The RetailWire Podcast

Welcome to our latest podcast episode where we're thrilled to present Liza Amlani, a powerhouse in the retail industry, who brings with her a wealth of experience from working with big-league brands such as Nike, Holt Renfrew, Ralph Lauren, and Accenture. Now leading her own organization, The Retail Strategy Group, Liza brings her sharp insights and retail acumen to our conversation. We kick off with a deep dive into Liza's journey, peppered with personal anecdotes of her London upbringing, which sowed the seeds of her retail passion.
 
Unpacking Liza's experiences, we venture into a candid discussion around a failed private label program she was part of, which underlined the importance of the consumer voice. This narrative unfurls into a thought-provoking discussion about the need for brands to form meaningful connections in an ever-saturated retail market. Stay tuned as Liza elaborates on the vital role of consumer insights in the product creation process, and how these insights can lead to products that truly resonate with customers.

Finally, we touch base on the dynamic landscape of the retail industry, where Liza stresses the necessity of assortment planning, and staying responsive to shifts in trends and buying behavior. She also highlights her belief in the need for innovation in retail processes and the potential of AI and machine learning to revolutionize retail. Listen in to Liza's perspective on the exciting developments in material innovation, and the potential of breaking down silos within the retail industry. Don't miss out on this enlightening chat, brimming with actionable insights for everyone in the retail industry.

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Connect with Liza on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizaamlani/

Learn more about Retail Strategy Group: https://www.retailstrategygroup.com/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

🤝 By RetailWire, the retail industry’s premier news and discussion platform, delivering daily insights, expert analysis, and real-world perspectives from top retail leaders through its BrainTrust community.

To stay ahead of the latest trends shaping retail, visit RetailWire and join a global network of retail decision-makers: https://retailwire.com/

👉 For partnerships, interviews, and media opportunities, talk to us!

[email protected]

linkedin.com/company/retailwire/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are you ready to unlock the mysteries of the retail world? We certainly are! This episode is a fascinating exploration of the industry, featuring a candid conversation with retail tech advisor Ricardo Belmar. Ricardo's insights from his own journey into the retail industry, which he amusingly stumbled upon, are genuinely enlightening. Let's buckle up and appreciate the significance of good wi-fi in stores through Ricardo's experiences, and understand why executives need to step from their ivory towers into the retail environment.

As we navigate the bustling streets of the retail landscape, we find ourselves in the heart of the diverse establishments in the DC area. It's fascinating how the pandemic has laid bare the concentration of certain retail establishments, shedding light on the essential need for right-sizing stores in strategic locations. From Walmart's sprawling presence across the US to Macy's acquisition strategy that resulted in a surplus of stores - we cover it all. We even take a detour to explore why some areas are surprisingly Apple Store-free.

The episode takes a riveting turn as we dive into the world of AI technology in retail, particularly its role during the pandemic. Ricardo guides us through the labyrinth of AI's use in retail, from how it was leveraged by retailers to how tools like Microsoft Teams were used for innovative solutions. He beautifully illustrates the use of AI and machine learning in creating new products and services, and delves into the potential of influencer partnerships. Ever wondered about the impact of AI on jobs? We've got you covered. As we bring the episode to a close, we dwell on the importance of relationships in retail. Trust us, you don't want to miss this one!

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Connect with Ricardo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rbelmar/

Check out Ricardo's podcast, The Retail Razor Show, co-hosted with Casey Golden: https://redcircle.com/shows/retailrazorshow

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

🤝 By RetailWire, the retail industry’s premier news and discussion platform, delivering daily insights, expert analysis, and real-world perspectives from top retail leaders through its BrainTrust community.

To stay ahead of the latest trends shaping retail, visit RetailWire and join a global network of retail decision-makers: https://retailwire.com/

👉 For partnerships, interviews, and media opportunities, talk to us!

[email protected]

linkedin.com/company/retailwire/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Prepare to be enlightened as we spend some quality time with Dave Wendland, a recognizable figure in our BrainTrust. This fascinating individual, born and raised in Green Bay, Wisconsin, has journeyed through a noteworthy career trajectory. From a humble beginning as the Director of Marketing for Applied Computer Research to the illustrious position of VP of Strategic Relations for HRG Group, Dave's story is rich with valuable insights. We delve into his life, exploring his passion for technology, his profound understanding of the retail industry, and how his hobbies shape him into the person he is today.

As we tread further, you'll get an exclusive front-row seat to the evolution of retail and technology over the past three decades, as narrated by Dave. His experiences, challenges, breakthroughs, and ‘don’t say no’ attitude are motivational. Dave's father's wisdom has been a guiding light for him, illuminating his path to success. His ability to embrace change and innovation has not only helped him navigate the ebb and flow of the retail industry but also redefine his career along the way.

