1d ago
In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, David Dorf, Head of Retail Industry Solutions at AWS, joins Omni Talk to cut through the AI hype and reveal what's actually coming for retail in 2026. From LLM limitations to agentic commerce reality checks, David breaks down why domain-specific models are replacing frontier model fantasies, how answer engines will reshape search, and why shopping agents will start with your grocery delivery. If you've ever wondered what AI predictions are worth believing, this episode delivers the clarity you need. 🔑 Topics covered: Why LLMs hit a plateau and what comes next Domain-specific models and AWS Nova Forge The real state of agentic commerce Answer engines vs. search: advertising, trust, and optimization Shopping agents with Instacart and DoorDash leading the charge Internal retail AI agents transforming merchandising and supply chain Agentic payments with Visa's B2B breakthrough 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #retailai #AWS #generativeai #retailtech #omnitalk #agenticcommerce #answerengines #retailinnovation #DavidDorf #retailpodcast #LLM #shoppingagents #retailoperations Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
2d ago
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne discussed: Amazon’s planned “rush” pickup service for one-hour order collection ( Source ) Instacart’s AI-enabled pricing experiments that may be inflating grocery bills ( Source ) November’s record-breaking $12.3 billion in online grocery sales ( Source ) Target’s new SoHo store concept featuring curated beauty and apparel ( Source ) Ashley’s partnership with Perplexity and PayPal for agentic commerce ( Source ) And special guest David Dorf of AWS, one of our favorite recurring guests, dropped by to share his insightful predictions on AI for 2026. There’s all that, plus Ryan Reynolds at NRF, the world’s largest golden retriever gathering, and whether Chris would smuggle Calvin Klein underwear from a store tour. Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #AmazonRush #InstacartPricing #OnlineGrocery #AgenticCommerce #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #TargetSoHo #AshleyFurniture #PerplexityAI #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
4d ago
Specialty retailers keep asking us: handheld scanners or overhead readers? So we settled it the only way we know how: with a knockdown, dragout debate between two RFID experts. In this Retail Technology Spotlight, Anne Mezzenga moderates as Madalynn Lauria (Team Handheld) and Pareiya Gupta (Team Overhead) from GreyOrange make their cases for the best RFID solution. From proving ROI on a tight budget to cutting inventory counts from hours to minutes, this conversation tackles the real questions retailers are wrestling with as they decide how to track inventory in 2026. The verdict? It's not as simple as picking a side. Whether you're testing RFID for the first time or scaling across hundreds of stores, the right answer depends on your velocity, your budget, and what you're actually trying to solve. But one thing's clear: manual counts and mystery stockrooms aren't going to cut it anymore. Key Topics covered: • How to test RFID with minimal budget and staff • Cutting inventory counts from hours to under 20 minutes • Why some retailers are going hybrid (overhead + handheld) • Real-time shrink visibility and where product actually disappears • Tracking TikTok trends and moving inventory between stores in hours • The smart fitting room problem nobody talks about Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* #RFID #retailtech #inventorymanagement #omnitalk #retailinnovation #smartretail #retailpodcast #omnichannelretail #retailoperations #supplychain This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
6d ago
Chris, Anne, and Chad Lusk from A&M Consumer and Retail Group close with bold 2026 predictions sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chad predicts OpenAI will launch its own payment platform for agent commerce, Chris forecasts Starbucks will abandon seating for mobile-focused ghost cafes, while Anne expects agent-influenced shopping to triple during 2026 holiday season. Which prediction will prove most accurate? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ApiGWRByxIY #retail2026 #retailpredictions #openai #agentcommerce #starbucksstrategy #retailfuture #AIshopping This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
6d ago
Chris, Anne, and Chad Lusk from A&M Consumer and Retail Group call out 2025's most ridiculous retail headlines in this segment sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Anne demolishes Starbucks' claim that mobile pickup stores lack "warmth and connection," Chad laughs at Liquid Death's viral pit diaper incident, while Chris questions Target's small town expansion as desperate PR. Which headline showed the worst strategic thinking? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ApiGWRByxIY #starbucksfails #liquiddeath #targetstrategy #laughableheadlines #retailfails #retailstrategy #mobilepickup This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
6d ago
Chris, Anne, and Chad Lusk from A&M Consumer and Retail Group debate 2025's smartest retail partnerships in this segment sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chad highlights Walmart's Rebag luxury resale partnership as perfectly timed for cross-income shopping trends, Chris praises Walmart and Avery Dennison's perishables tracking as the "holy grail" for grocery margins, while Anne champions IKEA's Best Buy kitchen installations as brilliant real estate utilization. Which partnership model works best for expansion? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ApiGWRByxIY #retailpartnerships #walmartrebag #ikeabestbuy #luxuryresale #inventorytracking #retailcollaboration #marketplacestrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
6d ago
Chris, Anne, and Chad Lusk from A&M Consumer and Retail Group recognize 2025's best retail turnarounds in this segment sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Both Anne and Chris praise Macy's focus on core stores, private brand investment, and Tony Spring's shoe department service improvements, while Chad celebrates Gap's viral marketing comeback with KATSEYE bringing cultural relevance. Can advertising alone save a struggling brand, or does execution matter more? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ApiGWRByxIY #macysturnaround #gapmarketing #tonyspring #strugglingretailers #brandrevival #retailstrategy #KATSEYE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
6d ago
Chris, Anne, and Chad Lusk from A&M Consumer and Retail Group pitch their retail movie ideas in this segment sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris envisions "Shein: Sac le blue!!!" featuring Paris protests, Chad creates a Black Mirror-style thriller about Neo's terrifying robot servant with human controllers, while Anne wants true crime investigations of mysterious CEO departures at Kohl's and Kroger. Which retail headline belongs on the big screen? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ApiGWRByxIY #retailmovie #shein #neorobot #kohlsCEO #krogerCEO #retaildrama #retailheadlines This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
6d ago
Chris, Anne, and Chad Lusk from A&M Consumer and Retail Group call out 2025's most overhyped retail technologies in this segment sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Anne criticizes smart carts' misleading deployment numbers and questionable ROI, while both Chad and Chris agree agentic AI commerce is overhyped despite being transformative… pointing to Target's rushed ChatGPT integration as proof retailers are moving too fast without strategy. Can technology be both the future and overhyped simultaneously? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ApiGWRByxIY #overhypedtech #smartcarts #agenticai #targetchatgpt #retailtech #technologyhype #retailstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
6d ago
Chris, Anne, and Chad Lusk from A&M Consumer and Retail Group crown their CEO of the Year in this segment sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chad surprises with Fidji Simo's bold move from Instacart to OpenAI Applications as a signal of commerce's future direction, while both Chris and Anne recognize Doug McMillon's decade-long transformation of Walmart from legacy retailer to omnichannel powerhouse. Was 2025 about execution or strategic positioning? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ApiGWRByxIY #retailCEO #dougmcmillan #fidjisimo #openai #walmarttransformation #retailleadership #executivemoves This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
6d ago
Chris, Anne, and Chad reveal their Technology of the Year picks in this segment sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chad champions pricing transparency tools like Grocery Dealz that could disrupt grocery economics, Anne argues electronic shelf labels finally reached mainstream adoption after Walmart's chain-wide rollout, while Chris focuses on operational agentic AI transforming warehouses and inventory management. Which technology truly moved the needle? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ApiGWRByxIY #retailtech #electronicshelflabels #agenticai #pricingtransparency #grocerytech #warehouseautomation #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
6d ago
Chad Lusk from A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Chris, and Anne debate 2025's most significant retail headline sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris picks Walmart's ChatGPT integration as a potential Amazon disruptor, Anne highlights Etsy and OpenAI's transactional partnership as commerce's pivotal moment, while Chad argues Doug McMillon's retirement marks the end of retail's post-Amazon era. Which headline will define retail's next decade? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ApiGWRByxIY #headlineoftheyear #dougmcmillan #walmartchatgpt #etsyopenai #retailleadership #agenticcommerce #johnfurner This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
6d ago
Chad Lusk from A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Chris, and Anne debate Retailer of the Year in this segment sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chad champions Aldi's unprecedented 225-store expansion and perfect timing with value-conscious consumers, while Anne argues Walmart's technology leadership and fashion momentum earned them the crown. Chris makes the case for Costco's operational discipline and traffic growth despite stock challenges. Who deserves 2025's top retail honor? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ApiGWRByxIY #retaileroftheyear #aldi #walmart #costco #groceryretail #retailexpansion #privatelabel #valueretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 10
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne teamed up with Chad Lusk from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group to hand out our 2025 Omni Awards across the following categories: Retailer of the Year Headline of the Year Retail Technology of the Year Most Overhyped Retail Tech Best Strategic Move from a Struggling Retailer And so much more, including 2026 predictions There’s all that, plus liquid death pit diapers, the Aldi Aisle of Shame Facebook group, and whether robots watching you do chores is the stuff of nightmares. Music by hooksounds.com #RetailAwards #WalmartChatGPT #AldiGrowth #RetailTech #AgenticAI #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #DougMcMillan #2026Predictions #RetailInnovation #ElectronicShelfLabels #RetailCEO This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 10
Store digitization promises to transform retail operations, but most retailers struggle to move beyond pilots and buzzwords. In this Omni Talk Ask An Expert episode, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Troy Siwek (General Manager of gStore at GreyOrange) to reveal what actually works when digitizing physical stores. Learn how digital twins are evolving from concept to operational reality, why unified platforms matter more than individual point solutions, and how to cut through the hype around retail AI. Drawing from GreyOrange's 40,000+ technology deployments, Troy shares hard-earned lessons about RFID integration, computer vision evaluation, robotics orchestration, and organizational readiness. Key topics covered: What store digitization actually means: bridging the physical-digital customer knowledge gap Digital twins as operational "mirrors" that surface real-time insights for associates and executives How to evaluate computer vision vendors based on what they actually specialize in Why most retailers should partner for core digitization tech rather than build in-house RFID inventory accuracy reducing store tasks from a week to 18 minutes The organizational shift: who owns store digitization across CTO, CIO, and store ops teams How excessive decision-making processes kill retail innovation speed When to pilot, when to scale, and when to cut failing technology experiments Whether you're building your 2026 technology roadmap or trying to scale existing store digitization pilots, this conversation provides actionable insights to help you avoid costly mistakes, accelerate decision-making, and deliver measurable improvements for store associates. Connect with Troy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troysiwek/ Visit GreyOrange: https://www.greyorange.com #RetailTech #StoreDigitization #DigitalTwins #RetailAI #RFID #ComputerVision #OmniChannelRetail #RetailOperations #InventoryManagement #RetailInnovation #StoreTransformation #GreyOrange This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 10
In this Retail Technology Spotlight Series episode, Doron Hazan, Director of Data, Product, and AI at Wiliot, joins Omni Talk to discuss the concept of "physical AI" and how it ultimately improve retail operations from the ground up. From ambient IoT sensors to real-time inventory intelligence, Doron breaks down how battery-free Bluetooth pixels are creating self-aware supply chains, how retailers can start small and scale strategically, and why the future of retail operations is about connecting physical things to AI-powered decision engines. If you've ever wondered what happens when IoT meets artificial intelligence in real-world stores (who hasn't), this episode is for you. 🔑 Topics covered: - The difference between digital AI and physical AI - How ambient IoT creates invisible operational improvements - Why battery-free Bluetooth sensors are changing retail visibility - Real-world impact on freshness, inventory accuracy, and customer experience - The platform approach to scaling physical AI solutions 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! Link to Doron's blog post: www.wiliot.com/why-your-ai-agent…tead#news-content #physicalai #retailtech #ambientiot #wiliot #omnitalk #smartretail #retailinnovation #inventorymanagement #supplychain #retailpodcast Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 9
In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, Ashley Hubka, Senior Vice President of Walmart Business, joins Chris and Anne to reveal how Walmart is shaping B2B e-commerce for businesses, nonprofits, and government entities. From discovering millions of organizational customers already shopping Walmart to building a dedicated B2B platform with business-specific tools, Ashley breaks down how Walmart Business saves organizations time, money, and hassle. Learn about unique features like business printing kiosks, automated subscriptions, multi-user accounts, and pay-by-invoice options that traditional retail can't provide. If you've ever wondered how enterprise-scale retail infrastructure can serve small businesses and organizations, this episode is for you. 🔑 Topics covered: How Walmart discovered millions of B2B customers in their existing base Business-specific tools: printing, subscriptions, and spend management Omnichannel flexibility: from express delivery to curbside pickup Walmart Business Plus membership and its unique organizational benefits The future of B2B retail: expanded assortment and invoicing capabilities 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #walmartbusiness #b2becommerce #retailtech #omnitalk #businesssolutions #smallbusiness #walmartplus #retailinnovation #supplychaintech #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6
Advent calendars are the hot holiday trend...from Skims to fishing lures to ice cream. Chris reveals his dream: 28 days of Nikes. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. In this Lightning Round: • Are slop bowls officially dead as sandwiches stage a comeback? • The White House drops 120 pounds of gingerbread • And how Mariah Carey turned one song into $60M For the full episode head here #adventcalendar #nike #holidaytrends #specialtyretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6
Amazon is testing "Amazon Now," a new 30-minute delivery service in Seattle and Philadelphia, repurposing former Amazon Fresh sites into rapid delivery hubs. But is this innovation or desperation? This segment, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, analyzes Amazon's grocery struggles. Chris reveals the shocking stat: Despite owning Whole Foods and having Amazon's infrastructure, Amazon's grocery share is still only 4%. He sees this as a defensive move more than offensive strategy. Anne questions the economics. Prime members pay $3.99 per delivery, but after two orders you could subscribe to DoorDash and get access to better quality groceries from trusted regional stores. For the full episode head here #amazon #amazonnow #grocerydelivery #rapiddelivery #amazonfresh #retailstrategy #lastmile #quickcommerce This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6
McKinsey and Business of Fashion report predicts smart glasses are set for a breakthrough year in 2026, with Ray-Ban Meta glasses already the top-selling product in 60% of EMEA stores. But Chris and Anne aren't buying it. This segment, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, questions the hype around smart eyewear. Anne argues that smart glasses are too visible and fashion-forward for mass adoption—unlike discrete smartwatches and rings. Chris, who owns Meta's Ray-Bans, admits they mostly collect dust and warns fashion retailers to stay away from tech partnerships that could leave them holding markdown bags. For the full episode head here #smartglasses #raybanmeta #wearabletech #fashiontech #retailtech #metaclasses #techtrends #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6
Walmart is quietly testing a new ad format called "sponsored prompts" inside its Sparky AI shopping engine and both Chris and Anne agree this is exactly the right move. This segment, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, breaks down why retailer-owned AI is the smart play. According to Wall Street Journal reporting, Walmart's new ad format integrates sponsored content directly into Sparky conversations with click-to-buy options. Anne loves it because it captures consumers at the perfect moment with relevant offers. Chris sees it as proof that retailers should focus on their own AI experiences rather than chasing ChatGPT integration—especially since Walmart's ad business is already growing at nearly 100% per year. For the full episode head here #walmart #retailmedia #aishopping #sparky #retailstrategy #advertising #ecommerce #retailtech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6
ChatGPT just launched shopping research that does the product hunting for you, but should retailers be worried or relieved? This segment, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores the real implications of AI-powered shopping tools. Anne is bullish, arguing that AI shopping tools provide unprecedented price transparency and will change how consumers shop for everything from snacks to electronics. Chris pushes back hard: only 30% of searches are actually research-intensive, and Amazon already dominates product search without needing ChatGPT. The debate gets heated as they question whether these platforms are truly game-changing or just incremental improvements to search. For the full episode head here #chatgpt #aishopping #openai #productresearch #retailtech #generativeai #ecommerce #shoppingtrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6
Black Friday 2025 just hit $11.8 billion in online sales... up 9.1% from last year. But Chris questions whether AI's 805% traffic surge is actually impressive or concerningly slow compared to other tech adoption curves. This segment, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, dives deep into what the numbers really mean. Anne argues that 25% of purchases involving AI agents shows tremendous growth potential, especially since we can't even transact in these platforms yet. Chris counters by comparing AI adoption to buy-now-pay-later's 970% growth over three years, suggesting retailers should slow their roll on AI investments. Plus: Why are club stores crushing Black Friday traffic? And why is mobile still only 55% of purchases? For the full episode head here #blackfriday #retailanalytics #aishopping #ecommerce #retaildata #holidayshopping #mobilecommerce #retailtrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 3
In this Fast Five episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga break down the biggest retail stories from Black Friday 2025, including record-breaking online sales, AI's growing influence on shopping, and what it all means for the future of retail. From ChatGPT's new shopping research tool to Walmart's bold move to monetize Sparky with ads, Chris and Anne debate where retailers should focus their AI investments. Plus, they tackle smart glasses' potential breakthrough year, Amazon's 30-minute delivery test, and whether the industry is moving too fast on agentic commerce. 🔑 Topics covered: Black Friday's $11.8 billion in online sales and what the numbers really mean ( Source ) ChatGPT introducing shopping research ( Source ) Walmart's smart play bringing ads to Sparky ( Source ) The reality check on smart glasses adoption ( Source ) Amazon's expensive 30-minute delivery experiment ( Source ) 🎧 Don't forget to like, leave a review, and subscribe for more weekly retail insights! Music by hooksounds.com #blackfriday #retailai #agenticcommerce #chatgpt #walmart #retailtech #omnitalk #smartretail #ecommerce #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29
This Lightning Round segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, gets personal with the Omni Talk crew's Thanksgiving and Black Friday plans! Anne and producer Ella gang up on Chris's love of jarred gravy (spoiler: they're both anti-gravy). The team shares their Black Friday shopping strategies from Banana Republic to luxury consignment pop-ups. Plus, Anne weighs in on Bianca Censori's Kanye-funded fashion brand launch… is it ironic that someone famous for barely wearing clothes is launching a clothing line? Tune in for the fun, unfiltered takes! #thanksgiving #blackfriday #holidayshopping #shopssmallsaturday #retailpodcast #biancacensori #kanyewest #fashion #lightninground #thanksgivingfood This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, examines Bath & Body Works' decision to launch on Amazon early next year. With $60-80M in unauthorized gray market sales already happening, the company will test a curated assortment to control its brand and capture revenue. Anne argues LLM search makes marketplace presence essential for discovery and conversion. Chris believes Bath & Body Works should wait, perfect their own site experience first, and avoid feeding Amazon's dominance. Who has the better long-term strategy? #bathandbodyworks #amazon #marketplace #graymarket #ecommerce #brandstrategy #retailstrategy #thirdpartysellers #beautyretail #amazonmarketplace This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , celebrates Gap's 7% comparable sales surge after its viral "Better in Denim" campaign featuring KATSEYE. Anne praises Richard Dickson's entertainment-first approach for making Gap culturally relevant again with Gen Z and millennials. Chris remains cautiously optimistic, questioning whether flashy marketing alone can drive repeat purchases if the product quality doesn't deliver. #gap #richarddickson #katseye #gapdenim #retailmarketing #fashion #genz #viralmarketing #gapcomeback #retailsales This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , analyzes Kroger's decision to shut down three automated fulfillment centers with a staggering $2.6 billion write-off. The grocer is pivoting to in-store fulfillment and third-party delivery partnerships to improve digital profitability by $400M in 2026. Chris questions the scale of the initial investment error, while Anne explores how evolving customer demand for fresh products may impact automation ROI. Is this the end of the CFC era, or just a course correction? #kroger #automation #CFC #grocerytech #ecommerce #retailautomation #Ocado #supplychain #digitalcommerce #grocerydelivery This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores Target's bold move to enable shopping through ChatGPT just days before Black Friday. Anne sees it as a necessary first step into LLM-powered commerce and applauds Target for testing publicly. Chris calls it a "big nothing burger"... questioning why Target launched an incomplete beta feature during their busiest week, especially when their own site search isn't optimized yet. Who's right? #target #chatgpt #aicommerce #llmsearch #conversationalcommerce #retailtech #targetapp #innovation #retailAI #voiceshopping This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , dives into Target's disastrous Q3 earnings. While Walmart, TJX, Ross, and Best Buy raised their outlooks, Target's four-year sales stack turned negative—meaning zero growth since 2021. Chris argues Target is the "real turkey" of earnings season, while Anne questions what anyone expected during a CEO transition and 1,800-person layoff. Is this rock bottom or just the beginning of a longer turnaround? Tune in for the heated debate! #target #retailearnings #walmart #targetvswalmart #discountretail #retailnews #earnings #retailanalysis This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 27
For this month's Retail Tech Startup of the Month, AWS's Daniele Stroppa returns to spotlight SymphonyAI, a groundbreaking computer vision solution that's improving how retailers tackle the costly out-of-stock problem. SymphonyAI leverages existing in-store cameras to deliver something retailers have been missing: actionable, prioritized worklists that tell associates exactly what to fix first to maximize sales impact. No more drowning in dashboards, just clear direction that drives results. Daniele breaks down how retailers are achieving 25% increases in labor productivity and 5-7% improvements in on-shelf availability, proving this isn't just another tech demo, it's a boon for physical retail operations. 🔑 Topics covered: How SymphonyAI turns existing cameras into intelligent inventory systems The critical difference between insights and actionable intelligence Why prioritization matters more than detection Real results: 20% lower infrastructure costs, 25% productivity gains The shift from reactive to predictive AI-driven store operations 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #computervision #retailtech #symphonyai #aws #retailinnovation #smartstores #inventorymanagement #omnitalk #retailpodcast #retailai Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 26
In this week's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne discussed: A roundup of the latest retail earnings announcements Target enabling mobile app shopping within ChatGPT ( Source ) Kroger closing some of its automated fulfillment centers ( Source ) Gap's recent sales surge after viral 'Milkshake' denim ad with Katseye ( Source ) Bath & Body Works planning to launch on Amazon early next year ( Source ) And AWS's Daniele Stroppa dropped by to help us hand out November's Retail Tech Startup of the Month Award There's all that, plus Thanksgiving shelf-stable food rankings, Black Friday shopping plans, and whether Chris is going turkey trotting or sofa surfing this holiday. Music by hooksounds.com #retailearnings #target #chatgpt #kroger #gap #bathandbodyworks #omnitalk #retailtech #retailinnovation #ecommerce #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 25
In this inaugural episode of Confessions of a Supply Chain Executive, host Chris Walton teams up with Richard Stewart (EVP of Product & Industry Strategy) and Eugene Amigud (Chief Innovation Officer) from Infios to conduct a forensic deep dive into retail's most persistent challenge: out-of-stocks. Despite billions spent on technology, the average retailer still faces an 8-10% out-of-stock rate. But here's the truth most won't admit: the problem isn't getting better. It's just getting different. This episode walks through every breakdown point in the supply chain, from forecasting failures to the infamous backroom problem, and delivers a practical framework to diagnose what's really happening inside your operations. 🔑 Topics covered: - Why out-of-stocks are a connectivity problem, not just an inventory problem - The difference between warehouse accuracy (98%+) and store accuracy (97-99%) - How machine learning is transforming demand forecasting - The phantom inventory problem and what causes it - Why you need a centralized decisioning "brain" across OMS, WMS, and TMS - The role of AI in solving out-of-stock situations - Why perfection isn't the goal . . . resilience is - How to start small with purposeful innovation 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more brutally honest retail supply chain insights! Music by hooksounds.com #outofstock #retailsupplychain #retailtech #omnitalk #inventorymanagement #supplychain #retailinnovation #Infios #retailpodcast #supplychainexecution *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22
The lightning round brings holiday cheer and nostalgia to close this episode! Sponsored A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris reveals he'll use "Santa GPT" (ChatGPT for holiday shopping) to find gifts for his mom, though she already told him she wants a Brita water pitcher. Anne shares her family's Black Friday strategy: setting alarms for discounted ski passes rather than shopping for traditional items. Celebrating Dick Van Dyke's upcoming 100th birthday, Anne reminisces about his role as the chimney sweep in Mary Poppins. The conversation turns to hot chocolate preferences... Chris keeps it basic with mini marshmallows and a "Swiss Miss" approach, while Anne declares that quality marshmallows make or break the experience. For the full episode head here #SantaGPT #ChatGPT #holidayshopping #DickVanDyke #hotchocolate #Sizzler #restaurantrevival #nostalgia #retailfun #holidaytraditions This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22
Target and Starbucks have partnered to create an exclusive frozen peppermint hot chocolate available only at Starbucks cafes inside Target stores nationwide. This episode, Sponsored A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores why this seemingly small move could signal Target's merchandising mojo is returning. Chris loves this idea, calling it "smart merchandising that leverages a true differentiation point." Target Circle 360 members get 24-hour early access. While the impact may be small potatoes compared to Target's larger challenges, it's exactly the kind of creative thinking Target used to do well. Anne highlights an additional experience: select Target stores are featuring weekend hot cocoa bars where kids can customize drinks creating memories and driving foot traffic. Both hosts wonder if this could become Target's next "pumpkin spice latte" moment. Producer Ella agrees this is brilliant... adding a Starbucks drink to her hand means even longer browsing time in Target. For the full episode head here #Target #Starbucks #retailcollaboration #exclusivedrink #Targetstores #holidayshopping #retailmerchandising #Targetcircle360 #coffeeshopretail #retailstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22
Google is rolling out major AI shopping features including conversational search, agentic checkout, and an AI that calls stores for you. This episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, sparks a fascinating debate about the future of shopping search. Anne argues Google's comprehensive data ecosystem... from Gmail to Maps to Calendar, gives it an edge over ChatGPT and Perplexity. She believes Google could leapfrog competitors by leveraging existing consumer relationships. Chris pushes back, citing Google Shopping's historical struggles and questioning whether Google's legacy interface might actually hinder innovation. For the full episode head here #GoogleAI #AIshopping #conversationalsearch #agenticAI #ChatGPT #Gemini #retailtech #ecommerce #shoppinginnovation #AIretail #GoogleSearch This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22
Primark has introduced Buy Now Pay Later options through Klarna and Clearpay... marking a major milestone in BNPL's journey from innovation to mass adoption. This episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores what this means for retailers. Chris declares that BNPL has officially "crossed the chasm", seven years after it first emerged at Shop.org in 2018. When you can buy $4 shirts on installments, there's no turning back. Anne shares shocking data: 25% of Americans now use BNPL for groceries, up from 14% just a year ago. For the full episode head here #primark #buynowpaylater #klarna #clearpay #bnpl #retailpayments #paymentinnovation #retailtech #affordablefashion #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22
Grocery Dealz has integrated with Instacart to power same-day delivery directly from its price comparison app. This episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores why this partnership could be a game-changer for consumers. Anne and Chris rate this announcement an 8 out of 10, explaining how it justifies delivery fees by maximizing savings through price comparison. Imagine shopping at three different stores for the best deals without leaving your house... Instacart now makes that possible through Grocery Dealz. This is the second time in five months that Grocery Dealz has made headlines on the show, signaling that this Texas startup is becoming a force in grocery innovation. Plus, hear why this partnership could accelerate margin compression across the industry as price transparency becomes the norm. For the full episode head here #grocerydealz #instacart #grocerydelivery #pricecomparison #retailtech #groceryshopping #samedaydelivery #groceryinnovation #retailnews #omnichannel This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22
Doug McMillon is retiring as Walmart CEO, handing the reins to John Furner in February 2025. This episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores McMillon's incredible legacy... 400% stock gains, $576 billion in added market cap, and a cultural transformation that made Walmart a leader in retail innovation. Chris shares a personal story about meeting John Furner and why he believes Furner is the perfect successor. Anne highlights the leadership qualities that set both executives apart.... from McMillon's "fail fast" culture to Furner's empathy-driven approach and curiosity that will be critical as AI reshapes retail. For the full episode head here #walmart #dougmcmillon #johnfurner #retailleadership #ceotransition #retailnews #walmartceo #samwalton #retailinnovation #leadershipstyle This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 20
In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, Chad Lusk, Partner and Managing Director at A&M Consumer and Retail Group, joins Omni Talk to break down their latest consumer sentiment survey results that every retailer needs to understand. From cautious spending increases to the explosive rise of private label brands, Chad reveals why consumers are trading down, what's driving the shift to lower-price stores, and how retailers can navigate the complex landscape of value-conscious shoppers. You can also read A&MCRG's Consumer Sentiment Survey for Fall 2025 by heading here: alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insight/cons…y-fall-2025/ 🔑 Topics covered: Why consumers plan to spend more (but it's not optimism) The trade-down trend: cheaper brands and lower-price stores How private label is closing the quality gap with national brands What holiday spending will look like this year Why the middle tier is getting squeezed 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail insights! #consumertrends #retailstrategy #privatelabel #consumersentiment #omnitalk #retailinsights #holidayretail #retailpodcast #consumerdata #retaileconomics *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 19
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne discussed: Doug McMillon retiring as Walmart CEO, with John Furner taking over in February ( Source ) Grocery Dealz integrating with Instacart’s Developer Platform for on-demand delivery ( Source ) Primark introducing Buy Now, Pay Later options with Klarna and Clearpay ( Source ) Google launching new AI shopping features including conversational search and agentic checkout ( Source ) Target and Starbucks debuting an exclusive Frozen Peppermint Hot Chocolate ( Source ) And A&M’s Chad Lusk stopped by for Five Insightful Minutes to share takeaways from their latest consumer sentiment survey. There’s all that, plus SantaGPT, Dick Van Dyke turning 100, the perfect hot cocoa recipe, and whether Sizzler’s comeback is rare, medium, or well done. Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WalmartCEO #JohnFurner #DougMcMillon #BNPL #GoogleAI #TargetStarbucks #InstacartIntegration #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #GroceryDealz #Primark This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 15
The lightning round gets personal as Kelly reveals she'd trade her data to Ulta for holiday discounts (with three sisters and multiple gift exchanges, who can blame her?), Waqas picks "Things to Do in Denver When You're Dead" as his favorite Andy Garcia film, and the panel mourns the potential disappearance of Italian pasta from US shelves. Plus: middle-aged men are revealed as the biggest holiday spenders, Waqas's dishwasher crisis becomes his entire holiday budget (German vs. Korean appliance debate included), and passionate discussions about the superiority of rigatoni and pappardelle over simple spaghetti. Sponsored A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #HolidayShopping #RetailTrends #LightningRound #ConsumerBehavior #RetailPodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 15
Dollar General has appointed Travis Nixon as SVP of Artificial Intelligence, tasking him with using AI to optimize supply chain, store operations, and merchandising. But how long before every retailer has a Chief AI Officer—and is this even the right approach? Waqas Khan delivers a masterclass on why standalone AI roles may follow the same fate as Chief Digital Officers, most of whom lasted less than two years before the role dissolved. The panel discusses why Dollar General's SVP approach (rather than C-suite) may be smarter, which executive should oversee AI transformation, and why AI needs to be embedded across all functions rather than siloed. Sponsored A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #DollarGeneral #AILeadership #RetailTransformation #ChiefAIOfficer #RetailStrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 15
Target's new "10-4" policy requires employees to smile and wave at customers within 10 feet, and personally greet them within 4 feet. Is this explicit instruction necessary for today's workforce, or a forced, performative approach that signals deeper cultural problems? Former Target store manager Chris Walton shares insider perspective on why this policy reveals how far store culture has declined, while Anne argues that explicit direction is needed for first-time workers entering the retail job market. Kelly calls it "firmly over and out," while Waqas warns it could give employees an excuse to avoid customers entirely. Sponsored A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #Target #CustomerService #RetailOperations #StoreManagement #RetailCulture This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 15
Bath & Body Works is bringing Fresh Balsam to Grand Central Terminal, movie theaters, and interactive mall kiosks in what beauty expert Kelly Carey calls "my favorite marketing campaign of the year." But is piping fragrance into public spaces genius brand awareness or an invasive marketing tactic? Kelly breaks down why this campaign is perfectly timed to recapture awareness in a booming fragrance market, while the panel debates the opt-in vs. opt-out question when scent is thrust upon consumers. From middle school Cherry Blossom memories to concerns about sensory overload in movie theaters, this discussion covers the full spectrum of experiential marketing. Sponsored A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #BathAndBodyWorks #ExperientialMarketing #HolidayMarketing #FragranceRetail #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 15
Amazon is suing Perplexity AI over its Comet shopping agent, claiming it "covertly accesses Amazon customer accounts" and interferes with the curated shopping experience Amazon built over decades. But is this defensive move from the e-commerce giant actually a sign of things to come? Waqas Khan from A&M breaks down the technology protocols at stake, why this feels like a classic incumbent vs. disruptor battle, and how advertising revenue is driving Amazon's aggressive response. Chris argues this is Amazon playing the role of the 1990s brick-and-mortar retailer fighting e-commerce, while the panel debates whether this lawsuit is a negotiation tactic or the first salvo in a long legal war over agentic commerce. Sponsored A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #Amazon #Perplexity #AgenticAI #RetailLawsuit #ShoppingAgents #RetailTech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 15
Adobe's October data reveals a game-changing milestone: generative AI traffic is now converting 16% BETTER than traditional sources—a complete 180 from three months ago when AI traffic converted 9% WORSE. This episode breaks down what Kelly Carey and Waqas Khan from the A&M Consumer and Retail Group think retailers need to know about this inflection point. With AI traffic up 1,200% year-over-year and shoppers spending 44% longer on sites when arriving from AI sources, the experts discuss why this shift makes sense, how consumers are using tools like ChatGPT to cut through digital clutter, and what retailers should be doing RIGHT NOW to prepare for an agentic omnichannel future. Sponsored A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #AIcommerce #GenerativeAI #RetailTech #AdobeAnalytics #ChatGPT #ShoppingTrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 13
Placer.ai’s CMO Ethan Chernofsky is back... revealing why the “convenience above all” mindset is costing retailers millions and what’s actually driving traffic in 2025. Omni Talk and Placer.ai reunite for their annual tradition of reviewing the retail year that was. In this data-packed episode, Chris and Anne dig into Placer.ai’s latest location analytics to uncover: • Why consumers are visiting more stores but spending less time in them • The “consumer preference epiphany” reshaping retail fundamentals • How Sprouts, HEB, and Barnes & Noble are winning by doubling down on identity • Why the retail middle is dying — and what it takes to survive • The surprising suburban opportunity most brands are missing • Which "dead" brands are quietly staging comebacks Plus: Ethan’s bold prediction for the 2025 holiday season that could reshape Q4 planning forever. Featuring real-world traffic data and performance metrics from America’s top retailers, this episode is required viewing for anyone in retail leadership, store operations, or strategic planning. #retailstrategy #locationanalytics #retailtrends #omnichannel #consumerinsights #retailtech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 12
In this Retail Fast Five episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton are joined by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group's Managing Director Waqas Khan and Director Kelly Carey to unpack the biggest retail headlines of the week—from the AI commerce inflection point to Amazon's legal battle with Perplexity. With Adobe data revealing that AI-driven traffic now converts 16% better than traditional channels, the panel breaks down what this seismic shift means for retailers, why Amazon is fighting back against agentic shopping, and whether Target's new "10-4" service policy will actually work. Plus: Bath & Body Works' genius scent marketing play and the truth about Chief AI Officer roles. 🔑 Topics covered: The AI commerce inflection point: Why generative AI traffic is now converting better ( Source ) Amazon vs. Perplexity: The battle for first product search ( Source ) Bath & Body Works' experiential scent campaign across Grand Central and movie theaters ( Source ) Target's controversial 10-4 customer service policy and what it reveals about retail culture ( Source ) Why Chief AI Officer roles may follow the same path as Chief Digital Officers ( Source ) 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #retailai #generativeai #retailtech #omnitalk #ecommerce #amazonvsperplexity #targetretail #aicommerce #retailinnovation #retailpodcast #bathandbodyworks #agenticai Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 10
In this Retail Technology Spotlight episode, Nick Matthews, VP of Solutions and Architecture at Wiliot, joins Omni Talk to reveal how Walmart is deploying Bluetooth-enabled IoT technology across all 4,600 U.S. stores and 40 distribution centers. From wireless energy-harvesting tags to real-time pallet tracking, Nick breaks down how Wiliot's ambient IoT technology is reducing food waste by tens of millions of pounds, improving inventory accuracy, and improvingg store operations without requiring associates to change their workflow. If you've ever wondered how retailers are solving the "where is my product?" problem at scale (who hasn't?), then this episode is for you. 🔑 Topics covered: How Wiliot's BLE pixels work and differ from RFID technology Walmart's nationwide deployment strategy and infrastructure requirements Real-time alerts that prevent inventory discrepancies and cold chain breaks Food waste reduction projections for 2026 The concept of "Physical AI" and its retail applications ROI benefits from inventory accuracy to FSMA compliance 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #retailtech #walmart #IoT #supplychain #inventorymanagement #retailinnovation #foodwaste #omnitalk #bluetoothtechnology #physicalAI #retailpodcast Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 8
The Lightning Round gets wild this week! From a soccer coach using Chat GPT to devise winning defensive strategies, to Jonathan Bailey's Sexiest Man Alive title, to John Lewis offering hand massages for loyalty members, and Carly Rae Jepsen's baby naming dilemma... Chris and Anne tackle the most entertaining retail and culture moments. Plus, hear their personal Chat GPT success stories and debate whether hand massages at a department store would actually drive traffic. It's retail meets pop culture in the best way possible! Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #chatgpt #AIcoaching #jonathanbailey #sexiestmanalive #johnlewis #loyaltyprograms #carlyraejepsen #retailculture #customerexperience #lightninground This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 8
In a surprising move, GrubHub (owned by Mark Lore's Wonder super app) is partnering with Instacart to enable grocery delivery directly through the GrubHub platform. But this partnership raises major strategic questions: Why would Instacart help a potential future competitor? Chris breaks down the "Greeks bearing gifts" dynamics at play and questions whether this is Mark Lore's chess move toward building the ultimate meal-time super app. Is Instacart making a strategic mistake, or is there a bigger play happening behind the scenes? Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #grubhub #instacart #marklore #wonder #deliverypartnership #grocerydelivery #whitelabel #thirdpartydelivery #retailstrategy #mealplanning This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 8
Kroger is making history as the first retailer to integrate restaurant delivery directly into their grocery app through an expanded partnership with Uber Eats. Now customers can order their weekly groceries AND dinner from local restaurants in one seamless experience, with special benefits for Kroger Boost members. Chris and Anne discuss why this integration is brilliant for the subscription wars and predict when Walmart will respond with a similar Door Dash partnership. Is this the future of grocery shopping? Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #kroger #ubereats #grocerydelivery #restaurantdelivery #krogerboost #subscriptionservices #omnichannel #retailinnovation #fooddelivery #seamlessshopping This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 8
Mondelēz (maker of Oreo and Chips Ahoy) is investing over $40 million in a custom generative AI tool to slash marketing costs by 30-50% and create TV-ready ads for the 2027 Super Bowl. But is building proprietary AI technology the right move, or should CPG brands partner with specialized providers? Chris and Anne debate whether this massive investment will pay off or become a costly sunk cost trap as AI technology rapidly evolves. Anne shares insights from cutting-edge AI advertising demos that are already creating human-likenesses in commercials. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #mondelez #generativeAI #aimarketing #cpginnovation #accenture #marketingautomation #oreo #advertisingtechnology #aicommercials #retailtech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 8
Starbucks just revealed that delivery has become a $1 billion annual business, growing 30% year-over-year—and it's changing everything about how we think about coffee shops. With 40% of delivery orders including food, this massive revenue stream raises critical questions about Brian Nichol's turnaround strategy. Should Starbucks double down on automation and dark cafes, or invest in improving the in-store experience? Chris and Anne debate the future of Starbucks as delivery continues to explode. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #starbucks #coffeedelivery #brianniccol #starbucksstrategy #deliveryservices #ghostkitchens #coffeeshop #retailstrategy #automation #mobilepickup This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 8
Amazon is shaking up Whole Foods with a controversial transformation that has retail experts divided. From robot-powered "ShopBots" in the back room fetching Tide Pods and Pepsi, to a massive 3,800 square foot Amazon Grocery kiosk replacing the coffee shop in Chicago's flagship location, Amazon is testing whether Whole Foods shoppers want mainstream brands alongside their organic kale. Chris and Anne debate whether this move will destroy Whole Foods' brand identity or unlock new value for Amazon's delivery business. Is this the future of grocery, or a mistake that will alienate Whole Foods' core customers? Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full episode head here #amazon #wholefoods #groceryrobots #retailtech #amazongrocery #grocerydelivery #retailinnovation #shopbots #organicgrocery #mainstreambrands This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 6
Computer vision is transforming retail stores, but most pilots fail to scale beyond proof of concept. In this Omni Talk Ask An Expert episode, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Joe Serrano (Global Managing Partner, Retail & CPG at HTEC) and Daniel Horton (VP of Engineering & Delivery at HTEC) to reveal the playbook for successful computer vision deployments. Learn why 75% of retail AI pilots fail to scale, which use cases deliver the fastest ROI, and how to evaluate your existing infrastructure before investing in new technology. Joe and Dan share hard-earned lessons about everything from camera requirements and network readiness to privacy concerns and customer trust. Key topics covered: • Why demo accuracy rarely matches real-world performance • How to leverage 60-80% of existing cameras with minor augmentation • The critical difference between customer-facing vs. operational AI deployments • Smart carts, inventory visibility, shrink control, and shelf availability use cases • Privacy, GDPR, and building customer trust with in-store AI • Build vs. buy decisions for computer vision infrastructure Whether you're piloting your first computer vision project or scaling existing implementations, this conversation provides actionable insights to help you avoid costly mistakes and deliver measurable ROI. Join HTEC for their January Webinar: Computer Vision in Action: Cutting Shrink, Boosting Efficiency, and Powering Smarter Stores with Edge AI https://www.brighttalk.com/webcast/21011/656661?utm_source=brighttalk-sharing&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=linkshare #RetailTech #ComputerVision #ArtificialIntelligence #RetailInnovation #StoreOperations #RetailAI #OmniChannelRetail #InventoryManagement #RetailTransformation #SmartStores This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 5
In this week's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne discussed: Amazon's push to add mainstream brands like Pepsi and Doritos to Whole Foods through ShopBots and Amazon Grocery kiosks (Source: Wall Street Journal ) Starbucks crossing the $1 billion milestone in annual delivery sales with 30% quarterly growth (Source: CNBC ) Mondelez investing $40 million in a generative AI tool to slash marketing costs by 30-50% (Source: Reuters ) Kroger expanding its Uber Eats partnership to integrate restaurant delivery directly into the Kroger app across 2,600+ stores (Source: Chain Store Age ) Grubhub partnering with Instacart to offer grocery delivery through its platform nationwide (Source: Supermarket News ) And this month, Chris and Anne handed out the OmniStar Award in partnership with Quorso to Justin Weinstein, EVP and Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer at Giant Eagle, for leading the 95-year-old retailer's bold $100 million "Because It Matters" brand positioning. There's all that, plus a debate on whether AI-generated ads are the future, why ordering dinner through your grocery app makes perfect sense, and whether hand massages would get Chris into John Lewis for holiday shopping. Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WholeFoods #StarbucksDelivery #RetailTech #GenerativeAI #KrogerUberEats #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #Mondelez #GrubhubInstacart #RetailInnovation #CoffeeDelivery This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 4
In this Retail Technology Spotlight Series episode, Julie Haleluk, Global Head of Growth at Amazon Shopping Video, and Wayne Purboo, VP of Amazon Advertising and Amazon Shoppable Video, join Omni Talk to reveal the future of social commerce and how AI is transforming the way we shop. From the evolution of shoppable video to agentic commerce, Julie and Wayne break down why social commerce isn't going away, how to measure video content beyond the live moment, and why brands need to clean up their data NOW before AI agents start shopping for customers. If you've ever wondered what's next in retail video and social commerce, this episode is for you. 🔑 Topics covered: How AI is reshaping the customer journey without replacing human connection The difference between social commerce and emerging agentic commerce Why video content lowers return rates and drives purchase confidence How to measure attribution across the evolving customer touchpoint journey What brands must do to prepare for AI agents shopping on behalf of customers Why Shop the Show on Prime Video is changing second-screen shopping Want to get tickets to SoCom? Head to SoCom.live now to register! 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! Want to get tickets to SoCom? Head to SoCom.live now to register! #socialcommerce #amazonlive #shoppablevideo #retailai #ecommerce #omnitalk #retailtech #agenticcommerce #videcommerce #retailinnovation #amazonadvertising #retailpodcast Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 1
