RETHINK RETAIL

In this episodes of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, Kirat Anand sits down with Tropicana Brands Group CEO Monica McGurk live at Groceryshop 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Born into a line of family farmers, Monica McGurk found her humble beginnings in the agricultural sector. Her roots lay amidst fields of corn and potato plants, where she first picked up the values of hard work and responsibility. Years later, Monica's journey led her to the elite halls of Stanford University, donning the hats of both a student and an analyst at McKinsey. Yet, she never lost her inclination towards the 'doing' side of things, leading her to take the plunge into the corporate world. Working predominantly in the retail and CPG arena, Monica found herself gravitating back towards the food and beverage industry, a fond nod to her agricultural origins, and made a name for herself working with juggernauts like Coca Cola, Tyson, and Kelloggs. In her current role as CEO of Tropicana and Mainstream brands at Tropicana Brands Group, Monica combines her in-depth understanding of retail and consumer behavior to drive success. An advocate for innovation and technology, Monica has boldly led her team through tech stack transformations, marking a new era for Tropicana Brands Group. Resources: Nominate the next Global Retail Leader: rethink.industries/global-retail-leaders/#nominate Connect with us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/rethink-industries/ For more retail insights visit www.rethink.industries If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Goodpods! - - - - - - This episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast was recorded live at Groceryshop on September 19th, 2023. Hosted by Kirat Anand Produced by Gabriella Bock

Live from Groceryshop 2023, join Morgan Petty, Lead Retail Analyst at RETHINK Retail, as sits down with Stewart Samuel, Director of Retail Futures at IGD. Stewart is renowned for seamlessly blending his profound knowledge of the grocery retail industry with an exceptional talent for uncovering unexplored growth opportunities. In each discussion, he expertly sketches the current retail panorama, effortlessly navigating its complexities. Stewart's expertise extends beyond theory; it's a well-honed craft that has made him a sought-after figure in the world of retail. He possesses a deep understanding of the art of divestment strategies, paving the way for prosperous mergers. With the grocery retail market becoming increasingly competitive, retailers are actively exploring fresh and innovative trends. Emerging concepts like alternative revenue models and groundbreaking retail spaces are gaining rapid traction. By staying proactive and responsive, retailers can harness these trends to enhance their visibility and revenue streams, strategically positioning themselves in the ever-evolving retail landscape. Resources: Nominate the next Global Retail Leader: rethink.industries/global-retail-leaders/#nominate Connect with us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/rethink-industries/ For more retail insights visit www.rethink.industries If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Goodpods! - - - - - - This episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast was recorded live at Groceryshop on Sept 21, 2023.

Unleashing the Power of Customer Data in Retail with Randy Evins In a world where customer data is the key to success, retail executives are faced with a daunting challenge. Join Randy Evins SR. Principal & Industry Advisor, Food Drug & Convenience at SAP Retail and Morgan Petty, in this podcast he reveals the secrets to customer adaptive retailing and data-driven decision making. But what happens when the data silos are broken down and the truth is uncovered? Find out in this gripping episode that will leave you on the edge of your seat. In this episode, you will be able to: - Uncover the progression of retail in the technologically driven era and the opportunities it presents. - Discover the significant role of personalized retailing and its influence on customer retention. - Learn why dismantling data silohs can be game-changing for your retail business. - Gain a unique perspective on how customer data can empower retail decisions to maximize ROI. Unearth methods of streamlining inventory for sustainable profitability in the grocery retail sector.

Welcome to Retail Therapy, a RETHINK Retail exclusive Podcast series where we examine retailers that have a unique history, are making innovative changes to their business model, or are overcoming challenges in order to stay relevant in this highly competitive landscape. Join host Ian Scott and RETHINK Retail’s Top Retail Influencers Andrew Smith, Carl Boutet, and Melissa Minkow as they uncover Gymshark's incredible journey from a UK garage startup to a global fitness apparel sensation. Renowned for its sleek designs, innovative fabrics, and a strong connection with its community, it has masterfully blended the realms of gym wear and streetwear. By fostering partnerships with influential fitness personalities and leveraging social media platforms, this brand has cemented its position as a cult favorite among fitness enthusiasts worldwide.

