The Voice of Retail

In this engaging and wide-ranging episode of The Voice of Retail, Michael reconnects with Selwyn Crittendon, CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer for IKEA Canada, nearly two years after his arrival in the Canadian market. Selwyn reflects on his remarkable journey through IKEA over the past 23 years—from his early days in the Washington, D.C. store to leading Canadian operations—and offers an inside look at how the iconic retailer is transforming itself for the future.Selwyn begins by recounting his promise upon joining IKEA Canada: visit every unit in the country and meet the 7,000-plus coworkers who bring the brand to life. That coast-to-coast journey delivered deep insight into the business, its people and customers, the affordability crisis shaping Canadian retail, and the macro forces—tariffs, trade tensions, supply chain disruptions—reshaping global commerce. IKEA’s response? A relentless focus on affordability and sustainability as its “new superpower.” Over the past two years, the company has invested over $130 million in price reductions, ensuring home furnishings remain accessible to the many, not the few.The conversation then turns to IKEA Canada’s evolving footprint: 16 large-format stores, a nationwide omni-channel network, customer distribution centres, planning studios, pickup points and over 1,000 FedEx parcel locations. Selwyn lays out the strategy behind IKEA’s multiformat expansion—why big blue boxes remain essential, and how plan-and-order points allow IKEA to flex into more communities. The brand’s omni-channel transformation—accelerated through the pandemic—continues with major fulfilment investments in Toronto and Vancouver aimed at seamless, channel-agnostic shopping.Selwyn also breaks down the brand’s thematic focus areas. Last year’s theme, sleep, delivered new product development, education, and marketing storytelling. This year, IKEA shifts to cooking and eating, aligning with customer behaviour for an affordable, sustainable home and meaningful family connection. The company’s food division is booming too—$143 million in sales, 70 million meatballs served—and evolving from “quirky add-on” to strategic growth engine.The duo explores customer behaviour, the integration of data and AI in retail operations, and the rising importance of trust amid an era of synthetic media. Selwyn reinforces IKEA’s position: responsible data use, personalisation done properly, and maintaining IKEA Family loyalty as a driver of lifetime relationships.Finally, Selwyn shares his reflections as a new Canadian—embracing the country’s diversity, culture, and warmth—and looks ahead to IKEA Canada’s upcoming 50th anniversary celebrations. Authentic, inspiring, and forward-looking, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about modern retail, leadership, culture, and the future of accessible, sustainable living.  The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this highly anticipated annual episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc welcomes back Eric Morris, Managing Director of Retail at Google Canada, to unpack Google’s 2025 Holiday Retail Insights Report—a tradition that has become a favourite among Canadian retailers. Eric brings more than two decades of experience helping brands leverage Google Search, YouTube, and AI-driven technologies to drive omnichannel performance, and this year’s conversation reveals the most transformative shift yet: Canada’s first AI-powered holiday shopping season.Eric begins by exploring the deep behavioural changes driving consumer decision-making. According to the report, 73% of holiday purchases were researched in advance, and nearly half occurred more than a week after initial contemplation—a sign that today’s shoppers are more choiceful, deliberate, and digitally engaged than ever. He explains that Canadians have long punched above their weight in digital savviness, consistently searching, streaming, and banking online more than global counterparts. But this year stands apart as AI tools—both visible and invisible—reshape the search experience.With AI Overviews, conversational AI mode, and rapidly improving multimodal search, Canadians are now issuing longer, richer, more specific queries. Whether a shopper types, speaks, or snaps a photo to find an item, retailers must be prepared to surface high-quality, AI-ready content. Eric stresses that this shift mirrors prior digital “moments” such as mobile and the pandemic-driven eCommerce surge—but AI is scaling even faster. Nearly half of Canadians plan to use AI tools during holiday shopping, and the true number is likely higher because many encounter AI without realizing it.The conversation also examines the rising influence of Gen Z, the most search-intensive generation. Gen Z shoppers use 10 or more sources when researching purchases and increasingly rely on tools like Circle to Search and YouTube reviews, unboxings, and creator-led content. Their behaviour underscores the need for retailers to deliver richer product information—from enhanced descriptions to 3D imagery to short-form video.Looking toward 2026, Eric outlines the timeless fundamentals retailers must prioritize—being discoverable early, winning peak holiday moments, and understanding omnichannel impact rather than measuring digital purely through eCommerce. But he also emphasizes new imperatives: generating AI-optimized product content at scale, enriching feeds and attributes, and preparing for agentic shopping journeys where AI assists (or even automates) research and selection.Check out Google's Holiday Research 2025 Here.   