Chris and Anne tackle the week's quirkiest retail stories: Netflix bringing Stranger Things' finale to theaters, Target's Weirdly Hot Santa returns for year two, Lululemon's NFL licensing sparks more debate, and Red Bull drops a $50 advent calendar. Fast takes, sharp opinions, and laughs from retail's most entertaining podcast duo. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. 🔔 Follow for weekly lightning rounds! For the full episode head here #strangerthings #targetholiday #redbull #retailmarketing #holidaycampaigns #lightninground #omnitalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 1
Amazon unveils AI-powered smart glasses designed to help delivery drivers scan packages, navigate, and capture proof of delivery hands-free. Anne sees potential to reduce device overload for field workers, while Chris worries about long-term health implications and potential lawsuits. Is this the future of last-mile delivery or a Hot Shots-style disaster waiting to happen? Learn about the AR overlay technology, current trials, and what questions retailers should be asking. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. 🔔 Follow for delivery innovation insights! For the full episode head here #amazonglasses #deliverytech #AIwearables #lastmile #drivertech #augmentedreality #logisticsinnovation #amazonlogistics This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 1
Lululemon announces its first-ever licensing deal, partnering with all 32 NFL teams to release officially branded apparel. Anne sees opportunity in solving the women's fan gear problem, while Chris warns it cheapens the brand and signals an identity crisis. Who's right? Plus, debate whether this should have been a college athletics play instead, and whether you'll ever see Viking yoga pants in a Lululemon store near you. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. 🔔 Follow for heated retail strategy debates! For the full episode head here #lululemon #NFL #sportslicensing #athleisure #brandstrategy #fanapparel #retailpartnerships #sportsfashion This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 1
Walmart and Avery Dennison achieve what was long considered impossible: RFID sensors that work in high-moisture, cold environments for meat, deli, and bakery departments. Chris and Anne explain why this breakthrough represents a domino effect for the smart store of the future, how it tackles food waste and spoilage, and why it will transform online grocery fulfillment. Plus, learn about the FSMA legislation driving this innovation forward. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. 🔔 Follow for cutting-edge retail technology insights! For the full episode head here #walmartRFID #averydennison #freshfood #grocerytech #smartstore #inventorymanagement #foodwaste #supplychain This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 1
DoorDash launches a game-changing emergency food response program, offering free delivery for food banks and waiving fees for 300,000 SNAP recipient orders amid the government shutdown crisis. Anne and Chris break down why this move demonstrates the power of third-party logistics platforms, signals improving retailer partnerships, and builds customer loyalty that will last for years. Learn how reactive merchandising and doing good creates a competitive advantage. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. 🔔 Follow for insights on retail social responsibility! For the full episode head here #doordash #SNAPbenefits #foodinsecurity #grocerydelivery #retailgivingback #emergencyresponse #socialimpact This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 1
Amazon eliminates 14,000 corporate roles while Target cuts 1,800 positions in what marks one of the darkest days in recent retail history. Chris and Anne share personal insights from their own experiences, discuss the cultural implications of these moves, and offer advice for affected workers. Is this the beginning of an industry-wide trend driven by AI automation? Plus, learn why Target's CEO messaging raises serious questions about accountability and cultural recovery. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. 🔔 Follow for more retail workforce insights and career advice! For the full episode head here #amazonlayoffs #targetlayoffs #retailjobs #corporatelayoffs #retailcareer #workforcereduction #AIautomation #retailculture This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 30
AWS's Daniele Stroppa, Worldwide Technical Lead for AWS Partners in Retail, joins Omni Talk to announce October's Retail Tech Startup of the Month: Writer. Daniele breaks down why Writer's full-stack generative AI platform is transforming how retailers and brands automate processes and generate content across their organizations. From their proprietary large language models to pre-built retail-specific agents, Writer offers a specialized solution that accelerates time to production. 🔑 Topics covered: Why Writer stands out in the crowded GenAI landscape How Writer's specialized models differ from general-purpose LLMs Pre-built, pre-vetted agents and workflows for retail Built-in guardrails for consistency and compliance Plug-and-play solutions that accelerate deployment 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #retailai #generativeai #retailtech #omnitalk #writer #retailinnovation #AWS #retailstartup #contentgeneration #retailpodcast Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 29
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne discussed: Amazon and Target’s major layoffs affecting thousands of corporate employees ( Source ) DoorDash launching an Emergency Food Response program for SNAP recipients ( Source ) Walmart and Avery Dennison partnering to track fresh food with breakthrough RFID technology ( Source ) Lululemon venturing into its first licensing deal with the NFL ( Source ) Amazon unveiling smart glasses for its delivery drivers ( Source ) And AWS’s Daniele Stroppa also dropped by to help us hand out this month’s Retail Tech Startup of the Month award. There’s all that, plus Stranger Things movie theater premieres, Target’s weirdly hot Santa returning for year two, and whether Red Bull really gives you wings. Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #AmazonLayoffs #TargetLayoffs #DoorDash #WalmartRFID #LululemonNFL #AmazonAIGlasses #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #RetailTech #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 27
In this Retail Technology Spotlight Series episode, Matt Goynes, co-founder and co-CEO of Grocery Dealz, joins Omni Talk to reveal how a Texas startup is improving grocery shopping with AI-powered price comparison. From fighting inflation fatigue to building transparent marketplaces, Matt breaks down how Grocery Dealz is becoming the "Gas Buddy for groceries," why price transparency is finally possible now, and how AI enables seamless product matching across hundreds of stores. If you've ever wondered how much you could save by switching stores or how retailers can compete in a transparent pricing world, this episode is for you. 🔑 Topics covered: How Grocery Dealz compares prices across hundreds of grocery stores Why now is the perfect time for grocery price transparency The AI behind product matching and substitution Building a B2B marketplace for retailers and CPG brands Why retailers are embracing (not fighting) price comparison Defensibility against ChatGPT and AI-powered shopping search 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #grocerydealz #grocerypricing #retailai #pricetransparency #grocerytech #omnitalk #retailinnovation #agentic #smartretail #retailpodcast #groceryapp #inflationfighting *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 25
In this week's Lightning Round, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by Alvarez & Marsal's Lisa Collier and Manola Soler to tackle Apple's iPhone 17 surge (Lisa's learned to wait out the upgrades!), debate Mr. Bean's comedy versus his impeccable taste in classic Jaguars, worry about OpenAI's Sora creating AI models instead of cat videos, and reveal Manola's meteor shower stargazing plans. Plus birthday shoutouts to the fly himself, Jeff Goldblum! Quick hits, hot takes, and laughs to close out the show! 🔔 Subscribe for delivery and retail tech insights! For the full episode head here #LightningRound #iPhone17 #Apple #MrBean #RowanAtkinson #JaguarEType #OpenAI #Sora #MeteorShower #RetailPodcast #JeffGoldblum #TechTrends #ClassicCars #AIVideo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 25
DoorDash is piloting autonomous deliveries with Waymo in Metro Phoenix—but will consumers actually embrace robot deliveries? Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Lisa Collier is skeptical: "If I'm paying for delivery, I want it handed to me." Manola Soler shares hilarious experiences with delivery robots in Jersey City that couldn't navigate stairs and blocked sidewalks. The panel debates whether this works better in suburban vs. urban environments, the logistics of restaurant employees running orders to vehicles, and whether lower delivery fees would make consumers accept the trade-off. Chris Walton points out this might succeed in suburban America first, where last-mile costs are higher and homes have driveways—not apartment buildings with elevators. 🔔 Subscribe for delivery and retail tech insights! For the full episode head here #doorDash #waymo #autonomousdelivery #selfdriving #retailtech #lastmiledelivery #phoenix #deliveryinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 25
Wayfair's luxury brand Perigold opens a massive 30,000-square-foot, two-level store in West Palm Beach! Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. The new location features 150+ luxury home brands, a dedicated sleep center, and expanded kitchen appliances—with many products available to take home or ship within a week (remarkable for furniture!). But is this Restoration Hardware-esque flagship profitable? Manola Soler initially questions the four-wall economics before coming around on the brand-building exercise and quick-turn inventory model. We debate whether Wayfair should have showcased a mix of Perigold's luxury offerings with more accessible Wayfair products—creating a high-low concept no one else in furniture can match. Plus, Lisa emphasizes why planning is the central nervous system that makes these physical experiences work. 🔔 Subscribe for retail strategy! For the full episode head here #wayfair #perigold #luxuryretail #furniture #westpalmbeach #retailstrategy #omnichannel This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 25
New research reveals Gen Z will transform Britain's high streets into social, tech-driven hubs by 2050! Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. According to American Express research, 65% of Gen Z says each trip should deliver something they can't get online, while 79% want future retail destinations to blend shopping with dining, drinking, and leisure. Three-quarters believe retailers should use AI for immersive in-store experiences. Lisa Collier, fresh from London, shares her perspective on whether this evolution is realistic, drawing parallels to how malls served Boomers. We discuss the importance of experiential touchpoints, planning organizations, and ensuring the technology actually works. Is this clickbait or genuine strategy? Our panel weighs in. 🔔 Subscribe for retail trends! For the full episode head here #genz #retailtrends #highstreet #experientialretail #AIretail #futureofretail #brickandmortar This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 25
Ulta Beauty officially launches its marketplace powered by Mirakl! Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. The beauty retailer is taking a curated, invitation-only approach to third-party sellers, integrating marketplace listings with unified search, shopping carts, and checkout. Customers can earn Ulta Beauty rewards points on marketplace purchases but can't redeem them on marketplace items... a interesting twist that sparked debate among our panel. Manola Soler shares her expertise on what Ulta needs to get right, balancing breadth of assortment with curation, and how to scale faster without sacrificing brand integrity. We also discuss the challenges of the loyalty program integration and why beauty marketplaces require a different approach than mass retail. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail analysis! For the full episode head here #ultabeauty #mirakl #marketplace #beautyretail #ecommerce #retailstrategy #loyaltyprograms This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 25
Walmart makes a bold move partnering with OpenAI to bring shopping directly to ChatGPT! Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. In this segment, we discuss how users will shop Walmart's massive assortment... including apparel, entertainment, and packaged foods right from ChatGPT with a simple buy button. Fresh food is notably excluded for now, but this strategic decision shows Walmart's thoughtful approach to leveraging its omnichannel advantage against Amazon. Hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by Alvarez & Marsal's Lisa Collier and Manola Soler join us to analyze whether this is an "if you can't beat them, join them" moment and what it means for other retailers. We explore the competitive implications, data sharing considerations, and why this move could reshape the "marketplace of marketplaces." 🔔 Subscribe for more retail insights! For the full episode head here #walmart #openai #chatgpt #AIretail #retailtech #amazon #marketplace #omnichannel This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 23
In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, Marybeth Hays — a former Walmart merchant executive, trusted board member, and colleague of Chris and Anne's at Simbe — joins Omni Talk to discuss the dramatic evolution of retail merchandising. From unified online and in-store assortments to AI-powered shelf intelligence, Marybeth breaks down how modern merchants are becoming true category experts, why trusted real-time data is finally eliminating age-old friction between merchants and operators, and how technologies like RFID, digital shelf labels, and Simbe's Tally robot are improving how retailers understand customer behavior. If you've ever wondered how merchandising is and will continue to transform, this episode is for you. 🔑 Topics covered: The shift from separate online/in-store merchants to unified responsibility How narrower product focus creates deeper category expertise Why trusted, real-time data changes everything for merchants The Blue Moon Beer and orange slice story—and what AI would have caught Navigating the historic tension between merchants and operators Why shelf intelligence requires cross-functional executive sponsorship 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #retailmerchants #shelfIntelligence #retailtech #omnitalk #smartretail #AIinRetail #retailinnovation #simbe #tally #retailpodcast #merchandising This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 22
In this OmniTalk Retail Fast Five episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by Alvarez & Marsal's Lisa Collier and Manola Soler to separate retail fact from fiction across five major headlines transforming the industry. From Walmart's groundbreaking partnership with ChatGPT to Ulta's curated marketplace launch, autonomous deliveries via Waymo, and the future of luxury retail, this episode covers it all. Plus, former Walmart EVP Marybeth Hays stops by for Five Insightful Minutes on how merchandising is evolving with AI, real-time shelf intelligence, and cross-functional collaboration. 🔑 Topics covered: Walmart's strategic move to offer shopping directly on ChatGPT and what it means for Amazon Ulta Beauty's invitation-only marketplace strategy and the balance between curation and scale How Gen Z will transform Britain's high streets into social, tech-driven retail hubs by 2050 Wayfair's 30,000 sq ft luxury Perigold store in West Palm Beach and the high-low merchandising opportunity DoorDash + Waymo's autonomous delivery pilot and the future of last-mile logistics The evolution of merchandising: from backwards-looking data to AI-powered predictive intelligence 🎙️ Special guests: Lisa Collier, Managing Director, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Manola Soler, Senior Director, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Marybeth Hays, Former Walmart EVP and Simbe Advisory Board Member 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #retailtech #omnitalk #walmart #ultabeauty #wayfair #doordash #waymo #retailinnovation #merchandising #retailAI #ecommerce #marketplace #autonomousdelivery #retailpodcast #genz #luxuryretail #smartretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 21
Holiday retail is heating up... but this year looks dramatically different. With order counts steady but PO values down 25%, retailers are placing smaller, more frequent bets instead of locking in big inventory buys. Total holiday spend is expected to drop 5%, and gift spending is down 11%. So how do you execute when November and December throw inevitable curve balls? In this episode of the Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with SPS Commerce's Brandon Pierre (VP of Customer Success) and Tony DiPaolo (VP Head of Retail, Sales & Customer Success) to break down the execution risks facing retailers and suppliers this holiday season... and share five actionable tactics you can deploy right now to protect your sales. What You'll Learn: • Why retailers are frontloading inventory but keeping orders leaner than ever • The hidden costs of in-season reaction and supplier strain • How to use supplier scorecarding as your radar for demand spikes • Why OTIF (On-Time-In-Full) metrics matter more than ever this season • Collaboration strategies that help retailers and suppliers react faster • How to prepare for both hot demand and soft sales scenarios Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or brand navigating Q4, this conversation is packed with data insights and practical tactics to help you execute through uncertainty. #RetailTech #HolidayRetail #SupplyChain #RetailStrategy #OTIF #OmniChannel #RetailData #Q4Retail #BlackFriday #RetailExecution This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18
In this week's Lightning Round, Chris and Anne tackle the Body Shop's comeback (bubble bath for Chris!), debate whether Glen Powell's Running Man will beat Arnold's original, drool over JP Morgan's $3 billion office tower with 19 restaurants, and reveal their National Dessert Day celebrations. Plus birthday shoutouts to McNulty himself, Dominic West. Quick hits, hot takes, and laughs to close out the show! For the full episode head here #LightningRound #BodyShop #RunningMan #OfficeAmenities #RetailNostalgia #JPMorgan #TheWire #RetailPodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18
Instacart, Uber, and DoorDash are among 11 partners integrating with ChatGPT later this year, making grocery shopping "as simple as having a conversation." Walmart also announced an amorphous partnership with OpenAI. Chris is gobsmacked by the pace of disruption... just two years into the AI revolution. Anne predicts this will reshape UX design and consumer journeys entirely, forcing retailers to rethink how customers discover and purchase products. The hosts discuss why we're in "mile one" of a transformation as significant as the original rise of e-commerce. For the full episode head here #ChatGPT #AIRetail #Instacart #DoorDash #UberEats #OpenAI #ConversationalCommerce #RetailDisruption #AIShopping #SuperApp #RetailTech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18
Walmart plans to deploy 90 million Bluetooth sensors across its inventory by end of 2026 in partnership with Wiliot. The "pixels" work like GPS trackers on every item, dramatically enhancing supply chain efficiency and cold chain compliance. Currently in 500 locations, the technology will expand to 4,600 stores and 40+ distribution centers. Chris and Anne discuss how this solves real operational problems... from preventing listeria outbreaks to ensuring strawberries stay fresh... while providing unprecedented inventory visibility that could be crucial as AI shopping assistants reshape consumer behavior. For the full episode head here #Walmart #Wiliot #SupplyChain #InventoryTracking #RetailTech #IoT #FoodSafety #BluetoothSensors #ColdChain #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18
Kroger announces plans to use DoorDash's Dashmart fulfillment service for delivery, joining CVS and other retailers. This comes as Kroger re-examines its Ocado automated warehouse infrastructure and expands DoorDash delivery to all 2,700 stores. Chris worries this signals a lost e-commerce strategy, while Anne focuses on the need for in-store automation. The hosts debate whether Kroger is making the right moves or swinging the pendulum too far away from owned infrastructure toward third-party marketplaces. For the full episode head here #Kroger #DoorDash #GroceryDelivery #Ecommerce #Ocado #Instacart #RetailStrategy #OnlineGrocery #MicroFulfillment This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18
Walmart opens its first Auto Care Center of the Future in Fayetteville, Arkansas, with plans to expand to 10 locations. Customers can schedule services through the Walmart app, drop their keys in a locker, and shop while receiving real-time updates on their vehicle. With 2,582 auto care centers nationwide, Walmart is transforming a traditionally frustrating experience into a seamless, convenient service. Chris and Anne discuss how this move takes costs out of operations while potentially attracting higher-income customers to Walmart stores. For the full episode head here #WalmartAutoCare #AutoService #RetailInnovation #WalmartPlus #CustomerConvenience #DigitalRetail #AutomotiveServices This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18
Amazon is launching prescription pickup kiosks at One Medical locations across Los Angeles, starting December 2025. Patients can now pick up prescriptions immediately after their medical appointments using a simple QR code system. The kiosks are stocked with medications tailored to each location's prescribing patterns, and pharmacist consultations are available via video or phone. Chris and Anne debate whether this is a true convenience play or a Trojan horse for Amazon's healthcare ambitions, discussing the friction points and the future of prescription fulfillment. For the full episode head here #AmazonPharmacy #OneMedical #HealthcareInnovation #Prescriptions #AmazonHealthcare #RetailHealth #PharmacyTech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 15
In this week's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Chris and Anne discussed: Amazon's new in-office prescription kiosks at One Medical locations ( Source ) Walmart opening an auto-care center of the future ( Source ) Kroger using DashMart's for online delivery ( Source ) Walmart partnering with Wiliot to improve inventory tracking ( Source ) The big 3 third-party grocery and food delivery marketplaces – DoorDash, Instacart, and Uber Eats – teaming up with ChatGPT ( Source ) And Nick Matthews, Wiliot's Vice President of Solutions and Architecture, will be joining the show soon to provide more details about Walmart's massive Bluetooth sensor rollout. There's all that, plus The Body Shop's return, The Running Man sequel, JP Morgan's $3 billion office tower, and whether Chris dreams of having his own executive washroom. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Apple Podcasts and on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 13
In this episode of Investor Perspectives on Retail & the Consumer, Brett Striker, former founder of Maddy and Maize popcorn and professional EOS Implementer, joins Omni Talk to share the brutally honest truth about preparing your business for exit. From wearing every hat as a founder to successfully selling to a competitor, Brett breaks down how to transform chaos into clarity, why structure beats hustle, and how EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) turned his business from a 24/7 grind into an asset worth buying. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed running your business or wondered what it actually takes to build something scalable, this episode is for you. Topics covered: The hidden structural issues that hold businesses back (not just people problems) How to build an accountability chart that actually works Why 136 issues at once means you need a system, not more hours The difference between building a business vs. operating one How EOS set Brett up for a successful exit 🎧 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail and entrepreneurship insights! #entrepreneur #businessexit #EOS #traction #retailbusiness #omnitalk #entrepreneurship #startup #businessgrowth #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11
This lightning round segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, covers the quirkiest retail and consumer trends of the week. Chris proposes adding Fanatics sports gear to baby registries (Target, are you listening?), debates the merits of "zip coding" in dating, absolutely refuses to try Frank's RedHot gummy bears, and reveals his preference for yellow potato salad. Anne shares her take on each topic, from her single-parent dating radius to why she'd never eat mayo-based salads at summer barbecues. It's retail insights meets rapid-fire fun! For the full episode head here ! #retailtrends #consumertrends #babyregistry #datingtrends #foodtrends #lightninground #retailpodcast #consumerinsights #retailnews #funretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, covers Shein's first permanent move into physical retail with shop-in-shops across French department stores. Chris rates this move a 6.5 out of 10, praising Shein's ability to test demand in physical locations while leveraging their fast-fashion manufacturing prowess. Anne sees additional benefits: attracting aspirational shoppers to luxury department stores, gathering in-person shopping data, and potentially addressing sustainability concerns through in-store returns and recycling. Is this the blueprint for digital-first brands entering physical retail? For the full episode head here ! #shein #fastfashion #physicalretail #shopinshop #omnichannel #fashionretail #retailexpansion #departmentstores #retailstrategy #fashioninnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, examines Shipt's new chat-to-cart feature powered by Perplexity's Comet browser. While Chris and Anne appreciate the innovation, they question the execution. Requiring customers to download a separate browser creates too much friction for mainstream adoption. Anne and Chris agree it's the right idea at the wrong time... a PR headline that sounds more innovative than it actually is. Will Shipt's AI gamble pay off, or is it too early for consumers to embrace? For the full episode head here #shipt #perplexityai #aishoppingassistant #chattocart #grocerydelivery #retailtech #aiinretail #shoppinginnovation #grocerytech #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, tackles Bed Bath & Beyond's announcement of a nationwide franchise system. Chris doesn't hold back, calling this "the single dumbest idea" in the show's eight-year history. Anne tries to find potential benefits for independent retailers but struggles to justify the investment. With the company just emerging from bankruptcy and no clear competitive advantage, is this franchise opportunity a trap for unsuspecting entrepreneurs? Buyer beware! For the full episode head here ! #bedbathandbeyond #retailfranchise #homegoods #franchiseopportunity #retailnews #homefurnishings #retailstrategy #businesswarning #retailfailure This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores PayPal's groundbreaking move to offer 5% cash back on Buy Now Pay Later purchases. Anne shares surprising data from Groceryshop revealing that consumers are using BNPL for everyday essentials like fresh groceries, not just big-ticket items. Chris reflects on his 2017 prediction that BNPL would become ubiquitous... and why this cash back offer is one of the most compelling deals in retail today. Is this the future of consumer payments? For the full episode head here ! #paypal #buynowpaylater #bnpl #cashback #retailpayments #consumerfinance #holidayshopping #paymentinnovation #retailtech #shoppingtrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, examines Amazon's launch of a new private label grocery brand with over 1,000 items priced under $5. Chris and Anne debate whether this move represents a strategic reset or reveals how lost Amazon's grocery strategy has become. Is the "Amazon Grocery" brand name compelling enough to attract budget-conscious shoppers, or should they have leveraged the existing 365 brand from Whole Foods? Tune in for critical analysis on Amazon's latest attempt to crack the grocery code. For the full episode head here ! Amazon private label strategy, budget grocery brands, Amazon Fresh vs Whole Foods, grocery retail competition, value shopping #amazon #amazongrocery #privatelabel #groceryretail #budgetshopping #amazonfresh #retailstrategy #valuebrand #groceryshopping #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 9
Are you ready for commerce without websites? In this Omni Talk Expert Series conversation, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Jon Cleaver (CTO, Sportshoes.com) and Malte Ubl (CTO, Vercel) to explore how composable architecture and AI are reshaping retail's future. Jon shares the inside story of Sportshoes.com's aggressive 7-month website transformation... moving from a frustrating monolithic system to a flexible, composable stack. Malte reveals how modern infrastructure makes it possible to scale from zero to 100,000 compute instances instantly, and why retailers must think API-first to survive the agentic commerce revolution. Key topics covered: • Why composable commerce beats monolithic systems for AI readiness • How to transform your website in 7 months (and keep your job) • The real cost of AI in retail and how to manage it • Why your website won't disappear... but how customers will use it will • Starting your agentic AI experiments with logged-in customers • The critical role of product data enrichment for AI discovery Whether you're a CTO evaluating your tech stack or a merchant trying to understand where retail is heading, this conversation delivers practical insights you can act on today. #RetailTech #ComposableCommerce #AgenticAI #Ecommerce #RetailInnovation #APIFirst #DigitalTransformation *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 8
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne discussed: Amazon launching a “price-conscious” grocery brand with most products under $5 ( Source ) PayPal tying 5% cash back to BNPL purchases ( Source ) Bed Bath & Beyond’s plans to launch a nationwide franchise system ( Source ) Shipt’s new chat to cart feature with Perplexity ( Source ) Shein making its first permanent move into physical retail ( Source ) And this month’s OmniStar award, in partnership with Quorso, goes to Prabash Coswatte, Chief Operating Officer at Heritage Grocers, for the true omnichannel approach he’s bringing to running a grocery chain across four distinct banners! There’s all that, plus why Chris calls Bed Bath’s franchise plan “the single dumbest idea in the history of this show,” whether Anne would eat Frank’s Red Hot gummy bears, and the surprising stat about BNPL usage for fresh grocery products. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #AmazonGrocery #PayPalBNPL #BedBathBeyond #ShiptAI #SheinStores #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #RetailTech #RetailInnovation #Franchising #ChatToCart This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 7
In this Retail Technology Spotlight Series episode, John Mabe, Product Manager at Dematic, joins Omni Talk to break down the real applications of AI in warehouse operations—separating the hype from what's actually working today. From optimization algorithms to computer vision systems and LLM-powered insights, John explains the three distinct categories of warehouse AI and where each one stands in terms of real-world deployment. Learn why the smallest players struggle to adopt AI, how humanoid robots are closer than you think, and why the "lights out warehouse" might follow a logical path we can already see unfolding. 🔑 Topics covered: The three categories of warehouse AI: Optimization, Vision & Perception, and LLMs Why optimization AI is proven but underutilized by smaller players How computer vision is preventing costly downstream errors today The realistic timeline for humanoid robots at scale (hint: it's sooner than you think) Why LLMs might be the fastest-deploying AI tool in the warehouse The crawl-walk-run approach to AI agents running warehouse operations 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #warehouseai #retailtech #supplychain #automation #dematic #omnitalk #robotics #computervision #LLM #warehouseautomation #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 4
This lightning round segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, covers the fun and quirky stories of the week! Topics include: • Mountain Dew's new "Dirty" cream soda targeting Gen Z and the dirty soda trend • Vegas transportation debate: Taxi or Uber? (Chris and Anne weigh in from Grocery Shop) • Chinese public toilets requiring QR code scans and ad viewing for toilet paper access • Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's divorce after 19 years... who hits the dating pool first? Plus birthday shoutouts to Brie Larson, Beck Bennett, and the legendary Julie Andrews turning 90! 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail fun! For the full episode head here #DirtySoda #MountainDew #VegasTravel #PopCulture #RetailNews #LightningRound #GenZTrends #NicoleKidman This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 4
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores DoorDash's launch of "Going Out"... adding restaurant reservations and in-store rewards to its app. Chris declares DoorDash the one app he couldn't live without and says these features make it even stickier. Users can now book tables, earn DoorDash credits for reservations, and redeem exclusive in-store offers... all without leaving the app. Anne argues this is as close to a full-service super app as America will get, though she warns the experience needs to be seamless (no manual codes or barcodes like the Groupon days). Both hosts see huge potential for restaurants to drive traffic and for DoorDash to cement itself as the go-to utility for all commerce experiences, from delivery to dining out. 🔔 Subscribe for tech and retail insights! For the full episode head here #DoorDash #RestaurantReservations #GoingOut #SuperApp #FoodDelivery #RestaurantTech #LoyaltyPrograms #DiningExperience #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 4
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, covers Sprouts Farmers Market's announcement to open 20 in-store Klatch Coffee cafes across Southern California. Anne explains why this move is perfectly aligned with Sprouts' destination shopping experience... customers who visit Sprouts are in a different mindset, taking time to discover new products and consult with specialized staff. Adding locally-sourced, independent brand coffee creates an elevated experience similar to getting champagne at a department store Chris highlights that Sprouts has massive "dry powder" for growth: they're only in 24 states, just launched their loyalty program, operate an optimized smaller store format, and now add coffee shops as another traffic driver. When shoppers linger with coffee, basket sizes increase... making this a savvy operations play. 🔔 Subscribe for grocery retail insights! For the full episode head here #Sprouts #SproutsFarmersMarket #KlatchCoffee #GroceryInnovation #RetailExperience #CustomerExperience #GroceryTrends #JackSinclair This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 4
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, examines Amazon's decision to close all 19 Fresh grocery stores in the UK. Chris argues this confirms that grocery is incredibly hard to disrupt and that Amazon can't win on freshness, price, or experience without the necessary scale. He predicts Amazon Fresh in the US is "dead on arrival" and questions whether Amazon is making similar mistakes with Whole Foods by moving away from the "Whole Paycheck" premium positioning. Anne agrees that competitors like Sprouts, Lidl, and Aldi are beating Amazon at their own game with better distribution, fresher products, and lower prices. However, both hosts wonder if Amazon's pivot to online grocery could eventually win in a future where automated fulfillment becomes cheaper than in-store operations. 🔔 Subscribe for retail strategy insights! For the full episode head here #AmazonFresh #UKGrocery #WholeFoods #GroceryRetail #RetailStrategy #AmazonGrocery #Lidl #Aldi #Sprouts #OnlineGrocery This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 4
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, analyzes early data from Costco's executive membership early access hours. Since implementing the extra hour of shopping from 9-10am, Placer AI data shows visits are shifting earlier, trips are becoming more efficient (30-45 minutes vs 45-60 minutes), and congestion during peak hours has decreased. Anne argues this transforms Costco from a once-a-week stock-up trip into a quick daily errand destination for millennials and young families, while Chris calls it a masterclass in operations management. With no additional staff required and executive members willing to pay for the perk, is this one of the smartest retail moves of 2025? Could this become the airport lounge problem where everyone upgrades? Chris and Anne break down the implications. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here #Costco #ExecutiveMembership #RetailStrategy #GroceryShopping #PlacerAI #RetailOperations #CustomerExperience #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 4
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores OpenAI's game-changing announcement: ChatGPT Instant Checkout. Users can now purchase items directly from Etsy sellers and over 1 million Shopify merchants without ever leaving ChatGPT. Chris and Anne debate whether retailers should embrace or block bot traffic, discuss the implications for traditional e-commerce funnels, and explore what "GEO optimization" means in an agentic AI world. With Etsy stock jumping 16% and Shopify up 6%, this feature could reshape how consumers discover and buy products forever. Is this the Google of 2025? Will retailers prepare for agentic shopping experiences or get left behind? Tune in for expert analysis on the biggest e-commerce shift in years. 🔔 Subscribe for more retail insights! For the full episode head here #openai #ChatGPT #InstantCheckout #Etsy #Shopify #EcommerceTrends #AIinRetail #AgenticAI #RetailTech #ConversationalCommerce This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 2
Omni Talk’s Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga join Groceryshop’s Rocquan Lucas and Ben Miller for the official key takeaways session live from the state at Groceryshop 2025, covering the biggest themes, surprising data points, and provocative predictions from the show. In this comprehensive recap session recorded live on the final day of Groceryshop 2025, the panel share and discuss: The Changing Consumer : Health-conscious shopping reached unprecedented levels at this year’s show. Sessions on GLP-1 medications, functional foods, and better-for-you products were packed as retailers and brands grapple with how dietary preferences and wellness trends are reshaping shopping behavior and store formats. Learn why companies like Danone and Chobani are winning with health positioning and how this impacts everything from loyalty programs to main shop destination decisions. Agentic AI & Trust : AI has moved from hype to practical application. Discover how consumer trust in AI recommendations is evolving, why the shift from SEO to generative engine optimization (GEO) matters, and what it means for investment in earned and shared media over paid channels. Walmart’s mission-based homepage and the role of AI in transforming entire customer experiences take center stage. In-Store Efficiency & Operations : The panel reveals why operational technology delivers the strongest ROI right now. From inventory visibility and shelf intelligence to electronic shelf labels and reducing associate workload, learn which technologies are making stores more productive and why the focus has shifted to backend operations before customer-facing innovations. Digital Demand Creation : Explore the evolution of how brands create awareness and drive purchases through creators, influencers, and content strategies. Understand the balance between planned campaigns and opportunistic viral response, plus why mental availability matters as much as physical availability in today’s grocery landscape. Retail Media Evolution : Enter the “Age of Reckoning” for retail media in grocery. Learn why successful networks must activate both stores and online, move beyond just converting trade spend to capturing brand dollars, and deliver full-funnel experiences rather than just lower-funnel conversion. Automation Economics & Future Predictions : Ocado CEO Tim Steiner’s provocative question sparked debate: Will automated warehouses eventually be cheaper to operate than hypermarkets? The panel discusses this prediction, third-party delivery marketplace dependencies, and whether the industry can afford to be wrong about the future of automation. Practical Challenges : Technology integration pain points, the need for vendor consolidation, macro-economic headwinds including cautious consumers and declining units, plus the importance of associate tool UX for Gen Z employee retention. Key Topics: Groceryshop 2025 recap, health-conscious consumer trends, agentic AI adoption, retail media networks, in-store technology, warehouse automation, digital marketing, influencer strategies, operational efficiency, technology integration, workforce technology Subscribe for comprehensive grocery and retail industry insights! Music by hooksounds.com #GroceryShop2025 #AgenticAI #GLP1 #RetailMedia #GroceryTech #HealthConsciousShopping #Automation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 2
🏆 September's Retail Tech Startup of the Month: Threedium AWS's Daniele Stroppa joins Omni Talk to reveal how Threedium is improving retail media networks and product experiences through advanced 3D visualization technology. Discover how interactive 3D product displays are boosting conversions by 12%, reducing asset creation costs, and transforming the shopping journey across e-commerce sites and retail media platforms. In this episode, we explore: ✅ How 3D visualization increases buyer confidence and conversion rates ✅ The first B Corp certified spatial web infrastructure company ✅ Sustainability in AI-powered retail technology ✅ Real-world applications: from suitcases to social campaigns ✅ User interaction insights that influence product development ✅ Why Threedium was named one of Deloitte's top 500 fastest-growing tech companies #retailtech #3Dvisualization #retailmedia #Threedium #AWS #ecommerce #retailinnovation #productvisualization #sustainabletech *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 1
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne discussed: OpenAI’s announcement of ChatGPT Instant Checkout with Etsy ( Source ) Early data showing Costco’s extended hours for Executive Members may be a home run ( Source ) Amazon’s decision to close all Fresh stores in the UK ( Source ) Sprouts Farmers Market opening 20 in-store coffee shops in California ( Source ) DoorDash launching ‘Going Out’ with restaurant reservations and in-store rewards ( Source ) And AWS’s Daniele Stroppa also dropped by to help us hand out September’s Retail Tech Startup of the Month. There’s all that, plus dirty soda, Vegas transportation preferences, and whether Chris would spare a square in a Chinese public toilet. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #OpenAI #ChatGPT #CostcoExecutive #AmazonFresh #SproutsCoffee #DoorDashReservations #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #RetailTech #GroceryInnovation #InstantCheckout This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 1
Neil Stern, CEO of Good Food Holdings, returns to share why smart stores must solve operational problems first, how to change 50 years of consumer behavior, and why premium grocers can't compete on Wheat Thins in an agentic AI world. In this exclusive interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at Groceryshop 2025, Neil shares: ✅ "As local as possible, global when necessary"— and why it is the opposite of Lidl's strategy ✅ Why most retailers don't actually know what's on their shelves ✅ Smart carts must overcome 50 years of behavior change (like reusable bags) ✅ Real-time budget tracking reduces stress and increases basket size ✅ Operating "10 on difficulty" stores with coffee bars, sushi, barbecue stations ✅ Why retail tech consolidation is necessary and inevitable ✅ Macro challenges: consumers more cautious, units down, 3% internal inflation ✅ Agentic AI threat: differentiation beats price competition on commodities Leading five premium West Coast banners (Metropolitan Market, New Seasons Market, New Leaf Community Markets, Bristol Farms, Lazy Acres), Neil brings a pragmatic consultant's eye to retail operations. With five years as CEO, he's learned that smart store ROI comes first from internal efficiency—understanding shelf inventory, connecting to supply chain and category management—before delivering fancy customer experiences. The agentic AI insight: "If the world is about who can sell Wheat Thins the cheapest, we lose. If agentic is going to search the net and find who's cheapest, we're not going to win that game. I want to sell proprietary food service products that we do well—then I may win the agentic game." Subscribe for more smart store and retail strategy insights! #GoodFoodHoldings #SmartStores #SmartCarts #AgenticAI #RetailDifferentiation #PremiumGrocery #Groceryshop This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 30
Mustafa Bartin, CEO of Migros Turkey, shares his journey from launching online grocery in 1997 as a 23-year-old engineer to leading an $8.5 billion grocer preparing to launch digital-only banking. In this exclusive interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Studio at Groceryshop 2025, Mustafa shares: ✅ Launching online grocery in 1997—possibly Europe's first brick-and-mortar to do so ✅ Why scan-and-go failed culturally but self-service checkout thrives (even for 60-70 year olds) ✅ Turkish shopping behavior: smaller baskets, much higher frequency than US ✅ Managing 3,700 stores with 20%+ online business across multiple banners ✅ The "reverse takeover" where digital leadership took over retail management ✅ Launching digital-only banking vertical within 6 months ✅ ESL and self-service checkout rollout for cost optimization ✅ Competing against 40,000+ discount stores and pure-play online competitors ✅ Why Turkish consumers need "two free hands" for shopping Mustafa's unconventional path led to a rare "reverse takeover" where the online team took management control. With experience spanning nearly three decades in digital grocery, he offers unique insights into cultural differences in retail technology adoption and what works (and doesn't work) across markets. Discover why Turkey's grocery market—dominated by discount stores—creates unique competitive dynamics, and how Migros maintains 20%+ online penetration while preparing to become a financial services provider. Subscribe for more global grocery and retail innovation insights! #MigrosTurkey #OnlineGrocery #FinTech #SelfCheckout #OmniChannel #InternationalRetail #GroceryShop This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 30
Lauren Steinberg, EVP and Chief Digital Officer at Loblaw, reveals how Canada's largest grocer is using multi-agent AI architecture, conversational search, and strategic retail media to dominate digital grocery with just 10 people on the AI team. In this exclusive interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Studio at Groceryshop 2025, Lauren shares: ✅ Multi-agent AI combining LLMs with merchandise agents for personalization ✅ 45% of online grocery add-to-carts happen through search ✅ 10x expansion: from 1,000 to 10,000+ in-store screens with end-caps and in-aisle ✅ Syncing in-store audio and digital screens for unified messaging ✅ The Venn diagram: e-commerce needs retail media, retail media needs loyalty ✅ Building commerce on OpenAI platforms with composable infrastructure ✅ How a lean team of 10 (mostly co-ops) drives AI innovation ✅ 2,400 stores across Canada with 45% online grocery market share ✅ Managing 17 grocery banners under one digital strategy From a family legacy in grocery retail (her great-grandmother founded Steinberg's) to leading digital innovation at Loblaw, Lauren brings a unique perspective on building flexible, composable technology infrastructure that enables rapid experimentation. Discover how Loblaw uses LLMs to analyze behavioral and transactional data to create rich customer profiles, then runs those through merchandise agents to personalize product recommendations while respecting dietary preferences and lifestyle choices. Learn why search "keeps Lauren up at night and wakes her up in the morning" and how Loblaw is preparing for answer engines like ChatGPT and Perplexity to change grocery shopping forever. Subscribe for more AI and retail innovation insights! #Loblaw #AgenticAI #ConversationalSearch #RetailMedia #GroceryTech #AIPersonalization #Groceryshop This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 30
Liz Roche, VP of Media and Measurement at Albertsons Media Collective, reveals how the retail media giant is expanding into full-funnel activation and using rigorous measurement to prove business outcomes that matter. In this exclusive interview, recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at Groceryshop 2025, Liz shares: ✅ Three-channel strategy with CPG spend matching: influencers, in-store screens, on-site ads ✅ Over 2,200 stores across 13 of top 15 DMAs reaching 47 million loyal shoppers ✅ Moving from vanity metrics to KPIs tied to category growth and brand LTV ✅ Using matched market and synthetic control methodologies for sales lift ✅ Multi-cell testing to find channel combination arbitrage (1+1=3) ✅ In-house measurement capabilities: attribution, marketing science, research analytics ✅ Digital out-of-home and last-mile opportunities in grocery ✅ Screens in high-dwell areas: deli, meat counter, pharmacy With experience spanning Meta, LinkedIn, publishing, and agencies before joining Albertsons nearly a year ago, Liz brings a unique perspective on retail media measurement. Discover how Albertsons leverages scale and divisional structure to run sophisticated experiments isolating variables and proving incremental sales lift. Learn why Albertsons believes "when our clients are winning, we're winning" and how that philosophy drives their focus on moving units, not just metrics. Subscribe for more retail media and measurement insights! #RetailMedia #Albertsons #MarketingMeasurement #InfluencerMarketing #SalesLift #Groceryshop This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 30
Prabash Coswatte,, COO of Heritage Grocers Group, reveals the operational secrets behind running four regional grocery banners and why consolidation is the future for mid-tier retailers. In this exclusive interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at Groceryshop 2025, Prabash shares: ✅ Operating Cardenas, Los Altos, Tony's, and El Rancho as distinct regional banners ✅ The "groceraunt" concept—stores as part grocery, part restaurant, full theater ✅ Making tortillas from corn kernel to masa to chips in a single day in-store ✅ Weekly sales recap emails that drive fierce store-level competition ✅ Fresh item management technology delivering shrink savings AND sales lifts ✅ Pricing agility strategies in uncertain economic times ✅ Why regional grocery consolidation is inevitable and necessary ✅ Balancing technology investment with customer-first operations From his 18-year retail journey starting at 99 Cents Only Stores to becoming COO overseeing operations, manufacturing, and logistics at a $3 billion regional grocer, Prabash brings hard-won insights into what it takes to compete against giants like Walmart and Kroger. Discover how Heritage maintains what makes each banner special while achieving back-office efficiency, and why fresh-forward merchandising with full butcher shops and in-store kitchens creates the differentiation regional grocers need. Subscribe for more grocery and retail insights from industry leaders! #HeritageGrocers #RegionalGrocery #GroceryOperations #RetailConsolidation #FreshRetail #Groceryshop This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 30
Justin Weinstein, EVP and Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer at Giant Eagle, reveals the 95-year-old family-owned grocer's massive $100 million "Because It Matters" investment strategy and new brand positioning. In this exclusive interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at Groceryshop 2025, Justin shares: ✅ The $100M investment split across everyday value, quality/service, and modern stores ✅ How GLP-1 medications are reshaping grocery merchandising and protein assortment ✅ The LEAP retail media network (Loyalty, Experiences, Audiences, Partnerships) ✅ Customer-back versus monetization-back approach to retail media ✅ Training investment in butchers, bakers, cheesemongers, and cake decorators ✅ Regional grocery strategy for price-conscious consumers ✅ Being there for life's moments that matter—from graduations to Thanksgiving From his seven-plus years at Giant Eagle spanning digital, loyalty, personalization, and customer experience roles, Justin brings unique insights into how regional grocers can compete in today's challenging environment. Discover how Giant Eagle is reinvesting in physical stores while adapting to health trends like GLP-1s that are driving massive shifts in protein demand. Learn how Giant Eagle is connecting merchandising, marketing, retail media, and e-commerce into one unified commercial strategy focused on what matters most to customers. Subscribe for more grocery and retail insights from industry leaders! #gianteagle #GroceryRetail #RetailMedia #CustomerExperience #RegionalGrocery #GLP1 #Groceryshop This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 30