In this episode of the RETHINK Retail podcast, Host Andrew Busby sits down with Arvin Jawa, VP, Global Retail Strategy and Regional VP Americas Retail at Diebold Nixdorf, Martin Bailie, Founder of MWB Advisory Ltd, & RETHINK Retail Board Advisory Member, and Jason Souloglou, CEO of SeeChange to discuss how incorporating AI and self-service solutions can not only reduce friction but minimize shrink and maximize profits for your business. "AI, if applied correctly, really has the power to augment the human capabilities used in store operations as opposed to replacing them" - Arvin Jawa

In this episode of the RETHINK Retail podcast, Host Julia Hare sits down with Acosta Group CEO Brian Wynne to to discuss how grocers and CPG brands can differentiate themselves in a market that is more competitive than ever.  As CEO, Brian oversees an impressive workforce of 37,000 specialists spanning North America and Europe. His experience doesn’t stop there: Brian was at the helm of teams within Coca Cola, one of the most successful CPG brands globally. His knack for navigating the complex terrain of retail suppliers and his deep understanding of the CPG and grocery space bring a unique insider's perspective on the challenges and growth passages in this market. “To succeed in today's competitive landscape, grocers should think like brand owners, constantly pushing and challenging themselves to find the right solutions.” - Brian Wynne

In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, Kirat Anand sits down with Brian Beitler, founder & GM of Live Shop Ventures and Former CMO of Qurate Retail Group, to discuss the future of social shopping and the role of data in enhancing user engagement. During their conversation, Beitler explores how platforms like Instagram and TikTok cater to different audiences and purposes and compares the retail presence in an airport to the shopping features on social media platforms, emphasizing the need for a focused approach in recreating the joy of shopping as a pastime. Additionally, they discuss the challenges and opportunities of catering to younger consumers, specifically the Gen Z and Alpha consumers, who have a rapid consumption style and a high tolerance for choice. Beitler also provides advice for tech entrepreneurs looking to enter the V-commerce space, emphasizing the need for a deep understanding of the consumer and the value of experimentation and patience. Resources: Nominate the next Global Retail Leader: rethink.industries/global-retail-leaders/#nominate Connect with us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/rethink-industries/ For more retail insights visit www.rethink.industries If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Goodpods! - - - - - - This episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast was recorded live at eTail East on Aug 21, 2023. Hosted by Kirat Anand Produced by Gabriella Bock

In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, RETHINK Retail CCO Kirat Anand sits down with Shardé Marchewski, a finance-turned-furniture maven, currently leading the way in supplier diversity at Wayfair. Initially dipping her toes in the field of commercial and investment banking, Shardé transitioned her career in an unexpected yet impressive trajectory, bringing her keen financial acumen and strategic mindset to the vibrant world of online home furnishings. A powerful advocate for diversity and inclusivity, Shardé has passionately woven vital DEI initiatives into Wayfair's business strategies, shedding light on underrepresented suppliers and giving them a platform to flourish. Diversity, equity, and inclusion is not a fad or trend, it's a daily commitment. We must support and uplift underrepresented groups in the retail industry every single day. - Shardé Marchewski Actions for Retailers: - If you are a retailer or e-commerce brand, think about how you can amplify the voices of underrepresented groups and support diversity in your industry. - Open up more shelf space for products from diverse-owned suppliers or bring in speakers and influencers to help promote their brands. - Consider partnering with organizations or groups that represent underrepresented communities to increase visibility and support for their businesses. - Look for opportunities to expand your supplier diversity efforts to include other underrepresented groups such as women, Latin American, Indian, Asian, and military-owned businesses. Resources: Check out Wayfair's Celebrate Black Makers page to support and buy products from Black-owned businesses.: https://www.aboutwayfair.com/celebrate-black-makers Explore All Modern's Black Modern Makers page to discover and purchase products from diverse-owned suppliers: https://www.allmodern.com/modern-black-makers-designers~b615.html Nominate the next Global Retail Leader: rethink.industries/global-retail-leaders/#nominate Connect with us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/rethink-industries/ For more retail insights visit www.rethink.industries If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - This episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast was recorded live at eTail East on Aug 21, 2023. Hosted by Kirat Anand Produced by Gabriella Bock

