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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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Hosted by Top Retail Influencer Ron Thurston

Produced by Gabriella Bock

Research by Maggie Schwenn