Joel Rampoldt, CEO of Lidl US, makes his first appearance on Omni Talk to reveal how the European discount grocery powerhouse is approaching the American market with fresh-forward products and unbeatable value. In this exclusive interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at GroceryShop 2025, Joel shares: ✅ Lidl's unique position as part of the Schwarz Group (4th largest retailer in the world) ✅ Why they lead with fresh produce, bakery, and protein—not cans and boxes ✅ Their 190-store footprint strategy across the East Coast ✅ The 13,000 square foot curated format that gets customers in and out quickly ✅ Electronic shelf label innovation saving 22 hours per store per week ✅ Building multi-billion dollar private brands Americans can trust ✅ The "my kids will eat it test" for private brand success From a surprise dinner invitation to becoming CEO, Joel shares his journey and vision for bringing European discount grocery excellence to the US. Discover how Lidl differentiates on quality and price with items like their famous 49-cent imported French croissants, specialty European chocolates, and authentic Italian cheeses—all while maintaining "best quality, best price." Learn how Lidl balances being "as global as possible, as local as necessary" in the competitive US grocery market. Subscribe for more grocery and retail insights from industry CEOs! #LidlUS #DiscountGrocery #PrivateBrand #GroceryInnovation #RetailTechnology #Groceryshop This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 30
Harvey Ma, VP and GM of Retail Media at Sam's Club MAP, reveals how the company is pioneering the retail experience network (RXN) - moving beyond traditional retail media to create measurable, memorable experiences for members. In this exclusive interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Studio at Groceryshop 2025, Harvey shares: ✅ Why Sam's Club MAP transformed from a retail media network to a retail experience network ✅ The NASCAR race car strategy that drove member acquisition in Nashville ✅ How their new app platform enables dynamic retail media experiences ✅ The role of AI and agentic technology in retail media's future ✅ Innovative measurement strategies for experiential marketing ✅ The balance between Scan and Go technology and personal cashier interactions With 15 years in retail media, Harvey brings unparalleled insights into measurement innovation, experiential marketing, and the future of AI in retail. From interactive in-store experiences to agent-to-agent transactions, discover how Sam's Club MAP is setting new standards for member engagement. Subscribe for more retail tech insights from industry leaders! #RetailMedia #SamsClub #RetailInnovation #AI #GroceryShop #ExperientialMarketing #RetailTechnology This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 27
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, A&M’s Joanna Rangarajan and Mohit Mohal joined Chris and Anne to discuss Nike x Skims partnership implications, Jaden Smith's appointment as Christian Louboutin's first men's creative director, AI search queries in daily life, and more! Our panel analyzes which brand benefits more from the Nike-Skims collab, the generational shift in luxury creative leadership, and shares personal AI search experiences. Plus, Star Wars movie plans and weekend cooking adventures! For the full Fast Five episode head here #NikexSkims #ChristianLouboutin #JadenSmith #AI #ecommerce #retailfulfillment This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 27
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, A&M’s Joanna Rangarajan and Mohit Mohal joined Chris and Anne to discuss Kroger's decision to bring back paper coupons alongside their digital offerings. Our experts debate whether this move represents smart customer listening or a step backward, exploring the psychology of tangible deals and how this serves different customer segments. With 40% of consumers preferring paper coupons for their tangible feel, we analyze this surprising retail strategy! For the full Fast Five episode head here #Kroger #ecommerce #retailfulfillment #Coupons #Grocery This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 27
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, A&M’s Joanna Rangarajan and Mohit Mohal joined Chris and Anne to analyze Sephora's launch of My Sephora Storefront, giving influencers customizable digital storefronts. With 70-75% of beauty purchases influenced by social media, we explore how this platform eliminates friction for creators and followers while positioning Sephora for AI-powered discovery. Our panel discusses the benefits for all parties and whether this move is transformational or evolutionary! For the full Fast Five episode head here #Sephora #ecommerce #retailfulfillment #MySephoraStorefront #Creator #influencers This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 27
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, A&M’s Joanna Rangarajan and Mohit Mohal joined Chris and Anne to explore Google's major move to integrate Gemini AI into Chrome for all users. Our retail experts discuss how retailers should prepare for generative engine optimization (GEO), the shift from traditional SEO, and strategies for succeeding across multiple AI platforms. Learn why diversification is key and how this chess move positions Google against ChatGPT and other AI search engines! For the full Fast Five episode head here #AI #GEO #SEO #ecommerce #retailfulfillment #gemini #Google #AIintegration This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 27
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, A&M’s Joanna Rangarajan and Mohit Mohal joined Chris and Anne to debate Amazon's partnership with Winn Dixie for grocery delivery in Florida. Our panel explores whether regional grocers should partner with their biggest competitive threat, the strategic implications for both companies, and how this fits into Amazon's broader grocery expansion. From market reach to brand control, we analyze all angles of this controversial partnership! For the full Fast Five episode head here #Amazon #Grocery #WinnDixie #ecommerce #retailfulfillment This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 27
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, A&M’s Joanna Rangarajan and Mohit Mohal joined Chris and Anne to analyze Walmart's groundbreaking move to deliver refrigerated and reconstituted prescriptions nationwide. From GLP-1s to insulin and pediatric medications, discover why our experts scored this move between 8-11 out of 10 for significance. We explore the convenience factor, competitive implications for CVS and Walgreens, and how this positions Walmart in the massive healthcare market. Tune in for expert insights on retail's healthcare evolution! For the full Fast Five episode head here #ecommerce #retailfulfillment #Walmart #rx #pharmacy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 25
Join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for an exclusive preview of the most innovative grocery technologies showcased at Groceryshop 2025. From AI-powered price comparison platforms to intelligent in-store audio advertising, discover the cutting-edge solutions helping grocers optimize operations, reduce costs, and enhance customer experiences. Featured companies and innovations: Grocery Dealz - The "Gas Buddy for groceries" revolutionizing price transparency Buncha - Neighborhood-based delivery solutions reducing last-mile costs Fintech - Scan-based trading technology freeing up cash flow Gain - AI employees transforming supplier negotiations Constructor - Advanced search and discovery powered by machine learning Jukee AI - Real-time AI-generated in-store audio advertising Whether you're a grocery executive, retail technology professional, or industry enthusiast, this deep dive into grocery innovation will give you the insights needed to stay ahead of rapidly evolving consumer expectations and prepare you for Groceryshop 2025. #GroceryTech #RetailInnovation #GroceryShop2024 #FoodTech #RetailTechnology #AI #SupplyChain #LastMileDelivery #PriceComparison #RetailMedia This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 25
In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, David Dorf, Global Head of Retail Industry Solutions at AWS, joins Omni Talk to break down the explosive growth of agentic commerce and what retailers need to know for the upcoming holiday season. From Amazon's "Buy for Me" to Google's shopping agents, David reveals how the "agentic wars" have begun and are moving faster than anyone predicted. He shares critical insights on optimizing for both humans and agents, the shift from SEO to GEO (Generative Engine Optimization), and why retailers need to think strategically about inbound, outbound, and on-site agent strategies. 🔑 Topics covered: - The rapid acceleration of AI agents in retail over the past 6 months - How to prepare for a holiday season dominated by agent-driven shopping - Three essential agent strategies: inbound, outbound, and on-site - Technical infrastructure needed for successful agentic commerce - Why retailers need Chief AI Officers and domain-specific LLMs - The future of agentic commerce and its potential to disrupt retail like e-commerce did in the 1990s 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #agenticcommerce #retailai #aws #retailtech #omnitalk #ecommerce #aiagents #retailinnovation #daviddorf #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 24
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , A&M’s Joanna Rangarajan and Mohit Mohal joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Walmart’s nationwide refrigerated prescription delivery – The retail giant becomes the first to deliver refrigerated and reconstituted prescriptions alongside groceries in one order, including insulin, GLP-1s, and pediatric medications ( Source ) Amazon launching online Winn Dixie grocery delivery in Florida – Amazon now offers the full Winn Dixie assortment with over 16,000 items for delivery in Jacksonville and Orlando areas ( Source ) Google adding Gemini to Chrome for all users – Google rolls out AI capabilities to Chrome browsers on Mac, Windows, and mobile devices as it pushes to bolster AI search capabilities ( Source ) Sephora launching My Sephora Storefront – The beauty retailer debuts a new affiliate platform giving influencers customizable digital storefronts and commission opportunities ( Source ) Kroger bringing back paper coupons – The grocery chain reintroduces physical coupon flyers alongside digital deals, featuring a single barcode for easy scanning at checkout ( Source ) And AWS’s David Dorff also dropped by for 5 Insightful Minutes on how retailers should prepare for AI-powered shopping agents. There’s all that, plus discussions on Nike’s Skims collaboration, Jaden Smith’s appointment as Christian Louboutin’s creative director, and how long it will take Mohit to run out and see the new Mandalorian movie. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WalmartRX #AmazonGrocery #GoogleGemini #RetailTech #SephoraInfluencers #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #AgenticAI #RetailInnovation #KrogerCoupons #RetailTrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 20
The lightning round from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, features Chris and Anne's French-themed rapid-fire preferences while broadcasting live from Paris. From pastry choices to historical emperors, it's a fun cultural exploration. 29:21 – Croissant vs pain au chocolat debate 30:02 – Langoustines vs escargot preferences 30:49 – Paris Metro vs London Tube comparison 31:22 – Napoleon vs Genghis Khan emperor choice For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #paris #nrfeurope #french #culture #travel This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 20
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores survey data showing nearly half of AI search users prefer these tools over Google. Chris and Anne discuss implications for retail discovery and the coming agentic AI revolution. 25:56 – 45% prefer AI tools over Google for clarity and speed 27:11 – Agentic AI's potential amplification effect 28:19 – Holiday shopping behavior predictions For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #aisearch #google #chatgpt #ecommerce #consumertrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 20
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, analyzes PacSun's groundbreaking Youth Advisory Council featuring top influencers. Chris and Anne debate whether this represents genuine youth engagement or clever marketing, and what it means for retail's future. 20:16 – Industry-first youth advisory structure 22:13 – Influencer-as-advisor model advantages 24:20 – CEO Brieane Olson's culture-building success For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #pacsun #youthmarketing #influencers #genz #retail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 20
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, examines Starbucks' deployment of computer vision technology to track inventory and improve order fulfillment. Chris and Anne discuss how this addresses the chain's persistent speed and stock-out challenges. 15:28 – Computer vision deployment across North America 17:17 – The four-minute order fulfillment challenge 18:07 – Reliability as Starbucks' core value proposition For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #starbucks #computervision #AI #inventory #efficiency This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 20
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, explores Walgreens' strategic move into party supplies following Party City's closure. Chris and Anne analyze the $2 billion market opportunity and why former Party City executive Tracey Koller's merchandising expertise makes this expansion particularly smart. 10:22 – The $2 billion party supply opportunity 11:17 – Emergency shopping use cases and convenience factor 13:01 – Tracy Kolder's merchandising background advantage For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #walgreens #partysupplies #partycity #convenience #retail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 20
This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, dives into Kroger's strategic review of its automated fulfillment network. Chris and Anne discuss why interim CEO Ron Sargent is conducting a site-by-site analysis of Ocado-powered facilities and what this means for the future of grocery automation in America. 06:18 – Kroger's automated fulfillment challenges 07:48 – Urban density vs. rural viability analysis 08:54 – Implications for Amazon's grocery strategy For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/xSLvyg5Sze4 #kroger #groceryautomation #ocado #ecommerce #retailfulfillment This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18
EXCLUSIVE: Sam's Club's Chief Experience Officer Diana Marshall reveals how "exit arches" use computer vision to eliminate receipt checks chainwide, plus complete app/website redesign details. Recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio, From NRF Europe, discover Sam's Club's rapid innovation cycle: ✅ Exit arches deployed chainwide in under 1 year eliminating receipt checks ✅ Complete website/app redesign addressing speed and personalization ✅ New stores with 6-7x larger back rooms supporting 18% e-commerce growth ✅ Member feedback loop driving innovation from problem to solution ✅ Holiday strategy including travel packages and curated gift guides ✅ Experimental philosophy maintained since 1983 founding The breakthrough: Computer vision works for both Scan and Go users AND traditional register checkout customers. 🎯 Perfect for: Retail technologists, membership business operators, customer experience professionals, and computer vision enthusiasts. #SamsClub #ExitArches #ComputerVision #RetailInnovation #MembershipRetail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18
EXCLUSIVE: Kiko Milano's CEO Simone Dominici reveals how customer feedback led to breakthrough one-handed lipstick innovation and shares ambitious US expansion plans. Recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF Europe, we discover how the Italian beauty disruptor operates across 73 countries: ✅ One-handed lipstick designed for social media content creation ✅ Hybrid US expansion strategy across stores, e-commerce, Amazon, TikTok Shop, and department stores ✅ Partnership with Reliance Beauty for India market entry (Delhi stores opening October 2025) ✅ Unified commerce enabling beauty advisors to complete transactions via iPhone ✅ AI pricing 450+ new products annually across global markets ✅ Evolution from mass retailer to global beauty icon The innovation: "You don't want to leave your iPhone to uncap your lip gloss" while recording content or during interviews. 🎯 Perfect for: Beauty industry professionals, retail expansion strategists, innovation managers, and social commerce enthusiasts. #KikoMilano #BeautyInnovation #GlobalExpansion #UnifiedCommerce #SocialBeauty This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18
EXCLUSIVE: Carrefour's Innovation Director Helene Labaume reveals how one of the world's largest retailers (90+ billion revenue) manages breakthrough technology adoption across 40+ countries. Recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio on NRF Europe's final day, we discover Carrefour's systematic innovation approach: ✅ Why they invested in "immature" computer vision 5 years ago (now scaling to stores) ✅ Its venture fund's 4 strategic investment streams ✅ Smart glasses "deep dive" with use cases for consumers AND associates ✅ AI product formulation: improving recipes and creating vegan alternatives ✅ CEO support as the secret weapon for innovation communication ✅ Future retail vision: AI + Technology + Human connection The philosophy: "If you see a connected barbecue launched by Carrefour, it won't be us"—they focus on disruption, not gimmicks. 🎯 Perfect for: Innovation managers, retail executives, VC professionals, and anyone interested in long-term technology adoption strategies. #Carrefour #GlobalRetail #RetailInnovation #ComputerVision #SmartGlasses This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18
EXCLUSIVE: Douglas Group's Chief Customer Officer Philipp Andrée reveals how teenagers are revolutionizing premium beauty with product expertise that shocks industry veterans. Recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF Europe, we discover how Europe's largest premium beauty retailer leads both online AND offline: ✅ Why groups of 15-year-olds "take over" Douglas stores (in the best way) ✅ AI virtual shopping assistants trained by 19,000 beauty advisors ✅ How 62 million loyalty members enable personalization at scale ✅ User-generated content strategy using micro-influencers and store employees ✅ Beauty mirrors and skin analyzers working across all channels ✅ "Omnipresence" philosophy: ecosystem first, purchases second The transformation: Gen Z's deep product knowledge and TikTok engagement creates "fans for life" driving natural industry growth. 🎯 Perfect for: Beauty industry professionals, retail marketers, personalization experts, and anyone tracking Gen Z consumer behavior. #DouglasGroup #PremiumBeauty #AIPersonalization #GenZBeauty #BeautyTech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18
EXCLUSIVE: REWE Digital's Anika Vooes discusses how REWE successfully iterated autonomous store experimentation into success by moving technology interactions from entrance to exit. Recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF Europe, discover the innovation philosophy behind some of Europe's largest retail experiments: ✅ Why "lighthouse projects" illuminate innovation value for entire organizations ✅ The customer behavior insight that changed everything in autonomous stores ✅ "People earning today's money vs. tomorrow's money" innovation justification ✅ Why focusing on 2 big projects beats managing hundreds of initiatives ✅ Test-fail-learn-adapt cycle that turns setbacks into breakthroughs ✅ Corporate-startup partnership challenges and solutions The transformation: Moving from complex entry scanning to magical exit checkout boosted adoption by aligning with natural shopping behavior. 🎯 Perfect for: Innovation managers, retail technologists, corporate venture teams, and anyone interested in systematic innovation approaches. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 17
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne discussed: Kroger’s evaluation of its automated e-commerce fulfillment network ( Source ) Walgreens dedicating in-store space to party supplies and expanding assortment ( Source ) Starbucks deploying computer vision technology to track in-store inventory ( Source ) Pacsun announcing the formation of an industry-first youth advisory council ( Source ) Nearly half of AI search users preferring AI tools over Google ( Source ) There’s all that, plus croissants versus pain au chocolat, escargot versus languostines, and whether the Paris Metro beats the London Tube. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #KrogerAutomation #WalgreensPartySupplies #StarbucksAI #PacsunYouth #AISearch #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #RetailTech #ComputerVision #AutomatedFulfillment This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 17
EXCLUSIVE: Dunkin' Benelux's Nacho Carnes reveals how they transformed bankruptcy into rapid growth through flavor-focused strategy and data-driven personalization. From the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF Europe, Nacho shares the remarkable turnaround story with us including: ✅ How "flavor as strategy" differentiates them from competitors ✅ Dubai chocolate donuts and donut printing for personalization ✅ Individual QR code promotions based on customer engagement levels ✅ First-time Digital Out of Home and Connected TV campaigns ✅ Why incrementality beats attribution for measuring true ROI ✅ Breaking down data silos to create unified customer profiles ✅ Company ownership strategy vs. franchising for data control The transformation: From bankruptcy to weekly growth through cultural research, technology infrastructure, and personalized customer experiences. 🎯 Perfect for: QSR operators, franchise leaders, data strategists, and anyone interested in post-crisis business transformation. #DunkinBenelux #QSRStrategy #FlavorStrategy #DataPersonalization #RetailTransformation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 17
EXCLUSIVE: MC Sonae's Head of Tech Experimentation, Rafael Pires, reveals how Portugal's leading retailer has been pioneering retail innovation for 9 years straight. Rafael Pires shares insights live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF Europe on: ✅ Why "gut feeling" often beats complex evaluation matrices ✅ How they filter 100+ annual tech initiatives down to executable pilots ✅ The breakthrough in-store analytics that tracks customers like e-commerce ✅ Why autonomous robots + AI will transform retail in the next 10 years ✅ How to balance moonshot experiments with incremental improvements ✅ The culture that allows failure and learning from "hype" technologies Rare behind-the-scenes look at how a major retailer actually makes technology decisions and manages innovation at scale. 🎯 Essential for: Innovation managers, retail technologists, startup founders, and anyone interested in systematic experimentation. #RetailInnovation #TechnologyExperimentation #MCSonae #InStoreAnalytics #RetailTech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 16
EXCLUSIVE: Instacart's VP of Commercial Partnerships Ryan Hamburger breaks down the metrics that matter and reveals how the company is preparing for an agentic AI future. Recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF Europe in Paris, Ryan shares insights on: ✅ Why affordability is reshaping grocery delivery strategy ✅ The 10% growth advantage for retailers with in-store pricing ✅ How Instacart delivers 70-75% incremental sales (not just channel shifting) ✅ European expansion plans with Aldi and Morrison's partnerships ✅ Why they were "one of the first to launch the operator model with OpenAI" ✅ The "hurry up and wait" reality of preparing for agentic shopping Key revelation: "We're not a retailer. We never want to be a retailer" - learn why this philosophy drives their partnership success. 🎯 Essential for: Grocery executives, partnership managers, retail technologists, and anyone tracking the future of AI-powered commerce. #Instacart #GroceryDelivery #RetailPartnerships #AgenticAI #RetailTechnology This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 16
EXCLUSIVE: NRF President & CEO Matt Shay reveals what topics are dominating every retail boardroom conversation and shares his outlook for the industry's future. In this must-watch interview recorded live from the VusionGroup studio at NRF Europe's inaugural show in Paris, Matt breaks down: ✅ Why retail is outperforming growth forecasts (and the hidden reason why) ✅ The #1, #2, AND #3 priority for every retail CEO right now ✅ How job market shifts directly impact consumer spending ✅ The "antiquated" perception of retail that needs to change ✅ What the top 10% consuming 50%+ means for retailers Key insights on consumer behavior, and retail innovation that every industry professional needs to hear. 🎯 Perfect for: Retail executives, policy professionals, industry analysts, and anyone tracking economic trends affecting consumer spending. #NRF #RetailIndustry #RetailInnovation #ConsumerTrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 15
Go behind the scenes at Walmart’s New York Fashion Week pop-up with Denise Incandela, EVP of Fashion at Walmart, and designer Brandon Maxwell, Creative Director for Scoop and Free Assembly, and the designer behind his own celebrated luxury brand. Discover how Walmart is democratizing fashion through elevated private brands, exclusive collaborations, and experiential retail moments in the heart of NYC. From 100% inventory growth this season to Free Assembly rolling out in every Walmart store nationwide and Scoop expanding to half the fleet, Walmart’s fashion transformation is reaching millions more customers than ever before - all at price points 3–4x lower than comparable brands. Key highlights include: the story behind Brandon Maxwell’s limited-edition $98 blazer, Walmart’s strategy to double store exposure for Scoop and Free Assembly, and how fashion at Walmart is redefining perceptions… making style accessible to all. Recorded live in the Meatpacking District during NYFW SS25. #WalmartFashion #WalmartStyle #NYFW2025 #BrandonMaxwell #ScoopStyle #FreeAssembly #AccessibleLuxury #StyleForAll #DemocratizingFashion #RetailInnovation #FutureOfRetail #AmericanFashion This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 13
The lightning round covers fashion films, Ariana Grande's talent level, and AI-generated movies, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. From Chris's surprising Zoolander pick over Devil Wears Prada to Anne's rating of Ariana Grande as a perfect 10, plus discussion of OpenAI's $30 million AI movie "Critters" and the upcoming Spinal Tap sequel. Quick-hit entertainment takes that connect back to retail and culture. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/1E4Lsj0iSMc #retailnews #retailtech #arianagrande #zoolander #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 13
Office Depot launches a nationwide 15-minute pickup promise with $15 guarantees, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. President Kevin Moffitt positions this as the ultimate convenience play, offering $15 coupons when orders aren't ready in time. Chris worries about operational strain on store teams, while Anne questions whether this is primarily a marketing hook building on their existing 20-minute capabilities. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/1E4Lsj0iSMc #retailnews #retailtech #OfficeDepot #Pickup #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 13
Kroger unveils its "deli of the future" in a new Kentucky marketplace store, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. The 6,500 square foot prepared food section features open kitchens, made-to-order sandwiches, and premium offerings like Murray's cheese and Snow Fox sushi. Anne sees potential for additional trip occasions, while Chris questions whether this innovation addresses Kroger's real challenges with their existing store base. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/1E4Lsj0iSMc #retailnews #retailtech #krogerdigitalcoupons #future #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 13
Albertsons introduces three new retail media channels with investment matching programs, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. The grocer's Media Collective now offers organic influencers, premium in-store screens, and enhanced on-site placements, plus matching CPG investments with enterprise media dollars. Chris and Anne analyze the competitive implications and strategic hooks for competing against Amazon and Walmart's retail media dominance. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/1E4Lsj0iSMc #retailnews #retailtech #albertsons #grocery #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 13
Gap Inc. announces a major beauty and accessories expansion across all brands, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. With Old Navy leading the charge in 150 stores, the company sees beauty as a "sleeper category." Chris and Anne debate whether this diversification strategy makes sense, examining past failures from Lululemon, Athleta, and Zara in beauty, while considering the potential for accessories success. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/1E4Lsj0iSMc #retailnews #retailtech #Gap #Beauty #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 13
Sam's Club has rolled out a major app redesign featuring global intent centers, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. The new presentation layer allows customers to choose fulfillment options upfront and offers enhanced retail media capabilities. Chris dives deep into why this strategy perfectly positions Sam's Club for warehouse retail dominance and how it leverages Walmart's fulfillment network for competitive advantage. Anne explores the implications for membership retail and personalized advertising opportunities. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/1E4Lsj0iSMc #retailnews #retailtech #samsclub #app #retailmediaweb #Redesign #retailinnovation #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 10
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne discussed: Sam’s Club’s brilliant app redesign — Anne and I break down why this move is so genius and what other retailers can and cannot learn from it. ( Source ) Gap’s beauty gamble — The company wants to expand into beauty and accessories across all brands, starting with Old Navy. Is this Richard Dickson’s next stroke of genius, or are they about to learn why Nintendo doesn’t sell makeup? ( Source ) Albertsons’ retail media evolution — Three new channels including influencer matching and premium in-store screens. We explore whether this “evolve or die” mentality is what separates winners from losers in retail media. ( Source ) Kroger’s “deli of the future” — A 6,500-square-foot prepared food section that’s supposed to revolutionize grocery. Anne loves the concept, but I’m asking the hard questions about scalability and architectural debt. ( Source ) Office Depot’s 15-minute promise — They’re guaranteeing pickup in 15 minutes or you get a $15 coupon but will this idea put too much strain on the store team? ( Source ) There’s all that, plus we announce this month’s OmniStar award winner Katherine Dela Cruz Paulk from Fabletics in partnership with Quorso, and dive into everything from New York Fashion Week to whether AI-generated movies are worth your theater ticket money. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #SamsClub #GapBeauty #RetailTech #KrogerDeli #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #RetailMedia #OfficeDepot #RetailInnovation #Fabletics #Quorso This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 6
Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris and Anne tackle viral grocery shopping trends, discuss Nestlé's leadership chaos, share parenting hacks for school prep, and debate cool-sounding French names. From the "5-4-3-2-1" grocery method to bus ride realities, it's rapid-fire retail commentary at its finest. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #Grocery #BTS #Hack #Parenting #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 6
Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Waitrose pilots AI-powered smart trolleys in Bracknell, becoming the first UK supermarket to test the technology. Chris and Anne remain skeptical about customer adoption hurdles and question why retailers are first in the water on unproven smart cart solutions. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #waitrose #trolley #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 6
Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Lululemon appoints AI veteran Ranju Das as its first Chief AI and Technology Officer, signaling a major strategic shift. Chris and Anne debate whether putting "AI" in his title shows innovation or reveals that Lululemon is lost from a leadership perspective. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #lululemon #fabletics #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail #leadership This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 6
Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Macy's becomes the first major retailer to partner with Amazon's retail ad service, allowing advertisers to buy sponsored product ads through Amazon's platform. Chris and Anne analyze whether this short-term revenue grab compromises Macy's long-term independence. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #macys #amazon #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail #ads #revenue This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 6
Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. After eight years, Amazon finally absorbs Whole Foods corporate employees into Amazon teams, eliminating the grocery chain's distinct culture and benefits. Chris and Anne debate whether this signals Amazon Grocery's desperation or sets up bigger strategic moves ahead. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #wholefoods #amazon #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail #Grocery This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 6
Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Walmart accelerates marketplace growth with expanded next-day delivery for third-party sellers across major US cities including LA, New York, and Chicago. Chris and Anne discuss how Walmart is "out-Amazoning Amazon" with 95% of the country deliverable in under three hours and their "you win, we win" philosophy for marketplace success. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/838xKELS_nI #retailnews #retailtech #walmart #amazon #retailmedia #ecommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #customerexperience #retailtrends #aiinretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 5
Go behind the scenes with Walmart's Chief Merchandising Officer Latriece Watkins and VP Category Lead of Walmart Marketplace Michael Mosser, as they reveal how Walmart's omnichannel assortment strategy is set to redefiine American retailing. From half a billion marketplace SKUs to same-day delivery reaching 95% of America, discover the three-pillar platform approach that's redefining how sellers grow with Walmart marketplace. Key insights include: AI-powered merchandising tools, real success stories from Dreo and Levi's, and how Walmart's platform creates multiple growth pathways for sellers. Plus, exclusive details on partnerships with StockX and Rebag targeting high-income customers, and what's next for Walmart's marketplace expansion. Recorded live at Walmart's Marketplace Seller Summit in San Diego. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 4
In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, Julian Mills, CEO of Quorso, joins Omni Talk to share key insights from their recent Intelligent Management Forum, where 30 retail executives from major grocery, convenience, and apparel chains gathered to discuss the future of store operations. Julian reveals retail's "iPhone moment" – how intelligent systems are replacing overwhelming task management with personalized, data-driven work prioritization. From detasking stores to evolving field leadership roles, Julian breaks down the practical reality of implementing AI in retail operations. From eliminating redundant tasks across more communication channels than one can count to using data instead of visual checks, Julian explains how retailers are finally focusing associates on what matters most: serving customers and driving results. 🔑 Topics covered: - Retail's "iPhone moment" with intelligent task prioritization - The four types of wasteful tasks retailers send to stores - Why "single pane of glass" is aspirational but 70-80% achievable - How field leaders are evolving from diagnosticians to coaches - Balancing AI automation with human oversight in operations - Using deterministic models for recalls vs. LLMs for personalized solutions 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #retailoperations #storemanagement #retailai #intelligentmanagement #retailtech #omnitalk #quorso #retailinnovation #storetechnology #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 3
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart launching next-day delivery for third-party marketplace orders in major cities like LA, NYC, Chicago, Houston and Atlanta, as the retailer aims to have 95% of the country deliverable in under 3 hours ( Source ) Amazon’s plan to extend new employment offers to Whole Foods’ U.S. corporate employees starting November 10th, absorbing their merchandising and marketing teams after 8 years since the acquisition ( Source ) Macy’s Media Network partnering with Amazon Retail Ad Service, becoming the first major retailer to let advertisers buy sponsored product ads through Amazon’s platform ( Source ) Lululemon naming AI veteran Ranju Das as its first Chief AI and Technology Officer, bringing decades of experience from Amazon, OptumLabs, and Swan AI Studios ( Source ) Waitrose unveiling AI-powered smart trolleys in a UK pilot, featuring clip-on devices from Israeli firm Shopic that track products and enable cart-side checkout ( Source ) And Julian Mills from Quorso stopped by for 5 insightful minutes on lessons learned from Quorso’s recently held Intelligent Store Management Forum There’s all that, plus lightning round discussions on grocery shopping hacks, the best French names, back-to-school parenting tips, and whether Vogue’s new editor can keep an assistant longer than Murphy Brown. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WalmartMarketplace #AmazonWholeFoods #MacysRetailMedia #LululemonAI #SmartCarts #RetailTech #OmniTalk #RetailPodcast #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 30
Ben Miller shares his Oasis reunion experience, thoughts on Arsenal's 15-year-old sensation Max Dowman, and reveals the ultimate Vegas conference hack for Shoptalk and Groceryshop attendees. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #Oasis #MaxDowman #Soccer #Football #Shoptalk #Groceryshop #Arsenal This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 30
Fabletics achieves 95-97% fill rates and 20% sales boosts with comprehensive RFID rollout. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Shoptalk’s Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to explore why RFID is becoming the GPS moment for apparel retail and why every retailer should be paying attention. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #Fabletics #RFID #RetailTech #GPS #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 30
Walmart Canada deploys Klarna's buy-now-pay-later service across 400+ stores. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Shoptalk’s Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to debate whether BNPL will become ubiquitous in stores within three years or if credit cards will capture this market instead. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #Walmart #Klarna #BNPL #Canada #Creditcards This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 30
Best Buy officially launches its third-party marketplace with 500 vetted sellers. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Shoptalk’s Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to discuss what Best Buy needs to do right to succeed and how this could create new opportunities for Geek Squad upselling. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #BestBuy #GeekSquad #ThirdParty #marketplace This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 30
Hertz Car Sales launches on Amazon Autos, bringing thousands of pre-owned vehicles to the marketplace. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, Quorso, Shoptalk’s Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to discuss how this partnership could finally disrupt the car buying experience and what it means for the future of automotive retail. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #retailstrategy #Amazon #Hertz #preownedvehicles This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 30
Target names Michael Fiddelke as next CEO in a move that's sparking industry debate. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, Shoptalk’s Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to break down why this internal succession might be the wrong move for the struggling retailer. Chris argues this could be "The Fiddelke Faux Pas" while Anne offers a contrarian view on why an internal candidate might be Target's only hope. For the full #fastfive episode head here: https://youtu.be/M4FL5AO9AAM #Target #CEO #MichaelFiddelke #Debate #Retail #Strategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 28
AWS’s Daniele Stroppa, Worldwide Technical Lead for AWS partners in retail, joins us to announce August’s retail tech startup of the month: Vody. Daniele breaks down how Vody makes data ready for AI and AI agents through their intelligent data infrastructure solutions. Unlike typical approaches that tackle product discoverability with chatbots or search improvements, Vody addresses the challenge at its foundation – the data itself. Their sophisticated system transforms messy product catalogs into AI-optimized data using state-of-the-art multimodal large language models specifically fine-tuned for retail. 🔑 Topics covered: Why Vody stands out with their data-first approach to AI readiness How they structure data from diverse sources (PDFs, spreadsheets, etc.) and inject real-world context The impressive 10% conversion rate improvements their customers are seeing Why tackling data quality at the foundation benefits search, recommendations, marketing, and merchandising How Vody works with existing customer data without expensive migrations From understanding trends to identifying perfect Father’s Day gifts, Vody’s AI-optimized data helps retailers stay one step ahead of their customers while driving real business results across multiple areas of their operations. 🎧 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights and to be the first, each month, to find out who wins retail tech startup of the month! Music by hooksounds.com #retailtech #AI #ecommerce #dataoptimization #omnitalk #retailinnovation #vody #retailpodcast #aws #productdiscoverability Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 27
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Shoptalk’s Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Target’s CEO Succession – Michael Fiddelke named as next CEO, sparking debate about internal vs. external leadership choices ( Source ) Hertz Car Sales on Amazon Autos – Fleet dealer partnership expands used car marketplace with thousands of pre-owned vehicles in major markets ( Source ) Best Buy’s Third-Party Marketplace Launch – 500 vetted sellers bring tech accessories and seasonal items to expand product selection ( Source ) Walmart Canada BNPL with Klarna – Buy now, pay later comes to 400+ Canadian stores for purchases over $50 CAD ( Source ) Fabletics RFID Rollout – Gray Orange’s G Store solution achieves 95-97% fill rates and 20% sales boost across 100+ locations ( Source ) And AWS’s Daniele Stroppa also dropped by to help us hand hand August’s award for Retail Startup of the Month to Vody for its AI-optimized e-commerce data solutions. There’s all that, plus Ben Miller’s Oasis concert review, Arsenal’s 15-year-old phenom Max Dohman, and whether coffee should always be “small and purposeful.” P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot P.P.P.S. Get your discounted admission now with Omni Talk! Retailers and brands save 20% with codes: For Shoptalk Fall, use code RBOMNIT20 (Link: https://stfall25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=cmJvbW5pdDIw ) For Groceryshop, use code RBOMNIT510 (Link: https://gs25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=cmJvbW5pdDUxMA== ) Or save 20% off General Admission with codes: For Shoptalk Fall, use code GAOMNIT20 (Link: https://stfall25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=Z2FvbW5pdDIw ) For Groceryshop, use code GAOMNIT799 (Link: https://gs25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=Z2FvbW5pdDc5OQ== ) Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #TargetCEO #AmazonAutos #BestBuyMarketplace #BNPL #RFID #RetailTech #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #Fabletics #Vody This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 27
In this exclusive final interview from the Walmart Seller Summit in San Diego, Karthicka Krishnasamy, VP of Omni Growth Experiences and Services at Walmart, reveals why omnichannel is Walmart's true "superpower" and how AI will transform in-store shopping. From hardware engineer to retail innovator, Karthicka breaks down how omni shoppers spend more, shop more categories, and show higher satisfaction scores than single-channel customers. Discover the tire-to-grocery-to-vaccine shopping journey that's blurring physical-digital lines, plus the Gen AI grocery list feature that will navigate customers aisle-by-aisle through personalized store experiences. 🔑 Topics covered: - Why omnichannel is Walmart's competitive "superpower" at scale - How omni shoppers outperform single-channel customers across all metrics - The seamless tire service to grocery shopping customer journey - Gen AI grocery lists with personalized aisle-by-aisle navigation - AI spectrum from classification to multi-agent capabilities - How Walmart meets customers "where they are" across all touchpoints 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights from Walmart's innovation leaders! #walmartomni #omnichannelretail #karthikakrishnamurthy #genai #airetail #omnigrowth #omnitalk #retailinnovation #personalization #retailtech #sellersummit #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 27
In this exclusive Omni Talk episode live from the Walmart Seller Summit in San Diego, Joshua Gunn, VP of Retail Sales and Marketing at Dreo, reveals the seller success story that earned him a stage shout-out in front of 2,000 attendees. From marketplace launch to Walmart stores in just one year, Joshua breaks down how Dreo leveraged WFS, Walmart Connect, and human relationships to scale their fan, heater, and kitchen appliance business. Discover why he calls the Walmart marketplace experience "nothing short of fantastic" and his advice for sellers: "Don't dip your toes—jump in." 🔑 Topics covered: - How Dreo went from marketplace to Walmart stores in one year - Why WFS and Walmart Connect became game-changers for operations - The power of human relationships with merchant and category teams - Using marketplace as a testing ground before retail launch - Why digital-first brands should "jump in" rather than test the waters - The immense opportunity for startups on Walmart Marketplace 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more seller success stories from industry leaders! #dreosuccess #walmartmarketplace #sellersuccess #wfs #walmartconnect #retailsuccess #omnitalk #appliances #sellerstory #marketplace #retailpodcast #sellersummit This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 27
In this exclusive Omni Talk episode live from the Walmart Seller Summit in San Diego, Manish Joneja, SVP of Walmart US Marketplace and Walmart Fulfillment Services, reveals the "You Win, We Win" philosophy driving Walmart's marketplace dominance. With 26% e-commerce growth and 13 consecutive quarters of double-digit marketplace growth, Manish breaks down the momentum, opportunity, reach, and humanity that sets Walmart apart. From serving 270 million weekly customers worldwide to building authentic relationships where sellers know their support team by name, discover how Walmart is becoming America's favorite place to shop and sell. 🔑 Topics covered: - The "You Win, We Win" marketplace philosophy that drives success - 26% e-commerce growth and 13 quarters of double-digit marketplace expansion - How 270 million weekly customers create massive seller opportunity - The humanity factor: why authentic relationships matter in marketplace success - Trust-building through brand registration and authorized seller programs - Why Walmart sees itself as "barely scratching the surface" of marketplace potential 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights from retail's top marketplace leaders! #walmartmarketplace #marketplacegrowth #sellersuccess #ecommercegrowth #omnitalk #retailtech #marketplace #youwinwewin #sellersummit #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 27
In this exclusive Omni Talk episode live from the Walmart Seller Summit in San Diego, Tracy Poulliot, SVP of Digital Shopping Experience at Walmart US, reveals how AI is transforming retail beyond the traditional digital catalog. From merging the orange and blue apps into one unified experience to launching Sparky, Walmart's AI shopping assistant, Tracy breaks down how artificial intelligence is finally enabling immersive shopping experiences at scale across hundreds of millions of items. Discover how virtual try-on technology, meal planning solutions, and problem-solving AI are redefining what digital shopping can be. 🔑 Topics covered: - How Walmart merged two separate shopping apps into one unified experience - Why AI is the biggest retail innovation since digital transactions - Sparky's evolution from review synthesis to full problem-solving assistant - Virtual try-on and AR furniture viewing at massive scale - How AI transforms "digital catalogs" into immersive experiences - The future of AI-forward retail and customer problem-solving 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights from Walmart's digital innovation leaders! #walmartai #sparky #digitalretail #aiassistant #ecommerce #virtualtryron #omnitalk #retailtech #shoppingexperience #retailinnovation #sellersummit #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 27
In this exclusive Omni Talk episode live from the Walmart Seller Summit in San Diego, Mohit Puthuraya, VP of Seller Success, Marketplace, Walmart Fulfillment Services, and E-commerce, reveals how Walmart is prioritizing seller support through technology and human connection. From AI-powered content enrichment to 15% cheaper fulfillment costs than competitors, Mohit breaks down Walmart's comprehensive approach to seller success. Discover how the platform leverages physical footprints for omnichannel advantages, why human-led support differentiates Walmart from automated competitors, and how new technologies like chatbots and bulk management tools are scaling seller operations. 🔑 Topics covered: - The four pillars of customer experience: assortment, pricing, convenience, and trust - How WFS costs 15% less than competitors while delivering faster service - Multi-channel fulfillment enabling sellers to serve other marketplaces - Physical-digital integration through QR codes and endless aisle shopping - AI-powered tools for content enrichment and bulk management - Why human-led support beats pure automation for seller success 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights from Walmart's leadership team! #sellersuccess #walmartmarketplace #wfs #ecommerce #retailtech #omnitalk #marketplacesellers #fulfillmentservices #aitools #sellersummit #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 27
In this exclusive Omni Talk episode live from the Walmart Seller Summit in San Diego, Michael Mosser, VP of Walmart Marketplace Categories, reveals how Walmart is becoming the go-to destination for everything customers need, want, and love. From everyday household essentials to luxury Gucci wallets and refurbished Apple products, Michael breaks down Walmart's approach to assortment strategy. Discover how partnerships with Rebag and StockX are bringing premium resale items to Walmart, why sustainability drives marketplace expansion, and how the platform balances first-party and marketplace assortments to serve customers better. 🔑 Topics covered: - The philosophy driving marketplace category expansion - How 1P and 3P assortments work together strategically - Why resale partnerships with Rebag and StockX matter for growth - Holiday trends and customer value expectations - Sustainability through pre-owned luxury and restored electronics - The three-tier approach: needs, wants, and loves 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail insights from Walmart's top executives! #walmartmarketplace #categorymanagement #resalecommerce #luxuryresale #retailstrategy #omnitalk #sustainability #marketplace #retailpodcast #sellersummit This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 27
In this exclusive Omni Talk episode live from the Walmart Seller Summit in San Diego, Kyle Carlyle, VP of Fulfillment Services at Walmart, reveals how Walmart Fulfillment Services (WFS) is improving marketplace logistics and seller success. From bananas to toys across global supply chains, Kyle brings 11 years of Walmart expertise to transform how sellers reach customers. Discover how WFS now powers 44% of Walmart marketplace sales, enables multi-channel fulfillment across competitors like Amazon and Shein, and leverages Walmart's massive scale to help sellers succeed globally. 🔑 Topics covered: - How WFS is transforming seller success with 44% marketplace penetration - Multi-channel fulfillment capabilities across Amazon, Shein, and Temu - Global sourcing strategies from Vietnam to India and beyond - Automated fulfillment technology driving faster delivery - How inventory distribution gets products closer to customers - The future of marketplace logistics at scale 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail insights from industry leaders! #walmartfulfillment #marketplace #logistics #supplychain #omnitalk #retailtech #ecommerce #sellersummit #fulfillmentservices #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 27
In this exclusive Omni Talk episode live from the Walmart Seller Summit in San Diego, David Guggina, Chief E-commerce Officer for Walmart US, reveals Walmart's bold vision for omnichannel retail success. From achieving e-commerce profitability for the first time to delivering orders in just 4 minutes, David breaks down how Walmart is revolutionizing the shopping experience through speed, marketplace integration, and innovative in-store technology. Discover how store mode is transforming mobile shopping, why marketplace displays are bringing online assortment into physical stores, and how Walmart plans to become America's favorite place to shop. 🔑 Topics covered: - Walmart's omnichannel strategy and store mode enhancements - How marketplace integration is reshaping in-store experiences - The key drivers behind Walmart e-commerce profitability - Why speed is the secret weapon for operational efficiency - Walmart's vision for expanded assortment and services - Record-breaking delivery times and customer satisfaction 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail insights from the industry's top executives! #walmart #ecommerce #omnichannel #retailtech #omnitalk #marketplace #retailinnovation #sellersummit #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 26