In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, Host Gabriella Bock sits down with Ben Miller, a sharp mind who breathes life into two of the industry's most renowned trade shows, Shoptalk and Groceryshop. Known for his inside-out knowledge of the retail industry, Ben plays a pivotal role in sculpting original content that resonates with brands and retailers across the globe. Ben and Gabriella sit down to discuss the upcoming Groceryshop 2023 event, which will be held at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas from Sept 19-21, 2023. Ben provides a sneak peak into what we can expect at the show this year, revealing topics like the application of AI in grocery, food waste reduction, navigating the US economy's impact on the grocery landscape, and more. "Technology like AI and generative AI has the potential to truly transform the grocery industry, and we've only just scratched the surface." - Ben Miller Resources: Secure your ticket for Groceryshop 2023! Visit: https://gs23-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=cmV0aGluazIw And use code RETHINK20 for 20% off your ticket price. Nominate the next Global Retail Leader: rethink.industries/global-retail-leaders/#nominate Connect with us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/rethink-industries/ For more retail insights visit www.rethink.industries If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - Hosted & produced by Gabriella Bock

Sabrina Callahan has become a force to be reckoned with in the world of e-commerce, leading the impressive growth of Sam's Club's digital wing. A graduate from the University of Kansas, her journey began with Hilton, where she sharpened her skills in e-commerce and digital strategies. Her professional voyage took a turn when Walmart approached her during her maternity leave. Initially hesitant due to her loyalty to Hilton, she was eventually won over by the energy and passion of Walmart's CMO, Tony Rogers, who proposed an exciting opportunity to build a $60 billion brand. Making the leap into the fast-paced world of retail, Sabrina found her footing and began to make her mark. In a world driven by convenience, she focused on providing value through digital channels, helping launch initiatives like Scan and Go, curbside pickup, and same-day delivery. By personalizing experiences and optimizing traffic, Sabrina stresses the importance of understanding customer behavior and leveraging this data to improve and innovate, ensuring that Sam's Club continues to grow and thrive in the digital realm. Join RETHINK Retail CCO Kirat Anand as he sits down to discuss Sabrina’s journey and more during eTail East 2023. Resources: Nominate the next Global Retail Leader: rethink.industries/global-retail-leaders/#nominate Connect with us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/rethink-industries/ For more retail insights visit www.rethink.industries If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - Hosted by Kirat Anand Produced by Gabriella Bock Research by Maggie Schwenn

This episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast was recorded live at eTail East on August 22, 2023. Our guest today is Monica Royer, a first-generation entrepreneur inspired by her heritage and the birth of her child to establish her successful organic children's wear, Monica and Andy. Having transitioned from a career in pharmaceuticals to the fashion industry, Monica learned the ropes of entrepreneurship through her brother Andy's venture with Bonobos and with the support of dedicated mentors. With a commitment to sustainability, equitable work environments, and providing resources for other parents, Monica is influential in the retail industry and is a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs. Join RETHINK Retail CCO Kirat Anand as he and Monica dive into the transformative power of mentorship in bolstering entrepreneurial spirit and how the correct business partner can hugely influence your entrepreneurial milestones. Resources: Join Monica and Andy's virtual classes and events to gain valuable parenting knowledge and connect with other parents: https://monicaandandy.com/pages/classes-and-events Nominate the next Global Retail Leader: rethink.industries/global-retail-leaders/#nominate Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rethink-industries/ For more retail insights visit www.rethink.industries If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - Hosted by Kirat Anand Produced by Gabriella Bock Research by Maggie Schwenn

This episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast was recorded live at eTail East on August 22, 2023. Meet Jason Del Rey, an established business journalist who has spent the better part of the last decade keeping us hooked, expounding the intricate workings of the retail industry. His inherent interest in entrepreneurship led him to pay special attention to two mammoth forces in retail: Walmart and Amazon. Over the years, Jason has analyzed the two retailers' business models, tracking their growth, and predicting their future strategies. As evidenced in his new book 'Winner Sells All', Jason's keen understanding of the Amazon-Walmart saga carries a tangible depth few can rival. Join RETHINK Retail CCO Kirat Anand as he and Jason discuss Amazon and Walmart's ongoing competition as they vie for dominance in the industry, revealing the surprising missed opportunities, contrasting strategies, and the future battle for the younger consumer's loyalty. The conversation covers Walmart’s early dismissal of e-commerce and missed opportunities, as well as Amazon’s challenges in the consumer packaged goods sector. Del Rey also touches on the impact of wage increases and inflation on both companies and the issue of product shrinkage in Amazon's marketplace. Nominate the next Global Retail Leader: rethink.industries/global-retail-leaders/#nominate If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - Hosted by Kirat Anand Produced by Gabriella Bock

In this episode of the RETHINK Retail podcast, host and Top Retail Influencer, Ron Thurston interviews Samir Sheth, SVP, Content and Membership at ŌURA, a trailblazing company that has taken health tracking to the next level. ŌURA, which started ten years ago in Finland, seeks to empower its members to live healthier lives by providing them with a small, lightweight ring that collects biosignals accurately. The company aims to differentiate itself by not only tracking data from the wearer's finger but also providing guidance and insights to help users take action based on that data. Join Ron as he explores the fascinating intersection of technology, health, and personal empowerment with Samir. Whether you're a wellness enthusiast, a tech aficionado, or simply curious about the future of health tracking, this episode is a must-listen. If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5-star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - Hosted by Top Retail Influencer Ron Thurston Produced by Gabriella Bock Research by Maggie Schwenn

In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, host Gabriella Bock sits down with Kadian Langlais, CMO of Renfro Brands. A beacon of empowering leadership, Kadian plays an instrumental role at Renfro Brands. Since 2018, she has pioneered the transformation of this historic sock and hosiery brand into an agile e-commerce powerhouse. Her undeniable talent gained her a promotion to CMO in 2021, where she has been redefining brand strategies through unrivaled creativity and innovative tactics. At her core, Kadian believes in the power of empathetic leadership and has a vibrant ability to weave this into her management style. This episode also provides valuable lessons and inspiration for women leaders who want to confidently speak up and own their ideas, as Kadian shares her journey of finding her voice and being successful in her career. Nominate the next Global Retail Leader: https://rethink.industries/global-retail-leaders/#nominate If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - Hosted and produced by Gabriella Bock Research by Maggie Schwenn

In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, our Editor-in-Chief Julia Hare sits down with Luke Rauch, Chief Merchandising Officer at Walgreens. 
A leader who carries an interesting blend of blue-collar work ethic and white-collar acumen, Luke brings his charisma and leadership skills to every facet of his work. You might be surprised to know that his first work experience was at a steel mill which taught him the importance of hard work and resilience. Luke enjoys sports, a passion that underpins his approach to leadership and teamwork, always striving to release the potential of every player. During their conversation, Luke dives into the technological advances that are making personalized experiences increasingly important for customers. By harnessing the power of data gathered from loyalty programs, businesses can gain valuable insight into customer shopping habits. Luke shares how Walgreens leverages this strategy with the 'My Walgreens' customer loyalty program, personalizing offerings to meet individual customer needs. If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - Hosted by Julia Hare Produced by Gabriella Bock Research by Maggie Schwenn

