new growth opportunities.Here you will discover exclusive interviews with executives and innovators, coverage of global retail conferences, analysis of technology and AI trends, in-depth explorations of fashion, grocery, luxury, and eCommerce, and thought leadership that keeps your strategy relevant all year long. As part of the RetailNews.AI ecosystem, this channel does more than report the news—it shapes the conversation on the future of retail.*Subscribe now and activate notifications so you never miss the strategies, stories, and signals defining tomorrow’s retail.*--------📲 Follow us on LinkedIn to stay connected with daily retail insights and industry updates.https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-retail-podcast/📩 Contact us at: Sofia@theretailpodcast.com--------🔗 References:--------⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Running a shopping centre is harder than people think00:27 Recording live from MAPIC 2025 in Cannes00:53 Eurofund Group scale & portfolio overview01:39 What trends are shaping European retail real estate?01:58 Debt market dynamics & competitive leverage02:23 Global capital flows reshaping asset valuations02:41 US startups & new entrants to Europe03:03 Why retail is growing again03:28 Expansion advice: why Berlin leads Europe03:50 Hamburg & Munich property strengths04:18 Experience, placemaking & guest-centric design04:40 From “clients” to “guests”: linguistic and strategic shifts05:13 Toilets, car parks & what they reveal about landlords05:46 F&B’s rising share and its role in dwell time06:23 “Get them and keep them”: the only rule06:44 The question property executives always ask07:06 Understanding retailer performance inside your centres07:30 Are your retailers making money?07:47 Retail media: clean environments vs screen overload08:06 The biggest screen in Southern Europe (Lisbon)08:27 Digital vs calmness: what consumers want08:45 Closing thanks--------#TheRetailPodcast #propertymanagement #retailproperty 

Black Friday isn’t a day anymore. It’s a month-long pressure cooker – and it’s forcing retailers to rethink everything from promotions to product pages.Correction note: In the episode I mention a jumper with 7% wool – the actual composition was 8% wool.Why Black Friday has morphed into “Black Month” – and what that constant promo pressure does to margins, teams and customer expectationsHow John Lewis is investing £800m to turn “stuffy department store” into experiential destination, complete with VIP member lounges that feel more like British Airways than traditional retailThe power of personal styling: a live story from a first-ever styling session at Aubin, and why curated outfits create genuine “dopamine dressing” moments for time-poor professionalsWhat luxury players like Joseph really want from tech and AI: tools that free staff to serve customers, not replace themHow AI is fast becoming your second customer – from ChatGPT’s personal shopping and gift guides to the need for product pages that go beyond specs and capture story, emotion and use-caseWhy the next generation won’t “Google it”, they’ll ChatGPT it – and what that means for search, content and retail strategyIf you work in retail, ecommerce, CX, merchandising or digital, you’re already living these tensions: discount pressure, demand for experience, and the rise of AI-driven discovery.This episode gives you a sharp, 13‑minute snapshot of where those trends are heading – and how brands like John Lewis, Aubin, Joseph, Tumi and M&S are shaping the next chapter.🌐 Visit Retail News.AI, your premium destination for the most relevant, cutting-edge information in the retail sector: https://retailnews.ai/💬 Which of these trends do you think will shape the future of retail the most — and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!✅ Subscribe now and never miss a new episode of The Retail Podcast.https://www.youtube.com/@theretailpodcast?sub_confirmation=1--------If you are struggling to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry, looking for insights from major conferences like NRF, Shoptalk, and EuroCIS, or aiming to connect your digital funnels to physical events with measurable ROI, this channel is designed for you.*Subscribe now and activate notifications so you never miss the strategies, stories, and signals defining tomorrow’s retail.