In this episode, Karl Bracken, CEO and founder of Ocampo Capital, joins Omni Talk to share his journey to become a venture capitalist and reveals what it really takes to close an investment round in today's challenging market. From his 16-year career at Target to founding his own VC fund, Karl breaks down the brutal realities of fundraising, why consumer brands are struggling to get funding, and how AI is creating a bubble while crowding out other investments. He also shares exclusive details about his portfolio companies that he believes are ones to watch in health, wellness, and sustainability. 🔑 Topics covered: - The 15-month journey to close his first VC fund - Why consumer venture funding is down 90% from three years ago - How his small fund still represents an astounding 6% of all US consumer VC dollars raised by first-time investors (this statistics shows just how tough the market is right now) - Portfolio spotlights: ZBiotics (hangover-curing probiotics), Small Wonder (powder shampoo), and Shameless Pets (upcycled pet treats) - Karl;s Investment thesis focused on decade-long trends vs. short-term fads - Why leadership teams matter more than business models 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail and VC insights on the consumer! #ventureCapital #retailinvesting #consumerbrand #entrepreneurship #omnitalk #startupfunding #retailtech #vcpodcast #investmentstrategies #retailinnovation Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 23
Chris and Anne tackle the week's quirkiest retail stories in rapid-fire format! Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. From NFL-themed Crocs to Harry Potter donuts and pawn shops becoming back-to-school destinations, discover the unexpected retail trends shaping consumer behavior. For the full episode head here: youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: NFL merchandise, specialty donuts, alternative shopping, fair food trends #retail #trends #NFL #Crocs #HarryPotter #KrispyKreme #backtoschool This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 23
Target and Ulta Beauty are ending their successful shop-in-shop partnership in August 2026, shocking the retail world. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris delivers harsh criticism of Target's strategy while Anne worries about the retailer's future without one of its biggest traffic drivers. A must-watch analysis of retail's biggest breakup. For the full episode head here: youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: Target Ulta partnership, retail strategy, beauty category, shop-in-shop concepts #Target #Ulta #beauty #retail #partnership #strategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 23
IKEA is opening mini showrooms inside select Best Buy stores, focusing on kitchen and laundry products with IKEA designers on-site. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris and Anne disagree on whether this partnership makes sense - is it smart space utilization or an over-engineered branding exercise? For the full episode head here: youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: IKEA Best Buy partnership, retail partnerships, home goods, appliances #IKEA #BestBuy #partnership #retail #homegoods #appliances This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 23
Warby Parker is ending its iconic Home Try-On program by year-end, citing that most customers now live within 30 minutes of a store. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris and Anne analyze what this cost-cutting move signals about Warby's growth challenges and whether the Target partnership can fill the gap. For the full episode head here: youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: Warby Parker strategy, home try-on program, eyewear retail, store expansion #WarbyParker #eyewear #retail #directtoconsumer #strategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 23
Starbucks is shutting down 80-90 mobile-only pickup stores because they lack "warmth and human connection." Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. CEO Brian Niccol's surprising strategy shift prioritizes coffee house "vibes" over efficiency. Chris and Anne debate whether this move makes sense or signals deeper operational challenges at the coffee giant. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: Starbucks strategy, mobile pickup stores, customer experience, retail formats #Starbucks #mobile #pickup #retail #customerexperience #coffeehouse This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 23
Amazon launches same-day delivery for perishable foods across 1,000+ US cities - but is it a real threat to Walmart and Instacart? Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso. Chris and Anne break down why this might not be the grocery game-changer everyone expects. From infrastructure challenges to consumer trust issues, discover why Amazon's fresh food expansion faces serious headwinds in the competitive grocery delivery space. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/wKzV_5mqg64 Topics: Amazon Fresh expansion, grocery delivery competition, Prime membership value, retail logistics challenges #Amazon #grocery #delivery #retail #freshfoods #Prime #competition This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 21
In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, Ben Miller, VP of Original Content and Strategy for Shoptalk and Groceryshop, joins Omni Talk to preview the upcoming Shoptalk Fall and Groceryshop events. From AI deep dives to tariff implications, Ben breaks down the main themes emerging for Shoptalk Fall (September 17-19 in Chicago), plus reveals the brand-new "Test Kitchen" format launching at Groceryshop (September 28-October 1). Discover what's driving retail innovation, efficiency gains in grocery, and why retail media sits at the center of every retailer-brand conversation. 🔑 Topics covered: - The two dominant themes at Shoptalk Fall - New leadership track for navigating turmoil and building agility - Groceryshop's global focus on digital demand creation and efficiency - The innovative "Test Kitchen" format for hands-on AI learning - Star-studded speaker lineups including Home Depot, Amazon, Walmart, Whole Foods, and more - How to secure tickets and take advantage of hosted programs Get your discounted admission now with Omni Talk! Retailers and brands save 20% with codes: - For Shoptalk Fall, use code RBOMNIT20 (Link: https://stfall25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=cmJvbW5pdDIw) - For Groceryshop, use code RBOMNIT510 (Link: https://gs25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=cmJvbW5pdDUxMA==) Or save 20% off General Admission with codes: - For Shoptalk Fall, use code GAOMNIT20 (Link: https://stfall25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=Z2FvbW5pdDIw) - For Groceryshop, use code GAOMNIT799 (Link: https://gs25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId=Z2FvbW5pdDc5OQ==) 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail event insights! #shoptalk #groceryshop #retailevents #retailtech #omnitalk #retailinnovation #ai #tariffs #grocerytech #retailconferences *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 20
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and Quorso , Chris and Anne discussed: Amazon adding perishable foods to its same-day delivery offering across 1,000+ U.S. cities ( Source ) Starbucks abandoning its mobile order, pickup-only store format due to lack of “warmth and human connection” ( Source ) Warby Parker ending its home try-on program as most users live within 30 minutes of a store ( Source ) IKEA opening mini-showrooms inside select Best Buy locations in Florida and Texas ( Source ) The conclusion of Target and Ulta Beauty’s shop-in-shop partnership in August 2026 ( Source ) Chris and Anne also handed out our monthly OmniStar award to Scott Casciato, VP of Global Logistics and Omnichannel Fulfillment at Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Ben Miller from Shoptalk dropped by for 5 Insightful Minutes on what to expect at this year’s Shoptalk Fall and Groceryshop conferences. There’s all that, plus NFL Crocs, Harry Potter doughnuts, pawn shop back-to-school shopping, and whether Chris will ever upgrade from his OOFOS slides. P.S. Get your discounted admission now with Omni Talk! Retailers and brands save 20% with codes: - For Shoptalk Fall, use code RBOMNIT20 (Link: stfall25-registration.personatech.com/code?c…5pdDIw ) - For Groceryshop, use code RBOMNIT510 (Link: gs25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId…dDUxMA== ) Or save 20% off General Admission with codes: - For Shoptalk Fall, use code GAOMNIT20 (Link: stfall25-registration.personatech.com/code?c…5pdDIw ) - For Groceryshop, use code GAOMNIT799 (Link: gs25-registration.personatech.com/code?cId…dDc5OQ== ) Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #AmazonFresh #StarbucksStrategy #WarbyParker #IkeaBestBuy #TargetUlta #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #SameDayDelivery #RetailInnovation #ShopInShop #RetailPartnerships This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 2
The fun finale! In this Lightning Round from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, Chris and Anne rapid-fire through the week's quirkiest stories. From Aldi's "Summerween" products and chicken wing preferences to party attendance data and celebrity gossip, discover the lighter side of retail trends and consumer behavior. Plus, find out which host prefers drumsticks vs. flats and who they think "leveled up" in the Katy Perry-Justin Trudeau dinner drama! 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/pB45J7EFcCI #Summerween #ChickenWings #PartyTrends #CelebrityGossip #RetailTrends #LightningRound This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 2
Strategic partnerships are reshaping retail! In this segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, Chris and Anne explore Macy's new partnership with Abercrombie Kids for back-to-school season. With 3x the distribution for Abercrombie and a traffic driver for Macy's, this partnership could signal a new trend of department stores becoming "mini malls." Discover why both hosts love this strategic move and what it could mean for the future of retail. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/pB45J7EFcCI #Macys #AbercrombieKids #BackToSchool #RetailPartnership #DepartmentStore #RetailStrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 2
She's back! In this segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, Chris and Anne dive into Ty Haney's dramatic return to Outdoor Voices with a "confident, bold, and sexy" rebrand. From wiping Instagram clean to positioning the brand as the "uniform for doing things," is this founder comeback genuine innovation or just marketing spectacle? Plus, learn when it's the right time to bring back a founder and when it's time to move on. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/pB45J7EFcCI #TyHaney #OutdoorVoices #FounderComeback #Activewear #DTC #BrandRevival #Athleisure This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 2
The home goods giant is back! In this segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, Chris and Anne analyze Bed Bath & Beyond's return to Brick x Mortar retail, complete with their iconic coupons. But is nostalgia enough to succeed in today's crowded home furnishing market? Hear why Chris is "selling hard" on this comeback and Anne's take on whether there's still room for middle-tier home goods retailers. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/pB45J7EFcCI #BedBathBeyond #RetailComeback #RetailNostalgia #BrickAndMortar #RetailStrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 2
Fashion meets artificial intelligence in the most controversial way possible! This segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, explores the backlash Vogue faced for featuring AI-generated models in a Guess advertisement. Chris and Anne debate whether critics need to "take a chill pill" or if high fashion magazines should draw the line at artificial beauty. Discover the complex ethics of AI in fashion and what it means for brand authenticity in the digital age. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/pB45J7EFcCI #VogueAI #FashionAI #AIModels #FashionControversy #DigitalModels #RetailEthics This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 2
Walmart is revolutionizing retail AI with their new "super agent" strategy! In this segment from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, Chris and Anne dive deep into how Walmart is consolidating dozens of AI agents into four specialized "super agents" for customers, employees, engineers, and suppliers. Discover why this consolidation strategy could be the future of retail AI and how Walmart's CEO-level commitment sets them apart from competitors. Plus, hear Chris's take on whether four agents is too many or just the right stepping stone to the ultimate single super agent. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/pB45J7EFcCI #WalmartAI #SuperAgents #RetailTech #AIinRetail #CustomerService #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 2
Meet Molly LaForest, whose father named a grape company after her when she was 12, and who's now disrupting the produce industry with Molly Pop - a brand creating 100% natural cold-pressed juices. Discover how they're pushing cross-merchandising in grocery stores by pairing specialty grapes with matching juices, and why their beet-cucumber blend is the fan favorite that's changing how grocery stores think about produce branding. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - From 12-year-old namesake to Molly Pop founder 1:15 - What is Molly Pop: candy grapes and bold flavors 1:45 - How do you make grapes taste like strawberries? 2:35 - Health positioning: real juice vs. concentrate 4:35 - First-time juice launch at SpartanNash conference 5:30 - Cross-merchandising strategy: grapes + juice sales boost 6:53 - Disrupting generational produce industry practices 8:47 - Product recommendations: beet-cucumber fan favorite Thanks to Simbe for making our Spartan Nash Conference coverage possible! #LollipopJuice #CandyGrapes #CottonCandyGrapes #ColdPressedJuice #ProduceBranding #CrossMerchandising #SpecialtyGrapes #NaturalJuice #ProduceInnovation #FarmersMarket This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 2
Meet Christina Melillo, VP of Merchandising at Buehler's Fresh Foods, who started bagging groceries at 16 and worked her way up over 36 years. Discover how this Northeast Ohio ESOP chain competes with big box stores through local farmer partnerships, Amish auctions, and adapting to major trends like the protein boom driven by GLP-1 medications and preventative health focus. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Christina's 36-year journey from bagger to VP 1:00 - Buehler's: 14-store ESOP chain in Northeast Ohio since 1929 2:46 - Local sourcing advantage: Amish auctions and farmer relationships 4:04 - Service differentiation: fresh donuts, meat cases, full-service floral 5:17 - Major trends: protein revolution and hydration products 5:55 - GLP-1 impact on merchandising and store layouts 7:48 - Future opportunities in supplements and healthy living categories 8:50 - Staying competitive: knowing customers by name in community stores Thanks to Simbe for making our SpartanNash Conference coverage possible! #BuehlersFreshFoods #EmployeeOwned #ESOP #NortheastOhio #MerchandisingStrategy #LocalFarmers #ProteinTrends #GLP1Diet #CommunityGrocery #HealthyLiving This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 2
Meet Marty Reeser, Senior Director of Customer Success at Simbe, who shares his journey from Whole Foods executive to robotics pioneer. Discover how Tally robots are delivering 90% price accuracy improvement and 2% sales increases, plus learn about the change management required to successfully implement retail automation. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Marty's career path from Whole Foods to Simbe robotics 1:29 - His Philadelphia inspiration behind retail navigation 2:53 - Why 5% sales losses from execution issues are growing 4:06 - Short-term vs long-term ROI: $200K+ annual impact per store 5:22 - Success metrics: 90% price accuracy and 2% sales increase 6:05 - Implementation best practices and change management 7:19 - Digitizing data flows and vendor collaboration 8:29 - Future of retail automation beyond store operations Thanks to Simbe for making our SpartanNash Conference coverage possible! #RetailRobotics #SimbiTally #GroceryAutomation #RetailTechnology #PriceAccuracy #InventoryManagement #StoreOperations #ChangeManagement #FastCompany #VendorCollaboration This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 2
Meet Loren Foss, VP of Strategy at CMI Orchards, who reveals how this Washington state fruit company became the world's first carbon negative fruit producer. Discover their revolutionary 8-acre worm farms and regenerative cattle ranch that sequester enough carbon to offset 60,000 cars annually. Plus learn about exciting new fruit varieties like their upcoming new apple variety. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - CMI Orchards: 15% of Washington's apples, pears, and cherries 1:30 - Favorite varieties 2:17 - Gem pears: solving the pear confusion problem 4:19 - Revolutionary regenerative agriculture and carbon sequestration 5:45 - World's largest worm farms: 8 acres of carbon capture 7:10 - Marketing carbon negative fruit to consumers 8:21 - Brand leadership through specialty varieties 9:54 - AI technology in fruit sorting and quality control 10:38 - Japan-originated variety for color breaks Thanks to Simbe for making our SpartanNash Conference coverage possible! #CMIOrchards #CarbonNegativeFruit #RegenerativeAgriculture #WormFarms #SustainableFarming #WashingtonFruit #SugarBeeApple #SklyarRayCherry #FruitTechnology #OrganicFruit This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 1
Meet Amy Davis, VP of Industry Relations at Kellanova, who reveals how the snack giant is responding to major consumer trends from GLP-1 medications to Gen Z's spicy flavor obsession. Discover why they renamed "stuffed" Eggo products to "protein pancakes," how Hot Ones Pringles target younger consumers, and the innovative breakfast charcuterie boards that are redefining snack occasions. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Amy's role connecting Kellanova with industry trends 2:07 - Consumer trends: Gen Z spice obsession and portability 3:12 - GLP-1 impact driving protein innovation across food industry 4:32 - Working with independent grocers through listening 5:33 - Storytelling strategy: package callouts and product renaming 6:47 - The power of listening: retailer feedback drives changes 7:12 - Creating fun food occasions: breakfast charcuterie boards 8:14 - Innovation with purpose: intentional product development Thanks to Simbe for making our Spartan Nash Conference coverage possible! #Kellanova #CheezIts #HotOnesPringles #GLP1Trends #ProteinInnovation #GenZSnacking #SpicyFlavors #EggoProtein #FoodIndustry #SnackTrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 1
Meet Josh Kuhbander, VP of Neighborhood Fresh, an employee-owned (ESOP) grocery chain in northern Indiana that made a bold move by eliminating print ads in 2024. Discover how they're achieving an impressive 86% loyalty program participation rate through customer service, meat cutters, baggers, and strategic digital engagement while competing against big box retailers. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Josh's grocery industry background and family connections 1:26 - What makes Neighborhood Fresh unique: employee ownership 2:03 - Bold move: eliminating print ads in 2024 2:56 - Competing against big retailers through service and loyalty 4:18 - "Control the controllables" philosophy during challenges 5:49 - E-commerce considerations and pandemic lessons 6:26 - Why timing matters for digital transformation Thanks to Simbe for making our SpartanNash Conference coverage possible! #EmployeeOwned #ESOP #NeighborhoodFresh #IndependentGrocer #LoyaltyPrograms #DigitalMarketing #CustomerService #GroceryInnovation #SmallTownGrocery #RetailStrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 1
Join us for an exclusive interview with Amy McClellan, newly appointed Chief Commercial Officer at SpartanNash, as she shares her journey from part-time cashier to Fortune 500 executive. Discover how SpartanNash is putting shoppers at the center of every commercial decision, leveraging technology partnerships with Simbe and serving diverse customers from independent grocers to military commissaries. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Amy's new Chief Commercial Officer role at SpartanNash 2:00 - Strategic direction: putting shoppers at the center 3:28 - "Delivering ingredients for a better life" across diverse customers 4:46 - Innovation through product, service, and convenience 5:55 - Technology partnerships: Simbe robots, AI ordering, pricing solutions 7:04 - From part-time cashier to Fortune 500 executive 8:28 - The community service mission of retail Thanks to Simbe for making our SpartanNash Conference coverage possible! #SpartanNash #ChiefCommercialOfficer #WholesaleGrocery #IndependentGrocers #RetailStrategy #ShopperInsights #RetailTechnology #Fortune500 #GroceryIndustry #RetailLeadership This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 1
Join us for an exclusive interview with Caitlin Allen, SVP of Market at Simbe, as she reveals how retail inefficiencies are costing grocers up to 5.5% of sales annually. Discover how Simbe's inventory robots and computer vision technology are helping independent grocers compete with e-commerce giants. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Women in retail panel insights 1:57 - Caitlin's background and Simbi introduction 3:27 - How Simbe's inventory robots digitize shelves 4:47 - New Coresight Research report on retail inefficiencies 5:59 - Fresh food challenges and upcoming announcements 7:23 - New products: fixed sensors and RFID capabilities 8:17 - Defining "polite bulldozing" leadership style #RetailTechnology #SimbiRobotics #InventoryManagement #RetailAutomation #WomenInRetail #GroceryTechnology #RetailInnovation #PhysicalAI #ComputerVision #IndependentGrocers This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 1
Meet Ben and Kerri Dishman, founders of Fresh Foods, who turned a $1 abandoned grocery store opportunity into a thriving 10-location chain across three states. Discover how they're serving rural communities, investing in technology like electronic shelf labels, and creating a family-friendly workplace culture that keeps employees and customers loyal. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - How Ben and Kerri met and the grocery store dream 2:07 - The $1 store opportunity in Gering, Nebraska 4:30 - What sets Fresh Foods apart from big box competitors 6:28 - Building customer loyalty through community involvement 8:16 - Business changes since 2012: employees, technology, COVID impact 9:32 - Hiring strategies: investing in high school workers 11:32 - Technology investments: ESLs and operational efficiency Thanks to Simbe for making our Spartan Nash Conference coverage possible! #IndependentGrocer #RuralRetail #FreshFoods #CommunityGrocery #FamilyBusiness #ElectronicShelfLabels #GroceryEntrepreneurship #SmallTownBusiness #RetailTechnology #EmployeeRetention This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 1
Join us at the SpartanNash Conference as we interview Doug Highland, GM of Leevers Foods, about their approach to retail technology and workforce development. From electronic shelf labels to digital advertising, discover how this third-generation North Dakota grocer is modernizing while maintaining their community focus. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Doug's retail background and career journey 1:08 - About Leevers Foods: 9 stores across North Dakota & Minnesota 2:05 - Progressive Grocer recognition for 2025 3:13 - Workforce challenges and retention strategies 4:24 - Why attend SpartanNash Conference 5:44 - Keeping up with retail technology in rural markets 6:57 - Future tech initiatives: ESLs and digital advertising 7:54 - Employee and customer response to new technology Thanks to Simbe for making our SpartanNash Conference coverage possible! #RetailTechnology #ElectronicShelfLabels #IndependentGrocer #GroceryInnovation #RetailConference #SpartanNash #DigitalTransformation #RuralRetail #GroceryTech #RetailManagement This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 1
Meet Sean Gerard, Regional Sales Manager for Clemens Food Group, who turned his food marketing degree from Western Michigan University into a career selling every pork product imaginable. Discover how this sixth-generation, vertically coordinated family business approaches food safety, follows restaurant trends like carnitas, and positions pork as a versatile, value-driven protein in today's market. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Sean's intentional path: food marketing degree at Western Michigan 1:53 - Career journey from Spartan Stores intern to Clemens Food Group 2:48 - Clemens Food Group: 130 years of vertically coordinated pork production 4:01 - How role-playing in college prepared him for pork sales 4:55 - Day in the life: fast-paced, data-driven pork industry 6:38 - Customer differentiation strategies across retailers and distributors 7:33 - Positioning pork as versatile and value-driven protein 8:15 - Following food service trends: carnitas roast innovation 9:19 - Food safety philosophy: "Never compromise on food safety" Thanks to Simbe for making our Spartan Nash Conference coverage possible! #FoodMarketing #ClemensFood #PorkIndustry #RegionalSales #FoodSafety #WesternMichigan #ProteinSales #FoodServiceTrends #FamilyBusiness #VerticalIntegration This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 30
Meet Erin Storm, SVP and Chief Marketing Officer at SpartanNash, as she shares insights from her transition from 18 years at Kellogg/Kellanova to leading marketing for 200+ grocery stores and more. Discover how SpartanNash approaches banner differentiation, building retail media networks, and adapting to emerging food trends like GLP-1 driven demand. 🕒 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Erin's CPG background at Kellogg/Kellanova 1:39 - Transition from CPG to grocery retail 2:43 - Marketing challenges across 200 disparate stores 4:49 - Banner bucketing strategy for community grocers 6:19 - Data and loyalty program integration 7:09 - Retail media network development 8:12 - Current food and grocery shopping trends 9:20 - GLP-1 impact on protein and health foods 10:28 - Future trends: Food as medicine vs. nostalgic favorites Thanks to Simbe for making our SpartanNash Conference coverage possible! #RetailMarketing #SpartanNash #CPGMarketing #RetailMedia #GroceryTrends #BrandManagement #EcommerceStrategy #FoodTrends #RetailConference #GroceryMarketing This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 30
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart’s overhaul of its AI agent strategy, consolidating dozens of agents into four “super agents” for different user groups ( Source ) Vogue magazine’s AI model backlash after featuring an AI-generated model in a Guess advertisement ( Source ) Bed Bath & Beyond’s brick-and-mortar return on August 8th in Nashville, complete with legacy coupon acceptance ( Source ) Ty Haney’s comeback at Outdoor Voices with a “confident, bold and sexy” relaunch strategy ( Source ) Macy’s partnership with Abercrombie Kids for back-to-school merchandising ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Buffalo wings, which Halloween candy they would most like to see in stores year-round, and who leveled up more – Katy Perry or Justin Trudeau? P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WalmartAI #VogueAI #BedBathBeyond #OutdoorVoices #AbercrombieMacys #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #RetailTech #AIAgents #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 29
Returns are no longer just a cost center - they're a $1 trillion opportunity waiting to be unlocked. In this episode of Omni Talk's Ask An Expert series, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with David Morin, VP of Customer Strategy at Narvar, to reveal how leading retailers are transforming their returns operations from a liability into a competitive advantage. David shares exclusive data showing over 55% of retailers now charge for returns "at some point in time" - but it's not what you think. Learn how brands are using personalized return policies, leveraging customer data for fraud detection, and creating frictionless experiences that actually increase customer loyalty. Key topics covered: Why charging for returns doesn't hurt conversion (when done right) How retailers save 50%+ on shipping costs through smart consolidation The shocking reality of returns fraud (52% of consumers admit to it) Real-world examples from Urban Outfitters, Sephora, and other major brands AI-powered tools that identify high-risk vs. high-value customers The chandelier story that perfectly explains returns psychology Whether you're an e-commerce leader, operations manager, or retail executive, this conversation provides actionable strategies to reduce costs while improving customer experience. Music by hooksounds.com #RetailReturns #ecommerce #RetailOperations #CustomerExperience #RetailTech *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 26
This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Clear Demand, Chris and Anne tackle rapid-fire retail topics in their signature Lightning Round. From influencer marketing apps to airline policy changes and restaurant relocations, get quick takes on the week's most interesting retail and consumer stories that are shaping industry trends. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/A11X6MXWL9U #retailnews #lightninground #consumertreads #brandstrategy #retailinsights This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 26
Target price matching policy, retail pricing strategy, target vs walmart, competitive pricing retail, target brand perception, retail customer loyalty, pricing policy changes, target strategic decisions, retail price wars, customer value proposition. This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Clear Demand, Chris and Anne debate Target's controversial decision to eliminate price matching. Analyze whether this move strengthens Target's position or drives customers to competitors like Walmart and Costco. Get expert insights on the real reasons behind this policy change and its impact on Target's already challenged brand perception. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/A11X6MXWL9U #target #pricematching #retailstrategy #competitivepricing #retailbrand #customerloyalty This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 26
This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Clear Demand, we explore Tesco's groundbreaking 8-week advance delivery scheduling. Chris and Anne discuss how this UK innovation could transform grocery shopping in the US, enabling better family planning and operational efficiency. Learn why extended scheduling represents the true definition of omnichannel retail convenience. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/A11X6MXWL9U #tesco #grocerydelivery #omnichannel #deliveryinnovation #groceryshopping #retailconvenience This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 26
This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Clear Demand, we examine Mall of America's deployment of AI-powered car counting and video analytics. Learn how this technology is revolutionizing the mall experience through improved parking operations, enhanced security, and data-driven decision making for hours, events, and staffing. Discover why this investment represents the future of physical retail customer experience. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/A11X6MXWL9U #mallofamerica #airetail #smartparking #retailtech #customerexperience #mallofthefuture This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 26
This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Clear Demand, we explore Tesla's ambitious Supercharger diner concept in Los Angeles. Chris and Anne debate whether this 80-charger location with movie screens and 24/7 dining represents the future of EV charging or just an expensive marketing stunt. Get insights on what this means for the evolution of transportation retail and charging infrastructure. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/A11X6MXWL9U #tesla #supercharger #evcharging #electricvehicles #innovation #transportation #retailexperience This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 26
This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Clear Demand, Chris and Anne analyze Walmart's strategic move to make Vizio TVs exclusive private label products. Discover why this isn't just about sales but about building a comprehensive media ecosystem that combines content, consumer data, advertising, and commerce. Learn how Walmart is positioning itself against Amazon in the retail media wars and why this could be their biggest competitive advantage yet. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/A11X6MXWL9U #walmart #vizio #retailmedia #connectedtv #privateLabel #retailstrategy #omnichannel This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 24
Retail Media Networks are booming—but there’s a catch. As major retailers like Walmart, Target, Albertsons, and Kroger rake in billions from retail media, a growing bottleneck is emerging: campaigns are being sold to brands that can’t get their products on the shelf. The result? Missed sales, empty shelves, and damaged shopper trust. In the latest Omni Talk Retail Ask An Expert Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga welcome Director of Customer Success, Joy Spiotta, and Senior Product Marketing Manager, Jenya Lawson, of SPS Commerce to dive into performance-based media access—where supply chain readiness determines who gets premium ad placement, not just who’s willing to pay the most. 0:00 – Introduction to retail media bottleneck crisis 2:30 – Meet the experts: Joy Spiotta and Jenya Lawson from SPS Commerce 5:00 – What SPS Commerce does: Connecting retail supply chains 6:15 – The core problem: Ads running for out-of-stock products 8:45 – Why communication breaks down between media and supply chain teams 12:00 – Planning challenges and historical data limitations 14:50 – Real-world example: Sex and the City pearl necklace viral moment 16:30 – Store vs. digital inventory coordination challenges 19:00 – Automation and technological solutions for inventory management 21:30 – Measuring retail media ROI and transparency issues 24:00 – Actionable steps retailers and brands can take today 27:30 – Collaboration strategies and contingency planning 29:00 – Contact information and wrap-up P.S. To see our full lineup of past Ask An Expert conversations, head here . Music by hooksounds.com #retailmedia #supplychain #inventorymanagement #retailtechnology #ecommerce #retailanalytics #merchandising #retailoperations #digitaladvertising This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 24
In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, A&M's consumer and retail experts Chris Creyts and Brandon Pezely join Omni Talk to reveal how grocers can adapt their space planning strategy in today's rapidly changing retail landscape. From the $37 billion growth in fresh food areas to the $27 billion revenue loss in general merchandising, Chris and Brandon break down why advanced space planning isn't just important—it's essential for survival. They share actionable insights on navigating inflation impacts, e-commerce disruption, GLP-1 drug effects on shopping behavior, and the health & wellness trend reshaping grocery stores. 🔑 Topics covered: - Why grocers must evaluate space strategy NOW in this inflationary environment The $37B fresh food growth vs $27B general merchandise decline Common mistakes retailers make when overhauling store layouts Best practices for piloting and scaling space changes Building the right organizational structure for space planning success How to create margin vs shelf space analysis charts Future-proofing your space strategy for the next 5-10 years Access A&M space planning report here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/AM-CRG-Space-and-Assortment-Optimization.pdf 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail insights! #spaceplanning #groceryretail #retailstrategy #omnitalk #retailtech #merchandising #storedesign #retailinnovation #retailpodcast Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 23
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand : Walmart’s plan to sell Vizio TVs exclusively as a private brand ( Source ) Tesla’s Supercharger Diner officially opening in Los Angeles ( Source ) Mall of America expanding car-counting video analytics across its campus ( Source ) Tesco launching early delivery slots for families during the summer ( Source ) Target ending its price matching policy starting July 28 ( Source ) And A&M’s Chris Creyts and Brandon Pezely also dropped by to help us hand out insights on how grocers should be thinking about space allocation for their future success and store development plans in this week’s 5 Insightful Minutes segment. There’s all that, plus Southwest Airlines new seating policy, Midwestern In-N-Out dreams, and a tribute to the dearly departed Malcolm-Jamal Warner. P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WalmartVizio #TeslaDiner #RetailTech #TargetPricing #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #MallofAmerica #TescoDelivery #RetailInnovation #PrivateLabel #ConnectedTV This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 19
This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we rapid-fire through the week's quirkiest retail stories. Morrison's limits colleague access to stock rooms to prevent "idling," Call Her Daddy's Alex Cooper gets booed at Wrigley Field, Nextdoor replatforms to cut cranky neighbor posts, and an AI influencer with 150K followers fools everyone at Wimbledon. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! ⏩ Topics Covered: 📌 00:00 – Morrison's Stock Room Crackdown 📌 03:20 – Chad's Panini King Confession 📌 05:10 – Alex Cooper's Wrigley Field Disaster 📌 07:25 – David's Nextdoor Drama (Using Wife's Account!) 📌 10:30 – AI Influencer Tennis Sensation 📌 12:45 – When Will AI Models Hit Retail Stores? 📌 15:20 – Will Ferrell Birthday Celebration For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sgweq_AtMms #lightninground #morrisons #alexcooper #nextdoor #aiinfluencer #retailstories #workplaceproductivity #omnitalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 19
This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we examine Shopify's proactive stance on AI agent regulation. Shopify is drawing boundaries around agentic AI with new language in merchant websites' robots.txt files, stating "scraping, buy from me agents, or any end-to-end flow that completes payment without a final review step is not permitted." The move shows Shopify thinking ahead to protect its ecosystem while directing legitimate integrators to use official APIs. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! ⏩ Topics Covered: 📌 00:00 – Headline Details 📌 01:50 – Understanding Shopify's robots.txt Changes 📌 04:25 – David Brown: Why This Is Great News 📌 07:40 – The Bot Problem in Concert Tickets & Restaurants 📌 10:15 – Boardroom Attention to Agentic AI 📌 13:30 – Chad Lusk on AI Risk Management 📌 16:45 – The Talent War for AI Skills 📌 19:20 – Chris Walton: Lobbying for Bot Regulation 📌 22:10 – Marketplace 2.0 Predictions For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sgweq_AtMms #shopify #agenticai #aiagents #botregulation #ecommerce #retailautomation #aiethics #retailtech #omnitalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 19
This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we explore the generational shift reshaping grocery retail. Traditional supermarkets are falling out of favor with younger generations, with Gen Z, millennials, and Gen X increasingly turning to discount retailers for groceries. According to new survey data, 22% of Gen Z shoppers made their most recent grocery trip at Aldi, matching Walmart's share. Meanwhile, 28% of baby boomers and 31% of the silent generation still prefer traditional supermarkets. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! ⏩ Topics Covered: 📌 00:00 – Headline Details 📌 02:10 – The Shocking Survey Numbers 📌 05:20 – Chad Lusk: A&M's Consumer Sentiment Data 📌 08:15 – Why Young Shoppers Choose Walmart & Aldi 📌 11:30 – Private Label Confidence Among Generations 📌 14:45 – David Brown on Experience Quality 📌 17:20 – Content Creation Strategy for Regional Grocers 📌 20:05 – The Future of Traditional Supermarkets For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sgweq_AtMms #grocerytrends #genz #millennials #walmart #aldi #supermarkets #privatelabel #discountretail #consumerbehavior #omnitalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 19
This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we examine how tariff-driven inflation threatens the upcoming holiday season. Inflation rose to 2.7% in June, its highest level since February, as President Trump's sweeping tariffs push up costs across furniture, clothing, and large appliances. Core inflation climbed to 2.9% annually, creating massive uncertainty for retailers planning holiday inventory and pricing strategies. With nobody knowing what tariffs will be in place during peak season, retailers face unprecedented challenges. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! ⏩ Topics Covered: 📌 00:00 – Headline Introduction 📌 01:45 – Breaking Down the 2.7% Inflation Numbers 📌 04:30 – David Brown: Playing Chicken with the World 📌 07:15 – Holiday Season Impact Predictions 📌 10:20 – Chad Lusk on Cost Reduction Strategies 📌 13:35 – Pricing Precision vs Blanket Moves 📌 16:50 – Inventory Planning Under Uncertainty 📌 19:25 – Small Business vs Mass Retailer Challenges For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sgweq_AtMms #tariffs #inflation #holidayretail #pricingstrategy #consumerspending #retailmargins #costreduction #inventoryplanning #massretail #omnitalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 19
This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we analyze contrasting approaches to return-to-office policies. Both Starbucks and Target issued return-to-office orders this week, but with very different strategies. Starbucks mandates employees work in the office a minimum of four days a week (Monday-Thursday) starting in October, even offering voluntary exit packages for those who refuse. Target takes a softer approach, asking team members to work in person at least three times a week with flexibility on which days, leaving decisions to individual leaders. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! ⏩ Topics Covered: 📌 00:00 – Headline Details 📌 01:30 – Starbucks' Hard Line: 4 Mandatory Days 📌 04:15 – Target's Flexible 3-Day Approach 📌 07:20 – A&M's David Brown on Best Practices 📌 10:45 – The Importance of Standardized Days 📌 13:30 – Corporate Culture Alignment Strategies 📌 16:10 – Impact on Productivity & Collaboration For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sgweq_AtMms #returntooffice #starbucks #target #workplacepolicy #hybridwork #remotework #corporateculture #retailleadership #productivity #omnitalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 19
This week on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we dive into the biggest CPG story of the year. Kraft Heinz is preparing to break itself up a decade after the infamous merger orchestrated by Warren Buffett and Brazilian private equity firm 3G Capital Partners. The company plans to spin off a large chunk of its grocery business, including many Kraft products, into a new entity valued as much as $20 billion. This would leave a separate company housing faster-growing offerings like Heinz ketchup, Grey Poupon mustard, and hot sauces that align better with consumer preferences. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! ⏩ Topics Covered: 📌 00:00 – Headline Details 📌 02:15 – The Failed 3G Capital Strategy 📌 05:30 – Chad Lusk on Value Creation Through Divestiture 📌 08:45 – David Brown on Resource Allocation Challenges 📌 12:20 – International Buyer Considerations & Regulations 📌 15:40 – Expert Analysis: Will the Breakup Work? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sgweq_AtMms #kraftheinz #CPGbreakup #warrenbuffett #3gcapital #foodindustry #mergersacquisitions #brandportfolio #valuecreation #retailnews #omnitalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 18
Placer.ai’s Chief Marketing Officer Ethan Chernofsky delivers his highly anticipated retail grades for the first half of 2024! Discover which retailers are crushing it (Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Sprouts) and which ones need improvement (Target, Lululemon). This data-driven analysis uses real foot traffic and location analytics to reveal surprising retail trends, from the movie theater comeback to department store resurgences. Essential insights for retail professionals, investors, and anyone interested in consumer behavior and retail performance trends. 0:00 – Introduction: Omni Talk hosts welcome Placer AI’s newly promoted CMO Ethan Chernowski for summer retail grades 1:50 – What is Placer.ai: Location data company tracking tens of millions of devices to analyze retail foot traffic 3:25 – “A’s As Expected”: Top performers including Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Sprouts, TJX/Marshalls – retailers with clear reason for being 8:30 – “Holding Onto Newfound Momentum”: Chili’s remarkable turnaround through menu simplification and value focus, plus department store recovery (Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s) 17:10 – “Blockbuster Mindset”: Movie theaters showing improvement when big films release, but need year-round merchandising strategy 25:00 – “Shaky But Promising”: Hobby Lobby benefiting from Jo-Ann closures, Home Depot tariff impact, Ulta recovery, and B-class mall resurgence 33:00 – “Needs Improvement”: Lululemon facing saturation challenges, Target’s operational issues beyond DEI controversy, Dave & Busters pricing problems 40:00 – Key takeaway: Success comes from knowing your “reason for being” and focusing on retail fundamentals over flashy technology Music by hooksounds.com #retailanalytics #retailtrends #walmart #target #lululemon #consumerbehavior #retailstrategy #omnitalk #locationdata Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 17
AWS's Daniele Stroppa, Worldwide Technical Lead for AWS partners in retail, joins us to announce July's retail tech startup of the month: Bria AI. Daniele breaks down why Bria AI is revolutionizing content creation for brands with their visual generative AI platform. Unlike typical text-to-image generators, Bria focuses on commercial value, seamless integration, and fully compliant content creation using properly licensed data. From maintaining brand integrity with "tailor generation" to creating thousands of product images in minutes instead of weeks, Bria AI is solving real enterprise challenges with practical solutions that integrate into existing workflows. 🔑 Topics covered: Why Bria AI stands out from other visual AI platforms The three key pillars: commercial value, ease of integration, and compliance Real-world applications from product detail pages to social media campaigns Long-term implications of AI image generation for retail 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights and to be the first, each month, to find out who wins retail tech startup of the month! #retailtech #generativeai #visualai #contentcreation #omnitalk #retailinnovation #briaai #retailpodcast #aws #ecommerce Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 16
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , A&M’s Chad Lusk and David Brown joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Kraft Heinz’s breakup plans – The food giant is preparing to spin off a large chunk of its grocery business into a new $20 billion entity, a decade after the infamous Warren Buffett-orchestrated merger ( Source ) Return to office mandates – Both Starbucks and Target issued new in-person work requirements, with Starbucks mandating four days (Monday-Thursday) and Target requiring three flexible days per week ( Source ) Tariff-driven inflation concerns – Consumer prices rose 2.7% in June as President Trump’s tariffs push up costs on furniture, clothing, and appliances, potentially impacting holiday shopping ( Source ) Supermarkets losing younger shoppers – Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X increasingly favor Walmart and Aldi over traditional supermarkets, with 22% of Gen Z shoppers choosing each retailer for their most recent grocery trip ( Source ) Shopify sets AI boundaries – The e-commerce platform is blocking agentic AI bots from completing purchases without human review, adding new restrictions to protect merchants from unauthorized automation ( Source ) And AWS’s Daniele Stroppa also dropped by to help us hand out a new award we are giving out each month in partnership with AWS, and we are calling it the Retail Startup of the Month – this month’s winner is Bria AI , a visual generative AI platform that helps brands create compliant, on-brand content at scale. There’s all that, plus discussions on AI influencers taking Wimbledon by storm, cranky Nextdoor neighbors, and whether Alex Cooper was rightly booed at Wrigley Field last week. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Apple Podcasts and on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #KraftHeinzBreakup #ReturnToOffice #TariffInflation #SupermarketTrends #ShopifyAI #AgenticAI #BriaAI #RetailTech #OmniTalk #RetailPodcast #AWSTechStartup This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 12
Our lightning round covers McDonald's spicy breakfast innovation, Bob's Furniture's quirky "Furniture Eulogies" social campaign, and the new dating trend "Banksying." Plus Chris shares his furniture design advice and grocery shopping habits. Brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital. 📌 McDonald's spicy pepper sauce breakfast 📌 Bob's Furniture social programming 📌 Consumer behavior trends 📌 Personal shopping insights For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IHX4xxVvFJs #mcdonalds #breakfast #furniture #consumertrends #lightninground This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 12
New app Grocery Dealz allows real-time price comparison across grocery stores, potentially triggering massive industry disruption. Chris warns this could herald the age of agentic AI grocery shopping that threatens traditional retailers' margin structures and survival. Brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital. 📌 Real-time grocery price comparison 📌 Agentic AI shopping implications 📌 Threat to high-low pricing strategies 📌 Winners and losers in pricing transparency For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IHX4xxVvFJs #grocerydeals #pricingtech #groceryinnovation #aiinretail #retaildisruption This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 12
Sephora offers $20 Lyft credits to drive customers to stores during Prime Day week. Our hosts analyze whether this "delivered to beauty" campaign represents innovative omnichannel thinking or just smart marketing spin that luxury retailers have done for decades. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital. 📌 Sephora's Prime Day counter-strategy 📌 Historical context of luxury retail car services 📌 Target audience and marketing effectiveness 📌 Sustainability of the approach For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IHX4xxVvFJs #sephora #lyft #luxuryretail #primeday #marketingstrategy #beautyretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 12
Staples pivots to services like TSA pre-check, passport photos, and Verizon device sales as core printing business declines. Chris and Anne debate whether this services salvation story can sustain the 945-location chain or if it's just delaying the inevitable. Brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital. 📌 Staples' services diversification strategy 📌 Verizon partnership expansion plans 📌 TSA pre-check and passport services growth 📌 Long-term viability concerns For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IHX4xxVvFJs #staples #retailservices #officemaxdepot #businessservices #retailpivot This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 12
Amazon teams up with Gopuff for 15-minute grocery delivery across major UK cities. Our hosts debate whether this signals Amazon's retreat from direct grocery or a strategic setup for agentic AI shopping experiences that could revolutionize how consumers buy groceries. Sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital. 📌 Amazon's UK grocery marketplace approach 📌 Gopuff's white-label delivery strategy 📌 Implications for direct grocery competition 📌 Future agentic AI shopping possibilities For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IHX4xxVvFJs #amazon #gouff #ukretail #grocerydelivery #marketplace #retailstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 12
Walmart launches "Dinner Tonight" - a new meal solution platform that combines recipes, ready-made meals, and one-click ordering with same-day delivery. Chris and Anne analyze why this could be the meal kit killer and how Walmart's AI integration positions them ahead of competitors. Brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital. 📌 Walmart's meal solution innovation 📌 Why meal kits are like "stylus on palm pilot" 📌 How AI integration amplifies the platform 📌 Competitive advantages over traditional meal delivery For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IHX4xxVvFJs #walmart #dinnertonight #mealkit #retailtech #groceryinnovation #omnitalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 9
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart’s “Dinner Tonight” platform launch – The retail giant’s one-stop meal solution that lets customers type “Dinner Tonight” or “easy dinner” to access one-click baskets, recipe hubs, and shoppable lists, complete with deli and bakery delivery options. ( Source ) Amazon’s 15-minute grocery delivery partnership with GoPuff in the UK – The ultra-fast service has expanded from Birmingham and Salford to major cities including London, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Cardiff, Bristol and Sheffield, offering 24/7 grocery delivery through GoPuff’s micro-fulfillment network. ( Source ) Staples pivoting to services for business relevance – The office supply retailer is driving foot traffic through printing, shipping, passport services, and a new Verizon partnership to sell phones and devices in-store, with about 945 locations serving roughly 90% of the U.S. population. ( Source ) Sephora’s “Delivered to Beauty” partnership with Lyft – The beauty retailer offered $20 Lyft credits for rides to select stores in NYC, LA, San Francisco, Chicago, and Seattle during July 7-10, with customers receiving in-store guidance and $10 off purchases over $50. ( Source ) Grocery Dealz app launch as the “Gas Buddy of grocery” – The new Dallas-Fort Worth based app allows shoppers to compare grocery prices across supermarkets and build carts, with plans for statewide Texas expansion and eventual national rollout. ( Source ) Plus: This month’s OmniStar award goes to Tracey Brown, EVP and Chief Customer Officer at Walgreens, for becoming a licensed pharmacy tech and working weekend shifts to better understand operations and accelerate change. There’s all that, and we even hit on spicy McMuffins, furniture eulogies, and the new dating trend called “Banksying.” P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Apple Podcasts and on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WalmartDinnerTonight #AmazonGrocery #GoPuffUK #StaplesServices #SephoraLyft #GroceryDealz #RetailTech #OmniTalk #RetailPodcast #PricingTransparency #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 5
