Retailistic

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. 

This is a video podcast episode, which you can watch here.TakeawaysData is integral to matching suppliers with retailers.Fit challenges in merchandising are both physical and technological.Retailers are increasingly adopting direct-to-consumer strategies.Physical retail spaces are evolving into showrooms and experience centers.Retail media is shifting toward more personalized and generative approaches.Marketplace strategies allow retailers to experiment with inventory models.Tech-first approaches are essential for modern retail operations.Market uncertainties are driving retailers to explore new categories and suppliers.Collaboration between brands and retailers is becoming more critical for success. Chapters00:00 This Week at Coresight Research: New Reports and Data03:01 The Role of Merchandising in Retail06:05 Understanding Fit: Technology and Product09:10 Challenges in Product Assortment and Profitability12:03 The Blurring Lines Between Retailers and Brands15:09 The Future of Physical Retail Spaces17:52 The Evolution of Retail Media20:54 Marketplace Strategies and Inventory Management23:58 Tech-First Approaches in Retail27:08 Navigating Market Uncertainties29:57 Final Thoughts and Predictions for 2025 Dive further into retail challenges and tech-driven solutions with the recent, in-depth report from Coresight Research and Rithum: Unlocking Success: The Pathway to Profitability for US Brands and Retailers

This is a video podcast episode, which you can watch here.TakeawaysRetailers are increasingly investing in technology and transformation.Store intelligence technology is crucial for operational efficiency.AI and automation are addressing major retail challenges.Visibility into store operations is lacking for many retailers.Robotics and AI are becoming essential in physical stores.Employee satisfaction improves with the adoption of technology.Retail media networks are evolving rapidly in the industry.Understanding the root cause of shrink is vital for retailers.Data-driven decision-making is key to optimizing operations.The future of retail is leaning toward an AI-first approach. Chapters00:00 This Week in Research: New Reports and Data01:37 The Evolution of In-Store Retail Technology03:24 The Impact of Technology on Retail Operations07:22 Understanding Store Intelligence and Its Benefits11:21 The Role of Robotics and AI in Retail15:56 Connecting Data to Business Processes18:28 Enhancing Employee Satisfaction and Customer Experience20:05 The Importance of Visibility in Store Operations22:51 Addressing Shrink and Inefficiencies in Retail25:00 The Rise of Retail Media Networks30:38 The Future of Retail Technology and AI Read the ⁠latest annual study from Coresight Research and Simbe, published in June 2025, to dive into the dawn of new-age stores. 

TakeawaysThe Coresight Research conference: NextGen 2025 is set for June 23.The event will focus on the integration of retail and real estate.AI is reshaping the beauty industry and retail strategies.Retailers are cautious about adopting AI technologies.Data plays a crucial role in understanding consumer behavior.Challenges like organized retail crime (ORC) need collaborative solutions.Food courts are becoming significant revenue sources for malls.The NextGen 2025 conference will feature diverse speakers from various sectors.Innovations in last-mile delivery are essential for retail success.Retail media and data monetization are key growth areas. Chapters00:00 This Week in Research: New Reports and Data02:30 Exploring the Coresight Research NextGen 2025 Conference Agenda and Key Themes03:23 The Importance of Retail and Real Estate Integration06:37 Challenges in Retail: Crime, Data and AI09:52 Innovations in Retail Real Estate and Last-Mile Delivery Register now for NextGen 2025: Retail, Real Estate & the New Consumer!

TakeawaysAI is becoming a significant focus for global retailers.The relationship between consumers and brands is evolving.Livestreaming is more about discovery in the West.Storytelling remains a crucial aspect of brand marketing.Everything can be a selling opportunity in retail.Monetizing consumer attention is a growing trend.The consumer journey is changing with technology.Understanding consumer behavior is essential for success.The right product at the right time is key to retail success.Collaboration among brands is becoming more common. Chapters00:00 Introduction to NRF APAC 202501:56 The Role of AI in Retail06:04 Evolving Consumer Transactions12:04 Creative Marketing Strategies15:24 Future of Retail and Consumer Engagement Don't miss Weinswig ⁠speaking at the event! Join us to delve into the transformative impact of social commerce and artificial intelligence (AI) on the retail industry.

TakeawaysThe AAFA conference focused heavily on tariffs and their impact on supply chains.Manufacturers are diversifying their supply chains to mitigate risks.Companies are looking to increase agility in manufacturing strategies.Collaboration and communication are crucial for managing tariff impacts.Sustainability can drive cost reduction while meeting ESG goals.World Retail Congress highlighted a shift toward more resilient supply chains.Retailers are focusing on building tighter relationships with top suppliers.Sustainability discussions have matured to include financial considerations.AI is being leveraged for contract management and climate control in real estate.Creating seamless shopping experiences is essential for customer retention. Chapters00:00 Navigating Tariffs and Supply Chain Strategies06:08 Insights from World Retail Congress11:57 AI Innovations in Real Estate18:09 Enhancing Customer Experiences in Retail Coresight Research premium subscribers can read our top takeaways from World Retail Congress in our event coverage report: World Retail Congress 2025 Insights: Consensus on Tariffs Floor, AI Risks in Adaptive Apparel, Smart Scaling in FocusRead more insights on AI, tariffs and sustainability with in-depth reports from Coresight Research. 

TakeawaysAI tools are revolutionizing real estate management.Video analytics provide real-time insights into customer behavior.RF analytics track customer journeys without compromising privacy.Generative AI streamlines leasing processes and document management.AI enhances tenant support through chatbots and automated responses.Smart building technology improves energy efficiency and maintenance.Data-driven decisions lead to better tenant mix and pricing strategies.AI can predict maintenance needs, reducing downtime.Investing in technology yields tangible ROI for mall operators.The future of malls is as a data-driven ecosystem. Chapters00:00 This Week in Research: New Reports and Data02:11 The Impact of Video Analytics on Malls07:08 Understanding RF Analytics and Its Benefits12:26 Generative AI: Transforming Leasing and Operations18:35 Smart Building Management with AI and IoT23:20 Conclusion: The Future of Data-Driven Malls Read more on this topic with the full report from Coresight Research: RetailTech: Three Technologies Landlords Can Use to Take Malls to the Next Level