Recorded live from the show floor of The Lead Innovation Summit 2023, host Gabriella Bock sits down with Dani Tan, an accomplished woman in retail who turned opportunities into monumental victories. Her journey covers over ten years in retail: a career she began as a sample coordinator and has now progressed to the role of Head of Digital Merchandising & Product Marketing at Authentic Brands. Dani's expertise across prestigious brands such as Juicy Couture, Diane Von Furstenberg, and Aéropostale is a testament of her finesse in the domain. However, Dani's achievements are not confined to her successful career alone. She is also an enthusiastic mentor whose passion for empowering fellow women in leadership is both laudable and inspiring. Tune in to hear Dani's advice for overcoming the confidence gap, how brands can harness customer data to personalize experiences and improve products, and why, yes you heard it right, #BlingIsBack. Connect with Dani: https://www.danitan.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - Hosted & Produced by: Gabriella Bock Research by: Maggie Schwenn

This episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast was recorded live at the Lead Innovation Summit 2023. In this episode, guest host Simeon Siegel sits down with Doug Zarkin, a marketing expert who has captivated the world of eyewear for over a decade through his previous role as CMO of Pearle Vision. During his tenure at Pearle, Doug played a pivotal part in transforming the brand by shifting its focus from transactional discounts to building exceptional eye care experiences. His prior ventures took him from the youth and entertainment division of Gray Advertising, to a stint at Avon, and later spearheading the launch of the Victoria's Secret Pink brand nationally. During their conversation, Zarkin emphasizes the importance of building long-lasting relationships with consumers and positioning brands for long-term success. Zarkin encourages marketers to embrace their own path in marketing and let go of the fear of doing things differently. Instead of focusing on the right way, he advises marketers to focus on what truly matters and tap into the magic of their brands. By leading through listening and uncovering valuable insights, marketers can develop strong, love-based relationships between brands and consumers. Zarkin also discusses his upcoming book, which explores strategies to strengthen the brand value equation and move brands out of the friend zone. If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - Host: Top Retail Influencer Simeon Siegel Produced by Gabriella Bock Research by: Maggie Schwenn

Welcome to Retail Therapy, a RETHINK Retail exclusive Podcast series where we examine retailers that have a unique history, are making innovative changes to their business model, or are overcoming challenges in order to stay relevant in this highly competitive landscape. Join host Ian Scott and RETHINK Retail’s Top Retail Influencers Andrea K. Leigh and Michael Zakkour as they discuss Walmart, a retailer that’s dominated the brick and mortar space for decades and are currently the largest retailer in the US, brining in an annual revenue $572.754B last year.

In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, guest host Liza Amlani sits down with Barry McGeough, President of Ponto Footwear, live on the show floor at The Lead Innovation Summit 2023. Barry is a seasoned expert in the field of retail innovation with a remarkable emphasis on digital transformation. Barry's journey into this thriving industry may have been accidental, but his achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. Starting as a product person in footwear, he ventured into diverse territories, revolutionizing backpacks, goggles, and other innovative wearable devices. What sets Barry apart is his holistic approach to innovation, which has yielded incredible results. As a visionary, he spearheaded the creation of an Innovation Division within an $11 billion company, ushering in a new dimension to their business. Barry has mastered the art of straddling the worlds of tech and retail, skillfully leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance consumer experiences like never before. Listen now to follow Barry's inspiring journey from most unexpected beginnings to the top of the retail innovation game. If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - Host: Top Retail Influencer Liza Amlani Produced by Gabriella Bock Research by: Maggie Schwenn

In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, guest host Christine Russo sits down with Lee Anne Grant, Chief Growth Officer of Babylist, live on the show floor at The Lead Innovation Summit 2023. Together, Russo and Grant dive into Babylist's focus on being an audience company and how it has led to improved customer engagement and increased brand loyalty. Grant shares valuable insights on how Babylist connects with their audience, both digitally and through their upcoming physical showroom. She emphasizes the importance of creating engaging experiences for users and tracking digital engagement data to inform their product selection strategies. Grant also discusses Babylist's expansion into the media business, their focus on health and wellness, and the opportunities presented by the changing retail landscape. If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! - - - - - - Host: Top Retail Influencer Christine Russo Produced by Gabriella Bock Research by: Maggie Schwenn