This segment on the Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, covers rapid-fire retail takes. Quick hits on General Dynamics buying Macy's anchor space (Chris suggests hiding alien bodies), Google's AI mode for fashion try-ons (Anne loves how flattering it is), and Jeff Bezos' celebrity-packed wedding. Plus Anne's controversial Arnold Schwarzenegger movie rankings with Kindergarten Cop at #1! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-J5sCVAKsfQ 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! ⏩ Topics Covered: 📌 44:30 – Dead Mall Spaces & Government Use 📌 45:37 – Google AI Mode Fashion Experience 📌 47:16 – Celebrity Wedding Guest Lists 📌 48:34 – Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie Rankings #lightninground #deadmalls #googleAI #celebrityweddings #retailrealestate #AIfashion #arnoldschwarzenegger #retailentertainment This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 5
This segment on the Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, analyzes Starbucks' hiring transformation under CEO Brian Niccol. Starbucks adds district managers to barista hiring decisions as part of experience improvements. Chris sees it as a culture message but fears operational issues remain unsolved, while Anne advocates for automation first, comparing it to Chick-fil-A's efficient model where human interaction focuses on key moments. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-J5sCVAKsfQ 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! #starbucks #brianniccol #retailhiring #customerexperience #baristas #retailstaffing #operationaldesign #retailautomation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 5
This segment on the Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, examines Hibbett's kids-focused digital strategy. Hibbett launches a standalone kids app and website under new owner JD Sports for ages 13 and younger. Both Chris and Anne question this approach, suggesting resources would be better spent on TikTok influencers and content creation where kids actually discover products, rather than building separate apps. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-J5sCVAKsfQ 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! #hibbitt #kidsapp #JDsports #athleticretail #mobilecommerce #retailapps #kidsecommerce #influencermarketing This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 5
This segment on the Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, breaks down Target's factory direct shipping test. Target explores factory direct shipping similar to Temu and Shein's model for apparel and home goods. Chris loves the defensive move and believes Target's brand credibility can win, while Anne questions if Target has lost its design edge and worries about competing on price against Walmart and Amazon. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-J5sCVAKsfQ 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! #target #factorydirect #temu #shein #retailsourcing #directshipping #retailstrategy #brandcredibility This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 5
This segment on the Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, explores Wegmans' smart cart pilot. Wegmans pilots Instacart's AI-powered Caper Carts at their Syracuse store for seamless checkout and spending tracking. Anne remains "mid" on smart carts, seeing them as a retail media play rather than essential retail tech, while Chris questions if this expensive capital investment will ever scale effectively. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-J5sCVAKsfQ 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! #wegmans #smartcarts #instacart #capercarts #grocerytech #retailmedia #AIretail #loyaltyprograms This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 5
This segment on the Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital, dives into Walmart's dark store pilot program. Walmart is testing dark stores in Dallas for faster online fulfillment, with plans for Bentonville. Chris calls it a smart defensive and offensive move that could eliminate out-of-stocks online, while Anne questions whether this accelerates competition with Amazon and what Target's response will be. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly retail insights! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-J5sCVAKsfQ #walmart #darkstores #retailtech #onlinefulfillment #ecommerce #retailautomation #omnichannel #warehouseinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 3
In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, gStore by GregyOrange’s General Manager Troy Sewek joins Omni Talk to share his tried-and-true tips on tech for the world’s smartest stores. From RFID foundations to computer vision innovations, Troy breaks down what technology is truly critical for retailers facing market uncertainty, how to build smart store pilots that actually change behavior (not just showcase tech), and why the future is all about orchestration — where all your store systems work together like a central nervous system. If you’ve ever wondered what smart store tech is worth adopting and how to implement it fast, this episode is for you. 🔑 Topics covered: Critical tech stack for agile retail operations (RFID, computer vision, predictive alerts) How to layer new technology on existing systems without throwing away investments Smart store pilot strategies that deliver results in 60-90 days Why behavior-changing labs beat tech showcases every time The orchestration era: How merchandising, inventory, staffing and fulfillment unite Real solutions for mass retailers with mixed RFID environments 🎧 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #smartstores #retailtech #RFID #computervision #omnitalk #retailinnovation #storeoperations #retailpodcast #gstore #retailexecution #smartretail Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 2
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart testing dark stores ( Source ) Wegmans piloting Instacart’s smart carts ( Source ) Target exploring factory-direct shipping models similar to Shein and Temu ( Source ) Hibbett’s launch of a kid-focused app and website ( Source ) Starbucks retooling its hiring process for baristas ( Source ) And gStore from GreyOrange’s General Manager, Troy Siwek stopped by for 5 Insightful Minutes to give us the lowdown on what technologies he thinks retailers should be evaluating for their next generation of smart stores. There’s all that, plus alien bodies, AI mode, the Bezos wedding, and Arnold Schwarzenegger movie rankings. You can give this week’s Fast Five retail news roundup a listen by clicking above or on the platform of your choice below: P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Apple Podcasts and on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WalmartDarkStores #InstacartSmartCarts #RetailTech #TargetFactoryDirect #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #StarbucksHiring #HibbettKids #RetailInnovation #GroceryTech #RetailStrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 1
Omni Talk sits down with Krystina Gustafson, co-founder of RetailClub and former Shoptalk content chief, to talk about the new AI Deep Dive Retreat launching this September in Huntington Beach. In this candid conversation, Krystina explains how RetailClub is reinventing the retail event experience—ditching the booths and buzzwords in favor of real conversations, collaborative learning, and hands-on AI training. 🔥 What to expect: – A sneak peek into RetailClub’s first AI-focused retreat – How the team behind Shoptalk is flipping the traditional conference model – Who should attend: From AI curious to retail change-makers – Why now is the moment for building an AI-native retail community – And how retailers and brands can attend for free and get up to $1,250 in travel reimbursement! 📅 Registration deadline: August 22 🌐 Learn more: https://retailclub.com Music by hooksounds.com #RetailClub #aiinretail #retailinnovation #omnitalk #RetailRetreat #retailleadership #generativeai #RetailEvents *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 28
In this week's Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, our rapid-fire lightning round covers the week's quirkiest retail stories: Ollipop's 5-cent VIP boxes, Jimmy John's steamy romance novel promotion, Unilever acquiring Dr. Squatch, and Tombstone's wild French fry crust pizza experiment. Timestamps: 32:19 - Ollipop Amazon partnership 32:53 - Jimmy John romance audiobook 34:54 - Dr Squatch acquisition 35:34 - Tombstone French fry pizza Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/3lsaTBvBuMs #RetailNews #FoodInnovation #BrandMarketing #ConsumerTrends #LightningRound This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 28
In this week's Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Amazon is testing aggressive grocery bundling by showing 100+ food items during regular checkout flows. We analyze whether this interstitial approach can change deeply ingrained shopping habits and why Walmart has a massive advantage in the grocery recommendation game. Timestamps: 29:28 - Bundling strategy details 30:08 - Intent vs behavior mismatch 31:03 - Walmart's positioning advantage 31:43 - Recommendation engine comparison Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/3lsaTBvBuMs #AmazonGrocery #GroceryDelivery #OnlineGrocery #AmazonFresh #RetailStrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 28
In this week's Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, conservative grocery giant H-E-B surprises everyone by piloting autonomous delivery robots in Austin with Avride. We break down why this 1-mile radius test makes sense for this location but question whether robot delivery can scale beyond urban experiments. Timestamps: 25:12 - H-E-B robot pilot details 26:21 - Why this location works 27:07 - Scaling challenges 27:45 - "Garminized" prediction 28:56 - Partnership speculation Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/3lsaTBvBuMs #HEB #AutonomousDelivery #GroceryRobots #RetailInnovation #LastMileDelivery This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 28
In this week's Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, we discuss how Walmart is revolutionizing store operations with AI tools that cut shift planning from 90 to 30 minutes. We analyze why overnight stocking is the perfect testing ground for retail AI and how this technology could transform workforce productivity across thousands of stores. Timestamps: 15:17 - AI tool announcement 15:53 - Why overnight logistics matters 16:34 - Team lead time savings 17:29 - Execution vs data interpretation 18:22 - Revenue impact potential Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/3lsaTBvBuMs #Walmart #RetailAI #StoreOperations #RetailTechnology #WorkforceEfficiency This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 28
In this week's Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, we deep dive into Whatnot, the live streaming shopping app that hit $3B in sales selling trading cards, sneakers, and collectibles. We explore whether this QVC-meets-Twitch model can expand beyond niche markets and why video commerce is finally taking off in America. Timestamps: 8:28 - What is Whatnot? 9:47 - US vs China video commerce 10:44 - Niche vs mass market potential 13:05 - eBay 2.0 comparison 14:30 - Platform distribution challenges Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/3lsaTBvBuMs #Whatnot #LiveShopping #VideoCommerce #CollectiblesTrading #SocialCommerce #LiveStreaming This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 28
In this week's Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, we break down the massive $1.77B merger between SpartanNash and C&S Wholesale Grocers that will service 10,000+ retail locations. We analyze why wholesale consolidation is accelerating and what it means for independent grocers fighting against Walmart and Kroger's dominance. Timestamps: 5:28 - Merger announcement details 6:09 - Why scale matters in wholesale 7:11 - Pressure on independent grocers 7:51 - Can this stop big retailer market grab? Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/3lsaTBvBuMs #Grocery #retailnews #SpartanNash #WholesaleGrocers #RetailConsolidation #IndependentGrocers This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27
In this exclusive interview from the CommerceNext Growth Show, Omni Talk sits down with Jeff Gerstel, CMO of B&H Photo and Video, to explore how one of New York’s most iconic retailers continues to set the bar for loyalty, service, and operational excellence—even with just one physical store. 🎯 Topics discussed: – Why service, not gimmicks, drives B&H’s customer loyalty – How livestream video and global ecommerce fuel their success – What every retailer should do to improve the customer experience – The practical approach B&H takes to AI and emerging retail tech – The secret to 99.8% on-time fulfillment (and what they do for the 0.2%) 👏 Huge thanks to GreyOrange for supporting our coverage and enabling smarter, real-time inventory at H&M and beyond. 📍 If you're in NYC, don't miss the B&H store at 34th & 9th or visit the H&M Soho Store on Broadway to see tech in action. #commercenext #retailnews #retailtech #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27
In this candid conversation from the Mirakl Summit, Omni Talk sits down with Scott Eckert CEO of the Americas at Mirakl, to talk about his first 100 days on the job and what excites him most about Mirakl’s future. From unlocking B2B marketplaces to building seller-focused tools like Mirakl Connect and embracing retail media as the next big revenue driver, Scott shares his roadmap for accelerating growth in the Americas. Learn why curated marketplaces, a dynamic supply chain, and third-party seller expansion are top priorities for the year ahead. #MiraklSummit2025 #retailmedia #marketplaces #omnitalkretail #MiraklConnect #ecommercestrategy #retailinnovation #b2bcommerce #retailtrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27
Omni Talk sits down with Mirakl’s Chief Data & AI Officer, Anne-Claire Baschet, live from the Mirakl Summit in NYC to talk all things artificial intelligence and e-commerce. Anne-Claire explains how Mirakl is embedding AI across its platform—from catalog onboarding to media operations—and why the future lies in “agentic commerce,” where AI-powered agents help shoppers and sellers alike. With 91% of Mirakl employees already using AI daily, this is a behind-the-scenes look at how Mirakl is preparing for the next generation of e-commerce infrastructure. #MiraklAI #agenticai #aiinretail #omnitalkretail #MiraklSummit2025 #ecommerceinnovation #retailai #productdiscovery This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27
Max Tepper, Senior Brand Manager at The Sak, joins Omni Talk live from the Mirakl Summit to share how the iconic handbag and accessories brand has transformed into a marketplace powerhouse. Max discusses The Sak’s post-pandemic pivot from brick-and-mortar to DTC and marketplaces, their successful onboarding with Mirakl, and how strategic channel expansion—including Nordstrom, Amazon, QVC, and more—is fueling growth. If you're a brand looking to scale through marketplaces without losing control, this is a masterclass in how to do it right. Learn how they test fast, reach new customers, and simplify operations across many, many different retail marketplaces. #TheSak #marketplaces #MiraklSummit2025 #ecommerce #omnitalkretail #RetailMarketplaces #handbags #digitalcommerce #retailtransformation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27
Omni Talk is live from the Mirakl Summit with Joe Cano, SVP of Digital at Lowe’s, for an inside look at how Lowe’s is scaling its digital business through a newly launched Mirakl-powered marketplace. Joe breaks down how the marketplace complements Lowe’s total home strategy, empowers associates, integrates seamlessly into omnichannel operations, and connects directly with Lowe’s evolving retail media strategy. Plus, hear how Lowe’s is using AI—through tools like its Mylow platform—to personalize the experience for DIY and Pro customers alike. From seamless omnichannel integration to surprising product sales, Lowe’s is reimagining what digital retail looks like. #loweshomeimprovement #retailai #omnitalkretail #MiraklSummit2025 #JoeCano #retailmedia #ecommerce #digitaltransformation #marketplaces #Mylow This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27
Live from the 2025 Mirakl Summit in New York City, Omni Talk’s Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Cotopaxi Founder and Chief Global Officer Stephan Jacob. In this powerful conversation, Stephan shares how Cotopaxi blends purpose with profit through its mission-driven marketplace expansion strategy, ensuring brand integrity and sustainable impact while scaling. Discover how the brand evaluates partnerships, maintains authenticity, and uses marketplaces to deepen customer relationships—all without compromising values. Learn why Cotopaxi takes a relationship-first, purpose-led approach to expansion—and how marketplaces play a vital role in that journey. #cotopaxi #MiraklSummit #marketplaces #retailinnovationl #omnitalkretail #ecommercegrowth #omnichannelretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27
Tapestry’s Avinash Kaushik joins Omni Talk live from CommerceNext 2025 to discuss how AI is transforming marketing from the inside out. In this dynamic conversation, Avinash explains why he believes AI is becoming the new operating system for retail—powering personalized communications, predictive analytics, and creative testing across Coach, Kate Spade, and Stuart Weitzman. Learn how Tapestry is scaling intent-centric marketing, using synthetic humans in research, and leveraging AI to delight customers from inbox to in-store. Brought to you by GreyOrange, helping retailers like H&M deliver real-time inventory experiences. #tapestry #AvinashKaushik #IntentMarketing #retailinnovation #CommerceNext2025 #digitaltransformation #aiinretail #coach #personalization #omnitalkretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27
Live from CommerceNext 2025, Omni Talk’s Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton sit down with Lauren Price, SVP of E-Commerce and Digital Marketing at COS North America, part of the H&M Group. Lauren shares how COS is attracting new customers with creator-driven campaigns, authentic product storytelling, and a strong focus on foundational e-commerce execution. From the viral success of the Clean Cut Tee to insights on Gen Z expectations and a major tech overhaul, this conversation is packed with takeaways for any brand navigating the future of fashion retail. Brought to you by GreyOrange, powering real-time inventory visibility at H&M stores like the one in Soho, NYC. #COS #CommerceNext2025 #genz #ecommercestrategy #quietluxury #omnitalkretail #tiktokfashion #creatoreconomy #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27
Live from CommerceNext 2025, Omni Talk’s Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Sarah Henry, Walmart's VP of Content, Influencer, and Commerce, to explore how Walmart is tapping into the creator economy and reshaping the retail experience through social commerce. From the rise of Gen Z shopping behaviors to the role of AI in simplifying creator workflows, Sarah gives an inside look at the Walmart Creator platform, influencer strategy, and the future of shoppable content. Sarah shares how the retailer is leading in the social commerce space with its Walmart Creator platform, helping creators of all sizes monetize authentically. From Gen Z shopping insights to AI’s role in flattening the funnel, this live CommerceNext interview is full of takeaways for the future of retail. Brought to you by GreyOrange. #walmartcreator #socialcommerce #retailinnovation #genz #CommerceNext2025 #influencermarketing #omnitalk #retailtrends #creatoreconomy #aiinretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 26
In the first edition of Omni Talk’s new monthly series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga team up with AWS’s Daniele Stroppa to spotlight the Retail Tech Startup of the Month—and the inaugural winner is Botify. Learn how Botify helps brands improve discoverability across both traditional and generative search engines by going beyond SEO to optimize content visibility for bots and agents. Discover why Botify’s approach is a big win for brands navigating the evolving consumer search landscape, and how it also helps reduce operational costs. Key moments from the interview: 00:00 – Intro to new Omni Talk segment with AWS: Retail Tech Startup of the Month 00:33 – Meet Daniele Stroppa, AWS Worldwide Technical Leader for Retail 01:01 – Daniele’s role in retail innovation and partner strategy at AWS 02:07 – First award winner revealed: Botify 02:19 – What Botify does: improving brand visibility across search platforms 02:54 – Why visibility in generative search (Perplexity, ChatGPT) matters 03:37 – How Botify goes beyond traditional SEO 04:06 – Analyzing bot and agent behavior on brand websites 04:23 – Helping brands ensure critical content is discoverable 04:41 – Long-term retail implications: revenue, brand recognition, infrastructure cost savings 05:31 – Congrats to Botify and final thoughts on the startup’s impact Music by hooksounds.com #retailtech #StartupOfTheMonth #aws #Botify #omnitalkretail #ecommerceseo #generativeai #retailai #discoverability #digitalcommerce Brought to you in partnership with AWS This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 25
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Chris and Anne discussed: SpartanNash’s merger with C&S Wholesale Grocers ( Source ) Whatnot, the $5 billion shopping app you probably haven’t heard of ( Source ) Walmart equipping its store associates with mobile AI tools ( Source ) H-E-B piloting autonomous deliveries in Austin, TX ( Source ) Amazon testing tighter grocery bundling for same-day deliveries ( Source ) And AWS’s Daniele Stroppa also dropped by to help us hand out a new award we are giving out each month in partnership with AWS, and we are calling it the Retail Startup of the Month There’s all that, plus french fry pizza, steamy romance novels, and whether Chris prefers bar soap or body wash in the shower. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Apple Podcasts and on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WalmartAI #WhatnotApp #RetailTech #GroceryDelivery #RetailPodcast #OmniTalk #AmazonGrocery #LivestreamShopping #RetailInnovation #SpartanNash #Botify This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 24
Join Omni Talk’s Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga as they sit down with JOOR CEO Kristin Savilia to explore how JOOR is transforming the wholesale fashion landscape. Kristin shares exclusive insights on digitizing the buyer-brand relationship, enabling smarter assortment planning, and helping independent retailers thrive globally. Learn how JOOR's Shopify integration, AI-powered prospecting, and strategic tariff navigation are reshaping the fashion industry for 2025 and beyond. From shrinking shipping windows to a surge in indie retailers, this conversation is a must-watch for anyone navigating fashion’s evolving B2B landscape. Key Moments: 00:00 – Intro and welcome back to Kristin Savilia, CEO of JOOR 01:30 – How JOOR digitizes wholesale buying for brands and retailers 02:50 – Overview of JOOR’s platform and client base (14K brands, 670K buyers) 04:15 – Surge of independent retailers: From 47% to 62% of GMV 06:00 – Shopify integration: Bridging wholesale with e-commerce and POS 07:45 – How retailers can adapt to market uncertainty using JOOR data 08:50 – Shrinking shipping windows: From 240 to 84 days and dropping 10:15 – Brands respond with curated assortments and evergreen styles 11:40 – How JOOR helps optimize product curation and minimize buyer risk 13:00 – Tariff pressures and pricing strategies: Expect 20% price increases 16:45 – JOOR’s "Ready to Ship" event to offload current inventory 18:50 – Leveraging regional assortments for competitive edge 20:00 – Launch of JOOR Discover: AI matchmaking tool for brand-retailer growth 22:00 – 78% reorder rate and 9X better conversion via AI outreach 24:00 – Rise in ChatGPT/Gemini lead generation vs. traditional SEO 26:30 – How DTC brands can expand into wholesale with JOOR 27:40 – Final thoughts and where to learn more at JOOR.com For more information on JOOR, head here: https://www.joor.com/ Access a JOOR Passport Event here: https://www.jooraccess.com/r/passport/ Download the JOOR Whitepaper here: https://resources.joor.com/how-to-tackle-tariffs-and-thrive-this-coming-market-season #fashiontech #wholesaling #retailai #Joor #omnitalk #retailinnovation #shopifyintegration #retailtrends #b2bfashion #retailstrategy Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 21
Ever wonder what retail experts actually buy at Costco or what cars they dream about driving? This lightning round reveals the personal side of our A&M retail gurus, from brisket smoking tips to the shocking number of Cheerios varieties on shelves. Brought to you by A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/vjOmUkH_Vhw?si=9f8KlsQw8yUdPqan #cheerios #corvettes #costco This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 21
Costco is finally building standalone gas stations to solve their infamous parking lot congestion while expanding member benefits beyond the warehouse. This economics 101 supply-and-demand solution could be the competitive edge Costco needs against Sam's Club and Walmart. Presented by A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/vjOmUkH_Vhw?si=9f8KlsQw8yUdPqan #costco #costcogas #gas This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 21
Albertsons is betting big on digital displays throughout their stores, but grocery retail has a terrible track record with digital advertising execution. Our experts clash over whether this retail media investment will drive meaningful ROI or become another expensive digital billboard failure. Powered by A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/vjOmUkH_Vhw?si=9f8KlsQw8yUdPqan #albertsons #retailmedia This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 21
Can AI save H&M from Shein's explosive growth? H&M invests heavily in predictive and generative AI to compete as Shein leapfrogs to 1.5% market share. Expert analysis reveals why AI alone won't solve H&M's fast fashion problem. Brought to you by A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/vjOmUkH_Vhw?si=9f8KlsQw8yUdPqan #shein #h&m #fastfashion This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 21
Amazon restructures grocery leadership under "One Grocery" strategy, merging Whole Foods employees into Amazon systems. Is this long-overdue efficiency or cultural destruction? Expert debate on what this means for grocery competition and Whole Foods' future. Sponsored by A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/vjOmUkH_Vhw?si=9f8KlsQw8yUdPqan #grocery #amazon #wholefoods This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 21
Walmart just revolutionized product launches forever! See how they delivered every Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order by 9 AM with FREE Coke and Pringles, leaving Target and Best Buy scrambling to catch up. Expert analysis on why this changes everything for electronics retail and gaming drops. Brought to you by A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, Clear Demand, and Ocampo Capital. #walmart #switch2 #nintendo For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/vjOmUkH_Vhw?si=9f8KlsQw8yUdPqan This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 20
In this Spotlight Series interview, Catherine Dummitt, VP of Marketing at Narvar, explains how the post-purchase journey is evolving from a cost center to a powerful “trust center.” With insights from over 42 billion consumer interactions annually, Narvar is helping retailers rethink shipping, returns, and communication to boost loyalty, reduce costs, and drive revenue. From AI-driven delivery confidence to smarter shipping perks, this is a must-watch for anyone shaping the future of e-commerce. Key Moments: 0:08 – 1:15 | Meet Catherine Dummitt, VP of Marketing at Narvar 1:16 – 2:44 | What Narvar is and how it powers post-purchase personalization 2:45 – 4:45 | Why delivery confidence is replacing speed as the top consumer priority 4:46 – 6:27 | The shift from instant gratification to brand trust and delivery reliability 6:28 – 9:10 | The new role of communication and clarity in reducing delivery anxiety 9:11 – 12:21 | Strategic free shipping and perks — not one-size-fits-all 12:22 – 14:59 | Using Narvar’s data to help brands personalize offers and reduce cart abandonment 15:00 – 16:46 | How communication impacts repurchase behavior and lifts revenue 16:47 – 18:35 | Turning tracking pages into branding and engagement opportunities 18:36 – 21:00 | Why post-purchase should be treated as a “trust center,” not a cost center 21:01 – 23:00 | Shipping protection, porch theft anxiety, and new revenue streams 23:01 – 24:27 | What’s next: Narvar’s AI engine Iris and the evolution of predictive personalization 24:28 – 25:14 | How to connect with Catherine and the Narvar team #Narvar #retailinnovation #PostPurchaseExperience #ecommercestrategy #retailai #customerloyalty #ordertracking #shippingsolutions #retailtransformation #PredictabilityIsProfitability Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 19
Lowe’s VP of Marketplace, Michael McCluskey, joins us to share why the retailer is diving headfirst into the world of third-party marketplaces. Learn how Lowe’s is creating an “endless aisle” experience, what this means for pro customers and sellers, and why the brand aims to become the go-to destination for everything home. Discover how Lowe’s is positioning itself in the trillion-dollar home market with a bold new e-commerce strategy. 0:09 – 0:31 | Introduction to Lowe’s marketplace push with VP Michael McCluskey 0:32 – 1:20 | Why Lowe’s prioritized a marketplace: meeting project-based customer needs 1:21 – 2:00 | Endless aisle strategy and rapid assortment expansion via third-party sellers 2:01 – 2:39 | Lowe’s dual-customer focus: serving buyers and sellers 2:40 – 3:52 | Extending the marketplace to serve Lowe’s growing Pro customer segment 3:53 – 4:42 | Key categories targeted for marketplace expansion: home décor, furniture, outdoor, tools 4:43 – 5:06 | Lowe’s differentiation as the “everything for home” store 5:07 – 5:46 | Early traction, seller interest, and long-term marketplace ambitions Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 18
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , A&M Brooks Levering and Bryson Waterman joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Walmart’s stroke of merchandising genius around the Nintendo Switch 2 launch ( Source ) Amazon restructuring around its “One Grocery” strategy ( Source ) H&M’s plans to reverse its market share declines through AI and store efficiency gains ( Source ) Albertsons’ decision to go all-in on in-store video ( Source ) And closed with a look at why in the world Costco would want to build its own standalone gas stations ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Lowe’s VP Michael McCluskey stopped by for 5 Insightful Minutes on Marketplaces, and Chris and Anne asked Brooks and Bryson about everything from Cheerios and Corvettes to what makes the perfect breakfast sandwich. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Apple Podcasts and on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14
In this special closing interview from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at CGF 2025 in Amsterdam, Frans Muller, CEO of Ahold Delhaize, joins Omni Talk Retail (0:10). He opens with reflections on the value of the Consumer Goods Forum and his time as co-chair (1:15), before diving into Ahold’s strategy of acting small at scale by empowering local stores and embracing community-specific solutions (2:15). He discusses how loyalty data and AI are reshaping personalized experiences (4:00), and how technology makes it easier to remain locally relevant while capturing operational efficiencies (5:30). Frans shares thoughts on sustainability, collaboration across the value chain, and lessons from peers on issues like plastic waste and human rights due diligence (6:30). He wraps with reflections on leadership, vulnerability, and the importance of staying humble and curious—even as a global CEO (9:00). #FransMuller #AholdDelhaize #cgf2025 #retailleadership #SustainableRetail #foodwaste #groceryinnovation #retailtechnology #omnitalkretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14
Anne and Chris deliver lightning-fast takes on the week's quirkiest retail headlines, covering everything from Tesco's 90s nightclub pop-up to Uber's senior-friendly app features. The segment showcases their signature blend of retail expertise and entertainment while broadcasting live from Amsterdam's Consumer Goods Forum. Special thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand for sponsoring this week's segment. For the full epsisode, head here https://youtu.be/7Xn7tNqtskk #lightninground #retailnews #TescoNightclub #UberSeniors #auntieannes #genz #Amsterdam #dutchfood #retailpodcast #ConsumerGoodsForum #90snostalgia #AccessibilityTech #MallFood #retailstrategy #omnitalkretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14
Peloton launched "Repowered," a resale marketplace for used fitness equipment where sellers retain 70% of the sale price while Peloton and platform provider Archive split the remaining 30%. The platform uses AI for pricing suggestions and aims to capture value from the secondary market, though experts worry about Peloton's operational execution track record. Special thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand for sponsoring this week's podcast. For the full epsisode, head here https://youtu.be/7Xn7tNqtskk #peloton #resale #fitnessequipment #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14
Amazon is developing humanoid robots that will ride in Rivian electric vans and deliver packages, currently testing the technology in a San Francisco facility designed like an obstacle course. While the concept represents significant automation advancement, experts question whether society is ready for humanoid robots delivering packages in residential areas. For the full epsisode, head here https://youtu.be/7Xn7tNqtskk Special thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand for sponsoring this week's podcast. #amazon #robots #humanoidrobot #lastmiledelivery #rivian This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14
Dollar General is launching new celebrity home collections including partnerships with Kathy Ireland, and other brands as part of its "Home Valley" expansion across 20,000+ stores. The strategy aims to attract higher-income shoppers seeking quality home goods at discount prices through a "treasure hunt" shopping experience. Special thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand for sponsoring this week's podcast. For the full epsisode, head here https://youtu.be/7Xn7tNqtskk #dollargeneral #kathyireland #homefurnishing #retailnews #privatelabel This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14
Walmart introduced "Ask Sparky," an AI assistant that helps customers find products, synthesize reviews, and get personalized recommendations through natural language searches. The company plans to evolve Sparky into agentic AI that can automatically take actions, positioning Walmart in the super app conversation alongside Google and Amazon. Special thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand for sponsoring this week's podcast. For the full epsisode, head here https://youtu.be/7Xn7tNqtskk #walmart #genai #agenticai #amazon #amazonai #googleai #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14
In this final CGF 2025 interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio, Juan Aguiriano, Group Head of Sustainability at Kerry Group, joins Omni Talk Retail to share how Kerry is helping transform global food systems. Juan kicks off with what energized him most at the event (0:30) and details a not-so-secret breakfast meeting of CSOs including Ahold’s Alex Holt (1:00). He outlines Kerry’s innovation-with-impact strategy—cutting food waste with shelf-life tech (2:30), reducing sugar and salt while preserving taste (3:30), and scaling biotech platforms like fermentation and enzymes (4:30). He then dives into Kerry’s use of AI for food concept development (5:30), combining chef creativity with data to digitally prototype sustainable products (6:30). Juan closes with a look at carbon tracking, hybrid dairy, and how digital platforms help Kerry measure its footprint across 22,000+ products (9:00), making better food and a better planet achievable—at scale. #KerryGroup #foodinnovation #sustainablenutrition #cgf2025 #JuanAguiriano #omnitalkretail #AIinFood #HybridDairy #foodwaste #CarbonTracking This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14
Walmart launched a strategic "Who Knew?" advertising campaign featuring actor Walton Goggins to highlight its transformation into a comprehensive Amazon competitor with over 500 million items and superior membership benefits. The campaign positions Walmart Plus as offering more value than Amazon Prime with gas discounts, express delivery, and lower annual subscription costs. Special thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand for sponsorship this week's podcast. For the full epsisode, head here https://youtu.be/7Xn7tNqtskk #walmart #walmartplus #amazon #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13
In this wide-ranging conversation recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at CGF 2025, Alex Holt, Chief Sustainability Officer at Ahold Delhaize, explains how the grocery giant is making sustainability simple and scalable. She shares her retail journey (0:30), the brand’s “Healthy Communities and Planet” strategy (1:20), and how they're nudging healthier customer choices (2:00). Holt unpacks what it takes to embed ESG into the business (2:40), the power of collaboration—including climate hubs and regenerative ag pilots with major CPGs (3:30), and emerging scalable solutions like dynamic pricing to fight food waste (7:00). She closes with optimism around AI’s role in accelerating progress (12:00) and what she's most excited about in the next 3–5 years (12:50). #AholdDelhaize #sustainability #CGF2025 #aiinretail #foodwaste #retailinnovation #AlexHolt #regenerativeagriculture #nutriscore #guidingstars #omnitalkretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13
Live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at the Consumer Goods Forum 2025 in Amsterdam, Aldi Süd CEO Christoph Schwaiger shares how one of the world’s most influential grocers is leaning into AI and sustainability to better serve global consumers. He reflects on Aldi’s roots in discount grocery and its mission to make sustainability affordable ( 1:00 ), why CGF is a vital forum for collaborative innovation ( 2:45 ), and how banana and cashew supply chain changes are reshaping ethical sourcing ( 4:30 ). Christoph also discusses how to inspire industry-wide cooperation ( 5:50 ), the dual power of AI and sustainability as Aldi’s growth levers ( 7:00 ), and the rising importance of cybersecurity—especially at the human level ( 8:30 ). #aldisüd #CGF2025 #retailinnovation #grocerytech #sustainability #aiinretail #cybersecurity #DiscountRetail #omnitalkretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13
Live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at the Consumer Goods Forum 2025, Eric Riegger, Group CFO of Metro AG, breaks down how one of Europe’s largest wholesalers is investing in tech, AI, and cybersecurity to meet rising customer demands and support long-term growth. He shares his retail journey from Lidl and Aldi to Metro ( 1:00 ), contrasts the U.S. and European grocery landscapes ( 2:30 ), and explains where AI offers the highest ROI today ( 4:00 ). Eric also discusses the lessons learned from a disruptive cyberattack ( 6:00 ), the cost of recovery ( 7:30 ), and how Metro is rebuilding trust through system harmonization and operational reliability ( 8:30 ). Plus, hear what brought him to CGF 2025 and why supplier partnerships and food culture remain central to Metro’s mission ( 10:00 ). #MetroAG #CGF2025 #retailinnovation #retailai #cybersecurity #WholesaleGrowth #grocerytech #retailleadership #omnitalkretail #cfoinsights This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13
In this thoughtful interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at CGF 2025, Wesley Wilson, Head of North America for the Consumer Goods Forum, discusses how global retailers and brands are navigating rapid consumer and technological shifts. He shares CGF’s three pillars—leadership development, industry-wide innovation, and impact ( 0:45 )—and why consumer health and values are top of mind in 2025 ( 3:00 ). Wesley also dives into affordability and wellness trade-offs ( 7:00 ), the role of data in building better shopping tools ( 9:00 ), and how collaboration can drive innovation and responsible tech adoption across the industry ( 10:00 ). #CGF2025 #retailinnovation #ConsumerGoodsForum #healthandwellness #retailleadership #digitaltransformation #retailai #foodasmedicine #omnitalkretail #futureofshopping This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13
In this energetic interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at CGF 2025 in Amsterdam, Danone Eurozone President Pablo Perversi sits down with Omni Talk to explore how the brand is transforming food systems across Europe. He shares insights into Danone's mission-first strategy ( 1:00 ), how science and branding power gut health innovation like Activia and kefir ( 3:30 ), and how AI is optimizing operations and segmentation at scale ( 7:00 ). Pablo also reveals what’s behind Danone’s renewed internal pride and external momentum ( 9:00 ) and why health, purpose, and digital capabilities are driving the company's next big leap forward ( 10:30 ). #danone #CGF2025 #foodasmedicine #functionalnutrition #retailai #CPGLeadership #ConsumerGoodsForum #HealthThroughFood #digitaltransformation #omnitalkretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13
In this inspiring conversation recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at CGF 2025 in Amsterdam, Bel Group CEO Cecile Béliot-Zind takes Omni Talk inside the company’s mission to balance performance and sustainability through innovation. She breaks down how Bel uses regenerative agriculture ( 7:00 ), artificial intelligence for shopper guidance ( 9:00 ), and virtual twin tech to accelerate sustainable product development ( 11:00 ). Cecile also reflects on her path from Danone to Bel ( 3:00 ), the power of collaboration across the food supply chain ( 6:00 ), and why the future of food must start with nature and partnership. #BelGroup #CGF2025 #sustainablefood #aiinretail #regenerativeagriculture #foodinnovation #omnitalkretail #babybel #circulareconomy #retailleadership #healthysnacking This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13
In this live interview recorded from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at the Consumer Goods Forum 2025 in Amsterdam, Jonquil Hackenberg, CEO of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, shares how retailers and brands can embrace circularity to tackle waste and promote sustainability at scale. From United Nations treaty negotiations on plastic ( 2:30 ) to launching 150+ regenerative food products ( 4:50 ), and the role of retail in reshaping consumer behavior ( 5:15 ), Jonquil outlines the tools and collaborations needed to normalize circular thinking. Plus, discover how to connect with the foundation's North American team ( 6:00 ) and why affordability and cool factor are key to sustainable product adoption. #circulareconomy #sustainability #retailinnovation #EllenMacArthurFoundation #CGF2025 #plasticwaste #regenerativeagriculture #retailleadership #zerowaste #omnitalkretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 12
Live from the Consumer Goods Forum and the VusionGroup Podcast Studio in Amsterdam, Omni Talk Retail sits down with Vipul Chawla, CEO of FairPrice Group, to dive into the cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of grocery retail. From launching a digital-only bank to AI-powered stores and a strong sustainability mandate, this conversation covers it all. 🔹 0:40 – Vipul’s career journey from Unilever to Yum! Brands to FairPrice 🔹 1:10 – FairPrice’s multi-format retail model in Singapore 🔹 2:00 – Why the Consumer Goods Forum is critical for collaboration 🔹 3:00 – Daily digital engagement from 1M+ Singaporeans 🔹 4:00 – Deep dive into omnichannel customer behavior 🔹 5:10 – The tech powering FairPrice’s store of the future 🔹 7:30 – “Grocery Genie” and back-end AI systems 🔹 8:00 – Vision AI and real-time inventory tracking 🔹 9:00 – Electric autonomous delivery and sustainability goals 🔹 11:00 – Publishing annual sustainability reports 🔹 12:00 – Leadership philosophy: Ambition vs. Resources 🔹 12:45 – FairPrice’s commitment to Growth Mindset training #fairprice #retailinnovation #ConsumerGoodsForum #aiinretail #smartstore #grocerytech #sustainability #omnitalkretail #retailleadership #StoreOfTheFuture #RetailCEO #growthmindset This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 12
Omni Talk Retail sits down with Danone Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, Ayla Ziz, to explore how one of the world’s most trusted food companies is evolving its health mission in today’s fast-paced digital and consumer-centric environment. Recorded live at the Consumer Goods Forum from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio in Amsterdam, this interview covers everything from Danone’s beginnings in a Barcelona pharmacy to AI-driven salesforce tools and specialized nutrition for Alzheimer’s prevention. Timestamps: 0:40 – The origin of Danone and its mission 1:30 – Transition to a health-focused portfolio 2:40 – Growth of protein-based products and healthy aging 4:00 – Danone’s long-term innovation strategy 5:10 – Innovation without fear of failure 6:10 – The critical role of in-store shopper moments 7:00 – AI-powered salesforce digitization 8:00 – Reaching consumers across digital touchpoints 9:00 – Tailoring brand presence to every occasion 10:00 – Company pride and employee engagement 10:45 – Science-backed specialized nutrition innovations 12:00 – The importance of collaboration across the CPG industry 12:45 – Call to action for shared sustainability goals #danone #ConsumerGoodsForum #foodforhealth #CGF2025 #danone #CPGLeadership #plantbased #HealthierLives #nutritionscience #SustainabilityInCPG #retailinnovation #omnitalkretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 12
Omni Talk Retail sits down with Harold Dutzler, PwC's Global Sector Leader for Consumer Goods, live at the Consumer Goods Forum at the VusionGroup Podcast Studio in Amsterdam to unpack insights from PwC’s newest global consumer study. From affordability to aspiration, Harold offers a pragmatic view into the shifting grocery landscape, the role of technology, and the urgent need for smarter collaboration and transparency in food retail. 🔹 0:40 – Harold’s background and passion for the food value chain 🔹 1:55 – Why the Consumer Goods Forum matters to PwC and global collaboration 🔹 2:10 – PwC’s new consumer study: affordability, aspiration, and confusion 🔹 3:40 – The younger consumer’s growing health and digital expectations 🔹 4:50 – Consumers want tools: where’s the AI for food? 🔹 6:00 – Loyalty data and personalizing health and affordability at scale 🔹 7:00 – How retailers can simplify pricing and nutrition transparency 🔹 8:30 – Helping consumers build smart baskets and avoid food waste 🔹 9:15 – Local and health as sustainability cues that resonate 🔹 10:20 – Circularity and reuse pilot examples from Canada 🔹 12:00 – Why collaboration is the only way to scale meaningful progress 🔹 13:10 – Top grocery trend to watch: health + affordability + tech 🔹 14:00 – Second big theme: climate-driven food scarcity and why the system must change #PwC #ConsumerGoodsForum #FoodRetailTrends #GroceryInnovation #DigitalGrocery #retailtech #SustainabilityInRetail #foodasmedicine #omnitalkretail #FoodAffordability #circulareconomy #healthyeating #foodscarcity #CGF2025 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 12
Join Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton as they interview Pete Pearson, Vice President Food, Food Loss and Waste at WWF, live from the Consumer Goods Forum and the VusionGroup Podcast Studio in Amsterdam. This eye-opening conversation reveals the shocking scale of global food waste and provides concrete solutions for businesses and communities. Key Moments: 0:48 - The mind-blowing statistic: 40% of global food supply is wasted 1:44 - Introducing WWF's Global Farm Loss Tool with Consumer Goods Forum 2:20 - Why perfect-looking produce leaves edible food rotting on farms 3:21 - Food waste as the "gateway issue" to sustainability efforts 4:17 - 10-year partnership success stories: From Hilton to industry-wide change 5:27 - Why hospitality leads on pre-competitive collaboration vs. retail 6:35 - Environmental impacts beyond hunger: embedded resources and methane 7:16 - Food waste ranks 3rd globally for methane emissions (behind fossil fuels and cattle) 8:15 - Solutions from Consumer Goods Forum: McCain's farm loss measurement 8:58 - Infrastructure challenge: Trillions needed for circular food economy 9:43 - Best practice #1: Separate food from trash - "food is never trash" 10:55 - How major retailers can lead the change 11:33 - Zero Food Waste Coalition driving policy at federal and state levels 12:21 - School kids driving policy: 9,000 postcards = Maryland compost bill 13:05 - Resources: Zero Food Waste Coalition, Food Waste Warriors, Hotel Kitchen #foodwaste #wwf #sustainability #RetailWaste #circulareconomy #foodsecurity #climatechange #wastereduction #consumergoods #retailinnovation #environmentalimpact #zerowaste #composting #foodloss #SustainableRetail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 11
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart’s new “Who knew?” advertising campaign ( Source ) Walmart’s gen AI assistant Sparky ( Source ) Dollar General’s home line with Kathy Ireland ( Source ) Amazon training humanoid robots to deliver packages ( Source ) And closed with a look at why they both think Peloton’s move into resale could be more difficult than Peloton thinks ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Dutch food, Auntie Anne’s pretzels, and how much Anne needs the senior citizen features turned on within her Uber app. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Apple Podcasts and on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #RetailPodcast #Walmart #dollargeneral #amazon #peloton #RetailTech #AIinRetail #OmniTalk #RetailFastFive #whoknew #sparky #GenAI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 7
This week’s Lightning Round delivers a sugar rush of retail absurdity — from Mondelez pulling products over pricing beef with Aldi, to mistakenly buying 70,000 lollipops, and Sydney Sweeney selling out her soap line. Retail’s never been this entertaining — and we couldn’t bring it to you without the support of our amazing sponsors: A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand — the brands powering the future of retail. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rJh3sY4_BsU #sydneysweeney #dumdum #oreo #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 7
David’s Bridal is getting glam with its new Diamonds & Pearls store concept, complete with upgraded fittings and a full glam squad. Thanks to our always fabulous sponsors — A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand — for supporting retail reinvention. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rJh3sY4_BsU #retailnews #weddingdress This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 7
Aldi is making early career access easier with a new virtual retail work experience program designed for teens aged 13 and up. This forward-thinking discussion was made possible thanks to the innovation-minded sponsors of the Retail Fast Five: A&M CRG, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rJh3sY4_BsU #retailnews #aldi This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 7
Victoria’s Secret faced a major website outage this week, raising big questions about cybersecurity readiness in retail. Brought to you by the Fast Five sponsors: A&M CRG, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand — the tech and strategy partners keeping retailers one step ahead. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rJh3sY4_BsU #cybersecurity #retailnews #victoriasecret This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 7
E.l.f. is betting big on Hailey Bieber’s skincare brand, Rhode, with a $1 billion acquisition that could reshape the beauty M&A landscape. This coverage is powered by Omni Talk's Fast Five sponsors: A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand — all trusted names in transforming retail. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rJh3sY4_BsU #retailnews #elfcosmetics #rhodeskin This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 7
Walmart is piloting a digital badge to help Medicare Advantage members identify "food-as-medicine" eligible items — a move blending AI, healthcare, and retail. As always, this segment is brought to you by our friends at the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Clear Demand — the companies helping retailers win smarter, faster. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rJh3sY4_BsU #walmart #foodasmedicine #medicareadvantage #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 6
In this 5 Insightful Minutes episode, Eugene Amigud Chief Innovation Officer at Infios, joins Omni Talk to separate AI fact from fiction when it comes to transforming the supply chain. From predictive analytics to agentic AI, Eugene breaks down how to spot purposeful innovation, how to deploy modular decision engines that adapt to change, and why the future of execution is about real-time intelligence — not black-box systems. If you’ve ever wondered what’s actually worth adopting in retail AI, this episode is for you. 🔑 Topics covered: The difference between real innovation and hype in AI Why modular, augmentative tech is key to fast ROI How agentic AI could redefine supply chain execution Why retailers need a centralized decisioning “brain” 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more retail tech insights! #retailai #supplychain #generativeai #retailtech #omnitalk #smartretail #agenticai #retailinnovation #Infios #retailpodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 5
Fresh from the buzzing halls of Shoptalk Europe in Barcelona, the Omni Talk team delivers a rapid-fire breakdown of the biggest retail trends shaping the future live from the conference stage with Shoptalk's very own Ben Miller and Adam Plom. From TikTok Shop's explosive growth (seriously, it's everywhere) to the rise of agentic AI that's already saving Amazon $200 million annually, this episode covers the tech, strategies, and insights that had everyone talking while eating tapas down the aisles of the Barcelona convention center. Discover why European business confidence is holding steady despite global uncertainty, how Google's new "Try It On" feature is revolutionizing online shopping, and why investing in your store teams might be the smartest move you make this year. Plus, hear why Harrods turns OFF their AI when buyers select merchandise, the surprising demographics shopping on TikTok, and how Mars is shifting 70% of their media spend to digital. Whether you're navigating the complexity of social commerce, implementing new store technologies, or trying to balance engagement with efficiency, this episode delivers actionable insights direct from one of the best conferences out there. The retail landscape is evolving faster than ever – make sure you're keeping up. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 4