The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc sits down with Elisa Swern, National Consumer Markets Leader at PwC Canada, to unpack the insights behind PwC’s newly released 2025 Canadian Holiday Outlook—a comprehensive view into how consumers plan to shop, save, and celebrate amid an uncertain economy.Elisa shares her journey from family retail roots to leading PwC’s national consumer practice, explaining why she thrives on the constant change and curiosity that define the consulting world. She outlines how PwC’s “human-led, tech-enabled” approach helps retailers navigate transformation across strategy, digital, and risk—leveraging a global network of experts while staying grounded in local insight.Together, Michael and Elisa dive deep into the holiday forecast. PwC’s research reveals a 10 percent year-over-year decline in planned consumer spending, driven by persistent affordability pressures and shifting generational priorities. Gen Z and millennials expect to cut back the most, with Gen Z spending intentions down 34 percent, reflecting record youth unemployment and new life-stage costs such as rent and transportation. Still, Canadians remain committed to family gifting and holiday traditions—just with more focus and less self-indulgence.The conversation moves to the Made-in-Canada movement, where PwC finds continued momentum in consumer intent to buy local and pay more for domestic goods—particularly among Gen X and boomer shoppers. Elisa notes that while intent often outpaces action, this “national tailwind” offers retailers a meaningful way to connect with values-driven consumers.Turning to the omnichannel experience, Elisa and Michael agree that “stores never went away.” In-person shopping remains central to holiday discovery, with 56 percent of Canadians citing the ability to see and touch products as a top reason to visit stores. They discuss how leading brands are merging the tactile with the digital—using tools like smart fitting technology and AI-driven recommendations—to blend convenience with connection.Finally, they explore the emerging role of AI in consumer shopping, from intelligent assistants helping gift-givers to retailer-side personalization platforms integrating seamlessly with these tools. Elisa highlights the opportunity—and risk—of intermediaries reshaping retail discovery, while also noting the growing demand for transparency, data security, and supply-chain resilience across Canada’s retail landscape.Get your copy of the report here:  The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

Recorded live in person at Hopson Grace in Toronto, this inspiring episode of The Voice of Retail features host Michael LeBlanc sitting down with two leaders who are shaping the intersection of craftsmanship, culture, and commerce: Martha McKimm, Co-Founder of Hopson Grace, and Shelley Simpson, Founder of Mud Australia. Together, they unpack the art and business of building brands that thrive through authenticity, storytelling, and a deep commitment to quality.Martha shares the journey behind Hopson Grace, the Toronto-based home and design retailer she co-founded with Andrea Hopson after successful careers in luxury and PR. Born from a shared love of entertaining and a vision to bring unique, well-crafted products to Canadian homes, Hopson Grace has grown into a destination for design lovers seeking timeless pieces and meaningful experiences. As the brand celebrates its 10th anniversary, Martha reflects on how independent retailers can succeed by leaning into differentiation, community, and storytelling, rather than competing on scale or price.A key highlight is Hopson Grace’s expansion to DuPont Street, transforming the brand into a design destination and event hub where retail, hospitality, and culture merge. Martha also introduces The Registry—a new sister brand launching soon at TheRegistry.ca—which modernizes the traditional wedding registry with premium products, group gifting, and travel experiences for couples who want personalization and purpose in their choices.Joining the conversation from Sydney, Shelley Simpson shares the 30-year evolution of Mud Australia, a global ceramics brand renowned for its handmade porcelain, design integrity, and sustainable craftsmanship. She discusses how her creative philosophy—“making nice things for nice people in lovely places”—continues to drive the company’s ethos. From humble beginnings in a backyard studio to 14 stores worldwide, Shelley explains how Mud has built a loyal following through word-of-mouth marketing, enduring design, and a belief that imperfection and human touch add value.Together, Martha and Shelley explore the importance of collaboration and storytelling in connecting with customers across continents. They unpack the philosophy of “value equals values”, the growing appreciation for local and transparent production, and why today’s consumers buy the story before they buy the product. The episode offers a masterclass for independent retailers and design entrepreneurs alike—rooted in passion, persistence, and purpose.Whether you’re an indie retailer, design lover, or entrepreneur, this episode of The Voice of Retail delivers inspiration and actionable insights on how authenticity, artistry, and innovation can redefine success in modern retail. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this insightful episode of The Voice of Retail podcast, host Michael LeBlanc welcomes Malin Andrée, EY Global, EMEIA and Nordics Retail Leader, and Jon Copestake, EY Global Consumer Senior Analyst, to unpack the latest findings from EY’s Future Consumer Index—a global study tracking the shifting habits and expectations of 20,000 consumers across 27 countries.Now in its fifteenth edition, the Future Consumer Index offers a rare longitudinal lens on how consumer priorities have evolved—from pandemic-era resilience to today’s tech-driven retail reality. Malin and Jon share how shoppers are balancing convenience, price, sustainability, and experience—and how these trade-offs are forcing retailers to rethink strategy from the store floor to the C-suite.The conversation dives deep into store transformation, as physical retail evolves from simple sales outlets into experience centers, media platforms, and fulfillment hubs. Malin explains how retailers must move beyond old performance metrics like revenue per square meter to measure stores’ contribution to customer lifetime value and acquisition within a true omnichannel ecosystem.Jon