In the final act of our dialogue, we analyze the pandemic's influence on the beauty and pet sectors, and how retail titan Walmart is reacting to the ever-changing landscape. We'll also discuss the leadership traits of Walmart CEO Doug McMillon, and how seemingly unrelated experiences like group activities, waiting tables, and improv can mold successful leaders. So buckle up and join us as we navigate the future of retail, underscoring the importance of agility and innovation in this dynamic industry!

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Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davewendland/

Check out Hamacher Resource Group: https://hamacher.com/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

🤝 By RetailWire, the retail industry’s premier news and discussion platform, delivering daily insights, expert analysis, and real-world perspectives from top retail leaders through its BrainTrust community.

To stay ahead of the latest trends shaping retail, visit RetailWire and join a global network of retail decision-makers: https://retailwire.com/

👉 For partnerships, interviews, and media opportunities, talk to us!

[email protected]

linkedin.com/company/retailwire/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're thrilled to have Cathy Hotka on the show today, a seasoned veteran in the retail industry whose career journey is nothing short of remarkable. From her days as VP of Information Technology for the National Retail Federation and a congressional liaison for the White House, to her unique insights as a sixth-generation native Washingtonian, Cathy's story is nothing but fascinating. Her progression in the retail industry is a testament to her resilience - starting out as Fritz Mondale's receptionist, she has gone on to make significant strides in the industry, including running the CIO Council for Big Oil CIOs and creating the NRF CIO Council.

In our conversation, Cathy sheds light on the creation of the StoreOps Council and the profound effect it has had on the retail industry. Through her unparalleled insights, we examine the importance of networking and benchmarking in the retail space, and the role it plays in improving the industry and customer experience. Cathy also unveils how her single person consultancy has redefined the expectations for networking opportunities and brought about an open exchange of ideas and resources.

Our discussion wouldn't be complete without touching on the future of retail - Artificial Intelligence (AI). Cathy shares how AI has been instrumental in revolutionizing the customer's experience at CarMax, from creating comprehensive descriptions of their cars to personalizing the shopping experience. If you're curious about the impact of AI in the retail sector, Cathy's insights are a must-listen. Plus, we explore the potential that lies in having a single person consultancy and networking opportunities in retail. Subscribe for more intriguing discussions on the retail industry!

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Connect with Cathy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathyhotka/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

🤝 By RetailWire, the retail industry’s premier news and discussion platform, delivering daily insights, expert analysis, and real-world perspectives from top retail leaders through its BrainTrust community.

To stay ahead of the latest trends shaping retail, visit RetailWire and join a global network of retail decision-makers: https://retailwire.com/

👉 For partnerships, interviews, and media opportunities, talk to us!

[email protected]

linkedin.com/company/retailwire/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Imagine that you could understand the world of affiliate marketing better, learn about key players in the ecosystem, and get insider tips from the top minds in the field. Well, you're in luck! Join us in conversation with Evan Johnson from Admitad, a tech-whiz with a teaching background, who is revolutionizing this landscape. With his unique perspective and Admitad's innovative approach, we're tearing down the jargon and complexity to make affiliate marketing more approachable for you.

In a world where transparency is paramount, we delve into new laws and regulations around consumer data. We discuss how brands are deepening their relationships with their affiliates and the incentives used to drive better performance. Evan helps us unpack the legal and financial intricacies of international affiliate marketing, highlighting how Admitad eases this burden for brands. Plus, we get a sneak peek into their cutting-edge machine learning algorithm that is enabling faster payouts.

Finally, we get into the real-life stories of success and upcoming trends in affiliate marketing. From online ticketing services to fitness and supplement brands, Evan shares some of the latest triumphs in the field. We discuss how successful brands invest in communication and offer unique incentives to their top-performing affiliates. So, buckle up and get ready for a deep-dive into the world of affiliate marketing with Admitad.

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Connect with Evan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-johnson-a2081062/

Learn more about Admitad/Mitgo: https://www.admitad.com/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

🤝 By RetailWire, the retail industry’s premier news and discussion platform, delivering daily insights, expert analysis, and real-world perspectives from top retail leaders through its BrainTrust community.

To stay ahead of the latest trends shaping retail, visit RetailWire and join a global network of retail decision-makers: https://retailwire.com/

👉 For partnerships, interviews, and media opportunities, talk to us!

[email protected]

linkedin.com/company/retailwire/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What’s the secret to navigating a career that spans a fascination with business from childhood, pioneering work in geographic information systems, and community engagement? We had the privilege of sitting down with Brian Numainville - a member of our BrainTrust, Principal at The Feedback Group - who unveils his personal journey, filled with insightful stories and practical advice. From branding and marketing a research department for Nash Finch Company's corporate stores to creating a community program 'Feeding Imagination', Brian’s professional journey is one you’ll not want to miss.