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart helping Medicare Advantage members identify items to buy with their OTC benefits ( Source ) E.l.f.’s acquisition of Hailey Bieber’s beauty brand for $1 Billion ( Source ) Victoria’s Secret’s website shutdown last week ( Source ) Aldi’s new digital work experience program for teens in the UK ( Source ) And closed with a debate over whether David’s Bridal’s new store concept Diamonds & Pearls will work ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Eugene Amigud of Infios stopped by for 5 Insightful Minutes on how AI will impact order management system design, along with everything from dum-dums and Mountainhead to Sydney Sweeney’s bath water. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Apple Podcasts and on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #RetailPodcast #Walmart #ELFBeauty #HaileyBieber #ShopTalkEurope #Cybersecurity #RetailTech #AIinRetail #OmniTalk #RetailFastFive #VictoriaSecret #DavidBridal #Aldi #SupplyChainAI #GenAI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 31
Takeaways: The nostalgia surrounding Pizza Hut's summer Book It program evokes strong emotional responses among participants. The discussion on personal pan pizzas reveals individual preferences, particularly for meat toppings like sausage and pepperoni. Concerns about artificial intelligence and its potential harmful actions were highlighted in relation to Anthropic's Clot Opus 4. A TikTok travel hack involving the use of a pillowcase for clothing was shared, illustrating creative packing strategies. The speakers discussed their personal travel hacks, emphasizing the importance of hygiene and comfort during travel. The conversation touched upon the unpredictable nature of sports predictions, specifically regarding the Timberwolves' performance. Thanks to Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, ClearDemand and Infios for making this episode possible. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/Ujbv_kIGzUk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 31
Takeaways: Nike's decision to resume sales on Amazon marks a significant shift in their strategy, emphasizing direct consumer engagement. The brand's previous focus on maintaining a direct relationship with consumers is now seemingly compromised through this partnership. Concerns arise regarding the potential dilution of Nike's brand equity with the mass availability of their products on Amazon. Experts believe that this move could lead to increased competition and a loss of exclusivity for Nike's product offerings. The discussion highlights the tension between utility and lifestyle branding, with potential implications for consumer perception. There are apprehensions regarding counterfeit products on Amazon, which could undermine consumer trust in Nike's brand integrity. Thanks to Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, ClearDemand and Infios for making this episode possible. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/Ujbv_kIGzUk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 31
Takeaways: Google is introducing a new AI enhanced shopping experience called AI Mode to improve online shopping. The AI Mode integrates the Gemini Generative AI chatbot with the Google Shopping Graph, providing real-time product data. Customers will soon be able to search for products using conversational language and receive tailored recommendations. The agentic AI checkout will allow users to confirm purchases securely and receive notifications about price drops. Shoppers can set preferences such as size, color, and budget, enhancing the personalization of their shopping experience. Google's extensive data from various services may give it a competitive advantage in e-commerce over traditional retailers. Thanks to Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, ClearDemand and Infios for making this episode possible. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/Ujbv_kIGzUk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 31
Takeaways: Lowe's is collaborating with Miracle to enhance its online marketplace capabilities significantly. This partnership enables Lowe's to accelerate its e-commerce business while improving customer service. The expansion of Lowe's Marketplace now includes a diverse range of products from third-party sellers. Members of the Milo's Rewards loyalty program can earn points on Marketplace purchases. All Marketplace items are available for home delivery and can be returned to Lowe's stores. The initiative aims to broaden Lowe's customer base by offering more product choices and price points. Thanks to Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, ClearDemand and Infios for making this episode possible. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/Ujbv_kIGzUk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 31
Takeaways: Sam's Club has introduced delivery for their Members Mark hot baked pizza, enhancing convenience for customers. The price of Members Mark hot baked pizza is competitively set at $8.98, making it an appealing option. Delivery of the pizza is available in most Sam's Clubs nationwide, with full rollout expected soon. Customers can select from a variety of toppings, including pepperoni, cheese, and four meat options. The express delivery service promises arrival within three hours, catering to customer needs for convenience. Sam's Club aims to increase delivery volume and attract new members through this strategic offering. Thanks to Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, ClearDemand and Infios for making this episode possible. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/Ujbv_kIGzUk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 31
Takeaways: Target has initiated a new enterprise acceleration office with the intention of enhancing decision-making speed to facilitate growth. The company's recent performance indicates a concerning trend, marked by a decline in net and comparable store sales for three consecutive quarters. The establishment of the acceleration office has been met with skepticism, particularly regarding the effectiveness of leadership in driving growth strategies. Critics express that the creation of the acceleration office is indicative of a larger failure in strategic planning by the current CEO and board. There exists a sentiment among Target employees that the initiatives are perceived as too little, too late in addressing ongoing challenges and declining morale. The podcast emphasizes the need for a more innovative approach that aligns with Target's original vision to rejuvenate the brand's market position. Thanks to Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, ClearDemand and Infios for making this episode possible. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/Ujbv_kIGzUk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 30
In this Ask An Expert episode, Chris and Anne welcome Dave Steck, former VP of IT and Store Innovations at Schnucks, to explore how Digimarc’s invisible watermark technology is reshaping the future of retail operations. Learn how weighted items like salads and hot wings are being protected against theft, how retailers can collaborate with vendors to adopt this tech, and how gift card fraud could become a thing of the past. Key Moments: 0:28 – What is an invisible watermark? 3:00 – Real-world use case: Preventing “banana fraud” at self-checkout 6:10 – How easy it is to implement in-store 8:07 – Additional applications for bakery and deli items 10:58 – Integration with packaging and printer workflows 14:00 – Future upgrades with Fujitsu and Everseen 16:00 – ROI and 40% shrink reduction results 20:00 – Why more retailers haven’t adopted yet 23:00 – Emerging use cases including robotics and CPG optimization 24:00 – Fighting gift card fraud with watermarked scratch-offs #retailinnovation #Digimarc #selfcheckout #retailtech #lossprevention #grocerytech #omnitalk #retailautomation #DigitalWatermark #ShrinkReduction #GiftCardFraud #SmartStores Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 29
🎧 In this episode, Chris and Anne break down the latest survey from A&M Consumer and Retail Group with David Schneidman, which offers a clear look into how U.S. shoppers are adjusting their habits amid economic uncertainty. Key Highlights: [01:05] Why private label is booming [03:20] The collapse of traditional brand loyalty [06:45] How inflation is reshaping grocery budgets [09:10] What role loyalty and subscription programs really play [12:00] How retailers should react — strategic tech and marketing takeaways [14:30] The outlook for discretionary spending and what brands should prioritize 📊 From insights to implications, this episode is your cheat sheet to understanding what consumers expect from retailers in 2025 and beyond. To read the latest survey in full, head here: https://omnitalk.blog/am-research-and-consumer-insights/ P.S. To see our full lineup of past 5 Insightful Minute conversations, head here . #retailtrends #consumersentiment #privatelabel #branding #retailstrategy #groceryshopping #retailtech #omnitalk #loyaltyprograms #consumerbehavior Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 28
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Chris and Anne discussed: The utter absurdity of Target’s Acceleration Office ( Source ) Sam’s Club’s new pizza delivery play ( Source ) Lowe’s third-party marketplace initiative with Mirakl ( Source ) Google’s advances in agentic AI checkout ( Source ) And closed with at look at why they both think Nike selling on Amazon again is a bad idea ( Source ) There’s all that, plus A&M’s David Schneidman stops by for 5 Insightful Minutes on consumer sentiment, along with everything from personal pan pizzas and travel hacks to how close we are to the living in the world of the Terminator. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Apple Podcasts and on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 26
🎙️ In this special Omni Talk Retail Technology Spotlight episode, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Bryan Chan, Senior Director at E Ink, to explore the journey of electronic shelf labels (ESLs) and why they're finally catching fire in the U.S. Key Moments: [ 01:03 ] What is E Ink? — Origins as an MIT spinout and Kindle beginnings [ 2:52 ] Why ESLs weren’t the original goal — from newspapers to shelf labels [ 4:45 ] Learning from “belly loaders” and how real-world store operations shaped the tech [ 6:48 ] Battery life breakthroughs, operational benefits, and color evolution [ 8:34 ] Why Europe led ESL adoption — labor costs, regulations, and sustainability [ 12:05 ] Walmart’s impact: Why the U.S. is finally scaling up ESLs [ 13:37 ] ROI is king: 36-month to 9-month payoff windows [ 17:28 ] Pricing accuracy, pick-to-light, and fast-changing categories like appliances [ 23:03 ] Spectra 6 and the future of full-color ESLs and untethered displays [ 24:58 ] Retail media potential vs. power-hungry in-store TVs [ 30:59 ] Final advice: Start with ESLs before leaping to full digital screens 📲 Want to get in touch with Bryan? Connect with him on LinkedIn — just search Bryan Chan (with a Y). #retailtech #electronicshelflabels #eink #retailinnovation #omnitalk #retailpodcast #walmart #retailmedia #grocerytech Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 24
Time to let loose! Our retail experts drop their serious analyst personas for a fun lightning round that covers everything from podcast awards to NFL legends to coffee obsessions. Key Moments: 0:00-0:20 - Golden Globes adds podcast category: Which shows deserve recognition? 0:21-1:50 - Michael's surprising praise for Call Her Daddy's business genius and target audience mastery 1:51-2:35 - Unexpected Tucker Carlson podcast recommendation and educational content praise 2:36-4:07 - Brett Favre documentary debate: Top 5 QB skills vs. "top 100" character rankings 4:08-4:40 - Chris reveals Cookie Monster Halloween costume and Sesame Street spirit animal 4:41-5:30 - Starbucks summer menu breakdown: Refreshers vs. cake pops vs. new shakes 5:31-6:27 - Michael's matcha lavender latte conversion story: From mockery to obsession The lighter side of retail analysis with genuine personality moments and unexpected recommendations. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Qx2hUtMWmTY This week's episode was brought to you with the help and support of the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. #lightninground #goldenglobes #CallHerDaddy #tuckercarlson #brettfavre #netflix #sesamestreet #starbucks #retailpodcast #podcastrecommendations #nflquarterbacks #matchalatte This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 24
Target's $Billion Rural Gamble - Why Experts Say It's Doomed to Fail Target drops a bombshell expansion strategy that has retail experts in complete agreement - for all the wrong reasons. A former Target executive who actually ran rural stores delivers devastating firsthand insights. Key Moments: 0:00-1:07 - Target's massive rural expansion: 300 stores, 75% to 90% market coverage goal 1:08-2:40 - Chris Disa's measured take: Location-specific success vs. systemic strategy flaws 2:41-4:40 - Michael's scathing critique: "Should never have made it out of C-level meetings" 4:41-5:55 - Why modern Walmart beats Target at their own game in rural markets 5:56-7:30 - Former Target executive Chris Walton's shocking revelation: Rural stores do 50% less volume 7:31-9:15 - The Dollar General problem and why rural markets don't need Target 9:16-10:06 - Michael's final verdict: Focus on "what we can control" instead of "bright shiny objects" A unanimous expert panel demolition of what could be retail's biggest strategic blunder. This week's episode was brought to you with the help and support of the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Qx2hUtMWmTY #target #retailstrategy #TargetVsWalmart #RuralRetail #retailnews #retailexpansion #retailnews #dollargeneral #businessstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 24
URGENT: Cyber Criminals Target US Retailers After UK Rampage The cyber attack wave that devastated UK retail is crossing the Atlantic. Our panel, including a former retail CEO with firsthand cyber security experience, breaks down the alarming reality of retail vulnerability. Key Moments: 0:00-1:00 - Breaking news: UK retail hackers now targeting major US brands 1:01-1:15 - Marks & Spencer, Co-op, and Harrods attack details 1:16-3:00 - Michael's shocking revelation: Only 20% of US retailers truly prepared 3:01-4:15 - Real-world experience: What happened when Joann Fabrics got serious about security 4:16-5:35 - The customer loyalty catastrophe: Why cyber attacks destroy businesses permanently 5:36-6:25 - Target 2013 and Vegas casino breaches: Long-term customer relationship damage 6:26-7:25 - Michael's warning: "Not your parents' cyber attack anymore" - recovery takes weeks, costs multiply The sobering reality that could save your business - or destroy it. This week's episode was brought to you with the help and support of the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. #cybersecurity #retailsecurity #cyberattacks #databreach #businesssecurity #retailtech #cybercrime #retailnews #securitybreach #businessrisk #cyberthreats For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Qx2hUtMWmTY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 24
Dick's Sporting Goods drops a retail bombshell with the massive Foot Locker acquisition. Our expert panel dissects every angle of this game-changing deal that has Wall Street buzzing. Key Moments: 0:00-0:50 - Deal announcement: $2.4B acquisition details and market reaction 0:51-2:40 - Michael's initial hatred: "Foot Locker has issues" and Nike dependency risks 2:41-4:30 - Michael's flip: Why Dick's $20B size makes this acquisition logical 4:31-5:40 - Chris Walton's "hot take": The shutdown strategy that could work 5:41-7:15 - The Nike power dynamic: Who controls whom in this new relationship? 7:16-8:30 - JD Sports threat and competitive landscape shifts 8:31-9:10 - Mall vs standalone retail: Different customer experiences matter 9:11-11:30 - Chris Disa's strategic analysis: International expansion and operational synergies The debate reveals whether this creates retail powerhouse or dangerous concentration risk. This week's episode was brought to you with the help and support of the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. #DicksSportingGoods #footlocker #nikesneakers #retailstrategy #sportinggoods #SneakerMarket #retailnews #jdsports #retailstrategy #omnichannelretail #retail For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Qx2hUtMWmTY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 24
Target's Bold Same-Day Delivery Gamble - Will It Pay Off? Target makes a major play in the membership wars by expanding Circle 360 to include same-day delivery from 100+ partner retailers. Our expert panel is split down the middle on this strategy. Key Moments: 0:00-0:45 - Target's announcement: same-day delivery expansion with no price markups 0:47-1:25 - Chris Disa defends the move as a consumer who already subscribes 1:26-2:30 - Anne questions the financial viability and subscriber conversion potential 2:31-4:00 - Michael's scathing critique: "should never have left the innovation room" 4:01-6:30 - Chris Walton piles on: Target's strategic confusion vs marketplace investment 6:31-7:50 - Chris Disa's counterargument: widening assortment for same-day needs 7:51-8:35 - Competitive comparison to DoorDash Plus restaurant delivery 8:36-10:00 - Michael reveals hidden operational pitfalls and store labor issues The debate reveals deep strategic questions about Target's direction and competitive positioning. This week's episode was brought to you with the help and support of the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. #target #samedaydelivery #retailstrategy #TargetEarnings #walmartplus #targetnews #RetailOperations #retailnews For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Qx2hUtMWmTY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 24
Walmart's CFO John David Rainey drops a bombshell announcement about upcoming price increases, sending shockwaves through the retail industry. Our expert panel dives deep into what this means for consumers and competitors alike. Key Moments: 0:00-0:35 - Walmart CFO's full statement on price increases starting late January 0:50-2:20 - Michael analyzes the "absolute free-for-all" in retail pricing strategies 2:22-3:28 - Chris Disa warns about surgical pricing and long-term customer training effects 3:30-4:50 - Debate: Did the industry breathe a sigh of relief or remain nervous? 5:00-6:30 - How Home Depot's opposite strategy creates competitive game theory 6:30-7:15 - Why Walmart has an "easy get out of jail free card" other retailers don't 7:15-8:28 - Walmart's competitive moats: retail media and Walmart Plus advantages This week's episode was brought to you with the help and support of the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. #walmart #retailnews #inflation #consumerprices #retailstrategy #pricingstrategy #retailpodcast For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Qx2hUtMWmTY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 22
In this Five Insightful Minutes episode, Omni Talk Retail catches up with Spencer Hewett, founder and CEO of Radar, to dig into the retailer’s growing RFID rollout with Old Navy and American Eagle. Key Moments: ( 0:13 ) Spencer responds to Fast Five’s rollout skepticism 🎤 ( 1:02 ) $1,000 Old Navy bet?! Chris and Spencer wager on RFID’s future 💸 ( 2:01 ) What makes Radar’s RFID solution different ( 3:40 ) Tech behind Radar’s real-time tracking ( 4:00 ) Number of stores and rollout timeline ( 4:47 ) Why RFID handhelds are obsolete ( 5:45 ) Number of RFID tag reads per day at AEO #RFID #RetailTech #RadarRFID #OmniTalkRetail #InventoryManagement #RetailInnovation #OldNavy #AmericanEagle #AutonomousCheckout #RetailFuture Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 21
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , A&M’s Michael Prendergast and Christopher Disa join Chris and Anne to discuss: Walmart signaling that price hikes could begin later this month ( Source ) Target Circle 360 members receiving free same-day delivery from 100+ other retailers via Shipt ( Source ) Dick’s Sporting Goods acquiring Foot Locker ( Source ) The cybercrime wave that has hit European retailers and whether U.S. retailers are prepared for something similar ( Source ) And closed with a look at Target’s new small town store expansion strategy (yes, two Target headlines this week folks!) ( Source ) There’s all that, plus RADAR CEO Spencer Hewett stops by for 5 Insightful Minutes to put Chris in his place on his recent comments about his company’s Old Navy store rollout, along with a Favre-filled, Sesame Street lightning round. Lastly, don't forget to secure your spot now at CommerceNext.com and use code OMNITALK for 10% off general admission. If you’re from a retail brand, you may qualify for a free ticket —but act fast, availability is limited. See you in NYC! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 20
In this episode of Omni Talk Retail’s Ask an Expert series, Chris and Anne welcome SPS Commerce’s Emily Curran and Rob Schiefelbein for a deep dive into how retailers and suppliers should respond to shifting tariffs and trade conditions. Key Moments: (1:20) Meet the experts: Emily and Rob from SPS Commerce (2:11) SPS Commerce’s role in simplifying supply chain connections (6:00) Advice for startups in retail pilot programs (8:05) Transparent communication strategies with retailers (10:00) How to calculate true tariff exposure (11:00) Diversifying your supply chain (15:00) Total landed cost explained (16:45) Leveraging bonded warehouses and FTZs (18:00) Common methods to itemize tariff costs (21:00) Tracking SKUs and auditing data accuracy (28:00) Applying the 5S methodology to retail data (30:00) Final tips for retailers and suppliers #RetailTariffs #SupplyChainManagement #SPSCommerce #OmniTalkRetail #RetailStrategy #TariffStrategy #RetailData #AskAnExpert #EDICompliance #RetailInnovation Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18
Chris and Anne debate who would dominate in a viral “100 Brits vs. 100 Americans” TikTok battle, confess their sitcom obsessions, and open up about the little joys of pet companionship. Plus, they brace for the final season of Stranger Things—with some strong opinions on what must happen before the credits roll-- in this latest clip from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. It’s the end-of-show rapid fire segment and the energy is high: ⏱️ Time Stamps: 0:00 – TikTok's “100 Brits vs. 100 Americans” debate — Chris goes all in on Boston 1:17 – The Office vs. Seinfeld and Cheers: Top sitcom showdown 2:16 – Calming pet moments: Chris shares how Ginsburg the Bernedoodle brings peace 3:16 – Stranger Things' final season: Who remembers what happened… and what still needs to? From fierce pride to nostalgic laughs and soft dog bellies, this is your reminder why the lightning round is always a fan favorite. #tiktokdebate #strangerthings #theoffice #sitcoms #DogLovers #bernedoodle #bachelornation #popculture #lightninground #omnitalkretail For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AUSpdi73JPk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18
ASOS has partnered with InPost to offer next-day delivery to locker locations across Europe, enhancing speed and flexibility for online fashion shoppers. While the model is efficient and popular in dense urban markets, Chris and Anne explore whether the U.S. consumer landscape is ready for this kind of out-of-home delivery. This clip from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five is brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. 🛍️ Will Americans ever embrace fashion lockers? ⏱️ Time Stamps: 0:00 – ASOS launches next-day delivery to InPost lockers 0:18 – Why it’s a smart logistics move in Europe 1:01 – Locker consolidation keeps delivery costs down 1:53 – Cleveron & peer-to-peer exchanges 2:24 – Chris: Skeptical on U.S. locker viability 3:00 – Population density and cultural barriers 3:45 – Anne: Fashion delivery faster than Shein or Temu is a major win 4:30 – Why convenience culture may slow U.S. adoption #asos #inpost #ecommerce #retaillogistics #FashionDelivery #NextDayShipping #onlinefashion #RetailFastFive #omnitalk #clickandcollect For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AUSpdi73JPk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18
Primark introduced its first U.S. in-store repair workshops to promote sustainability and customer engagement, offering free sewing kits and mending tutorials. While the effort aligns with a broader push for circular fashion, Chris and Anne weigh its true value for low-cost fast fashion shoppers and whether it can scale meaningfully in the U.S. market in this clip from the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. 🧵 Is Primark’s sustainability initiative cutting through—or just for show? ⏱️ Time Stamps: 0:00 – Primark launches U.S. “Love It For Longer” repair class 0:18 – What customers get from the class 0:33 – 400+ classes already run in Europe 0:49 – Chris: It’s a gimmick—but a good one 1:30 – Anne: The in-store logistics don’t make sense in the U.S. 2:15 – Should Primark focus more on recycling instead? 3:00 – Why a $5 t-shirt might not be worth repairing 3:45 – Does this work better for retailers like Nordstrom? #primark #RetailSustainability #FashionRepair #LoveItForLonger #RetailFastFive #omnitalk #InstoreEvents #fastfashion #clothingrepair #retailinnovation For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AUSpdi73JPk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18
Amazon has introduced Vulcan, its first robot with a sense of touch, now operating in Spokane and Hamburg fulfillment centers. ⏱️ Time Stamps: 0:00 – Amazon announces Vulcan robot 0:15 – Vulcan’s capabilities: Force sensors, suction cups & vision 0:53 – Hair straightener meets ruler? Describing the tech 1:30 – Why warehouse automation is gaining momentum 2:40 – Human dexterity vs robots 3:25 – Will Vulcan ever hit stores? Not so fast 4:00 – Naming robots: Why always sci-fi? 5:00 – What’s realistic: 10–20 year outlook for stores 5:45 – Final thoughts on Vulcan's warehouse potential This clip of the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five is brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand,. #AmazonVulcan #warehouseautomation #retailai #AmazonRobots #FulfillmentTech #retailinnovation #RetailFastFive #omnitalk #robotics #aiinretail For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AUSpdi73JPk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18
📢 Big leadership shakeup at Instacart! In this Fast Five segment, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Chris and Anne break down the departure of Fidji Simo as she leaves her role as CEO and Chair to join OpenAI. ⏱️ Time Stamps: 0:00 – Breaking news: Fidji Simo steps down 0:26 – Simo’s move to OpenAI 0:54 – Chris reacts: Is Instacart better off now? 1:46 – The broader message: E-commerce is yesterday, AI is the future 2:30 – Anne counters: Instacart’s strong industry positioning 3:01 – David McIntosh as possible successor? 3:36 – The leadership profile Instacart needs now #instacart #FidjiSimo #openai #retailnews #retailleadership #DavidMcIntosh #grocerytech #retailinnovation #ecommerce #RetailFastFive #omnitalk For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AUSpdi73JPk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18
LTK is teaming up with The Bachelor to turn binge-watching into shopping. In this episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Chris and Anne break down how this partnership modernizes product placement with real-time affiliate links and seamless in-app shopping. Could this model reshape the future of commerce on TV—and are Bachelor fans ready to shop while they watch? 📺 Can reality TV drive real-time retail? ⏱️ Time Stamps: 0:00 – LTK and The Bachelor launch shoppable social commerce experience 0:34 – $5B in sales, 40M monthly shoppers on LTK 1:12 – Chris on product placement evolution & affiliate revenue aggregation 2:20 – Will fans actually shop? 2:56 – Strategic edge: no brand contracts required 4:02 – Endless catalog access and retroactive content monetization 4:43 – Potential long-term value and traffic funnel 5:02 – The looming question: LTK vs. Google Lens and evolving shopping habits #thebachelor #ltk #socialcommerce #ShoppableTV #retailinnovation #affiliatemarketing #influencers #RealityTVShopping #RetailFastFive #omnitalk For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AUSpdi73JPk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 15
Live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at the World Retail Congress 2025, Omni Talk catches up with Allyson Zimmerman, CEO of the LEAD Network. Allison discusses her journey from KFC kitchens to global NGO leadership, how the LEAD Network is advancing gender equity in the retail and CPG sectors, and what retailers must do to create workplaces that are truly inclusive. Key Moments: ( 0:38 ) Allyson Zimmerman introduction and career background ( 1:50 ) The LEAD Network’s mission and scale across Europe ( 3:40 ) State of DEI: U.S. vs. global perspective ( 5:00 ) Why retailers must reflect their consumer base ( 6:00 ) Action vs. language in diversity initiatives ( 7:20 ) Moving beyond representation to systemic change ( 8:00 ) Example: CEO-led sponsorship driving talent equity ( 9:15 ) Listening to resistance and addressing fear ( 10:00 ) Conference insights: trust, culture, and employee-as-customer mindset #LEADNetwork #genderequity #RetailDEI #worldretailcongress #WomenInRetail #inclusiveleadership #retailinnovation #employeeengagement #omnitalk #retailtransformation #DiversityInRetail #systemicchange #ConsumerGoodsLeadership This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 15
Broadcasting from the VusionGroup booth at the World Retail Congress, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Pacsun CEO Brieane Olson for a candid and energizing conversation on youth culture, experimentation, and the future of fashion retail. Brieane reflects on how her two-decade Pacsun journey has prepared her to lead in a time of rapid digital evolution. From rebooting Roblox efforts to tracking the creator economy and prioritizing social commerce on TikTok and YouTube, Brieane shares what it takes to build relevance with Gen Z and lead with curiosity in every corner of the business. Key Moments: ( 0:35 ) Brieane Olson background and Pacsun growth ( 1:00 ) U.S. footprint: 75 new stores in 3 years ( 1:30 ) Early innovation with Roblox and the metaverse ( 2:40 ) How Pacsun picks and pivots on tech pilots ( 4:00 ) Fail fast, retool, relaunch: Roblox case study ( 5:00 ) Building a culture of innovation and curiosity ( 6:30 ) CEO routines for staying on trend (Substack, Reddit, Discord) ( 7:40 ) First-time impressions of World Retail Congress ( 8:50 ) Holiday 2025 outlook and global expansion plans ( 9:30 ) Platforms to watch: TikTok, YouTube Shopping, Substack ( 10:30 ) Mall resurgence and community building in youth retail #BrieaneOlson #pacsun #retailinnovation #GenZRetail #socialcommerce #tiktokshopping #worldretailcongress #retailleadership #creatoreconomy #retailtech #robloxfashion #omnitalk #failfast #retailexpansion #youthculture This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 15
Live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at the World Retail Congress in London, Omni Talk sits down with Enrique Ostalé, Chairman of the Board at Falabella, for a conversation that blends strategy, leadership, and regional retail insight. Enrique, a retail veteran with experience at Walmart and Falabella, unpacks how he thinks about the AI opportunity—not through a technical lens, but through one of cultural and organizational readiness. ⏱ Key Moments: 0:38 – Enrique’s background: Walmart to Falabella 1:12 – Overview of Falabella and its LATAM footprint 2:00 – Why he came to World Retail Congress and what he spoke about 2:50 – How he views AI adoption in retail leadership 3:58 – Balancing innovation with thoughtful strategy 4:44 – Falabella’s focus areas: customer experience & profitability 5:56 – Empowering teams and decentralizing experimentation 6:32 – How macroeconomic pressures have shaped the past 2 years 7:14 – What’s next for Falabella amid a gradually improving outlook #falabella #retailai #worldretailcongress #retailleadership #omnitalkretail #LatinAmericaRetail #aiinretail #retailinnovation #retailstrategy #futureofretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 15
Live from the Grand Ballroom Foyer and the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at World Retail Congress 2025, Omni Talk catches up with Sjoerd Holleman, SVP and Executive Board Member of Albert Heijn, to talk digital grocery, personalization, and why the company calls itself a "food tech" leader. Holleman reveals how the grocer balances the needs of 4.7M unique weekly customers across generations—leveraging everything from GenAI assistants to a booming loyalty app ecosystem. ⏱ Key Moments: 0:33 – Meet Sjoerd Holleman: Background and Albert Heijn overview 1:14 – Albert Heijn as a “food tech” company with 125,000 employees 2:54 – WRC first impressions and why it’s worth attending 3:22 – Panel recap: How customer behaviors are shifting with age and social trends 4:35 – The impact of aging populations and dietary needs on grocery innovation 5:17 – Albert Heijn’s 12% e-commerce business and true omnichannel approach 5:45 – Scaling the app from 200K to 5M active users 6:51 – Why app-first personalization is the key to future loyalty 7:46 – Inside their new GenAI-powered shopping assistant 8:31 – User adoption across demographics, including older shoppers 9:47 – What’s next: Deeper personalization, content orchestration, and loyalty data 10:30 – How Albert Heijn is preparing for hyper-personalized, household-specific experiences 10:42 – Final thoughts on digital transformation and data ethics #albertheijn #retailai #generativeai #worldretailcongress #omnitalkretail #foodtech #GroceryInnovation #PersonalizedRetail #retailtech #DigitalGrocery #futureofretail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 15
Omni Talk Retail catches up with Mark Ibbotson, former EVP at Walmart and current VusionGroup advisor, live at World Retail Congress 2025 to break down the state of retail volatility. From economic whiplash to geopolitical black swan events, Mark paints a clear picture of the new retail reality and explains why precision, not perfection, is the future. He also shares advice for innovation teams on how to make a case for change inside cost-conscious organizations. ⏱ Key Moments: 0:33 – Mark’s background: From Sainsbury’s to Asda to Walmart 1:39 – Highlights from WRC: Tesco’s keynote, and Deloitte’s economist 2:44 – The only certainty is uncertainty: Black swans are now the norm 4:14 – Rising complexity: Wars, inflation, changing policies 5:00 – How retailers should prepare: Embrace discomfort and create the future 5:16 – Data & AI for supply chain precision and reduced working capital 6:28 – Why past processes won’t work: It’s time to rewire retail 7:07 – Knowledge is shifting from people to systems, but judgment still matters 7:46 – Advice to innovation teams: Prove value, not just tech hype 8:00 – “We’re not capital constrained. We’re return constrained.” #retailstrategy #retailai #worldretailcongress #retailleadership #omnitalkretail #futureofretail #RetailPrecision #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 15
Live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at the World Retail Congress 2025 in London, Omni Talk sits down with Carolin Klar, Executive Board Member at Bonprix, to explore the intersection of fashion, technology, and human insight. Carolin walks us through how Bonprix scaled a 3D development workflow globally, how AI is helping designers spot and prototype emerging trends faster, and how cultural change and trust were vital to success. If you love product, people, and process, this one’s for you. ⏱ Key Moments: 0:28 – Meet Carolin Klar: From textile engineer to Bonprix board 1:10 – What Bonprix is and how it evolved from mail-order to digital pioneer 2:24 – Inside her WRC panel on strategic sourcing and 3D product development 3:59 – How Bonprix built a global 3D design workflow with teams in Hamburg, Poland, and beyond 4:55 – The cultural and organizational change needed to scale innovation 6:02 – Lessons on building high-performance, trust-driven teams 7:54 – The evolution of product development: What’s changed and what hasn’t 9:00 – Why emotional connection and tactile evaluation still matter in fashion 10:10 – How AI is transforming trend identification and product ideation 12:03 – The importance of involving teams early in tech adoption to overcome fear 13:39 – Empowering designers to view AI as a collaborator, not a threat 15:15 – Why AI should free up time for perfecting the physical product #bonprix #fashiontech #3DProductDevelopment #aiinfashion #omnitalkretail #wrc2025 #fashioninnovation #retailai #humancentereddesign #productdevelopment #generativeai This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 15
Omni Talk Retail wraps up World Retail Congress 2025 from the VusionGroup Podcast Studioo with Matthew Shay, President & CEO of the National Retail Federation, in a wide-ranging discussion on the state of global retail. From high-level CEO forums to Capitol Hill, Shay is at the epicenter of policy and retail leadership—he shares what leaders are really saying, how small businesses are being supported, and why flexibility is now a core competency for modern retailers. ⏱ Key Moments: 0:41 – What NRF is and who it represents 1:38 – Why Shay attends WRC: CEO roundtables & global policy alignment 2:30 – The dominant topic? Uncertainty 3:44 – Shay reflects on 15 years leading NRF: What’s changed most 4:48 – Why 2025 isn’t “business as usual,” but also not paralyzing 5:14 – Challenges for small vs. large retailers in today’s supply chain 6:00 – Lessons from the Great Recession to COVID: Agility as a superpower 6:47 – Digitization’s lasting impact on retail business models 7:20 – The retail trajectory is “up and to the right,” despite disruption 7:45 – NRF’s small business support: Advocacy, engagement, access 8:47 – Why even small businesses now have better tools to handle volatility 9:00 – Closing thoughts and shoutout to VusionGroup for show support #MatthewShay #nrf_news #retailleadership #omnitalkretail #wrc2025 #RetailUncertainty #RetailPolicy #RetailResilience #retailtransformation #SmallBusinessRetail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 15
In this episode of 5 Insightful Minutes, AWS's Justin Swagler joins us to explain why physical stores remain critical in today’s digital-first retail landscape. He introduces a compelling framework for the future of retail powered by edge computing, IoT, and agentic AI. ⏱ Key Moments: 0:29 – Why physical stores still matter (Hint: 80%+ of sales happen there) 1:39 – The three pillars for retail tech success: Edge, Cloud, and AI 2:30 – The role of computer vision and unified store data 3:02 – How AI connects store systems for operational efficiency 3:56 – A glimpse into the future: Agentic retail automation 4:20 – Real-world examples: broken machines, out-of-stock items, and how AI solves them 4:55 – What retailers should prioritize for long-term value And be sure to check out the ‘IDC TechScape: Frictionless CX-Enabling Technologies in Retail, 2025’ report to unlock detailed insights on retail technology trends and discover how AWS Retail Solutions can help you implement these innovations today. #aws #retailai #edgecomputing #agenticai #futureofretail #StoreInnovation #retailtechnology #omnichannel #SmartStores #customerexperience Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 14
In this Omni Talk exclusive, recorded live from the VusionGroup Studio, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga speak with Regis Schultz, CEO of JD Sports, from the floor of the World Retail Congress 2025. Regis shares his retail origins, how JD Sports went from $1.5B to $6B in U.S. sales in just six years, and how the brand’s lifestyle-driven, Gen Z-focused strategy is transforming the athletic apparel space. Learn how JD builds unique product stories with brands, leverages TikTok as a global style engine, and creates multibrand merchandising experiences no DTC player can match. Key Moments: ( 0:10 ) Regis Schultz introduction and retail roots ( 1:12 ) Overview of JD Sports and its global footprint ( 1:50 ) Differences in U.S. vs. EU customers ( 3:00 ) The power of lifestyle over sport ( 4:00 ) TikTok’s role in global product virality ( 5:00 ) How JD targets Gen Z across brands ( 6:30 ) Co-developing with Nike and Adidas ( 7:50 ) Physical stores and the emotional connection with customers ( 9:00 ) U.S. growth: from $1.5B to $6B ( 10:00 ) Store base and acquisition strategy ( 10:25 ) Priorities for 2025 and beyond #JDSports #RetailInnovation #GenZMarketing #WorldRetailCongress #LifestyleRetail #OmniTalk #TikTokTrends #RetailGrowth #SneakerCulture #MultibrandRetail #SportswearFashion This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 14
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Chris and Anne discussed: Instacart’s CEO resigning to take a job with OpenAI ( Source ) Amazon’s new warehouse robot, Vulcan ( Source ) Primark’s in-store repair classes ( Source ) ASOS offering next-day delivery through InPost Lockers ( Source ) And closed with a look at how LTK is bringing The Bachelor to life on its social commerce shopping platform ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Justin Swagler of AWS stops by for 5 Insightful Minutes on the technologies he thinks will most impact physical store retail operations, and Chris and Anne also go into everything from Stranger Things and The Office to who would win a battle between 100 Yanks and 100 Brits. And be sure to check out the ‘IDC TechScape: Frictionless CX-Enabling Technologies in Retail, 2025’ report to unlock detailed insights on retail technology trends and discover how AWS Retail Solutions can help you implement these innovations today. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 14
In this live World Retail Congress episode, recorded from the VusionGroup Studio, Omni Talk’s Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga catch up with Scott Price, CEO of DFI Retail Group, to explore the sweeping changes in global retail. Scott reflects on his second year as CEO, DFI’s shift to an operating model, and how AI is simultaneously revolutionizing efficiency and threatening traditional career paths. From ERP upgrades to retail media monetization and the crucial role of human insight in merchandising, this episode is a crash course in the forces shaping the next era of retail. Key Moments: ( 0:20 ) Scott Price introduction and DFI Retail overview ( 1:30 ) Year one vs. year two as CEO ( 2:15 ) DFI’s transition from holding to operating company ( 2:50 ) Growth drivers: "the what" vs. "the how" ( 3:40 ) AI’s impact on entry-level retail jobs ( 4:30 ) The irreplaceable art of merchandising ( 5:50 ) Challenges of economic uncertainty and consumer confidence ( 6:40 ) Value, affordable innovation, and global shopper expectations ( 7:20 ) Foundational tech upgrades and ERP modernization ( 7:45 ) Betting on the right AI platform ( 8:30 ) Data engineering vs. data science – the CEO imperative #DFIRetailGroup #ScottPrice #RetailAI #WorldRetailCongress #RetailMedia #MerchandisingFuture #RetailLeadership #OmniTalk #ConsumerTrends #GlobalRetail #RetailTransformation #DataMonetization #RetailTalent #retailtechnology This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 14
Live from the VusionGroup booth at World Retail Congress, Omni Talk’s Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga talk with Suzanne Long, the newly minted founder of Fauxliage and former Chief Sustainability and Transformation Officer at Albertsons. Suzanne opens up about the changing state of retail sustainability, how real transformation begins with frontline workers, and why she left a top executive role to chase a six-year-old startup idea that just wouldn’t let go. From supply chain resilience to scaling artificial plants as a branded business, Suzanne delivers honest and inspiring takeaways for leaders at any stage of their career. Key Moments: ( 0:30 ) Suzanne Long introduction and new startup reveal ( 1:05 ) What makes World Retail Congress special ( 2:30 ) State of sustainability in the U.S. vs. globally ( 4:00 ) How to embed sustainability into operations ( 5:50 ) The business case for ESG ( 6:40 ) The importance of cultural transformation and frontline engagement ( 8:00 ) Why she left Albertsons to become a founder ( 9:00 ) The concept behind Fauxliage and branding artificial plants ( 10:30 ) Vision for B2C and commercial expansion #SuzanneLong #RetailSustainability #FauxliageStartup #WorldRetailCongress #FemaleFounders #RetailTransformation #ArtificialPlants #RetailLeadership #OmniTalk #RetailInnovation #ESGStrategy #EntrepreneurshipJourney This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 13
In this deep-dive Omni Talk Spotlight, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by Rajat Nigam, Chief Product Officer at ClearDemand, to unpack the critical role of competitive intelligence in modern retail pricing. Formerly leading pricing innovation at Amazon, Rajat explains how engineering, data quality, and normalization are central to making pricing intelligence truly actionable — and profitable. From assortment gap analysis to real-time pricing enabled by electronic shelf labels, this episode explores the full retail stack of competitive data strategy. Key Moments: (1:00) Rajat's background and Amazon's secret pricing project (2:40) What makes “good” competitive intelligence (5:00) The three hardest problems in competitive data (7:30) Matching pack sizes and normalizing prices (10:00) Competitive data beyond pricing – assortment, promotions, planning (14:00) Where comp intel works best: grocery vs. luxury (17:00) Role of price elasticity in retail strategy (20:00) How to start: KVI items, category focus, and data gap analysis (23:30) Agility in pricing with ESLs and real-time data (25:00) Final thoughts and predictions for the future of pricing #RetailTech #CompetitiveIntelligence #PricingStrategy #RetailInnovation #ClearDemand #OmniTalk #GroceryTech #RetailData #amazon #PriceOptimization Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 10
This charming lightning round segment, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, reveals the personalities behind retail analytics as Ben Miller, a UK retail expert, answers rapid-fire personal questions with humor and authenticity. Key Moments: 0:02 - Introduction to the fast-paced lightning round with Ben Miller 0:05 - Nostalgic food question: Which childhood foods would Ben miss if discontinued? 0:27 - Ben's sentimental attachment to Kellogg's Variety Pack cereals explained 0:43 - Childhood memory: How these cereal packs were special "birthday treats" in his home 0:52 - The tradition continues: Ben now shares these with his own daughters 1:04 - Anne's surprise revelation: She expected Ben to mention the "Curly Whirly" candy 1:18 - National Teacher Appreciation Week prompt: Which teacher influenced Ben most? 1:29 - Ben honors Mr. Sheen, his Grade 7-9 business and economics teacher 1:40 - How a rural Yorkshire school teacher "completely opened my eyes to the world of commerce" 1:57 - Provocative retail statistic discussion: 76% of retailers outside US won't shop American brands? 2:13 - Humorous hypothetical: What clothing would Ben smuggle to the UK in his "boot" (trunk) 2:25 - Ben diplomatically calls "BS" on the statistic while avoiding a deep dive 2:37 - Ben's smuggling strategy: North Face hiking gear for personal use 2:49 - Business plan: Classic Nike sneakers that would "make a killing" if unavailable in UK 3:03 - We coin the term "Ben's Bargain Boot" for the hypothetical smuggling operation 3:10 - Surprise revelation: "Who knew we had a hiker on the podcast?" 3:15 - Final lightning question: Who won the Met Gala fashion-wise? 3:25 - Ben's candid admission of fashion ignorance: "I could add no value whatsoever" 3:33 - Professional deference: Ben cites colleagues Rebecca choice of Lana Del Rey 3:44 - Transparency about potential bias due to Valentino's connection with their advisory board 4:03 - Chris offers Diana Ross as his pick, noting her return to the spotlight 4:10 - Anne, the group's "fashionista," chooses Janelle Monae for her impressive outfit reveal The segment showcases how lightning rounds can reveal the human personalities behind professional expertise, building connection with listeners through personal stories and humor. Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/BrQ0kfPY4LA #metgala #retailnews #teacherappreciationday This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 10
In this insightful analysis, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, retail experts reveal what Lowe's new AI assistant is really designed to accomplish, beyond the surface-level marketing about leaky faucets and fertilizer choices. Key Moments: 0:02 - Breaking news: Lowe's introduces MyLow Companion AI assistant for store associates 0:10 - Partnership details: Application developed with OpenAI across 1,700+ stores 0:14 - Core functionalities: Product details, project advice, and inventory information access 0:18 - Key benefit: Accelerating the employee onboarding process 0:27 - Scale achievement: "First retailer to successfully implement this type of technology at scale" 0:33 - Technical capabilities: Generative AI with natural conversational prompts and voice-to-text 0:42 - Example use cases: Fertilizer recommendations and home repair guidance 1:14 - Ben Millers's analysis: Why this is "a great use case for AI" in categories requiring expertise 1:38 - Customer service challenge: Associates' varying experience levels and knowledge gaps 1:50 - Consistency benefit: Creating uniform quality of information regardless of associate tenure 2:00 - Comparison to self-checkout: Options for customers who prefer different service models 2:22 - Anne Mezzenga's critique of the media reporting: Overlooking the more significant training use case 2:42 - Inside information: Conversation with a Lowe's executive reveals true onboarding purpose 2:56 - Real examples: New employees quickly learning shipment timing and warranty information 3:03 - Data collection value: Using interaction data to improve future associate training 3:12 - Customer perspective: Why shoppers wouldn't ask a teenage summer employee about complex repairs 3:40 - Chris Walton's agreement: "100% I'd look this up myself" rather than wait for an associate 4:00 - PR criticism 4:20 - Industry impact concern: Creating false expectations about AI tools for retail associates 4:43 - Higher-value application: Supporting complex high-consideration sales like flooring installations 4:54 - Advanced capability: Prompting associates to ask the right questions based on customer responses 5:01 - Integration potential: Connecting to loyalty programs to enhance personalized selling The experts conclude that while Lowe's marketing focuses on answering simple product questions, the real innovation is in employee training, knowledge management, and creating consistency across a large retail workforce. Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/BrQ0kfPY4LA #loweshomeimprovement #ai #retailnews #retailtech #retailstrategy #retailtrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 10
Pinterest vs. Google: The Visual Search Revolution This episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, explores how Pinterest is disrupting traditional search engines and transforming product discovery through visual search. Our retail experts analyze surprising data and debate what it means for brands' marketing strategies. Key Moments: 0:03 - Breaking news: Adobe research reveals Pinterest emerging as a search engine competitor 0:14 - Surprising statistic: 39% of US consumers have used Pinterest as a search engine 0:23 - Gen Z leading the trend at 47%, with decreasing adoption across older generations 0:36 - Eye-opening claim: 36% of respondents start searches on Pinterest instead of Google 0:48 - Perception advantage: 60% say Pinterest results feel more tailored than Google results 1:10 - Anne Mezzenga discusses how this trend connects to Meta's recent search announcements with ChatGPT 1:34 - Critical insight: Image-based search is driving this shift, especially among younger demographics 1:47 - Industry validation: Google's own data shows 20% of image searches are commerce-related 2:02 - Real-world confirmation: Designers and stylists exclusively using Pinterest for professional searches 2:25 - Historical context: How search is evolving from text-based to visual discovery 3:19 - Ben Millers confirms search fragmentation is a major retail trend affecting marketing investments 4:05 - Research critique: Ben challenges Adobe's methodology and questions the "36%" headline claim 4:46 - Methodological issues: Survey of just 800 people on a single day with unclear geographic representation 5:14 - Distinction between general search and commerce intent: "I'm not going to Pinterest to find out who was president in 1962" 6:28 - The commerce challenge: Getting searches to convert to purchases remains a critical hurdle 7:37 - Anne clarifies: Pinterest's value is specifically for purchase intent and product discovery 8:03 - Integration point: Pinterest results appearing in ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini searches 8:47 - Market reality check: Google still dominates overall search, but commerce search is fragmenting 9:35 - Future marketing challenge: How to influence search when traditional paid placements aren't available 10:19 - Opportunity assessment: Commerce search is currently "fair game" for platforms to redefine The episode highlights how visual search is fundamentally changing product discovery and creating new opportunities for retailers who understand these emerging consumer behaviors. Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/BrQ0kfPY4LA #pinterest #visualsearch #ai #google #retailtech #retailnews #retailstrategy ##retailtrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 10
Morrisons Robotic Revolution: UK's First Human-Sized Grocery Aisle Robots This eye-opening segment explores how Morrisons supermarket is transforming UK grocery operations by deploying the first human-sized aisle robots in the country. Retail experts analyze what this means for the industry's automation future. Key Moments: 0:02 - Breaking news: Morrisons becomes first UK supermarket to deploy human-sized aisle robots 0:08 - Introduction to Simbe's Tally robots now operating in three northern England stores 0:27 - Ben Mille reveals he hasn't personally seen the robots but shares insider information from a colleague 0:54 - Technical details: Robots autonomously loop stores twice daily, checking 30,000 products hourly 1:07 - Comparison to similar technology already deployed by BJs and Schnucks in US markets 1:18 - Primary use cases: Inventory checking and pricing/promotion accuracy verification 1:23 - Critical ROI metric: Robots save approximately 50 labor hours weekly per store 1:32 - Expert analysis on why inventory management is "everything in grocery" and impacts P&L 1:42 - The challenge of balancing availability against waste, especially for short shelf-life products 2:01 - Anne Mezzenga highlights important insight: Even smaller-format UK stores see ROI from robot deployment 2:36 - Chris Walton confirms this validates "2025 being the year of the robot" prediction 3:03 - Additional benefit beyond inventory: Accurate pricing ensures capturing vendor promotional income Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/BrQ0kfPY4LA The discussion, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, reveals how robotic technology is proving valuable across different store formats and markets, making it a consideration for any retail executive serious about operational efficiency. #morrisons #retailnews #retailstrategy #retailtrends #robots #grocery #retailtech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 10