highlights the fast-emerging world of retail media—and why harnessing loyalty data, in-store analytics, and smart signage can unlock new value streams. Yet he cautions that personalization must serve the shopper, not overwhelm them. The pair also tackle the ongoing tension between sustainability and affordability: consumers say they care, but behavior still lags. Retailers, they argue, have both the scale and responsibility to lead the charge toward circular models and more efficient supply chains.From AI-powered personalization to augmented reality overlays, Malin and Jon identify which technologies are overhyped and which are quietly transformational. They discuss why RFID may be due for a renaissance when paired with AI, how AR could soon enhance way-finding, pricing, and promotions, and why the metaverse hype has given way to practical, data-driven retail innovation. Link to the report: https://www.ey.com/en_gl/insights/retail/should-retailers-close-stores-or-make-them-work-harder The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this compelling new episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc sits down with Jean-Pierre Lacroix, President of SLD (Shikatani Lacroix Design)—a global design visionary whose work has shaped retail and brand experiences for more than three decades. Lacroix joins the podcast to share insights from his groundbreaking new book, Think Blink: Creating Deep, Lasting, Emotional Brand Connections in the Blink of an Eye.Lacroix opens the conversation by tracing SLD’s remarkable 35-year journey, highlighting how the agency’s success is rooted in one powerful idea: the “blink factor”—the subconscious emotional connections consumers make with brands in just a thousandth of a second. Drawing from projects across North America, China, and the Middle East, he reveals how the firm’s global perspective continues to drive innovation and authenticity in today’s hyper-competitive landscape.Michael and Jean-Pierre dive into the Think Blink Manifesto and its seven tenets—from “The Heart Wins Every Time” and “Good Design is Strategy” to “Measure What Matters.” Lacroix explains why businesses must evolve from incremental improvement to transformational change, focusing less on functional benefits and more on emotional resonance. They explore how simplicity, belonging, and sentiment measurement fuel loyalty and growth—turning customers into brand ambassadors.The discussion also touches on global disruption and resilience. Lacroix reflects on how events like the pandemic and current trade tensions have permanently shifted consumer behaviour, accelerating digital adoption and sparking renewed nationalism and community pride. He emphasizes that disruption can be a positive force—nudging brands toward reinvention and greater purpose.Finally, Lacroix unveils SLD’s new AI-powered Think Blink analysis tool, designed to quantify emotional engagement using real-world data and social insights. He argues that artificial intelligence, when applied thoughtfully, enhances creativity rather than replacing it—helping brands align emotion with measurable business growth. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this must-listen episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc welcomes back Rob Garf, now VP and Head of Industry Strategy at Cordial, to discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping marketing, consumer engagement, and the future of retail personalization.A longtime retail strategist and thought leader, Garf brings decades of experience “at the intersection of retail, consumer, and technology.” Now leading strategy at the high-growth marketing tech firm Cordial, he shares insights from their new North American study, Brands Battle for Attention as AI Redefines the Funnel. The research explores how retailers and consumers are responding to today’s marketing noise, and how brands can stand out with authenticity and relevance instead of more messages.Garf explains how AI is collapsing the traditional marketing funnel, transforming “discovery by channel” into “discovery by conversation.” With a third of consumers now engaging with personal AI agents like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Perplexity, he outlines what this means for marketers who must ensure their products and content are discoverable in an AI-first world.The conversation dives into the challenges retailers face with legacy marketing stacks, data fragmentation, and a loss of trust in their own data. Garf argues that success lies in unifying systems, embedding AI directly into workflows, and focusing relentlessly on consumer intent—understanding not only what customers buy but what they’re trying to accomplish in the moment.Beyond the technology, Garf emphasizes the importance of brand storytelling, creative emotion, and the “humanization of digital experiences.” He discusses how AI and brand voice can coexist to deliver meaningful, personalized engagement across every channel—from email and SMS to emerging conversational interfaces.To conclude, Garf offers practical advice for marketers adopting AI: start with clear customer problems, get your data house in order, and manage organizational change with empathy and alignment. The goal, he says, isn’t to replace humans but to empower them and deliver the effortless, relevant experiences consumers expect.Whether you’re a marketer, technologist, or retail leader, this episode provides actionable insights on how to thrive at the intersection of AI, personalization, and brand authenticity in a rapidly changing digital landscape. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc sits down with Chris Parsons, VP Partner Growth & Marketing at Hale Performance Marketing and author of the new book Retail Rewired: How Modern Retail Leaders Drive Growth and Reinvention, for a compelling conversation about the future of retail leadership, customer experience, and loyalty. With more than 25 years of retail experience across organizations like Walmart, Ren’s Pets, and Home Hardware, Chris brings unique insight from both the retail and agency sides of the business.Chris shares his remarkable career journey, including launching Walmart Canada’s eCommerce business and building omni-channel strategies at major Canadian retailers. Now at Hale, he explains how the agency differentiates itself in a crowded market by being fully accountable to client KPIs and sharing both wins and challenges alongside retailers. This refreshing approach underscores his belief that true agency–retailer partnerships require transparency, accountability, and shared ownership of outcomes.The heart of the discussion focuses on Chris’s new book Retail Rewired. Written for retail leaders at every level, from store managers to C-suite executives, the book distills lessons from decades in the industry into four core pillars of modern retail success: invest in your people, stay customer-centric, think local, and deliver consistency. Chris explains how these pillars emerged organically from his real-world experiences and why they are critical for retailers navigating today’s fast-changing environment.Listeners will hear Chris’s perspectives on customer immersion, the practice of living your customer’s experience to generate insights beyond dashboards and data. From his Walmart and diapers.com experiences to reflections on QR codes and personalization, Chris argues that brands need to move from transactional offers to truly personal experiences. He also stresses the frontline culture as the embodiment of a retailer’s brand—reinforced by his research showing that 71% of Canadians cite staff attitude and service as critical factors in where they shop.The episode also dives into the evolution of loyalty programs. Chris challenges retailers to go beyond points and discounts, focusing instead on emotional loyalty rooted in customer preferences, timing, and service. He highlights opportunities to apply a “Netflix model” to retail personalization, where households can toggle between profiles for richer, more accurate engagement.Finally, Chris reflects on his hopes for the industry over the next three years: breaking free from the outdated narrative of eCommerce cannibalization and instead embracing an integrated ecosystem view, where every program connects seamlessly across the retail enterprise. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this episode of The Voice of Retail Podcast, host Michael LeBlanc sits down with Michael Zabaneh, Vice President, Sustainability at the Retail Council of Canada, for an in-depth discussion on the future of sustainability in Canadian retail. With over 15 years of experience spanning global recycling ventures, luxury brands, and corporate advocacy, Michael shares a front-row perspective on how environmental priorities are reshaping the retail industry.Michael begins by unpacking the complexities of extended producer responsibility (EPR)—the regulatory framework shifting waste management costs from municipalities to producers and retailers. He explains how retailers are responsible not only for their private labels but also as first importers, making EPR compliance one of the most pressing and costly issues for Canadian retailers today. With more than 110 EPR programs across the country and compliance costs approaching $3 billion, this is a boardroom-level challenge with major implications for consumers and businesses alike.The conversation also dives into how retailers are embedding sustainability into their core strategies. From cutting energy costs with smart temperature controls and LED lighting to integrating renewable energy and recycling programs, sustainability initiatives increasingly deliver both environmental and financial benefits. Michael emphasizes that for mid-sized and independent retailers, sustainability is no longer optional—procurement, supply chain decisions, and operational efficiencies must all reflect responsible practices.Looking ahead, Michael previews the Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Sustainability Conference 2025, now expanded to a two-day format on October 29–30 in Toronto. With workshops on zero-emission vehicles and harmonizing EPR regulations across provinces, the event is designed to deliver solutions-oriented dialogue. Attendees will also hear from Sheri Flies, SVP Global Sustainability & Compliance at Costco, and Jim Andrew, EVP & Chief Sustainability Officer at PepsiCo, alongside panels featuring McDonald’s, Walmart, Loblaw, Unilever, and Procter & Gamble.Michael highlights how this event has quickly become one of RCC’s flagship conferences, convening retailers, supply chain leaders, regulators, and governments to push forward practical solutions amidst economic uncertainty, climate commitments, and global plastic challenges.  The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this episode of The Voice of Retail podcast, host Michael LeBlanc sits down in person with Sebastian Picardo, President & CEO of Holt Renfrew, to explore the evolution of luxury retail in Canada and the global forces shaping the industry.Sebastian begins by sharing his personal journey from Buenos Aires to London, where he launched his luxury career at Alexander McQueen, followed by senior roles with Net-a-Porter, Burberry, and leading a Hong Kong department store group. In 2020, he joined Holt Renfrew at the height of the pandemic, taking on the challenge of steering Canada’s most iconic luxury retailer through one of the most disruptive times in modern retail history.He offers a rich perspective on what makes Holt Renfrew remarkable—its deep Canadian heritage dating back to 1837, its ability to evolve with consumer tastes, and its strong relationships with global brands, employees, and customers. Sebastian discusses how Holt Renfrew balances being both a branded house and a house of brands, creating a unique identity in a highly competitive market.The conversation delves into the diversity of Canadian consumers, from the European-influenced Montreal shopper to Vancouver’s strong Asian luxury demand, and how these cultural differences shape