*--------📲 Follow us on LinkedIn to stay connected with daily retail insights and industry updates.https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-retail-podcast/📩 Contact us at: Sofia@theretailpodcast.com--------⏱️ Timestamps0:00 – Intro: Live from The Nest & 5 Things Friday0:22 – Meet Simone and Matt (“Mr Retail”)0:39 – Inbox meltdown: Black Friday offers everywhere1:24 – “Black Month”: brand pressure and promo fatigue2:05 – Ecommerce spikes, supply chain strain & Cyber Monday3:03 – John Lewis obsession & the £800m store revamp3:23 – VIP member lounge: borrowing from airline loyalty3:48 – From stuffy department store to experiential retail hub4:36 – Collabs (Topshop, Carhartt) & shifting demographics4:53 – A personal styling story: first ever styling session5:18 – Aubin, Scottish wool & dressing for NRF5:50 – Dopamine dressing: moving beyond “blue, blue, blue”6:35 – The stigma around personal shopping & who it’s “for”6:57 – Democratizing styling: bringing personal shopping to everyone7:45 – Quality vs price: fabric, longevity and cost-per-wear9:13 – Inside Joseph: luxury retail, tech and AI in-store9:34 – Use AI to free staff, not replace staff11:05 – ChatGPT launches personal shopping & gift guides11:34 – Two customers: the human and the machine12:02 – Product pages for AI search: from specs to story12:25 – Gen Z, AI search and the future of retail discovery13:02 – Wrap-up & teaser for next week--------#TheRetailPodcast #RetailPodcast #BlackFriday #ExperientialRetail #PersonalShopping #AIinRetail #EcommerceStrategy #JohnLewis #YouTubePodcast

Julia Paulsen, Director of Ecommerce Nordics at Elkjøp Nordic (part of Currys plc), unpacks how to win when your store has two customers: the human and the AI assistant. We cover data quality, MACH, omnichannel execution, and the culture that turns OKRs into commercial outcomes.🌐 Visit Retail News.AI, your premium destination for the most relevant, cutting-edge information in the retail sector: https://retailnews.ai/💬 Which of these trends do you think will shape the future of retail the most — and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!✅ Subscribe now and never miss a new episode of The Retail Podcast.--------*Welcome to the official THE RETAIL PODCAST, the leading community for global retail leaders, innovators, and changemakers.*If you are struggling to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry, looking for insights from major conferences like NRF, Shoptalk, and EuroCIS, or aiming to connect your digital funnels to physical events with measurable ROI, this channel is designed for you.➡️ Hosted by Alex Rezvan and joined by some of the most respected voices in the sector, The Retail Podcast brings sharp, actionable insights from industry veterans with backgrounds at Microsoft and Verizon, where projects worth over $1.5 billion were directed. Our mission is to help retailers and businesses that sell to retailers anticipate change, embrace technology, and unlock new growth opportunities.Here you will discover exclusive interviews with executives and innovators, coverage of global retail conferences, analysis of technology and AI trends, in-depth explorations of fashion, grocery, luxury, and eCommerce, and thought leadership that keeps your strategy relevant all year long. As part of the RetailNews.AI ecosystem, this channel does more than report the news—it shapes the conversation on the future of retail.*Subscribe now and activate notifications so you never miss the strategies, stories, and signals defining tomorrow’s retail.*--------📲 Follow us on LinkedIn to stay connected with daily retail insights and industry updates.https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-retail-podcast/📩 Contact us at: Sofia@theretailpodcast.com--------🔗 References:--------⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Intro00:23 Welcome Julia Paulsen (Elkjøp Nordic / Currys)00:40 What Elkjøp is + Nordic footprint01:05 Market share + MediaMarkt history01:49 Norway’s biggest e-commerce revolution02:32 Two customers: human and AI assistant05:26 “Menneske og maskin”: human + machine06:54 How to make PDPs readable for virtual assistants07:22 Agent vs human shopping missions08:33 Last mile & omnichannel performance09:42 Multi-market ecommerce + ContentSquare12:13 Nordic stores as a strategic advantage14:22 Culture, OKRs and performance17:21 Leadership during pressure19:33 The next 2–3 years of digital retail20:52 Why structured product data is the battlefield22:26 21,000 signals → +6% checkout completion23:42 Closing thoughts--------#TheRetailPodcast #Retail #Ecommerce #AI #AgenticAI #Elkjop #Currys #FutureOfRetail #MACHAlliance #DigitalLeadership #CustomerExperience