In this episode, host Filiberto continues his insightful discussion with Leon Ramselaar, delving into business transformation and sustainability. They explore topics like the strategy of ‘shrinking for growth’ in fast-moving consumer goods, the role of government and private partnerships in supporting startups, and the importance of balancing operational excellence with innovation. The conversation highlights the need for long-term vision in business strategy and the challenges of creating sustainable, high-quality consumer goods amid economic pressures and regulatory differences. They also touch on the evolving landscape of electric vehicles and consumer attitudes toward sustainability. Leon expresses his frustration with the inadequate long-term planning in energy infrastructure despite initial governmental incentives.

00:00 Introduction

01:29 Challenges in Fast-Moving Consumer Goods

04:29 The Startup and Scale-Up Journey

06:21 European vs. US Startup Ecosystem

12:07 Sustainability in Business: A Long-Term Vision

16:30 The Role of Governments and Companies in Sustainability

30:05 Conclusion

In this episode, host Filiberto discusses various aspects of business transformation with repeat guest Leon. The conversation focuses on the multi-stage process of business transformation, which includes becoming lean, adapting the organisation for future needs, and investing in innovative projects. They emphasise the importance of balancing operational efficiency with innovation to remain competitive. The discussion also addresses psychological barriers to change, the role of corporate venturing, and the significance of sustainability in transformation efforts. The episode concludes with a reminder to put acquired knowledge into action and a call to the audience to participate and share their insights.

00:01 Introduction

01:14 Exploring Business Transformation

02:21 The Stages of Business Transformation

06:18 Agile and Frugality in Business

09:38 Barriers to Real Transformation

14:37 Overcoming Transformation Challenges

22:22 Balancing Innovation and Efficiency

27:09 Corporate Venturing and Long-Term Innovation

36:19 The Second Chapter of Transformation

37:50 Conclusion

This is the second part of my chat with Konstantinos Delialis. The discussion centres on international marketing, consumer trends, and brand strategies. From understanding the nuances of innovation in product development and digital transformation to highlighting the importance of consumer- and customer-centric approaches. The episode also explores the implications of short-term versus long-term strategic decisions amidst challenging market conditions. Konstantinos emphasises the significance of efficient resource allocation, the potential of digital transformation, and the essential balance between luxury and mass-market strategies. The overall theme underscores the importance of executing effective marketing frameworks and staying consumer-focused to ensure sustainable growth.

00:00 Introduction

01:01 Welcome Back: Part 2 with Konstantinos Delialis

01:14 The Impact of GLP-1 and Plant-Based Innovation

03:30 Challenges in Marketing Plant-Based Products

08:19 Innovation Strategies in FMCG

14:13 Digital Transformation and E-commerce

20:27 Navigating Challenging Market Conditions

30:53 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions

32:16 Final Words and Call to Action

In this episode, our esteemed guest is Kostantinos Delilalis, a seasoned general manager with extensive experience with international companies such as Coca-Cola, Danone, and Kraft Heinz. We discuss the differences between global and local brands, emphasising the importance of balancing global scale and local relevance. He shares insights from his career, including the need for continuous improvement, strategic alignment, and the impact of consumer trends like cost-of-living crises and post-COVID behavioural changes. The conversation covers key lessons from navigating complex markets and the evolving consumer needs across various geographies.

00:00 Introduction

01:06 Meet Konstantinos: A Journey in FMCG

04:47 Global vs Local Brands: Key Lessons

18:59 Consumer Evolution and Market Trends

23:55 The Impact of GLP-1 and Future Innovations

28:28 Conclusion

In this episode, host Filiberto focuses on the marketing dynamics of the Polish food and beverage sectors with expert Dominik Wilk. They discuss the complex Polish retail environment, noting the evolution from traditional trade to a more modern, competitive landscape dominated by discounters like Biedronka and Lidl. Dominik shares insights on the challenges and strategies for international brands entering the Polish market, emphasising the importance of strong branding, strategic market entry, and patience. The conversation also covers the resurgence and challenges in the premium retail sector, as well as the evolving roles of wholesale giants like Selgros and Makro.

00:00 Introduction01:04 Meet Dominic Wilk03:05 Overview of the Polish Retail Market04:53 Challenges and Competitiveness in the Polish Market12:16 The Rise of Convenience Stores16:15 Premiumization and Market Evolution23:04 The Role of Discounters in Shaping the Market28:39 Wholesale Players: Selgros and Makro32:34 Entering the Polish Market: Strategies for Success35:33 Conclusion

In this episode, Elisabetta Borghi is back as co-host with Filiberto. They discuss innovations with guest Alex Cerret, an entrepreneur developing luxury wearable safety jewellery. Alex introduces Cerret, a startup that creates safety-focused bracelets and necklaces, combining pleasing jewellery aesthetics with practical safety features. The discussion covers Cerret’s inception, product developments, market strategies, and partnerships. Alexandre emphasises Cerret's mission to provide discreet, beautiful safety solutions that empower users, catering to both young adults and the elderly. He explains the company’s focus on user feedback, continuous improvement, and future goals, including expansions into various markets and collaborations with security firms and NGOs.