In the throes of 2023, we grapple with some of the most pressing issues facing the retail industry. Brian sheds light on how inflation, food price inflation, and the challenges of employee retention and attraction are impacting retail and how organizations are typically responding. But it's not all doom and gloom. Our conversation brings to light the importance of listening to employees, fostering a culture of communication, and effectively addressing these issues in practical ways.

Wading into the waters of technology, we engage in a fascinating discussion about the advances in AR and VR. In his leadership role at The Feedback Group, Brian provides insightful perspectives on AI advancements and the sociable aspects of VR. We also explore the power of podcast platforms and the role they play in fostering engaging conversations. By the end of this chat, you’ll be left with a greater understanding of the retail landscape in 2023, the potential of technology in the industry, and some food for thought on taking a leap towards your future. So, plug in your earphones and let us take you on this informative journey!

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Connect with Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/numainville/

Check out The Feedback Group: https://feedbackgroup.com/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

🤝 By RetailWire, the retail industry’s premier news and discussion platform, delivering daily insights, expert analysis, and real-world perspectives from top retail leaders through its BrainTrust community.

To stay ahead of the latest trends shaping retail, visit RetailWire and join a global network of retail decision-makers: https://retailwire.com/

👉 For partnerships, interviews, and media opportunities, talk to us!

[email protected]

linkedin.com/company/retailwire/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Have you ever wondered about the journey of a retail industry maven? Join me as I sit down with the dynamic Shelley Kohan, whose fascinating career started on the sales floor at Bloomingdale's and led to the lecture halls of the Fashion Institute of Technology. Shelley, who is also the Chief Strategy Officer at the Robin Report, Senior Contributor in Retail at Forbes, and the CEO and Founder of Shelmark Consulting Incorporated, unveils not just her journey into the retail world, but also how she has revolutionized the learning experience for her students with her commitment to updating course content according to the industry's rapid changes.

While we chat about her early days, Shelley takes us on a global tour, recalling her experiences growing up in Japan, Iran, and Germany. This rich multicultural background has shaped her understanding of the retail industry and how she deals with the constant changes this dynamic field presents. As we delve deeper into our conversation, you'll find Shelley's insights on the retail industry's challenges, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic, highly illuminating. She underscores the importance of embracing innovation and offers a candid look at how the pandemic has spurred the industry into rapid technological adaptation.

Ever pondered about how artificial intelligence can revolutionize retail? As we look into the future, Shelley and Brian delve into the transformative potential of AI. Listen to Shelley's intriguing examples of how AI can help make swift, precise decisions and reshape the conventional wholesale-retail model. We also discuss the future of customer experience in retail, underlining the significance of balancing physical retail and online shopping. To ensure you don't miss out on any of our enlightening future episodes, remember to hit the subscribe button!

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Connect with Shelley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-e-kohan-310b9612/

Visit Shelley online: https://retailshelley.com/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

🤝 By RetailWire, the retail industry’s premier news and discussion platform, delivering daily insights, expert analysis, and real-world perspectives from top retail leaders through its BrainTrust community.

To stay ahead of the latest trends shaping retail, visit RetailWire and join a global network of retail decision-makers: https://retailwire.com/

👉 For partnerships, interviews, and media opportunities, talk to us!

[email protected]

linkedin.com/company/retailwire/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if the traditional retail shopping experience you've known is rapidly changing, influenced by technology, and the impact it's having is not just on our shopping habits, but on human interaction overall? This is the intriguing narrative we explore in a thoughtful conversation with our special guest, Mark Self, President/CEO of Vector Textiles and a seasoned technology veteran. Mark brings a unique blend of experiences in tech, sales, marketing, and business development.

This episode navigates the changing landscape of retail, how customer-clerk interactions have been replaced by self-checkouts and delivery services, and how these changes are shaping younger generations. We delve into how social media is impacting their confidence in presenting and interacting with people. Mark also shares his insightful experience mentoring high school students in technology, reminding us that mentoring is an effective way to bridge the gap between formal education and practical application.

Further into our discussion, we contemplate the value of liberal arts education in a technology-driven world, arguing for the importance of soft skills in the language of technology. We contrast our personal customer service experiences, emphasizing why well-trained staff can lead to a more immersive customer experience. Finally, we reiterate the importance of rehumanizing retail, reminding us that technology should not replace person-to-person interaction. Join us on this thought-provoking journey that redefines the traditional retail experience.

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Connect with Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marklself/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

🤝 By RetailWire, the retail industry’s premier news and discussion platform, delivering daily insights, expert analysis, and real-world perspectives from top retail leaders through its BrainTrust community.