merchandising and strategy. Sebastian highlights the challenges of Canada’s vast geography, the pressures of competing with U.S. retailers, and the importance of personalization and CRM in strengthening customer relationships.AI also takes center stage as Sebastian explains how technology is reshaping discovery, service, and operations. From empowering associates with smarter tools to anticipating customer needs, he shares how Holt Renfrew is integrating AI into its strategy while staying focused on human connection at the store level.Finally, Sebastian reflects on leadership—what it means to empower teams, why humility and enabling others is central to his philosophy, and why leadership is always more about others than yourself. As he prepares to move back to Europe, Sebastian leaves listeners with inspiring lessons on adaptability, vision, and building a retail brand that can thrive for nearly two centuries. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this episode of The Voice of Retail, Michael LeBlanc sits down with Mark Ryski, Founder & CEO of HeadCount and three-time retail author, to explore why store traffic remains one of the most underutilized and misunderstood metrics in modern retail. With over two decades of experience pioneering traffic and conversion analytics, Mark shares insights from his new book, Store Traffic is a Gift, and explains why retailers must treat every store visit as a precious opportunity.Mark begins by recounting his early career in Edmonton, where a stint managing a single computer store opened his eyes to the importance of measuring traffic. What started as an entrepreneurial challenge became a lifelong mission—helping retailers of all sizes, from independents to global chains, understand the relationship between visits, transactions, and conversions. He reveals how his first book, When Retail Customers Count, broke new ground, and how subsequent works, including Conversion: The Last Great Retail Metric, gave leaders practical playbooks to rethink operations.The conversation dives into the myths that persist in retail, such as the assumption that transactions equal store visits. Mark explains why this false equivalency blinds retailers to missed opportunities, misguides staffing schedules, and undermines marketing effectiveness. He argues that traffic counting is as essential as point-of-sale systems, electricity, or internet access. With a SaaS-based platform, HeadCount provides “analytics as a service,” helping retailers turn data into actionable insights, whether they operate one store or thousands.Looking back at the pandemic, Mark reflects on how the sudden collapse of traffic underscored its value and forced retailers to redefine what store visits mean in an age of curbside pickup, BOPIS, and returns partnerships. He stresses that not all traffic is equal—intentionality matters—and that success comes from converting purposeful visits, not just chasing volume.Michael and Mark also tackle the role of AI in retail. While acknowledging AI’s potential, Mark warns that technology cannot fix flawed operating models. Instead, AI must be grounded in reliable first-party data, with store traffic as the denominator for every in-store initiative.Finally, Mark shares practical advice for retailers: stop using sales transactions as a proxy for store visits, start aligning staff schedules to actual traffic patterns, and never squander the chance to serve a customer once they cross the threshold. With consumer habits shifting faster than ever, his message is clear—store traffic is a gift, and every visit counts. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this dynamic episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc welcomes Fawad Baig, Retail Industry Lead, Accenture Canada, to unpack Accenture’s latest global consumer report: Me, My Brand, and AI. With insights drawn from over 18,000 respondents worldwide, including Canadians, this research sheds light on how uncertainty and generative AI are reshaping consumer trust, loyalty, and shopping behavior.Fawad explains that more than 57% of Canadian consumers report unusually high levels of uncertainty in their daily lives—double the levels recorded in late 2024. In response, many are turning to generative AI tools not only for shopping recommendations but also for personal advice, creating a powerful new form of trust and reliance. In fact, 46% of Canadians have already made purchases influenced by AI, and 72% would welcome an AI-powered personal shopper.The conversation dives deep into what this means for retailers. While brand loyalty in Canada remains strong, a striking 35% of consumers say they would switch brands based on AI-driven recommendations—a level of volatility that opens both risks and opportunities. For retailers willing to adapt, the shift from personalization to proactive engagement offers a competitive edge.Michael and Fawad also discuss the rise of AI agents, tools that autonomously seek out products on behalf of consumers, potentially bypassing loyalty programs and traditional marketing tactics. Fawad emphasizes that retailers need to prepare for this new reality by rethinking product data, metadata strategies, and how they present contextual value across digital platforms.Beyond consumer-facing strategies, the discussion touches on the vital importance of ethical AI, data governance, and building trust through transparency. Fawad stresses that once trust is lost, it is nearly impossible to regain—a warning for brands rushing headlong into AI adoption without the proper safeguards.The episode closes with actionable advice for retailers:Start investing in AI to deliver curated, personalized, and measurable consumer experiences.Start preparing for the reality of AI agents shaping consumer choice.Stop underestimating the power of existing loyalty programs, which remain a crucial bridge to long-term engagement. Read the reporthttps://www.accenture.com/content/dam/accenture/final/accenture-com/document-3/Accenture-Me-My-Brand-and-AI.pdf#zoom=40 