00:00 Introduction

01:06 Meet the Hosts and Guest

01:53 Alex’s Entrepreneurial Journey

02:32 The Concept of Safety Wearables

07:06 Target Markets and Product Development

09:02 Challenges and Innovations in Safety Jewellery

22:45 Market Strategy and Future Vision

32:56 Customer Experience and Data Privacy

41:04 Closing Thoughts

In this episode, the podcast focuses on the premiumization of mixers. The guest, Alex Curiger, talks about his journey as an entrepreneur in the spirits and mixers market, from Switzerland to the world. Alex discusses his transition from being a traditional brand distributor to developing a unique e-commerce-first tonic water. He explores the challenges and strategies of launching a premium beverage brand, emphasising the importance of unique packaging, low-sugar, natural ingredients, and navigating logistical complexities. The conversation also covers the future of the mixer and non-alcoholic ready-to-drink market, the dynamics of consumer and retail trends, and the hurdles of branding across different markets. Alex provides actionable insights and advice for aspiring beverage entrepreneurs, emphasising the importance of a strong team, intellectual property protection, and adaptability in response to evolving market conditions.

00:00 Introduction

01:06 Meet Alex Curiger

03:09 The Evolution of the Mixer Market

05:12 Challenges and Innovations in Premium Mixers

10:41 Building a Brand and Market Strategy

19:11 Production and Operational Challenges

30:19 Advice for Aspiring Beverage Entrepreneurs

40:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, host Filiberto interviews his long-time friend and mentor, Leon Ramselaar, who has extensive experience in marketing, strategy, and consumer insights within the consumer electronics industry. The discussion delves into the evolution of marketing, consumer trends, and brand strategy, emphasising the importance of insights-driven innovation. Ramsell shares personal anecdotes from his 25-year tenure at Philips, followed by a transition into consulting and investing in startups. He offers critical perspectives on industry challenges such as the rush to release new product versions, the complexities of smart home integration, and the pitfalls of technology-driven initiatives that fail to meet consumer needs. The episode ends with a discussion on the future of consumer electronics, potential technological developments, and the importance of responsibly managed content in the digital age.

00:00 Introduction

01:01 Interview with Leon Ramselaar: Career Journey and Insights

05:18 Challenges and Trends in Consumer Electronics

22:14 Consumer Experience and Brand Impact

23:33 Smart Home Trends and Target Groups

32:03 Technological Pushes and Market Failures

In this episode, host Filiberto speaks with John Kelly about the dynamic world of international marketing, with a particular focus on the food and beverage industry. John shares insights from his extensive career, spanning roles in dairy, beer, and beverage ingredients, highlighting significant shifts in the industry. Key trends discussed include rising consumer demand for product transparency, health-focused beverages, and the blurring of category lines as companies expand into new areas, such as zero-alcohol and functional drinks. They also examine the complexities of market adaptation, the impact of significant price increases, and the crucial need for companies to remain agile and responsive to consumer needs in the face of these changes. The conversation offers strategic insights for businesses aiming to navigate the current landscape and anticipate future developments.

00:00 Introduction

01:01 Interview with John Kelly: Career Journey and Industry Insights

09:51 Consumer Trends and Market Shifts in Beverages

23:31 The Rise of Zero Alcohol Beverages

24:52 Functional Beverages and Consumer Health Trends

34:28 The Future of the Beverage Industry and Market Dynamics

Cross Over Episode!

Second part of my chat with Chris Maffeo on the Maffeo Drinks Podcast.

We discuss the significant shifts in consumer behaviour and market dynamics, including the importance of understanding when and how to adopt new brands, the industry's return to pre-COVID trends, and the impact of on-premise consumption closures.

The conversation covers the rise and fall of different beverage categories, the strategic movements of brands and distributors, and how consumer preferences and cultural trends influence brand success. We also highlight the concept of 'blurring occasions' where consumers switch between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages based on the context rather than traditional categories. The podcast emphasises the need for brands to create cultural significance and adapt to changing consumer behaviours to thrive in the current market.

00:00 Introduction

00:16 Industry Trends and Challenges

00:50 Distribution Strategies and Market Dynamics

01:48 Consumer Behaviour and Brand Success

02:16 Post-COVID Market Adjustments

04:51 On-Premise vs Off-Premise Dynamics

16:09 Blurring of Categories in the Spirits Industry

25:17 Emerging Trends and M&A Activity

31:47 Cultural Insights and Rituals

39:51 Conclusion