In this insightful retail analysis, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, experts debate whether Walmart's new Texas Supercenter deserves its "store of the future" label or simply represents a necessary upgrade to remain competitive in 2025. Key Moments: 0:02 - Introduction to Walmart's new "store of the future" in Cypress, Texas 0:09 - Surprising revelation: This is Walmart's first ground-up Supercenter in four years 0:18 - Walmart's ambitious plans to convert 150+ stores to this model in coming years 0:24 - Feature breakdown: Fuel station, modernized pharmacy, vision center, and elevated departments 0:39 - Digital enhancements: App integration for services like TV mounting and registry management 0:49 - Technology implementation: Digital shelf labels and QR codes for expanded assortment access 1:32 - Ben Miller's surprise at the four-year gap since Walmart's last ground-up Supercenter 1:43 - Positive assessment of Walmart's operational standards and digital journey integration 2:04 - Strategic value of driving app usage to increase media sales and Walmart+ memberships 2:33 - Expert critique: This isn't truly a "store of the future" but rather a "store of now" 3:13 - Chris Walton explains it's more of a "prototype of the future" - pragmatic evolution vs. revolution 3:54 - Anne Mezzenga highlights regional competitive strategy against H-E-B with features like in-store tortillas 4:32 - What's missing: Comparison to Target's "store of the future" concept with more experimental tests 5:09 - Discussion of testing business model dynamics to improve profitability 5:36 - Reference to Walmart's unlocking of efficiencies through employee-facing technology 6:07 - Final assessment: "It's a Walmart makeover" targeting new demographics with enhanced experience The experts conclude this represents a solid strategic update rather than revolutionary retail concept, positioning Walmart effectively against regional competition while implementing proven technologies. Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/BrQ0kfPY4LA #walmart #texas #retail #retailnews #retailtrends #retailtech #storeofthefuture This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 10
In this eye-opening retail industry analysis, our expert panel examines the high-stakes partnership between Amazon and Saks Fifth Avenue that could reshape luxury shopping forever. Key Moments: 0:02 - Introduction to the new "Luxury Stores at Amazon" partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue 0:50 - Ben Miller breaks down the strategy from Amazon's perspective as they pursue luxury consumers 1:18 - The fundamental mismatch between Amazon's utility-focused model and luxury's desire-creation business 2:05 - Critical context: Amazon's previous investment in Saks Global and the acquisition's financial problems 2:36 - Revelation of Saks' massive debt and upcoming repayment challenges driving this decision 3:32 - Chris Walton explains why luxury brands may not actually participate despite the partnership 4:16 - The "death knell" theory: Why using Fifth Avenue windows to promote Amazon shopping is "asinine" 5:15 - Counterpoint: Nordstrom's success with luxury through exceptional in-store experiences 6:54 - Anne Mezzenga provides a different perspective on the value of Amazon's convenience for luxury shoppers 7:53 - The shipping speed advantage: Getting luxury items next-day versus waiting a week 8:31 - How Amazon's Rufus AI could transform luxury shopping search and recommendations 9:23 - Heated debate: Could Buy with Prime have achieved the same goals without diluting the Saks brand? Listen as our retail experts battle over whether this partnership represents a desperate financial move or a necessary evolution in luxury retail's ongoing digital transformation in this week's Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. Catch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/BrQ0kfPY4LA #amazon #saksfifthavenue #LuxuryRetail #retail #ecommercestrategy #retailinnovation #luxuryshopping #RetailDebate #AmazonLuxury #retailtransformation #omnichannel #retailbusiness This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 8
In this exclusive 5 Insightful Minutes interview, Omar Akilah, SVP of Product at Infios, joins Omni Talk to explore how AI is impacting retail order management systems. From modular OMS architecture to predictive inventory optimization and AI-enhanced customer service, Omar explains why the future of retail fulfillment depends on intelligent, scalable, and purpose-built solutions. Learn how leading retailers can ditch the spreadsheets and future-proof their operations today. Key moments include: 0:11 – Omar joins to talk about how AI is impacting OMS 0:30 – What is a modular order management system and why it matters 1:25 – How Shopify brands can scale with modular tech 2:00 – Why AI—not systems—should power retail functionality 2:52 – How predictive AI is transforming order orchestration and fulfillment 3:44 – Examples of AI in real-time inventory management and optimization 5:00 – Eliminating spreadsheets and manual what-if rules 6:10 – The future: AI as a companion to enhance—not replace—retail jobs 7:50 – AI-augmented agents for better customer service 8:11 – Final thoughts from Omar on intelligent systems and retail agility Music by hooksounds.com #aiinretail #ordermanagement #retailtech #omnichannel #Infos #RetailAI #inventoryoptimization #machinelearning #ecommerce #omnitalk #retailinnovation Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 7
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Shoptalk’s Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Saks Fifth Avenue’s new Amazon storefront ( Source ) Walmart’s new “Store of the Future” down in Texas ( Source ) Morrisons introducing Simbe’s Tally robots ( Source ) Pinterest becoming a visual search engine ( Source ) And closed with a look at Lowe’s new MyLow AI app for store associates ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Omar Akilah of Infios stops by for 5 Insightful Minutes on how AI will impact order management system design, this month’s OmniStar, and we ask Ben about everything from which snack food he would least like to live without to the all important question of, “Who won the Met Gala?” Music by hooksounds.com #retailnews #AIretail #ecommerce #Walmart #Amazon #Pinterest #RetailTech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 3
In this week’s Lightning Round, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, the Omni Talk crew gets loose with hot takes on 7-Eleven’s emo music festival sponsorship, the return of Miami Vice, Target’s paper wine bottles, and Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter tour. Plus, find out which Beyoncé track makes Jeff's all-time list and whether Luis, as a Frenchman, would ever bring wine in paper packaging to a party. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/LpW3lI-L7TI Retail news meets pop culture in this fast and fun wrap-up! #RetailPodcast #beyonce #SustainableWine #target #miamivice #7eleven #whenwewereyoung #retailnews #popculture #cowboycarter #OmniTalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 3
Schnucks is rolling out products from its first local brand accelerator, Schnucks Springboard, into 15 stores across Missouri and Illinois. But with rising tariffs and razor-thin margins, will this bold bet on community-rooted innovation pay off—or fizzle out? The Omni Talk team breaks down the business case, strategic risks, and long-term viability of grocers becoming incubators in their latest Fast Five podcast, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. 🎙️ Can Grocers Be Incubators? Schnucks Tries It 0:01 – Schnucks launches Springboard local product trial 1:00 – Jeff: Incubators can be great… if they aren’t just for headlines 2:15 – How tariffs could crush small brands in these programs 4:00 – Luis questions ROI: is this core strategy or marketing play? 6:00 – Chris’ take: incubators only work with long-term investment 7:45 – The real risk: low sales per sq ft could kill the shelf space 8:15 – Merchandising vs. marketing: where should the budget come from? For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/LpW3lI-L7TI #Schnucks #retailinnovation #localbrands #FoodStartups #RetailIncubator #GroceryIndustry #tariffs #CommunityRetail #SpringboardProgram #OmniTalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 3
PepsiCo says it plans to replace artificial colors with natural ones across its product lines by 2026, but the move could come with major R&D and consumer acceptance challenges. The Fast Five crew debates whether regulation is the only real way to force change. 0:02 – PepsiCo CEO outlines natural color transition timeline 0:45 – U.S. HHS pushes voluntary color removal by 2026 2:00 – France vs U.S.: stark differences in food color standards 3:40 – Why reformulation is hard: R&D, sourcing, pricing 4:45 – The food-as-medicine opportunity 6:00 – Will Americans accept the change without regulation? 7:00 – Red Vines, Trix, and the real struggle of visual food culture For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/LpW3lI-L7TI This week's episode is brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. #pepsico #naturalingredients #CPGInnovation #FoodReformulation #HealthierSnacks #cleanlabel #doritos #RedVines #foodregulations #RetailPodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 3
A bombshell code leak suggests ChatGPT is preparing to integrate directly with Shopify, allowing users to discover and buy products without ever leaving the chatbot. Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and the A&M CRG team break down how this could upend search, crush Google’s e-commerce edge, and change online retail forever. 🚀 Is this the future of AI-driven shopping? 🛍️ How should retailers—and Google—respond? 🧠 And are most CEOs even ready for what’s coming? This may be the most important retail story of the year. This discussion was brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/LpW3lI-L7TI #chatgpt #shopify #AICommerce #retailinnovation #OmniTalkRetail #ConversationalCommerce #aishopping #GoogleVsOpenAI #RetailFuture #agenticai #ecommercetrends #RetailPodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 3
Schnucks is expanding its Caper Cart program, bringing the smart carts to more stores in Missouri and Illinois with new features like a lower tray for bulk items. Omni Talk and A&M experts discuss the promise, pain points, and potential of this next-gen checkout technology in reshaping the grocery shopping experience. 📌 0:02 – Schnucks expands Caper Cart pilot to Illinois with new lower tray feature 📌 0:49 – Customer usage hits high levels: All 10 carts in use throughout the day 📌 1:23 – Jeff Dwyer shares firsthand experience: Great for convenience-focused shoppers 📌 2:30 – Limitations of the carts: Size, capacity, and niche appeal 📌 4:10 – Caper Cart 2.0: Retail media, cameras, and in-store pathing features 📌 5:36 – The key milestone: Moving from initial test to broader rollout 📌 6:46 – Anne and Chris ask: How many carts is expansion really adding per store? This discussion, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, examines what it takes for smart carts to scale, whether they deliver real ROI, and how they stack up against other retail tech like AI-driven shelf tracking and mobile checkout. Don't miss the insider retail tech analysis that makes this episode a must-watch. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/LpW3lI-L7TI #SmartCarts #CaperCart #GroceryTech #retailinnovation #OmniTalkRetail #Schnucks #instacart #retailmedia #CheckoutTechnology #RetailPodcast #groceryshopping #RetailAutomation #TechInGrocery #ChrisWalton #AnneMezzenga This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 3
Amazon’s consideration of displaying tariff charges on ultra-discount items triggered political backlash and retailer debate over pricing transparency. Experts argue it would be poor merchandising and discuss the broader supply chain and inventory consequences retailers face amid rising trade tensions. 📌 0:02 – Amazon considers showing tariff costs on Haul items, then reverses 📌 1:00 – White House responds, calling it “hostile and political” 📌 1:45 – Jeff Dwyer explains why it's not good retailing and could backfire 📌 3:00 – Chris Walton critiques the logic from a merchant’s perspective 📌 4:00 – Discussion on how other retailers are reacting to new tariffs 📌 5:10 – Inventory strategy changes: some retailers dropping imports to zero 📌 6:00 – Luis highlights global supply chain pressures and reshoring limits 📌 7:00 – Holiday 2025 warning: Inventory risks loom large for seasonal categories 👉 This episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, unpacks the complexities of global trade policy on store shelves and offers tactical advice for retailers navigating turbulent supply chain and pricing landscapes. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/LpW3lI-L7TI #amazon #retailstrategy #ecommercenews #supplychaincrisis #tradepolicy #tariffs This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 1
Julian Mills, CEO of Quorso, sits down with Chris and Anne for a fast-paced 5 Insightful Minutes. Julian explains why intelligent management systems are critical in modern retail ( 0:40 ), shares a real-world example around promotion execution ( 1:40 ), and outlines how solutions like Quorso help retailers improve sales and reduce shrink ( 3:00 ). Julian also details the common hurdles retailers face with IT integration ( 5:00 ) and why trying to build these solutions internally just doesn’t make sense anymore ( 5:40 ). #RetailInnovation #StoreOperations #Corso #RetailTechnology #IntelligentManagement #RetailExecution #PromotionExecution #OmniTalkRetail Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 30
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , A&M’s Jeff Dwyer and Luis De Lencquesaing joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Amazon’s tariff pricing fracas with the White House ( Source ) Schnucks expanding its Caper Cart deployment ( Source ) ChatGPT potentially integrating with Shopify ( Source ) Pepsico accelerating its transition to natural ingredients ( Source ) And closed with a look at if local product innovation incubators ever make sense for grocers ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Quorso CEO Julian Mills stopped by for 5 Insightful Minutes on Intelligent Store Management, along with paper wine bottles, Beyonce, and Crockett vs. Tubbs. And don't forget to visit MillionaireMatch.com to download the app! And here's a special offer just for you -use the referral code "0430" when you sign up! Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #ShopifyAI #AmazonTariffs #SmartCarts #RetailInnovation #Quorso #PepsiCo #GenerativeAI #RetailTechnology #OmniTalk #CaperCart #StoreOperations #RetailPodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 29
Is microfulfillment still a viable strategy? In this new Omni Talk Spotlight, Chris and Anne sit down with Oliver Vogt, CEO of Tesco’s Transcend Retail Solutions and Danielle Dakin, Dematic's Market Development Director, to unpack everything happening with MFCs. Danielle explains how pandemic-driven hype distorted expectations ( 6:00 ), while Oliver lays out why volume and operational simplicity are the true keys to success ( 9:54 ). They discuss the threshold for MFC success (~500 orders/day) ( 11:00 ), why omnichannel flexibility matters more than ever ( 16:00 ), and how Tesco’s model could fit the US grocery landscape better than you think ( 24:00 ). Plus, the duo shares how you can schedule tours of Tesco's live MFC sites in the UK to see the future of grocery fulfillment for yourself ( 34:00 )! #Microfulfillment #ecommerce #retailnews #retailstrategy #retailinnovation #TranscendRetail #Dematic #tesco #MFCs #UrbanFulfillment #automation #grocerydelivery Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 28
Chris and Anne sit down with Angela Fernandez, SVP Market Development at GS1 US, to dive deep into the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and the massive shifts underway in food traceability. Angela explains: ( 6:27 ) The history of FSMA and how new regulations are reshaping the food industry ( 8:40 ) The crucial role of digital traceability ( 13:12 ) Why compliance is essential but not a competitive advantage ( 17:52 ) How companies can find ROI through end-to-end supply chain visibility ( 22:20 ) And what the recent 30-month extension means for brands and food service providers Tune in for practical advice on how businesses of all sizes can prepare for the coming new era of food safety! #FSMA #foodsafety #traceability #supplychainvisibility #GS1US #retailinnovation #fda #FoodTraceability #RetailCompliance *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 26
It’s lightning round time! Chris and Anne open with OpenAI’s surprising energy usage linked to polite prompts (00:03), then reveal whether they use manners with their own bots (00:22). Things escalate with papal name hypotheticals (01:15), a very serious pasta shape debate (02:00), and finally, the sperm race startup that no one saw coming (03:08). Stick around to hear which historical figures' sperm they'd bet on — and why youth might not always win. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/YZOCyd_MPhw This week's lightning round was brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. #chatgpt #openai #lightninground #retailnews #comedypodcast #PastaDebate #SpermRaces #anthonyedwards #lebronjames #popefrancis This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 26
Walmart is testing a new beauty bar concept at 40 stores as part of its spring sale event, and Chris and Anne dive deep into what it means for the retailer's future (00:04). Chris highlights how this test differs from Target’s Ulta partnership and lets Walmart fully own its beauty experience (01:45), while Anne shares insights from her past at Target and her shift to buying drugstore beauty via Walmart Plus (02:50). They both discuss how beauty bars create immersive, high-touch customer experiences while tackling in-store theft through controlled environments (04:00). Bonus: behind-the-scenes tidbits from their visit to Walmart’s Store of the Future in Mississauga (01:07). For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/YZOCyd_MPhw This week's episode was brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. #walmart #beautybar #retailinnovation #walmartplus #cosmetics #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 26
In this episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Chris and Anne break down Trove’s acquisition of reverse.supply and why it’s a game-changer for global resale (00:02). Anne highlights the upside for brands and customers alike, from lower costs due to tariff avoidance (01:45) to stickier brand engagement through resale ecosystems (02:50). Chris recalls Trove CEO Terry Boyle's past comments on resale’s potential for 3–5% comp sales growth (03:30), and the duo agrees the real value lies in making resale turnkey and low-risk (04:15). Plus, they discuss how peer-to-peer resale reduces logistics friction and offers a major growth lever in challenging times (04:40). For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/YZOCyd_MPhw #trove #resale #ReverseSupply #circularfashion #retailinnovation #recommerce #peertopeer #retailgrowth #secondhandshopping This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 26
Target’s new floral brand Good Little Garden has entered the chat — and Chris and Anne are divided (00:03). While the brand offers fresh flowers and plants starting at $6 (00:28), Chris argues the category is operationally complex and unlikely to become a billion-dollar brand (01:00). Anne sees parallels with Trader Joe’s floral success (03:10), and the duo debates whether this launch is a strategic win or a fleeting experiment (05:00). From vermin talk to sales data speculation and nostalgic merchandising war stories, this one’s got all the petals and thorns. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/YZOCyd_MPhw #target #retailstrategy #GoodLittleGarden #retailinnovation #traderjoes #retailnews #flowers This week's episode was brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 26
In this episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Chris and Anne dive into Quorso’s new partnership with Circle K (00:02), highlighting how this technology will scale across 5,000 stores in 12 countries and 11 languages (00:16). They discuss the significance of bringing task management and performance analytics into the convenience vertical (01:30), and what this means for late-night operations and workforce efficiency (03:00). Chris shares how the partnership validates Quorso's scalability (02:54), and Anne reflects on how one employee managing a store alone at night benefits from intelligent prioritization (04:00). If you’re in retail tech or ops, this one’s a must-listen. For the full episode, head here: https://youtu.be/YZOCyd_MPhw #retailtech #circlek #quorso #conveniencestores #retailinnovation #workforceoptimization #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 26
In this episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Chris and Anne analyze Walmart’s bold move to grow its gas station footprint, aiming to add 40–45 new locations this year as part of a five-year expansion plan (00:03). They discuss how Walmart is using fuel as a strategic lever to increase Walmart Plus membership value (01:00) and compare this tactic to Costco’s successful model (02:00). Anne shares her personal experience with Walmart Plus fuel limitations (03:10), while Chris breaks down the massive opportunity in front of Walmart, with only 415 fuel sites currently serving over 4,600 stores (04:20). Plus, they touch on recent leadership changes that indicate Walmart’s full steam ahead approach (04:45). For the full episode, head to: https://youtu.be/YZOCyd_MPhw #walmart #retailstrategy #walmartplus #gasstations #customerloyalty #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 23
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart’s gas station expansion strategy ( Source ) Quorso’s intelligent store management platform rollout with Circle K Europe ( Source ) Target’s new floral owned brand ( Source ) Trove’s acquisition of reverse.supply ( Source ) And closed with a look at why Walmart’s 40 store beauty bar test could herald even more sales growth in Walmart’s future ( Source ) There’s all that, plus pasta shapes, Papal naming, and the latest spectator sport, sperm racing. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 19
This week’s lightning round, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, is packed with laughs and unexpected questions. Chris and Anne start by debating what the official Omni Talk uniform would be, inspired by Starbucks’ new black-on-green dress code (0:01). Then they reminisce about epic faceplants, including Anne’s “Great Fall of Lisbon” (1:17), and react to Jewel suing Kroger over her removal from the Wellness Festival (2:09). Chris unveils his Chris-apalooza music lineup—Elvis, the Beatles, and the Jackson 5 (2:37)—while Anne keeps things grounded with crosswalk tech that talks like Lil Jon (3:25). It’s retail banter with a side of absurd. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/US96EqI2Bnk #RetailPodcast #lightninground #retailhumor #jewel #kroger #jeffbezos #jackson5 #starbucks #retailnews #blueorigin This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 19
In this Omni Talk Retail Fast Five discussion, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Chris and Anne explore Hy-Vee’s decision to shutter most in-store bars and eliminate full-service dining in favor of counter-only service (0:02). Chris critiques the overuse of “experiential retail” as a vague, unscalable buzzword (1:00), calling Hy-Vee’s move a necessary correction in an era where operational simplicity and consistency matter more than novelty. He shares a personal anecdote from his days at Gap about the hidden complexity of over-segmentation in retail (2:59) and warns about the challenges of managing stores with differing formats. Anne supports the shift as a logical step for maximizing floor space and profitability, citing successful models like Aldi and Sprouts that keep formats tightly controlled (4:50). The episode closes with a spirited debate on whether experiential retail ever really worked—and if retailers should let go of the fantasy altogether (7:40). For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/US96EqI2Bnk #hyvee #retailstrategy #grocery This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 19
In this Omni Talk Retail Fast Five segment, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Chris and Anne dig into DoorDash’s latest AI feature rollout for restaurant partners (0:02). The tools include an AI-powered camera for high-quality food photos, an item description generator, and instant visual enhancements to improve online menus (0:08). Anne shares how these tools will help small, independent restaurants like La Bodega Taco Shop compete with larger chains (1:04), while Chris highlights the risk of all AI descriptions sounding the same (3:13). They both agree photography is the most impactful feature—it's what drives clicks and cravings (4:00). The discussion wraps with some food fun and a reminder that good burritos matter more than buzzwords (5:28). For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/US96EqI2Bnk #doordash #restauranttech #fooddelivery #smallbusinesssupport #foodphotography This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 19
In this Omni Talk Retail Fast Five episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Chris and Anne dive into Sam’s Club’s bold plan to open 15 clubs annually and remodel all 600 existing locations in the U.S. (0:02). Backed by strong performance and growing online sales, Sam’s Club hopes to double its membership over the next 8–10 years, according to CEO Chris Nicholas (0:21). Chris lays out three reasons he’s bullish: impressive comp sales growth (0:56), rising app adoption like Scan & Go (1:24), and soaring popularity among Gen Z and millennials (2:04). Anne agrees with the momentum but flags a continued awareness gap compared to Costco and emphasizes the importance of tapping Walmart Plus to attract new members (3:04). The episode wraps with a discussion of retail media advantages and the potential to unify Walmart and Sam’s Club memberships under one banner (4:59). #samsclub #walmart #costco #retailstrategy #scanandgo #retailtech #MembershipGrowth #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 19
In this episode of Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand, Chris and Anne dive into Walmart’s latest AI-powered innovation: the Trend-to-Product tool (0:03). The duo explains how the tool uses generative AI to produce trend-driven mood boards, shorten design timelines by up to 18 weeks (1:10), and assist Walmart in appealing to newer, more affluent shoppers through trendier fashion options (2:44). Anne shares her experience working on similar product development teams at Target and emphasizes how this tool eliminates the tedious manual design process (1:26). Chris voices caution around AI fatigue and the importance of maintaining focus on big-picture strategies in stores versus chasing shiny objects online (3:36). The episode closes with thoughtful reminders about managing open-to-buy limits and making smarter decisions amid the flood of trend data (6:30). For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/US96EqI2Bnk #walmart #retailinnovation #aiinfashion #generativeai #retailtech #walmartfashion #merchandising This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 19
In this episode of the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand,Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga break down Ulta's surprising decision to pause its shop-in-shop rollout with Target. Despite Target touting strong beauty performance, Ulta CEO Kecia Steelman—an operations leader and former Target exec—has decided to hold at 610 locations, raising questions about store traffic, brand alignment, and future investments. Chris compares Target to a ‘Mike Dexter’ moment in retail (3:00), while Anne explores how cultural sentiment and operational caution may be driving this pause (4:50). 📌 Key Moments: (0:00) Ulta pauses shop-in-shop expansion at Target (1:18) Target’s beauty sales vs. Ulta’s decision (2:00) Placer.ai data and Target foot traffic (3:00) Chris compares Target to “Mike Dexter” (4:50) Anne discusses Kecia Steelman’s operational mindset (7:00) Target’s unusual pullback on a major partnership (8:00) Implications for Target’s brand and comp sales For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/US96EqI2Bnk #ultabeauty #target #retailnews #retailstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 17
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Chris and Anne discussed: Ulta Beauty’s decision to pause its Target shop-in-shop expansion ( Source ) Walmart’s new Trend-to-Product AI tool to speed up product development ( Source ) Sam’s Club’s expansion plans ( Source ) DoorDash’s AI enhancements to help its quick-service restaurant partners ( Source ) And closed with a look at what Hy-Vee’s decision to close its bars and to end its full-service dining offering means for the “experiential” retail trend ( Source ) There’s all that, plus faceplants, crosswalk hacks, and Anne also asks Chris to design his very own Omni Talk uniform. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 16
In this episode of Omni Talk’s Ask an Expert series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga talk with Stipe Galic, VP of Business Development & Marketing at TGW, to demystify the complexities of returns in today’s omnichannel retail world. From cost savings to faster reshelving, Stipe walks us through how automation, flexible software, and a unified DC setup are transforming how retailers like Urban Outfitters manage inventory and returns. Key Moments: 1:05 – Stipe’s journey from mechanical engineer to automation leader at TGW 4:59 – Why returns are such a thorn in omnichannel fulfillment 7:00 – Real-time processing of returns with mixed-SKU totes 10:00 – How software decides between single-SKU and return stock 14:36 – Case study: High-end fashion retailer consolidating DC operations 19:56 – Cutting return costs nearly in half through automation 22:00 – “Bridge vs. Ferry” analogy on warehouse responsiveness 24:35 – Seamless integration over cutting-edge tech: the new mindset #RetailReturns #OmnichannelFulfillment #WarehouseAutomation #TGW #ReverseLogistics #FashionRetail #RetailTech #UrbanOutfitters #SupplyChainInnovation #RetailAutomation Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 12
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, ClearDemand, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Lightning Round of Burritos, "Best Of" White Lotus Awards, and Tariff Product Hoarding For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xZ2R3c0ZxsU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 12
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, ClearDemand, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: The Pros & Cons of Amazon AI Shopping Agents For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xZ2R3c0ZxsU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 12
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, ClearDemand, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: San Diego Banning Digital-Only Coupons For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xZ2R3c0ZxsU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 12
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, ClearDemand, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Instacart Debuting A New “Will Call” Delivery Service For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xZ2R3c0ZxsU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 12
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, ClearDemand, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Old Navy’s 1,200 Store Radar RFID Rollout Is Too Aggressive? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xZ2R3c0ZxsU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 12
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, ClearDemand, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss Whether they're buying or selling Best Buy Creator Storefronts For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xZ2R3c0ZxsU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 10
David Dorf, Head of Retail Industry Solutions at AWS, joins Omni Talk to break down how Agentic AI—the next evolution beyond generative AI—is poised to reshape the retail industry. From recommendations and virtual analysts to autonomous shopping assistants, David shares real-world retail examples already in use today. Plus, he explains why the next frontier may be agent-optimized websites and what that means for advertising, loyalty, and even SEO. 💡 Key Moments: 0:21 – What is Agentic AI? How it differs from generative AI 1:36 – Real-world use cases: Amazon’s $260M in savings from AI agents 2:14 – Tapestry’s agent-powered data assistant 2:42 – AI recommending tires based on car type and usage 3:28 – Agents navigating browsers: Instacart demo and implications 4:30 – What happens to advertising and loyalty when agents shop for us? 5:41 – Advice for retailers: start small, focus on ROI and automation 📍 Don’t miss this mind-blowing 5-minute masterclass on the future of AI in retail. #AgenticAI #RetailInnovation #AWS #GenerativeAI #RetailTechnology #OpenAI #FutureOfRetail #AIinRetail #Automation #AIshopping #RetailStrategy #OmniTalk #DavidDorf #Anthropic #RetailTrends2025 Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 9
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , Infios , and ClearDemand , Chris and Anne discussed: Best Buy storefronts and where influencer commerce will go next ( Source ) Instacart’s introduction of “Will Call” Delivery ( Source ) Old Navy rolling out Radar’s RFID solution to 1,200 stores ( Source ) San Diego banning digital-only grocery store coupons ( Source ) And closed with a look at just how game-changing Amazon’s implementation of AI agents to shop third-party sites could be ( Source ) There’s all that, plus David Dorf of AWS stops by for 5 Insightful Minutes on Agentic AI, and Chris and Anne also discuss tariff stockpiling, soggy doggy burritos and which animal species Anne would most like to see brought back from extinction. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 29
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five recorded live from Shoptalk 2025 in Vegas and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Love Is Blind Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/NPi_RSCdcTE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 29
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five recorded live from Shoptalk 2025 in Vegas and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Whether They're Buying Or Selling: Target’s “Brown Box Delivery” Pilot For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/NPi_RSCdcTE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 29
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five recorded live from Shoptalk 2025 in Vegas and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Edible Arrangements Making a Shift To Sell . . . Edibles For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/NPi_RSCdcTE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 29
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five recorded live from Shoptalk 2025 in Vegas and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Klarna & Doordash Bringing BNPL To Meal Delivery For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/NPi_RSCdcTE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 29
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five recorded live from Shoptalk 2025 in Vegas and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Haul Being Priced At 50% Off During Big Spring Sale For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/NPi_RSCdcTE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 29
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five recorded live from Shoptalk 2025 in Vegas and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Best Buy Connecting Retail Media With Meta For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/NPi_RSCdcTE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 28
The Shoptalk 2025 Key Takeaways Podcast is here! Recorded live on stage, this fast-paced episode features Omni Talk's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton with Shoptalk's content team — Marielle Bobo, Ben Miller, HG O’Connell, and the live conference audience — as they spin the wheel to hit the hottest themes of the show. 🎯 Key Moments & Topics: (00:54) Introduction of the “Shoptalk Dream Team” (03:00) Tariffs: Shein’s surprising openness to regulation (05:01) Data: AI, personalization, and retail transformation with DoorDash, Hanes, and SoulCycle (10:14) Retail Media: Growth slowing or just evolving? (13:52) Quote of the Show: Creativity, authenticity, and CVS’ traffic drivers (18:50) Demand Creation: Stores still rule; digital discovery leads (23:16) Search: Language & visual search, AI co-pilots, and TikTok’s next gen influence (28:33) Startup Winners: Sotira (reverse logistics) and Playably (gamified ecommerce) (30:31) Most Exciting Tech: From jewelry design with AI to in-store audio (32:45) Careless Whisper (aka Most Interesting Idea Heard Offstage): Trove’s 3-5 comp point resale lift, Sam’s Club’s reinvestment strategy, metaverse surprises, and CEOs getting back in stores (33:58) Agentic AI: Is this a “Bezos moment” for retail? (39:00) Closing Thoughts: What’s next? Shoptalk Europe, Fall, Groceryshop & more 📍 For more on upcoming Shoptalk shows visit shoptalk.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 28
In this Shoptalk 2025 special, recorded live from the Shoptalk TV studio, Omni Talk sits down with Cedric Clark, EVP of Stores at Walmart, to unpack the company’s people-led, tech-powered evolution. Cedric dives into Walmart’s commitment to associate experience, innovation in store technology, and why staying connected to the frontline is key to long-term retail success. 🎯 Key Moments: (00:54) Cedric on Shoptalk and innovation trends (1:45) His Walmart journey: From fishing licenses to EVP (3:09) Why store-level experience matters in leadership (4:12) People-led, tech-powered: Walmart’s core philosophy (5:47) Game-changing tech: My Walmart app and digital shelf labels (7:53) AI for smarter scheduling and task nudges (13:12) Store experience evolution: Then vs. now (16:06) How Walmart develops its associates (18:20) Winning over new customers and boosting loyalty (20:39) Walmart’s "secret sauce" for success (23:09) Keeping the customer at the center of every decision (25:37) Teasers for what’s ahead in 2025 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 28
Live from Shoptalk 2025, Meta’s JP Chookaszian joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to unpack one of the show’s biggest announcements—Meta’s new omni-channel ad platform. JP walks us through the macroeconomic shifts driving this innovation, why in-store performance matters more than ever, and how AI and GenAI are shaping Meta’s future tools, from dynamic ad generation to virtual try-on. If you want to know what’s next in retail media, this is the episode to hear. Key Moments: 0:40 – Intro to JP and his role at Meta 2:30 – Economic backdrop and shift in consumer behavior 4:50 – Why retail media matters more in 2025 5:40 – Meta’s new omni-channel ad solution explained 6:20 – 21% lift in in-store incremental ROAS 7:10 – Why in-store signal improves campaign performance 8:00 – Rollout timeline for general availability 9:00 – Importance of unified KPIs and org structures 11:45 – What retailers need to do to prepare 12:50 – The role of AI and Meta’s Advantage+ suite 13:55 – GenAI applications like virtual try-on and text generation 16:15 – Why creative still reigns in the AI era 17:45 – Final advice: invest in creative, AI, and test-and-learn 19:20 – How to connect with JP and Meta post-Show #retail #omnichannel #meta #shoptalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 28
In this Shoptalk 2025 episode, recorded live from the Meta Podcast Studio,, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga chat with Jessica Lachs, Chief Analytics Officer at DoorDash, about her remarkable rise from startup GM to data leader. Jessica unveils DoorDash’s newest partnerships with DSW and Klarna, discusses the role of AI in grocery substitutions and targeted retail media, and explains why data is the foundation of customer-centric innovation. Key Moments: 0:20 – Jessica Lachs joins Omni Talk from Shoptalk 2025 1:20 – Her startup journey: from GM to CAO at DoorDash 3:00 – Learning SQL and Python from scratch 4:10 – Launching new partnerships: Klarna and DSW 5:45 – DoorDash’s evolving verticals beyond restaurants 7:00 – Retail media and new DoubleDash ad platform 8:20 – Role of AI in customer personalization and targeting 9:45 – AI-powered grocery substitutions and smarter alternatives 11:40 – Creating seamless omnichannel experiences 12:55 – Solving the first-time search and personalization challenge 14:30 – Advice for brands: invest in analytics before tech 15:45 – Building an intentional data strategy and empowering analysts 16:30 – Wrap-up with “Life Hacks with Lachs” podcast teaser #doordash #shoptalk #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 28
In this episode of Omni Talk Retail recorded live from the Meta Podcast Studio at Shoptalk 2025, hosts Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton welcome Five Below’s VP of Digital Marketing, Abhinav Agrawal, and Ovative Group’s SVP of Growth, Jesse Grittner, for a high-energy discussion on how omnichannel strategies are transforming retail. From the collapse of traditional retail boundaries to the rise of AI-driven personalization and measurement, this episode dives deep into what’s driving growth and innovation. Key Moments: 0:35 – Introductions and Shoptalk energy 1:00 – Jesse’s background in retail and Ovative’s role 1:20 – Abhinav’s unique path from engineering to marketing 2:15 – What “growth” means for Ovative 2:45 – Defining omnichannel and digital-first engagement at Five Below 3:45 – How digital storytelling connects to in-store sales 4:10 – Measurement techniques: triangulation and Meta partnerships 5:01 – Choosing data-driven retail partners 6:01 – What makes a successful retail collaboration 7:03 – The future of customer journeys and AI influence 8:19 – Five Below’s top priority: content that follows trends 9:17 – Ovative’s investments in creators and rapid insights 10:20 – Smart tech investments and first-party identity 11:40 – AI’s role across the retail tech stack #shoptalk #retailtechnology #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 27
In this insightful Shoptalk 2025 episode, recorded live from the Meta Podcast Studio, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Harvey Ma, VP and GM of Retail Media at Sam’s Club. Harvey explains how Sam’s Club has taken a radically different approach to retail media—reinvesting every ad dollar back into clubs, staff, and the member experience. He also breaks down how Sam’s in-house technology, like their new search engine and Scan & Go platform, prioritizes relevancy over revenue, creating a superior shopper journey. Key Moments: 0:40 – Intro to Harvey Ma and his journey from engineering to retail 2:00 – Sam’s Club’s unique retail media approach: revenue reinvested, not profited 3:45 – Why member satisfaction drives everything at Sam’s 5:20 – Rebuilding Sam’s in-house search platform for relevancy over profit 6:50 – Moving away from ROAS to measure success 8:25 – Scan & Go as the future of in-store retail media 9:45 – 71% incremental reach from Scan & Go media 10:50 – What Sam’s looks for in a retail partner 12:50 – Trust as a pillar of Sam’s Club strategy 14:00 – The evolution of retail media: from digital to tactile experiences 15:30 – Advice for retailers: don’t make it all about money 16:45 – Three simple questions Sam’s asks of every initiative 17:40 – Closing thoughts and the importance of member-focused innovation #samsclub #retailmedia #shoptalk #retailinnovation #advertising This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 27
🎧 Retail Media, Evolved: Liz Roach on KPIs, Clean Rooms & Commerce at Speed | Shoptalk 2025 Live Albertsons Media Collective's Liz Roche joins Chris and Anne live from the Meta Podcast Studio at ShopTalk 2025 to talk all things retail media—why measurement needs to be reimagined, how to think beyond channel silos, and what teams need to succeed in a data-driven world. From clean rooms to strategic continuity, Liz shares what it takes to win in the next wave of retail media. 📍 Timestamps: ( 0:09 ) Welcome & intro from Meta’s Surf Room B ( 1:00 ) Liz’s new dual-role: Media & Measurement under one roof ( 2:08 ) Why collaborative tech like clean rooms and APIs is a must ( 2:54 ) What’s changing in KPIs: From campaign lift to LTV & longitudinal metrics ( 3:56 ) How combining measurement & media helps speed to insight ( 4:44 ) Personalization + attribution: Closed-loop is everything ( 5:45 ) The culture of retail media: Bias for action, speed, and strategic partnerships ( 6:38 ) Education still matters—especially with brand marketers new to commerce ( 7:24 ) Industry trend watch: CTV, compressed funnels, holistic measurement ( 8:50 ) Where to invest now? Experimentation: Budgets, KPIs, and media strategy ( 9:25 ) Wrap-up and thanks to Meta for hosting #retailmedia #shoptalk #retail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 27
🎧 Retail Fast Five | March 26, 2025 – Live from Shoptalk 2025 This week, Chris and Anne are back together live at Shoptalk 2025, bringing you exclusive insight and on-the-ground energy. This week's episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital and Infios , kicks off with a behind-the-scenes look at their interviews with CVS, Wayfair, and Purina (03:15), followed by their five big retail stories of the week: Best Buy Launches Social Plus – A new retail media/social ad hybrid (06:23) Amazon Haul Gets a Spring Sale Boost – But is it bold enough? (12:23) Klarna x DoorDash Partnership – BNPL comes to food delivery (16:46) Edible Arrangements Launches Edibles.com – Game-changing move into hemp products (20:54) Target Tests Brown Box Delivery – Efficiency play or PR puff? Or both? (24:43) They also talk Christina Aguilera workout songs (28:47), bad airport snacks (30:14), socks and sleep debates (31:53), and whether Minneapolis should host dating shows (33:03). 💥 A must-listen for anyone following the ever-changing retail landscape. Music by hooksounds.com #RetailFastFive #OmniTalk #RetailNews #BestBuy #AmazonHaul #ShopTalk2025 #RetailMedia #Klarna #DoorDash #Edibles #TargetRetail #Ecommerce #RetailTrends #BNPL #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 26
🎧 Personalized Joy at Scale: KK Kandu of Kendra Scott | Shoptalk 2025 Live Kamanasish Kundu (aka "KK"), SVP & Head of Digital and E-Commerce at Kendra Scott, joins Omni Talk live from the Avalara podcast studio at Shoptalk 2025 to explore the art and science of emotional commerce. From building a nimble, test-driven culture to prepping for an AI-first future of intelligent shopping agents, KK lays out the future of digital retail for a personal brand in an evolving world. 📍 Timestamps: ( 0:09 ) Welcome and intro to KK Kandu – recently promoted at Kendra Scott ( 1:00 ) KK’s background: from electrical engineer to e-commerce leader ( 1:58 ) What KK’s Shoptalk session is about: personalization that spreads joy ( 2:54 ) Redefining personalization: it’s about anticipating needs and building connection ( 3:50 ) What makes jewelry unique in e-commerce—and why emotion matters ( 4:55 ) Bringing in-store energy to digital through omnichannel alignment ( 5:46 ) Test-and-learn culture: “launch and love” for every experiment ( 6:52 ) Navigating price sensitivity and uncertainty with a proactive strategy ( 8:20 ) Showing value through messaging and BNPL while staying nimble ( 9:40 ) What’s next in e-commerce: AI agents, emotional touchpoints, and dual-layer websites ( 11:13 ) Final thoughts: brands that balance intelligence and emotion will win #shoptalk #kendrascott #retailtech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 26
🎧 Turning Returns Into Revenue: Trove CEO Terry Boyle on Resale’s Rise at Shoptalk 2025 Terry Boyle, CEO of Trove, sits down with Omni Talk, live from the Avalara podcast studio at Shoptalk, to share how the resale revolution is changing retail. He walks through the tech, economics, and brand strategy behind resale programs that create loyalty, profits, and sustainability—while helping retailers attract new customers in the process. 📍 Timestamps: ( 0:05 ) Welcome from Shoptalk 2025 at the Avalara booth ( 0:33 ) Terry Boyle’s background: from Nordstrom to Zulily to Trove ( 1:46 ) What Trove does: powering branded resale, trade-ins, and returns ( 2:59 ) Why resale is both a sustainability and profitability play ( 4:02 ) Who Trove works with—Patagonia, Arc’teryx, Brooks, and more ( 4:50 ) Why resale isn’t a Shoptalk track…yet ( 5:55 ) Has resale crossed the chasm? ( 6:50 ) The economics of resale vs. off-price ( 8:15 ) What tech is needed to scale resale (AI, WMS, ERP integration) ( 9:05 ) Is there a “right way” to do resale? ( 9:51 ) Full site integration = 3–5% of sales from resale ( 10:43 ) Watchouts: how to manage gift card values and return grades ( 11:27 ) Recap and call to action #shoptalk #resale #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 26
🎧 Tariff Tuesdays, Taxes & Cross-Border Success: Avalara’s George Trantas at Shoptalk 2025 Live from Shoptalk 2025, Avalara’s George Trantas shares deep insights on what’s next for global retail. From tackling tariffs and tax implications to building a smart cross-border strategy, George brings clarity to the chaos with advice rooted in years of ecommerce and logistics leadership. 📍 Timestamps: ( 0:05 ) Live from Shoptalk 2025 at Avalara Booth #1554 ( 0:53 ) George’s background and shoutout to his son’s hockey championship ( 1:19 ) What Avalara does and George’s evolving role ( 2:23 ) What’s happening in cross-border commerce right now ( 3:43 ) Where to start with cross-border: Canada, UK, Australia ( 4:46 ) Common mistakes in global ecommerce and pricing ( 5:58 ) Tariff talk: what happens if the de minimis rule is removed ( 6:56 ) Advice for retailers to prepare for tariff shifts ( 7:57 ) The surprising truth about taxing tariffs ( 8:55 ) Avalara’s weekly “Tariff Tuesday” blog and knowledge resources ( 9:25 ) Closing advice: get help, start small, and follow the leaders #shoptalk #taxes #tariffs Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 26
Chris and Anne sit down with Uncommon Goods founder and CEO Dave Bolotsky, live from the Avalara podcast studio, to talk about the company’s origin story, why curation still matters, and how they’re adapting to the latest retail trends. From light manufacturing in Brooklyn to in-house product design and a $25 loyalty program, Dave shares what it takes to thrive in today’s ecommerce world—plus his thoughts on AI, customer experience, and the future of gifting. 📍 Timestamps: ( 0:05 ) Intro from Shoptalk 2025 at Avalara Booth #1554 ( 0:26 ) Dave’s background from Wall Street to ecommerce ( 1:33 ) What makes Uncommon Goods “uncommon” ( 2:50 ) How they choose and create exclusive products ( 4:56 ) In-house design and Brooklyn-based light manufacturing ( 5:45 ) The evolution of the maker economy and competitive pressure ( 6:56 ) Popular new product: QR code horoscope mugs ( 8:00 ) Dave’s learning approach to Shoptalk ( 9:03 ) How Uncommon Goods is exploring retail media ( 9:45 ) Testing pop-up stores and the ROI challenge ( 10:59 ) Loyalty: “Uncommon Perks” vs. Prime ( 12:01 ) Using AI in customer service, copywriting, and code ( 13:20 ) Vision for AI in product development (14:34) Closing thoughts + what’s next for Uncommon Goods #shoptalk #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 26
🎧 Inside CVS’s Retail Reinvention | Musab Balbale Live from Shoptalk 2025 Musab Balbale, SVP and Chief Merchandising Officer of CVS Health, sits down with Omni Talk, live from the Avalara podcast studio at Shoptalk 2025, to explore CVS’s bold new retail strategy. With 75% of store traffic coming from the front store, CVS is leaning into AI, hyperlocal formats, and the power of everyday essentials to become a community-first destination for immediate needs. 📍 Timestamps: ( 0:08 ) Welcome from Shoptalk 2025 – and puppies?! ( 0:36 ) What Musab oversees at CVS: digital, categories, and front-store merchandising ( 1:53 ) 75% of CVS traffic comes from front-store—surprising stat breakdown ( 3:06 ) CVS as a local community store, not just a pharmacy ( 3:35 ) Musab’s career journey: Walmart, Jet.com, Vitamin Shoppe ( 4:00 ) Comparing the transformation journeys of Walmart and CVS ( 4:52 ) CVS’s small format and standalone pharmacy strategy explained ( 5:56 ) Designing stores for micro trade areas using AI and ML ( 7:25 ) 900 billion value-SKU combos: how tech powers CVS’s tailored assortments ( 8:42 ) The consumer’s evolving expectations and how CVS fits into their routine ( 9:33 ) What categories are leading growth—food, general merchandise, and seasonal ( 10:59 ) “Immediate gratification” as the overlooked retail trip type ( 11:44 ) The human connection still matters in retail ( 12:27 ) The one trend Musab is watching closely: the true power of AI #shoptalk #cvs #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 26