The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this episode of The Voice of Retail podcast, host Michael LeBlanc welcomes back retail strategist, educator, and thought leader David Ian Gray, Principal of DIG360 Consulting Ltd. and retail faculty at Capilano University’s School of Business. Together, they explore the latest Angus Reid survey on Canadian shopping habits and the rapidly evolving pre-owned and circular retail economy.David begins by setting the stage with his dual role: guiding Canadian retailers through strategic challenges while also developing retail-focused academic programming in Vancouver. He shares his perspective on how the local retail scene is rebuilding post-pandemic, with indie retail and dining seeing a revival even as downtown Vancouver struggles with the loss of anchor stores like Nordstrom and Hudson’s Bay.The heart of the conversation is David’s latest consumer research, developed in partnership with Angus Reid. The study reveals that 77% of Canadian adults purchased pre-owned items in the past year, proving that second-hand shopping has gone fully mainstream. Canadians aren’t just bargain hunting—they’re motivated by sustainability, affordability, and the thrill of finding something unique.The conversation highlights surprising generational behaviors, such as Gen Z’s enthusiasm for vinyl records and printed books, a countertrend to the assumption that digital-first generations avoid physical media. David suggests this reflects a desire for independence from digital platforms and a deeper need for tangible, cultural experiences.Michael and David also unpack the dominance of Facebook Marketplace, where 76% of respondents reported making a purchase in the past year, underscoring the hybrid online/offline nature of second-hand shopping. They contrast this with other channels—Kijiji, eBay, luxury resale platforms like Poshmark, charity thrift stores, and even brand-led resale initiatives from Canada Goose, IKEA, and Patagonia.For Canadian retailers, the research carries critical lessons. Second-hand is no longer a niche category but a major competitor for consumer dollars. David warns that traditional retailers may underestimate how much revenue is “leaking” into resale markets. While profitability challenges remain—logistics, inventory management, and product quality—brands that strategically embrace resale can enhance consumer loyalty, sustainability credentials, and differentiation.The episode closes with a rapid-fire round covering the future of AI in retail, Hudson’s Bay’s uncertain real estate footprint, Vancouver’s Retail West conference, and the biggest Canadian retail story to watch in 2025: tariff uncertainty. David emphasizes that until trade clarity is achieved, Canadian retailers will remain cautious in decision-making. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

On this encore episode Michael LeBlanc welcomes Carson Arthur, media personality and independent retailer, and the founder of Carson’s Garden & Market in Prince Edward County. Carson’s career journey is anything but traditional—moving from launching brands at Procter & Gamble, to building a television career as a design and gardening expert, and now into the world of retail entrepreneurship.Carson shares the inspiration behind launching his own store, Carson’s Garden & Market, a destination nestled among wineries and breweries in Prince Edward County. Designed to showcase the gardening products and tools he loves most, the store reflects his philosophy of bringing joy to outdoor spaces while educating customers on the beauty and practicality of kitchen gardens and edible ornamentals.He offers a behind-the-scenes look at how he sources unique products from around the world, including gardening innovations from the UK, Japan, and Europe, while balancing a commitment to local Canadian suppliers. Carson also candidly discusses the challenges and opportunities of retailing through the pandemic. While many businesses struggled, Prince Edward County became a tourism hotspot, doubling his sales during peak years before settling into a post-pandemic reality where customer expectations and buying cycles continue to evolve.Carson reflects on the lessons learned as a small business owner—how to stay true to a business model, the importance of building a loyal customer base, and the realities of managing growth in uncertain times. He also offers pointed advice for governments and financial institutions about the critical role of small businesses in Canada’s economy, urging more support during the early years when entrepreneurs are most at risk.For aspiring retailers, Carson shares his “two starts and one stop”:-Start by investing in your customer base.-Start by becoming an active member of your community.-Stop wearing rose-coloured glasses—always plan for downturns as much as growth.Looking ahead, Carson is doubling down on the kitchen garden trend, helping Canadians rethink their backyards as spaces for food security and beauty. His focus on educating consumers about growing edible ornamentals positions his business at the intersection of sustainability, lifestyle, and retail innovation. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this captivating episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc sits down with Cameron Conn, CEO of Champlain Apparel, to explore an extraordinary career journey that spans Las Vegas casinos, tech startups, and Canada’s emerging entry-level luxury menswear scene.Raised in a third-generation casino family, Cameron’s early career in hospitality taught him the art of customer service, loyalty, and operational excellence. From developing multi-million-dollar casino projects in Edmonton and Vancouver to launching a successful compliance tech company, his path was anything but conventional. After selling his tech venture, a chance reconnection with friend and custom suit retailer Jonathan Richard sparked his entry into fashion — and the birth of Champlain Apparel.Cameron shares how Champlain revitalizes timeless menswear staples — from polo shirts to