To stay ahead of the latest trends shaping retail, visit RetailWire and join a global network of retail decision-makers: https://retailwire.com/

👉 For partnerships, interviews, and media opportunities, talk to us!

[email protected]

linkedin.com/company/retailwire/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get ready to revolutionize your understanding of brand identity in a digital world. We promise you won't look at Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) strategies the same way again after hearing from our esteemed guest, Sonal Gandhi, Chief Content Officer at The Lead Innovation Summit. Drawing on her rich experience with big names like Macy's and eBay, Sonal shares insider insights on how established brands have successfully navigated the crowded marketplace to foster a unique identity and own their customer relationships. You'll be fascinated by the engrossing case studies of brands like Away Travel, Psycho Bunny, Nike, Lululemon, and LiquidDeath, who have deftly used their unique identities to stand out.

But our enlightening conversation doesn't stop there. We delve into the future, discussing the evolving shopping experience and how brands can seize growth opportunities in this rapidly changing retail landscape. From creating immersive customer experiences to answering the call for sustainability, Sonal gives us a glimpse into the future. We touch on the innovative ways brands use their physical presence to articulate their identity and create engaging content for platforms like TikTok and Instagram. So, if you've ever wondered how to create a brand that compels, connects, and sticks, this episode is your guide to breakthrough insights and industry trends.

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Connect with Sonal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonal-gandhi-2ba76a2/

Learn more about The Lead Innovation Summit: https://the-lead.co/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

🤝 By RetailWire, the retail industry’s premier news and discussion platform, delivering daily insights, expert analysis, and real-world perspectives from top retail leaders through its BrainTrust community.

To stay ahead of the latest trends shaping retail, visit RetailWire and join a global network of retail decision-makers: https://retailwire.com/

👉 For partnerships, interviews, and media opportunities, talk to us!

[email protected]

linkedin.com/company/retailwire/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get ready for an engaging and lively episode of The RetailWire Podcast as host Brian  Crum welcomes David Spear, the dynamic former senior partner at Teradata and current vice president of professional services at NCR Corporation. Join the conversation as they dive into David's impressive career journey, spanning Fortune 100 and 500 companies, and discover his fascinating hobbies outside of work, including his CrossFit adventures, golfing escapades with his sons, and his pursuit of crafting the perfect old fashioned cocktail during the challenging times of COVID-19.

Hold on tight as they explore the incredible impact of the digital revolution, uncovering the limitless potential of data analytics across all industries. Brace yourself for insights on how technology is continuously evolving, particularly in the retail landscape. They reveal the secret sauce behind successful companies like 7-Eleven in the Asia Pacific region, emphasizing the significance of catering to local markets and demographics.

Prepare to be inspired as Brian shares his own career trajectory, revealing the pivotal role of determination and perseverance in achieving success. Unlock the keys to a thriving future as they discuss the essential skills of data analytics and staying ahead of emerging technologies for aspiring professionals entering the workforce.

The transcript will take you on an exhilarating ride, unpacking the importance of data analytics, digital transformation, and the intriguing world of artificial intelligence (AI) in the retail industry. Marvel at the realization that every company has become a data company, and discover how a deep understanding of these areas can propel your career to new heights. Hold your breath as they delve into the upsides and downsides of AI, tackling the pressing issue of privacy concerns in this data-driven era.

Listen closely as their guest, David Spear, shares invaluable advice on problem-solving, revealing the secrets of failing fast and employing the 80/20 Rule to optimize your time. Embrace the power of curiosity as he encourages you to ask bold questions and approach challenges from multiple angles, leading to groundbreaking solutions. And hey, if you're eager to connect with David, he's just a click away on LinkedIn. Just make sure to mention that you heard about him on The RetailWire Podcast, so he knows you're not there for a sales pitch!

Before bidding adieu, the hosts make sure to remind you to hit that subscribe button and leave your thoughts in the comments section. Who knows? Your comment might just snag a spot in a future episode, giving you the chance to shine in the RetailWire community.

So, get ready for an exhilarating ride as The RetailWire Podcast invites you to explore the dynamic world of data analytics, digital transformation, and everything in between. Let's dive in!

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Connect with David Spear: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-spear-6b82a5b/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!

To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

🤝 By RetailWire, the retail industry’s premier news and discussion platform, delivering daily insights, expert analysis, and real-world perspectives from top retail leaders through its BrainTrust community.

To stay ahead of the latest trends shaping retail, visit RetailWire and join a global network of retail decision-makers: https://retailwire.com/

👉 For partnerships, interviews, and media opportunities, talk to us!

[email protected]

linkedin.com/company/retailwire/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.