shawl-collar cardigans — blending heritage sport aesthetics with modern fit and quality. He explains their focus on “entry-level luxury” pricing and how a meticulous, methodical wholesale strategy landed the brand in iconic retailers like Harry Rosen in their first season — a rare feat for a new label.The conversation dives deep into wholesale vs. direct-to-consumer strategies, with Cameron candidly discussing why wholesale has been their most successful growth driver, complemented by targeted DTC efforts. He also emphasizes the importance of cultivating retail partnerships, understanding merchants’ needs, and empowering front-line sales staff to become passionate brand storytellers.A major highlight — Cameron previews his upcoming Retail Council of Canada’s Retail West conference appearance on September 25, where he’ll share the stage with Shannon Stewart, Chief Merchandising Officer at Harry Rosen. Their session will explore brand storytelling, customer engagement, and loyalty — and how these principles create the “math and magic” that makes retail partnerships thrive.From Brooklyn trendsetters to Vancouver’s style-conscious shoppers, Champlain’s appeal is growing fast, supported by Cameron’s belief that the best retail relationships are built on trust, shared vision, and mutual success. His advice to other brand founders? Approach retailers as your customers, understand their business as well as your own, and make the math work so you can deliver the magic.Whether you’re an emerging brand, retail executive, or simply love a great founder story, this episode offers valuable insights into scaling in the competitive fashion market, balancing creativity with business discipline, and building a brand narrative that resonates far beyond the showroom floor. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

Retail success isn't just about having a fantastic product—it's about understanding the business of selling. On this special encore episode of The Voice of Retail, I welcome Liza Amlani, renowned retail strategist and co-author of The Whole Sale: Profitable Wholesale Strategies for Brands. Liza shares insider insights from her 20+ years in buying, merchandising, and retail consulting, helping brands navigate the complexities of wholesale expansion.In a rapidly changing marketplace, many direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands struggle to break into wholesale partnerships, unsure how to negotiate terms, optimize product placement, or manage markdown strategies. Liza outlines the critical retail fundamentals that brands must master to thrive in major retail environments like Walmart, Target, and specialty stores.During this insightful conversation, Michael and Liza discuss:The most common mistakes brands make when entering wholesale and how to avoid them.Why strong retail partnerships are the key to long-term success.How to negotiate product placement, pricing strategies, and markdown terms with major retailers.The role of merchandising strategy in maintaining shelf space and increasing sales.The wholesale vs. direct-to-consumer debate—why it's not just about margins, but about growth and exposure.With firsthand experience as a buyer for iconic brands like Ralph Lauren, Holt Renfrew, and Club Monaco, Liza brings a wealth of knowledge on what it takes to get "retail ready." She explains how emerging brands can scale strategically, leverage retail insights, and position themselves for long-term profitability.If you're a brand looking to expand into wholesale—or a retailer aiming to strengthen vendor relationships—this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you succeed in today's competitive retail landscape.🔹 Get Liza Amlani's book The Wholesale on Amazon.ca and visit Retail Strategy Group for more insights. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

On this Encore episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc speaks with retail strategist, professor, and author Carl Boutet about his journey in academia and his latest book, Blind Spot: Navigating the Unforeseen Effects of Technology on Commerce.Carl discusses his evolving role in retail education, including his work at McGill University and teaching in Asia. He shares how his exposure to different global markets, particularly in Vietnam, has shaped his perspectives on retail innovation and emerging technologies.A key topic of discussion is Carl’s take on NRF Big Show 2025, where AI and data-driven solutions dominated conversations. He reflects on the challenge of differentiation in a market saturated with AI-driven tools and emphasizes the need for retailers to focus on strategy, not just technology.The conversation also delves into the intersection of AI, AR, and emerging technologies. Carl suggests that while innovations like Apple Vision Pro and AR-driven retail experiences are gaining traction, businesses must strike a balance between digital adoption and human interaction.Michael and Carl also touch on ethical concerns surrounding AI, digital governance, and unintended consequences of rapid technological change. Carl argues that while the digital world is expanding, businesses must remain adaptable, curious, and prepared for industry disruptions.Finally, Carl introduces his book Blind Spot, which explores overlooked technological shifts in commerce. He encourages retailers to broaden their perspectives, seek inspiration beyond their immediate industry, and engage with the next generation of leaders.Listeners can purchase Blind Spot exclusively through Carl’s website, StudioRX.world. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this episode of The Voice of Retail, I’m thrilled to welcome back Chris Jones, Founder and CEO of Cannabis Xpress, for his third appearance on the show. Chris offers an insider’s view of the fast-changing cannabis retail landscape in Canada. Since we last spoke, Cannabis Xpress has grown to 21 stores—14 in Ontario and 7 in New Brunswick—becoming the largest private cannabis retailer in New Brunswick.Chris shares how his focus on underserved communities and cost-efficient, compact store formats has created a sustainable and profitable business model in a sector plagued by high overhead, oversupply, and stiff competition. He explains why small-town locations, limited SKU count, and fast, expert service are at the heart of his winning value proposition.We explore the broader industry landscape, including how Ontario’s cannabis market has peaked and is now in a correction phase, with closures and lease renewals looming. Chris offers a frank take on regulatory blind spots that allowed a flood of stores—sometimes side by side—without proper planning. He also speaks to the remaining dominance of the illicit market, and how changes to edible dosage limits, store hours, and licensing could help bring more consumers into the legal fold.Chris doesn’t shy away from highlighting the pros and cons of the Canadian system compared to U.S. states like California and New York, where regulatory complexity and taxation have stifled growth. Yet, he remains optimistic about the future of cannabis retail—both in Canada and abroad.Looking ahead, Chris reveals plans to pursue more licenses in Atlantic Canada, potentially introduce private label products, and eventually sell the business. Despite a challenging retail environment, Cannabis Xpress is not just surviving—it’s thriving, with over $10 million in revenue and 70 employees across Canada. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this special live episode of The Voice of Retail, recorded at RCC STORE 2025, I sit down with two retail thought leaders: Simone Lumsden, Senior Vice-President, Triangle Customer Loyalty and Triangle Retail Media, Canadian Tire Corporation, and Sandra Duff, Founder and Principal at Another Story Consulting. Together, we explore what it takes to deliver loyalty, excitement, and differentiation in an increasingly parity-driven retail environment.Simone shares how Canadian Tire is evolving its Triangle Rewards program beyond the traditional notion of loyalty. From its iconic paper money origins to a modern digital currency used across banners, Triangle is now designed to be simple, flexible, and personal. Simone explains how Canadian Tire is using customer data to deliver meaningful value through personalized offers and experiences, while acknowledging there's still work to be done to make those offers more relevant and engaging.Sandra contributes powerful insights drawn from her years of customer research, highlighting the crucial distinction between "jobs" and "joys" in retail. She stresses that while table stakes, such as price and convenience, must be met, fun and inspiration are what truly differentiate. Together, we discuss how in-store experiences must move beyond transactions to create environments that delight and connect with customers on an emotional level.The conversation shifts to retail media, where Simone emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between monetization and the customer experience. She describes how Canadian Tire is introducing in-store and digital retail media in non-intrusive, contextually relevant ways, avoiding the cluttered, disruptive examples seen elsewhere. Sandra reinforces that strong customer insights should never live in silos, but should empower every team—from marketing to store associates—to deliver differentiated value.We also delve into innovation and experimentation—from new flagship formats at Sport Chek and Mark's, to coalition partnerships, and the rise of agentic AI in shaping the future of shopping journeys. Simone encourages retailers to stay curious and test new approaches without fear of past failures, while Sandra calls for more real-time feedback loops and smaller-scale pilot programs to learn what resonates most. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world. 

In this episode of The Voice of Retail, I’m joined by James B. Smith, Founder and CEO of Rare Placement, for a wide-ranging conversation on modern leadership, executive search, and the future of talent in the retail industry.James brings an exceptional career journey to the mic, beginning in advertising with agencies like Grey and Ogilvy, moving into marketing leadership at Citibank, in leadership roles at Esquire and then Conde Nast Traveller—where he helped it become the top-performing title, even outpacing Vogue. His passion for growth and transformation led him to become a CEO, owner-operator, and eventually launch Rare Placement, a boutique executive search firm focused on personalized, human-centric talent solutions.In our conversation, James emphasizes the power of storytelling—not just for brands, but for leaders. He reveals that every candidate he’s placed has gone on to become a client, a testament to his laser focus on culture fit, agility, and soft skills over just resumes. We dive into how executive hiring has changed, why modern CEOs need courage, humility, and the ability to say “I don’t know,” and how COVID permanently reshaped leadership styles and expectations around flexibility and culture.James shares practical advice for current and aspiring retail leaders—from building a strong, concise personal narrative to investing in ongoing networking, not just when you're in transition. He stresses that succession planning should be an ongoing, layered strategy, and reminds executives that “people buy leaders, not logos.”We also explore the increasing importance of board roles—both fiduciary and advisory—and how executives can position themselves for these opportunities by knowing what they uniquely bring to the table.Whether you’re a retail executive planning your next move, a CEO rethinking your leadership team, or a rising leader wondering how to stand out, this episode is packed with actionable insights. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur.  He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google.  He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer.  If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael’s cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.