Shoptalk 2025 Exclusive: Shein's Strategy Head Peter Pernot-Day on the Future of Fashion Chris and Anne sit down with Shein’s Head of Strategy & Corporate Affairs, Peter Pernot-Day, live from the Avalara podcast studio at Shoptalk 2025, to explore how Shein's radically different approach to production and customer experience sets it apart. The discussion covers everything from small-batch on-demand design to retail data engineering and personalization—plus how Shein is thinking about tariffs, technology, and customer loyalty in 2025 and beyond. 📍 Timestamps: ( 0:05 ) Live from Shoptalk 2025 at the Avalara booth ( 0:22 ) Peter’s background & Shein 101 ( 1:12 ) What “on-demand fashion” really means ( 2:48 ) Technology that drives Shein’s efficiency ( 3:59 ) Shein’s response to the affordability crisis ( 5:00 ) Advice for other retailers: embrace data engineering ( 6:15 ) Personalization & the "experience gap" in e-commerce ( 7:42 ) Photo search and recommender system innovations ( 8:37 ) The role of customer feedback in design ( 9:34 ) Tariffs, De Minimis, and regulatory planning ( 10:56 ) Peter’s favorite thing about Shoptalk: Serendipity #shoptalk #shein #retailtech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss the week's most intriguing entertainment stories in this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital and Infios! We explore Heineken's unique campaign to find a successor for a fourth-generation Irish pub, debate dream vacations, and rank our favorite Adam Sandler films. KEY MOMENTS: 0:02 - Heineken's search for someone with a specific Irish surname to take over an Irish pub 0:27 - Would our hosts change their name and move to Ireland to inherit a bar? 1:03 - Discussing Mariah Carey's viral unimpressed reaction at the iHeart Radio Music Awards 1:25 - Personal story about an unexpected reaction to a surprise birthday party 2:17 - The incredible $200,000 Four Seasons vacation package to all White Lotus filming locations 2:51 - Speculation about where White Lotus Season 4 might be filmed 3:24 - Happy Gilmore 2 trailer discussion and ranking our favorite Adam Sandler movies 3:45 - Debating Sandler's best work from classics like Billy Madison to critically acclaimed Uncut Gems Tune in for laughs, hot takes, and our candid thoughts on whether we'd spend $200K to visit White Lotus resorts! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/K-LainhQQyY #whitelotus #adamsandler #HappyGilmore2 #fourseasonshotel #entertainmentnews #mariahcareyreaction #movierankings #luxurytravel This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss how Wonder has scooped up Tastemade for $90 million as part of its grand plan to become the super app of mealtime. Chris and Anne dissect the strategy behind combining streaming food content with real-time delivery via Grubhub and Blue Apron—and whether Wonder’s vision of democratizing personal chefs can actually scale. (0:02) – Wonder acquires Tastemade to fuel its mealtime super app ambitions (0:33) – Wonder’s pivot from food trucks to centralized kitchens and restaurants (1:14) – Grubhub and Blue Apron acquisitions—building blocks of a food empire (1:40) – Marc Lore’s bold plan: Personalized chefs for everyone? (2:03) – The appeal: choice, convenience, and reducing friction in mealtime decisions (2:52) – Is it about delivery... or empowering consumers to cook with ease? (3:36) – Advertising potential: Tastemade as a platform to subsidize costs (4:46) – Scaling the logistics: Can Wonder handle the complexity at a reasonable price? (5:29) – Bezos’ rule of choice, food as friction, and the psychology of convenience (7:00) – Final verdict: Big risk, big vision—but is it big enough to work? Marc Lore is betting big on food—and the way we eat might never be the same. Will Wonder change the game... or burn through billions chasing an impossible dream? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/K-LainhQQyY #wonderapp #tastemade #foodtech #mealdelivery #superapps #grubhub #cloudkitchen #venturecapital #retailinnovation #foodstartup This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart going all-in with Klarna as its sole Buy Now, Pay Later provider—ditching Affirm and integrating BNPL into its OnePay FinTech app. Chris and Anne explore why this is more than a simple switch, and how it positions Walmart to become a dominant force in payments. (0:03) – Walmart drops Affirm, partners exclusively with Klarna for BNPL (0:30) – Klarna to underwrite loans, Walmart’s OnePay to handle customer experience (1:10) – Walmart’s OnePay valued at $2B+ with $200M in annual revenue (1:54) – Why Walmart’s customers won’t notice a difference—and why that matters (2:26) – Klarna’s global reach gives Walmart valuable data and fraud prevention potential (3:06) – Is BNPL becoming the next Visa or Mastercard for retail? (3:24) – Walmart’s strategy: Growth through ownership of payment capabilities (4:26) – Signing up is shockingly easy—Chris’s experience and $60 in credits (4:42) – Walmart’s long game: becoming the “payment conduit for America” (5:08) – Why simplicity and trust in one provider can be more powerful than choice With millions of daily shoppers, Walmart’s bet on Klarna and OnePay could reshape how Americans pay. Will other retailers follow suit? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/K-LainhQQyY #walmart #klarna #buynowpaylater #retailtech #retailinnovation #retailtech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Wayfair going BIG in Atlanta with a new 150,000 sq ft store—but is this retail expansion smart or risky? Chris and Anne break down why Wayfair’s move into physical stores could challenge IKEA, fill a key market gap, and provide crucial data to enhance their omnichannel strategy in this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital and Infios. (0:03) – Wayfair announces its second large-format store in Atlanta for 2026 (1:00) – Chris shares the backstory: Wayfair's initial reluctance to go big (2:19) – In-store dwell time up 25%—why shoppers linger at Wayfair (2:45) – The white space: serving customers between IKEA and luxury brands (4:30) – Same-day pickup, easy returns, and why convenience wins (5:39) – Can Wayfair connect in-store behavior to online reviews and sales data? (6:44) – AI or no AI? The power of real-time retail data to optimize inventory (7:02) – The caveat: 15% sales bump might not be enough—store must be profitable Will Wayfair’s big store bet pay off? The verdict’s out—but this move could reshape how we shop for furniture in 2025 and beyond. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/K-LainhQQyY #wayfair #furnitureshopping #homedecor #retailstrategy #omnichannelretail #furnituretrends #retailinnovation #homefurnishings This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Ulta Beauty going big with a new curated online marketplace—what does this mean for customers, loyalty, and retail media? Chris and Anne break down why this is a savvy move for Ulta, how Mirakl enables quick marketplace rollouts, and why 2025 is shaping up as the year of marketplace dominance in retail in this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital and Infios. (0:02) – Ulta Beauty’s official marketplace announcement (0:20) – “Curated” marketplaces—real or just marketing? (1:02) – Why this is a smart move for Ulta’s customers (2:08) – Retail media revenue and loyalty points as key drivers (3:14) – The role of Mirakl in accelerating marketplace adoption (4:30) – 2025: The year of the marketplace (Best Buy, Janie and Jack, Ulta) (5:46) – Data value in high-frequency beauty purchasing (6:03) – How Ulta’s platform could attract CPG advertisers If you're in retail or beauty, this is one trend you can't afford to miss. Ulta's move could reshape the future of digital commerce in beauty and wellness. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/K-LainhQQyY #ultabeauty #ecommercetrends #retailinnovation #beautyindustry #retailmedia #customerloyalty #OmnichannelRetail #digitalcommerce #retailtech #beautytech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Infios and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss how Kroger is betting big on e-commerce—but is its strategy already flawed? In this segment, brought to you by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital and Infios, Chris and Anne debate Kroger’s controversial decision to separate online operations into a standalone unit, question the leadership choice, and unpack whether this sets Kroger up for success—or disaster. (0:03) – Kroger forms new e-commerce business unit (0:11) – Yael Cosset promoted to EVP and Chief Digital Officer (0:32) – Kroger CEO Ron Sargent emphasizes digital growth (0:56) – Should e-commerce be a separate division? (1:46) – Why this goes against omnichannel best practices (2:53) – Is Kroger stuck in the sunk cost trap with Ocado? (3:54) – Concerns over leadership structure and priorities (6:07) – Are digital sales underperforming despite the investment? (7:14) – Final thoughts: too many risks, not enough clarity Don’t miss this deep dive into a major retail shakeup—and what it could mean for the future of grocery e-commerce. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/K-LainhQQyY #kroger #ecommercestrategy #retailnews #grocery #ocado #omnichannelretail #digitaltransformation #onlinegroceryshopping #retailtech #retailinsights This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 21
In this packed episode, Omni Talk hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview the most innovative retail technology providers attending Shoptalk 2025, giving listeners an insider’s guide to the conference’s must-see tech solutions. Key Moments: 1:33 – Interview with Big Sur AI’s CEO Vinod Ramachandran on their AI sales agent, content marketer, and data scientist tools 17:12 – Lucky Labs’ Sneh Parmar explains how they connect brands to major retailers with real-time inventory and attribution data 27:47 – Lily AI’s Purva Gupta breaks down how they bridge the gap between merchant language and consumer search terms 44:33 – Syrup’s James Theuerkauf discusses their AI decision support system for optimizing inventory management 56:50 – Placer.AI’s Ethan Chernofsky shares insights on location analytics and understanding retail traffic patterns 1:12:34 – Treasure Data’s Mark Tack on intelligent data platforms transforming retail customer experiences 1:25:01 – Mirakl’s Alex Hase explains the rising trend of specialty retailers launching marketplace platforms 1:35:33 – Signifyd’s Raj Ramanand reveals how AI is solving the $890 billion returns problem in retail #retailtech #shoptalk #aiinretail #retailinnovation #ecommerce #retailstrategy #customerexperience #retailanalytics #digitaltransformation *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 19
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital and Infios , Chris and Anne discussed: Kroger’s surprising decision to create a standalone e-commerce unit ( Source ) Ulta’s launch of a digital marketplace with Mirakl ( Source ) Wayfair’s plans to open a second large format store in Atlanta ( Source ) Klarna becoming Walmart’s exclusive BNPL provider ( Source ) And closed with a look at Wonder’s acquisition spree and if its “super app for mealtime” is just bad branding of what is actually a good idea ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Mariah Carey, Irish names, and our rankings of the best Adam Sandler movies of all-time. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Alvarez & Marsal, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chris Creyts and David Schneidman break down the week’s retail news. In this short, they cover: A Ride Or Die Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/zoe5hsCC9jU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Alvarez & Marsal, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chris Creyts and David Schneidman break down the week’s retail news. In this short, they cover: If Portillo's App Fatigue IS Real And A Reason To Move To Digital Wallets For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/zoe5hsCC9jU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Alvarez & Marsal, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chris Creyts and David Schneidman break down the week’s retail news. In this short, they cover: Buying or Selling: Reckitt’s Claim AI Has Reduced Product Development Lead Times By 60% For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/zoe5hsCC9jU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Alvarez & Marsal, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chris Creyts and David Schneidman break down the week’s retail news. In this short, they cover: Google Shopping Turning Your Fashion Idea Into Reality For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/zoe5hsCC9jU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Alvarez & Marsal, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chris Creyts and David Schneidman break down the week’s retail news. In this short, they cover: Loblaw Tagging US Sourced Products With Tariff Symbol For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/zoe5hsCC9jU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Alvarez & Marsal, Mirakl, Simbe, Infios, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chris Creyts and David Schneidman break down the week’s retail news. In this short, they cover: For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/zoe5hsCC9jU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 13
How is AI transforming retail technology ? In this episode, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga talk with Jessica Grisolia from Scandit about the latest innovations in smart data capture, shelf intelligence, and workforce efficiency . Find out how AI is not replacing store associates but enhancing their productivity , and why next-best-action intelligence is coming soon to inventory management. ⏳ Key Moments: 0:08 – Intro to OmniTalk’s Ask An Expert Series 1:21 – The importance of human-centric retail AI 5:41 – The $1.7 trillion inventory problem retailers face 9:25 – How AI optimizes store associates’ workflows 18:52 – Staples Canada’s 45% cost reduction with smart data capture 27:44 – Retail AI trends for 2026 : Agentic AI and coordinated computer vision 📍 Join the conversation and stay ahead of retail tech trends ! #RetailTechnology #AIinRetail #SmartDataCapture #InventoryManagement #RetailTrends #Omnichannel #AIforRetail #RetailAutomation #StoreOptimization #Scandit #NextBestAction #RetailAI Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 12
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital and Infios , A&M’s David Schneidman and Chris Creyts joined Chris and Anne to discuss: CVS Health’s rollout of “mini-stores,” i.e. smaller stores with pharmacies but a limited retail selection ( Source ) Loblaw identifying U.S. made products at shelf with a new tariff symbol ( Source ) Google Shopping’s new AI search features ( Source ) Reckitt’s claims that it has reduced product development lead times by over 60% with generative AI ( Source ) And closed with an examination of Portillo’s launch of its new loyalty program, not through an app, but through a digital wallet ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Blue Steel, airline preferences, and moonlighting as social media influencers. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 8
🚀 In this week's Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we break down the viral Airport Theory TikTok trend (would you show up 15 minutes before your flight?!), the Domino’s stuffed crust debate, and the return of nostalgic retail brands like Limited Too! Plus, which pancakes reign supreme? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rTReEPz6yR8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 8
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: 🎮 Walmart just launched Walmart Unlimited, a shoppable video game experience designed to merge immersive gaming and e-commerce. But is this the future of shopping or just another metaverse experiment destined to fail? In this week's episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we explore whether Walmart can drive real sales through virtual experiences and if customers will actually buy products inside a game. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rTReEPz6yR8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 8
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: 🛋️ Furniture.com is shaking up the industry by integrating real-time inventory, search data, and in-store browsing into one seamless furniture shopping platform. Could this be the next big thing in home furnishings, or will giants like Wayfair and Walmart respond with their own versions? In this week's episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we break down the opportunities, challenges, and future of omni-channel furniture shopping. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rTReEPz6yR8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 8
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: 🛒 Publix is facing a class-action lawsuit over allegations of overcharging customers on weighted food items. Did a simple pricing error cause this, or is there a bigger problem with grocery store transparency? In this week's episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we break down what happened, why electronic shelf labels might help prevent these issues, and how customers can protect themselves. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rTReEPz6yR8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 8
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: 🚀 Amazon has launched Alexa Plus, its next-generation AI-powered assistant—but is it truly revolutionary or just another Alexa upgrade? 🤔 In this week's episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we discuss its new features, generative AI improvements, and whether it finally delivers on its smart shopping promise. Will you be subscribing or skipping Alexa Plus? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rTReEPz6yR8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 8
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Target teaming up with Warby Parker to bring in-store eyewear services to select locations—but is this a brilliant retail move or a risky bet? 🤔 In this week's episode, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, we break down how this partnership benefits both brands, potential operational challenges, and why Warby Parker’s slow expansion rate raises questions. Should Target just acquire Warby Parker outright? Let’s discuss! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rTReEPz6yR8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 5
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Chris and Anne discussed: All the wrinkles surrounding Target and Warby Parker’s new partnership ( Source ) The launch of Alexa+ ( Source ) The deceptive pricing lawsuit against Publix ( Source ) Furniture.com’s unique take on omnichannel commerce ( Source ) And closed with an examination of Walmart Unlimited, Walmart’s new video game shopping experience ( Source ) There’s all that, plus “airport theory,” stuffed crust pizza, and what style of pancakes reigns supreme. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: An LA Raiders Latch Hook Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/mJ9TENRdNnE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: Walmart’s New Ai Tool For Merchants, Aka Wally? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/mJ9TENRdNnE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Kroger And Schnucks Enhancing Their Quick Delivery Offerings Via Instacart For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/mJ9TENRdNnE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Sprouts Launching Its First-ever Loyalty Program For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/mJ9TENRdNnE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Joann Closing All Its Stores For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/mJ9TENRdNnE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Adidas Offering Buy With Prime Via Its App & Website For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/mJ9TENRdNnE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27
How is AI transforming beauty retail? At eTail Palm Springs, Milani Cosmetics CMO Jeremy Lowenstein joins Omni Talk Retail to discuss how the brand is using AI, social listening, and influencer marketing to create a seamless shopping experience across online and its in-store channels. 🛍 Key Moments: ✅ ( 2:42 ) – How Milani’s baked blush is handcrafted in Italy ✅ ( 5:08 ) – The role of AI in content creation & personalization ✅ ( 6:55 ) – Why influencers are shaping brand perception ✅ ( 8:54 ) – How social listening drives product development ✅ ( 11:12 ) – The future of AR & virtual try-on in beauty 💡 Stay ahead of beauty retail trends—subscribe to OmniTalk Retail for more expert insights. And special thanks to NetElixir for making all our eTail West coverage possible! #beauty #retail #etail #etailwest This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27
How can AI-driven pricing optimization boost retail profits and customer loyalty? 🚀 Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga sit down with Matt Pavich, Senior Director of Strategy & Innovation at Revionics, to discuss how AI-powered pricing is shaping the future of retail and what retailers must do to stay competitive. 📌 Key Moments: ⏩ 00:00 – Intro ⏩ 02:00 – Why pricing optimization is the biggest lever in retail ⏩ 07:15 – The evolving complexity of pricing in retail today ⏩ 12:45 – AI-powered price optimization: How it benefits both retailers & consumers ⏩ 18:30 – The impact of tariffs, inflation, and economic trends on pricing ⏩ 24:15 – AI ethics & pricing: How retailers can ensure fair and strategic price changes ⏩ 29:00 – The future of AI in retail pricing: What’s next with generative & agentic AI ⏩ 35:00 – Closing thoughts & how to get started with pricing optimization 📩 Follow OmniTalk for more insights on AI-driven retail innovation! Music by hooksounds.com #retailinnovation #pricingstrategy #pricing #retailtech Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27
In this insightful episode of Omni Talk Retail, Anne sits down with Kevin Moffitt, President of Office Depot and Office Max, live from eTail 2025! Kevin shares how his team is focusing on small business needs, AI-powered operational improvements, and omnichannel experiences. 📌 Key Moments: 0:06 - Welcome to eTail 2025 & sponsor shoutout 1:00 - Kevin’s role at Office Depot and the importance of small businesses 2:35 - How Office Depot is catering to digital-first customers 4:50 - The evolution of hybrid work and retail’s role in adapting 6:10 - Balancing human interaction with digital convenience in retail 7:25 - How legacy brands can innovate to remain relevant 9:00 - Office Depot’s 20-minute in-store pickup promise 10:30 - How AI is streamlining operations and boosting efficiency 12:00 - The future of personalized retail marketing 🚀 Don’t miss this exclusive look at how Office Depot is attempting to transform! Thanks to NetElixir for helping to make our coverage possible. #officedepot #etail #etailwest This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27
How is DSW adapting its approach to loyalty? 🤔 In this exclusive interview from eTail West 2025, Paige Sheedy, VP of Growth Marketing at DSW, shares how the brand is using AI, predictive modeling, and personalization to enhance customer loyalty and drive engagement. 📌 Key Moments: ⏩ 00:00 – Intro & Sponsor Shoutout ⏩ 01:30 – How DSW Defines Modern Loyalty & Customer Retention ⏩ 03:45 – The Role of AI & Predictive Modeling in Personalization ⏩ 06:00 – DSW’s Omnichannel Strategy for Customer Engagement ⏩ 09:10 – How Loyalty Data Fuels Brand Growth & Business Strategy ⏩ 10:00 – Final Thoughts: The Future of Retail Loyalty & AI Integration And thanks to our sponsor NetElixir for helping to make our coverage of eTail West possible! #etailwest #etail #onlineshopping #ecommerce #dsw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 26
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Anne remoted in from eTail West, Chris was back home in Minneapolis, and together they discussed: Adidas offering Amazon Buy with Prime via its website and app ( Source ) Joann no longer being in the fabric of our lives ( Source ) Sprouts launching its first-ever loyalty program ( Source ) Kroger and Schnucks enhancing their quick delivery offerings via Instacart ( Source ) And closed with a discussion of Walmart’s new AI tool for merchants, aka “Wally” ( Source ) There’s all that, plus nightly news anchors, Joann memories, and Anne’s favorite Savage. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 26
We’re live from eTail West in Palm Springs with NetElixir CEO Udayan Bose, who breaks down the latest innovations in AI-driven retail marketing. From predictive analytics to strategic experimentation, Udayan shares how brands can increase revenue, optimize Google and Meta ad spending, and navigate the digital marketing evolution. 🔹 [ 0:14 ] Live from eTail West: Introducing NetElixir and its mission 🔹 [ 1:06 ] Udayan’s 19-year journey with eTail and key industry shifts 🔹 [ 2:30 ] How NetElixir pioneered AI-driven customer acquisition 🔹 [ 4:16 ] Top concerns for retailers: margin compression and AI adoption 🔹 [ 5:26 ] AI in digital marketing—what actually works vs. hype 🔹 [ 6:40 ] How AI is changing Google Ads and Meta advertising 🔹 [ 7:28 ] The role of AI agents in marketing operations by year-end 🔹 [ 8:08 ] Why brands should allocate 10% of their budget to experimentation 🔹 [ 9:41 ] Final advice: Identifying problems, rethinking workflows, and leveraging AI for smarter retail growth Join us for this insightful discussion, and subscribe for more cutting-edge retail and e-commerce strategies. And thanks to NetElixir for making all our coverage from eTail West possible! #ecommerce #etailwest #onlineshopping #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 26
We’re live from eTail West with Andrei Rebrov, CTO & Co-Founder of Scentbird, to explore the transformative power of AI in retail. From personalized fragrance recommendations to AI-driven automation, Andrei shares how technology is redefining customer experiences and workplace efficiency. 🔹 [ 0:14 ] Welcome to eTail West: Scentbird’s evolution from fragrance subscription to a global scent destination 🔹 [ 2:18 ] The challenge of discovering new scents online & how Scentbird solves it 🔹 [ 4:45 ] How AI enhances fragrance recommendations and personalization 🔹 [ 6:30 ] The power of AI in interpreting customer preferences & behavior 🔹 [ 7:39 ] Why AI-powered agents will redefine business efficiency in 2025 🔹 [ 9:55 ] The future of work: AI tools for retail, marketing, and finance teams 🔹 [ 11:30 ] Leadership insights: Aligning teams & avoiding the "complaint culture" 🔹 [ 13:08 ] AI's role in unleashing human creativity & innovation in the workplace Join us for this fascinating discussion, and subscribe for more cutting-edge retail insights. And thanks to NetElixir for making all of our eTail West coverage possible! #scentbird #etailwest #retail #ecommerce This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 26
In this episode, Rick Egan, VP of Performance Marketing at Beyond (Bed Bath & Beyond & Overstock), explores how AI and first-party data are impacting digital marketing strategies. Learn about the role of behavioral AI in customer acquisition, the impact of predictive analytics on promotions, and the future of AI-powered search and personalization. 🔹 [ 0:14 ] Live from eTail West: Introducing Rick Egan & Beyond’s marketing strategy 🔹 [ 1:25 ] Rick’s early days in e-commerce & the evolution of digital marketing 🔹 [ 2:44 ] The challenge of acquiring new customers cost-effectively 🔹 [ 4:13 ] The role of first-party data in optimizing marketing campaigns 🔹 [ 5:49 ] AI-powered customer segmentation & predictive behavioral modeling 🔹 [ 6:45 ] Why NOT couponing is an overlooked retail growth strategy 🔹 [ 8:07 ] How AI is reshaping search—generative & language-based models 🔹 [ 9:46 ] Visual search: why it hasn’t taken off & its potential future 🔹 [11:26] Rick’s predictions: The biggest changes coming to digital marketing in 2025 Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the next wave of AI-powered marketing, and subscribe for more insights from retail’s top leaders. And special thanks to our NetElixir for making our coverage of eTail West possible! #etailwest #ecommerce #onlineshopping #retailtrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 26
Live from eTail West, Walmart EVP Denise Incandela shares how Walmart is reshaping its fashion business with premium private brands, national brand partnerships, and an expanding marketplace. Discover how Walmart is reaching new customers, enhancing in-store experiences, and leveraging AI for a personalized shopping journey. 🔹 [ 0:14 ] Live from eTail West: Walmart’s evolving fashion strategy 🔹 [ 1:07 ] How Walmart is shifting beyond basics to full lifestyle offerings 🔹 [ 2:40 ] National brand partnerships—Reebok, Jessica Simpson, and more 🔹 [ 3:55 ] The rise of premium private brands like Scoop & Free Assembly 🔹 [ 5:46 ] In-store vs. online assortment strategy & geographic customization 🔹 [ 7:24 ] Walmart’s first-ever transactional NYC popup and its massive success 🔹 [ 8:59 ] How Walmart is attracting higher-income shoppers with fashion 🔹 [ 10:31 ] The role of the Walmart marketplace in expanding fashion options 🔹 [ 12:15 ] The "Store of the Future" with digital displays and mannequins 🔹 [ 13:19 ] Walmart’s focus on AI, personalization, and micro-influencers Don’t miss this inside look at Walmart’s fashion transformation, and subscribe for more retail innovation. And special thanks to NetElixir for making our coverage of eTail West possible! #walmart #walmartfashion #walmartplus #etailwest This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 24
In this episode, we dive into the latest trends in retail investing with Claire Cherry, Partner at Era VC. Claire shares her journey from science to venture capital and provides a deep dive into how consumer brands can thrive in today's competitive landscape. 🔹 [ 1:09 ] Claire Cherry’s background and journey into venture capital 🔹 [ 2:28 ] What Era VC looks for in early-stage consumer brands 🔹 [ 4:09 ] Key investment areas: longevity, functional food, and wellness 🔹 [ 6:07 ] The rise of food as medicine and its impact on retail 🔹 [ 9:48 ] Challenges in customer acquisition and sustainable brand growth 🔹 [ 12:03 ] How retail buyers evaluate new brands and product performance 🔹 [ 14:49 ] The future of store investments: driving revenue vs. reducing costs 🔹 [ 16:30 ] AI-driven personalization and the next wave of loyalty programs 🔹 [ 18:15 ] Retail theft prevention: how AI is replacing traditional security methods 🔹 [ 21:27 ] RFID and next-gen inventory management solutions 🔹 [ 26:44 ] How VCs evaluate pitch decks and decide on investments 🔹 [ 31:40 ] Claire’s advice for founders & how to connect with her Tune in for an engaging discussion on the evolving retail landscape, and subscribe to Omni Talk Retail for more expert insights! Music by hooksounds.com #retailtechnology #venturecapital #omnichannel #retailtrends #aiinretail #retailinnovation #futureofretail #functionalfood #healthandwellness This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, along with special guest hosts from the A&M Consumer & Retail group David Brown and Lisa Collier discuss: How "The Price Of Wishes Has Increased With Inflation" In The Latest Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5GLcP12oeI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, along with special guest hosts from the A&M Consumer & Retail group David Brown and Lisa Collier discuss: The Pros And Cons Of Amazon Featuring Products From Other Websites Within Its App For the full episode head here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5GLcP12oeI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, along with special guest hosts from the A&M Consumer & Retail group David Brown and Lisa Collier discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: Wayfair Muse For the full episode head here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5GLcP12oeI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, along with special guest hosts from the A&M Consumer & Retail group David Brown and Lisa Collier discuss: How Long It'll Take Before Retailers Start To Emulate Dick’s Varsity Team Influencer Program? For the full episode head here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5GLcP12oeI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, along with special guest hosts from the A&M Consumer & Retail group David Brown and Lisa Collier discuss: Pro Or Con: The Growth Of Digital Screens In Stores? For the full episode head here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5GLcP12oeI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 22
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, along with special guest hosts from the A&M Consumer & Retail group David Brown and Lisa Collier discuss: Whether The World Needs Amazon’s New Beauty Store In Italy? For the full episode head here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5GLcP12oeI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 19
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , A&M’s David Brown and Lisa Collier joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Amazon’s new beauty store in Italy ( Source ) Scheels adding 460 and $11 million worth of digital screens into its stores ( Source ) Dick’s new varsity influencer program ( Source ) Wayfair’s new AI-powered shopping tool, Muse ( Source ) And closed with a look at why in the world Amazon would test letting consumers purchase items within its mobile app from other brands’ websites ( Source ) There’s all that, plus David ranks his favorite sodas, Lisa picks her favorite SNL cast member of all-time, and we all discuss if the price of wish has gone up with inflation. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 17
Trybe is redefining women’s leadership conferences, bringing together top executives, founders, and industry leaders across retail, tech, and consumer industries. In this episode, Anne Mezzenga chats with Krystina Gustafson, Trybe's Chief Content Officer, about what makes this event different, who should attend, and why it’s a great opportunity for career growth and networking. Plus, hear about some of the powerhouse speakers, key themes, and special insights into professional and personal development. Don’t miss this inside look at one of the most anticipated leadership events of the year! 📅 Tribe Conference – May 20-22, 2024 | Aria, Las Vegas 🎟 Use code OMNI250 for $250 off registration by visiting https://bit.ly/trybecode #trybe #retail #cpg #womeninbusiness This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Lovely-Scented Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/2w2T7EP2Liw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Pro Or Con: Instacart Piloting CPG Brand Tasks For Its Workers For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/2w2T7EP2Liw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Save A Lot Is A Retailer To Watch? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/2w2T7EP2Liw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: EG America Deploying Quorso Tech Across 1,500 Stores For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/2w2T7EP2Liw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: GapVintage: What’s The Verdict? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/2w2T7EP2Liw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 15
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Aldi Selling Back Stores It Had Acquired From Southeastern Grocers For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/2w2T7EP2Liw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 13
In this latest 5 Insightful Minutes episode, Caitlin Allen, SVP of Market at Simbe, breaks down the key misconceptions retail executives have about automation, why data quality is critical, and how top retailers are scaling AI-driven solutions. Learn the difference between good and bad computer vision AI, how autonomous robots are driving efficiency, and why collaboration between HQ and store teams is essential for successful tech rollouts. Plus, hear real-life "Aha" moments from retailers who have discovered hidden inventory and optimized operations through AI-powered insights. Key Moments: 🔹 ( 0:18 ) – Common misconceptions about retail automation 🔹 ( 0:44 ) – The three key priorities: data quality, scalability, and store coverage 🔹 ( 2:22 ) – How to distinguish good vs. bad computer vision AI 🔹 ( 4:26 ) – Bridging the gap between HQ and store operations 🔹 ( 5:49 ) – Eye-opening insights: Retailers discovering hidden inventory 🔹 ( 6:13 ) – AI’s role in e-commerce accuracy, automated reordering, and merchandising Music by hooksounds.com #retailtrends #retailtech #robotics #retailinnovation Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 12
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, and Scratch Event DJs, Chris and Anne discussed: The many angles to Aldi’s decision to sell back some of the stores it previously purchased from Southeastern Grocers ( Source ) How bullish they both are on Gap’s new vintage clothing play ( Source ) Why EG America’s new partnership with Quorso heralds a new age of store management technology ( Source ) If Save A Lot should be on everyone’s retailer to watch lists ( Source ) And closed with an examination of Instacart’s decision to pilot CPG brand tasks for its workers ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Simbe's Caitlin Allen stopped by for 5 Insightful Minutes on how to deploy AI and automation successfully at scale, and also Chunk Light Tuna, Ozempic blindness, and how big of a creeper Chris would have been if he had asked his flight attendant what perfume she was wearing on his flight to Vegas this week. To register for CommerceNext, head here , and don't forget to use our 10% off Promo Code for General Attendee Tickets: OMNITALK Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 12
Join Nate Shutes, VP of Global Fulfillment & Logistics at Blue Dot, as he explores predictive supply chains, AI-driven scheduling, and the challenges of furniture logistics. Learn how Blu Dot is leveraging AI, warehouse automation, and workforce strategies to optimize e-commerce fulfillment and improve last-mile delivery efficiency. ⏳ Important Timestamps: 0:00 - Welcome & introduction from Manifest 2025 0:47 - Meet Nate Shutes, VP of Global Fulfillment & Logistics at Blu Dot 1:15 - Overview of Blu Dot’s omni-channel furniture business 2:00 - Nate’s background in logistics & supply chain management 3:00 - Key takeaways from Nate’s panel on predictive supply chains 4:10 - What is a predictive supply chain & why does it matter? 5:30 - How AI & automation are shaping logistics strategy 7:00 - Investing in people vs. automation in big & bulky logistics 9:20 - How Blu Dot manages last-mile delivery challenges 10:40 - AI-powered scheduling and its impact on customer experience 12:00 - Future of home furnishings logistics & retail fulfillment 13:30 - Closing thoughts on technology, supply chain talent & AI innovation Special thanks to our sponsors TGW Logistics for making our Manifest coverage possible. To learn more about TGW head here: www.tgw-group.com . #manifest2025 #supplychain #homefurnishings #bludot #retailtrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 12
At Manifest 2025, we talk with Justin Liu, U.S. Country Manager for Alibaba.com, about how AI and automation are transforming the B2B sourcing experience. With new AI-powered communication tools, supplier verification, and automated comparison reports, Alibaba.com is streamlining supply chain operations for U.S. buyers and sellers. Learn how businesses can optimize sourcing, mitigate risks, and expand globally using Alibaba’s latest innovations. ⏳ Important Timestamps: 0:00 - Welcome & introduction from Manifest 2025 0:47 - Meet Justin Liu, U.S. Country Manager for Alibaba.com 1:30 - What Alibaba.com does for B2B buyers & sellers 3:00 - How Alibaba.com helps U.S. businesses source globally 4:20 - The biggest supply chain challenges for buyers 5:30 - New AI-powered sourcing & supplier communication tools 7:00 - How Alibaba.com is helping businesses mitigate supply chain risks 8:45 - Key insights from Justin’s Manifest 2025 panel discussion 10:10 - The biggest misconception about Alibaba.com for U.S. buyers 11:30 - The future of B2B e-commerce & AI-driven trade 13:00 - Why AI in trust-building & supplier management is critical 14:10 - Closing thoughts & how to connect with Alibaba.com Special thanks to our sponsors TGW Logistics for making our Manifest coverage possible. To learn more about TGW head here: www.tgw-group.com . #manifest2025 #alibaba #supplychain #b2b #ecommerce This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 12
At Manifest 2025, Birger Beusching, Head of Supply Chain for Philips North America, shares insights on supply chain transformation, AI-powered decision-making, and enhancing supply chain visibility. Learn how Philips is optimizing operations, improving planning efficiency, and leveraging AI for data-driven supply chain management. ⏳ Important Timestamps: 0:00 - Welcome & introduction from Manifest 2025 0:47 - Meet Birger Beusching, Head of Supply Chain at Philips 1:30 - Overview of Philips' Personal Health division & supply chain challenges 3:00 - Key takeaways from Birger’s panel discussion on transformation & change management 4:20 - Why supply chain cohesion with commercial teams is critical 6:30 - How Philips is optimizing its North American supply chain strategy 8:00 - The impact of AI & automation in supply chain decision-making 9:40 - Lessons learned from pandemic-driven supply chain disruptions 11:30 - The future of data-driven decision-making in supply chain operations 13:10 - Retail partnerships & collaborative forecasting strategies 14:30 - How end-to-end visibility & automation improve logistics efficiency 16:00 - Closing thoughts & the next steps for Philips' supply chain transformation Special thanks to our sponsors TGW Logistics for making our Manifest coverage possible. To learn more about TGW head here: www.tgw-group.com . #manifest2025 #philips #supplychain #retailtrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 12
At Manifest 2025, we talk with Wesley Williams, VP of Supply Chain at Daily Harvest, about the biggest supply chain challenges and strategies for 2025. Instead of chasing the latest AI trends, Daily Harvest is doubling down on fundamentals like ERP, transportation management, and materials resource planning (MRP). Learn how supply chain leaders are making the most of their existing technology while preparing for long-term innovation and scalability. ⏳ Important Timestamps: 0:00 - Welcome & introduction from Manifest 2025 0:47 - Meet Wesley Williams, VP of Supply Chain at Daily Harvest 1:30 - How Daily Harvest manages end-to-end supply chain operations 3:02 - Key takeaways from Wesley’s panel discussion at Manifest 4:20 - The importance of supply chain as a strategic initiative 6:00 - Daily Harvest’s philosophy on partnerships & collaboration 7:27 - Best audience question: What would an ideal supply chain look like? 8:45 - Why critical thinking is more important than new technology 10:22 - What supply chain technologies Daily Harvest is actually investing in 11:30 - Focusing on ERP, MRP, and transportation management systems 12:45 - Making existing supply chain infrastructure more efficient 14:00 - Why Daily Harvest is prioritizing optimization over new investments 15:35 - Closing thoughts & how to connect with Wesley Williams Special thanks to our sponsors TGW Logistics for making our Manifest coverage possible. To learn more about TGW head here: www.tgw-group.com . #manifest2025 #supplychain #retailtrends #dtc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 12
The Future of Logistics & Supply Chain Automation is here! Live from Manifest 2025, we talk with Blake Neal, TGW Logistics Head of Business Development, about the biggest industry trends, including AI-driven warehouse solutions, supply chain efficiency, and automation in logistics. Whether you’re in retail, grocery, or apparel, this episode covers the most important innovations shaping the future of logistics. ⏳ Important Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction & welcome to Manifest 2025 0:33 - Shoutout to sponsor TGW Logistics 1:08 - Meet Blake Neal & his background in automation 2:00 - From airport baggage handling to warehouse automation 3:35 - What TGW Logistics does & its supply chain solutions 5:10 - Why AI & automation are critical for logistics 6:58 - How retailers are upgrading warehouses without downtime 8:45 - The role of AI in trucking & logistics efficiency 10:25 - Key supply chain priorities for 2025 & beyond 12:00 - How to connect with TGW Logistics for automation solutions To learn more about TGW Logistics, head here: www.tgw-group.com #manifest2025 #warehouseautomation #supplychain #retailtrends #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 10
What’s happening with retail automation in 2025? Investment in supply chain technology appears to be flattening out as retailers shift focus from large new projects to optimizing existing infrastructure. Anne and Chris sit down with Kim Baudry from Dematic to explore what this means for AI in logistics, warehouse automation, and the future of retail distribution. ⏳ Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction & welcome to Kim Baudry 1:03 – The current state of automation investment in retail 3:00 – Why supply chain automation is slowing down in 2025 5:45 – How economic uncertainty & interest rates impact investment 7:33 – Where retailers are focusing automation budgets now 10:05 – The role of AI & machine learning in warehouse optimization 12:50 – How digital twins help simulate supply chain changes 15:17 – Retailers “sweating their assets” & maximizing existing infrastructure 18:00 – The impact of tariffs & global trade shifts on supply chain strategies 22:05 – The future of supply chain efficiency & retail distribution 25:30 – Final thoughts #supplychain #warehouseautomation #retailtrends #retailinnovation Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 8
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by special co-host and Shoptalk and Groceryshop’s VP of Original Content and Strategy Ben Miller. In this clip, the group discusses: A Suitcase Full Of Sunshine Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ySon4C9S-hQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 8
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by special co-host and Shoptalk and Groceryshop’s VP of Original Content and Strategy Ben Miller. In this clip, the group discusses: The Impact Walmart's Same-Day RX Delivery Will Have On The Healthcare Landscape For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ySon4C9S-hQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 8
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by special co-host and Shoptalk and Groceryshop’s VP of Original Content and Strategy Ben Miller. In this clip, the group discusses: What We Should Make Of IKEA's Secondhand Marketplace For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ySon4C9S-hQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 8
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by special co-host and Shoptalk and Groceryshop’s VP of Original Content and Strategy Ben Miller. In this clip, the group discusses: The Pros Or Cons of Clinics Inside Of Retail Stores For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ySon4C9S-hQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 8
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by special co-host and Shoptalk and Groceryshop’s VP of Original Content and Strategy Ben Miller. In this clip, the group discusses: If The Third Time's The Charm For Buybuy Baby For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ySon4C9S-hQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 8
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by special co-host and Shoptalk and Groceryshop’s VP of Original Content and Strategy Ben Miller. In this clip, the group discusses: The New CVS App And What It It Means For Customers For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/ySon4C9S-hQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 6
🎙️ Omni Talk Retail Ask An Expert – Featuring Placer.ai’s Ethan Chernofsky Retailers are rethinking their store formats, customer engagement strategies, and location choices—but what does the foot traffic data actually say? Placer.ai’s SVP of Marketing, Ethan Chernofsky, joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to analyze real consumer shopping trends and predict what’s next for retail in 2025. Timestamps & Discussion Topics: ⏩ ( 0:00 ) – Intro ⏩ ( 3:45 ) – The return of the “third place” in retail ☕ (Starbucks, bookstores, malls) ⏩ ( 10:16 ) – How shopping mall visitation is evolving 🏬 ⏩ ( 14:08 ) – What retailers should learn from store visit duration & calendar shopping patterns 📆 ⏩ ( 20:03 ) – Retail is moving South! 🛒 Why Texas, Florida & Arizona are booming ⏩ ( 24:21 ) – Sam’s Club’s surprising resurgence—is it the next big retail powerhouse? ⏩ ( 27:45 ) – Ashley Furniture & HomeGoods are winning—why is home decor making a comeback? 🏡 ⏩ ( 30:08 ) – Specialty grocery chains (Trader Joe’s, Sprouts) are gaining market share 🍎 ⏩ ( 35:01 ) – Walmart+, Sam’s Club & the battle for high-income grocery shoppers ⏩ (40:00) – Final thoughts & predictions for the future of retail spaces 📢 Key Takeaway: Shopping behaviors are shifting! Retailers who optimize for experience, convenience, and specialty offerings will win big in 2025. 💡 Hot Take: Will Sam’s Club overtake Costco in the loyalty battle? 🤔 📊 Want access to more retail data? Visit Placer.ai 🎥 Subscribe & Follow for Weekly Retail Insights #retailtrends #omnichannel #walmart #samsclub #malls #retailmarketing #customerinsights #retailanalytics #retailnews #retailinnovation Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 5
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , and Scratch Event DJs , Shoptalk’s VP of Original Content & Strategy, Ben Miller, joined Chris and Anne to discuss: CVS Health’s new app rollout ( Source ) Beyond buying back BuyBuy Baby ( Source ) Walgreens’ plans to close down 47 of its in-store health clinics in Illinois ( Source ) IKEA’s decision to expand its secondhand furniture marketplace in Europe ( Source ) And closed with a discussion of whether Walmart+ and Walmart same-day Rx delivery will have the same impact on the pharmacy industry that Walmart+ has had on the grocery business ( Source ) There’s all that, plus we announced our February OmniStar ( congrats Joe Coll of Macy’s ), and Chris and Anne grill Ben on everything from #Tayvoodoo and the Fantastic 4 to what American-made products Ben plans to sneak back home to the UK from Las Vegas in his suitcase. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Apple Podcasts and on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #WalmartPlus #HealthcareRetail #PharmacyDelivery #RetailTech #RetailInnovation #RetailBusiness #HealthcareTech #RetailIndustry #OmniTalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 3
🎙 Omni Talk Retail Live at FMI 2025: Coborn’s COO David Best on Grocery Innovation 🎙 Join Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga as they speak with David Best, President & COO of Coborn’s, about how the regional grocer is innovating through food service, customer experience, and store operations live from the Simbe Podcast Studio at FMI 2025. ⏳ Key Moments: 00:00 - Introduction: Live from FMI 2025 with Coborn’s 01:30 - David’s Background and Journey from Target to Coborn’s 03:45 - How Coborn’s Competes with National Grocery Chains 06:20 - Expanding Meal Solutions & Food Service in Grocery 09:15 - The Upcoming Coborn’s Flagship Store in Plymouth, MN 11:50 - How Coborn’s Leverages AI & Automation for Store Efficiency 14:30 - Growth Strategies: Liquor, Pet Supplies, and Home Improvement 17:10 - Technology Investments & Customer-Centric Innovations 19:45 - Defining Success for Coborn’s in 2025 & Beyond 💡 Discover how Coborn’s is shaping the future of independent grocery retail—Subscribe for more insights! #fmi #coborns #grocery #retailtrends #retailstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 3
🎙 Omni Talk Retail Live at FMI 2025: Benjamin Bond on Retail Automation with Simbe Robotics 🎙 Join Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga as they speak with Benjamin Bond, VP of Strategy & Business Development at Simbe Robotics, about how automation and AI are transforming grocery retail. ⏳ Key Moments: 00:00 - Introduction: Live from FMI 2025 with Simbe Robotics 01:30 - Benjamin’s Background and Role at Simbe 03:20 - The Impact of AI & Automation on Retail 06:00 - Key Benefits of Using Tally for Inventory Management 09:15 - Understanding T-Spot and Multi-Modal Data Capture 11:30 - Best Practices for Implementing Robotics in Stores 14:00 - Future Trends in Retail Automation and Technology 17:50 - How Simbe Supports Retailers with Accurate Data & Insights 💡 Explore how Simbe Robotics is leading the charge in retail innovation—Subscribe now! #grocery #robotics #fmi #retailtrends #retailstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 2
🎙 Omni Talk Retail Live at FMI 2025: A Conversation with Hy-Vee CMO Kathryn Mazza 🎙 Join Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga for an exclusive interview with Katherine Maza, newly appointed Chief Marketing Officer of Hy-Vee live from the Simbe Podcast Studio at FMI 2025. She shares insights on retail media, supplier partnerships, and the role of technology in grocery marketing. ⏳ Key Moments: 00:00 - Introduction: Live from FMI 2025 with Hy-Vee’s New CMO 02:30 - Kathryn's Journey from Retail Media to CMO 05:10 - Why Retail Media & Marketing Must Be Integrated 07:45 - How Hy-Vee Uses In-Store Screens & Audio to Engage Customers 10:30 - The Role of Supplier Partnerships in Grocery Success 14:00 - Retail Tech Investments: Data, AI & Store Analytics 18:15 - How In-Store Media & Digital Advertising Drive Sales 21:00 - Kathryn’s Top Priorities for 2025 & Beyond 💡 Learn how Hy-Vee is shaping the future of grocery retail—Subscribe now! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 2
🎙 Omni Talk Retail Live from FMI 2025 🎙 Join Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga as they chat with Bobby Gibbs, Partner at Oliver Wyman, live from the Simbe Podcast Studio at FMI 2025, about the evolving grocery landscape. From Walmart’s aggressive digital expansion to the growing intersection of healthcare and retail, this episode uncovers game-changing insights. ⏳ Key Moments: 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction: Live from FMI 2025 with Oliver Wyman 02:00 - The Future of Grocery Growth: Capturing more meal occasions 04:30 - Walmart’s Digital Strategy: How BOPIS is reshaping grocery shopping 07:20 - The Sustainability of Data Monetization & Membership Models 10:40 - What Regional Grocers Need to Do to Compete 14:10 - The Role of Food Service & Community Spaces in Grocery 18:30 - Healthcare & Grocery Partnerships: The Next Big Thing? 22:00 - Predictions for 2025 & Key Takeaways 💡 Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of grocery retail—Subscribe to Omni Talk Retail! #retailtrends #fmi #grocery #retailstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 2
🎙 Omni Talk Retail Live from FMI 2025 🎙 Join Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga as they sit down with Karen Fang Grant, Managing Director at Accenture, live from the Simbe Podcast Studio at FMI 2025, to discuss how AI, robotics, and automation are transforming grocery retail. From shifting consumer demographics to new strategies for omnichannel success, this conversation is packed with insights. ⏳ Key Moments: 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction: Live from FMI 2025 with Accenture 02:00 - Consumer Behavior Shifts: The rise of Gen Alpha & aging populations 05:30 - AI & Personalization: How technology is bridging the retail gap 08:15 - Robotics in Grocery: Automation, smart stores, and store efficiency 12:40 - Omnichannel Strategy: What it really means for grocery retail 15:20 - Future Predictions: How grocery shopping will evolve in 5-10 years 💡 Don’t miss this exclusive conversation from FMI 2025—Subscribe to Omni Talk Retail for more insights! #fmi #retailtrends #retailstrategy #accenture #grocery This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 2
🎙 OmniTalk Retail Podcast | Live from FMI 2025 🎙 Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga chat with Corey Rochkin of Oliver Wyman about the latest robotic automation trends in grocery retail live from the Simbe Podcast Studio at FMI 2025. From AI-driven inventory tracking to customer service enhancements, discover how retailers are integrating cutting-edge technology to boost store efficiency. ⏱ Time Stamps & Topics: 🔹 [ 0:00 ] – Live from FMI 2025 at the Simbe Robotics Booth 🔹 [ 1:00 ] – Corey Rochkin’s role at Oliver Wyman and focus on in-store robotics 🔹 [ 3:00 ] – Why choose robotics over fixed cameras? The cost and flexibility factors 🔹 [ 6:30 ] – AI & labor shortages – How technology is helping augment store teams 🔹 [ 8:00 ] – Top use cases for grocery robots – Inventory tracking, planogram verification, pricing accuracy 🔹 [ 10:00 ] – Future use cases – AI-driven quality checks, theft prevention, and customer interaction 🔹 [ 12:30 ] – Will robots take store jobs? The reality of labor constraints in grocery 🔹 [15:00] – How grocery operations will change – The move toward enhanced customer service 🔹 [18:00] – The future of AI in retail – Where robotics & automation are headed next 📢 Don’t miss this insightful look at the future of grocery store automation! 🔔 Subscribe for more retail innovations from FMI 2025! #robotics #retailtrends #retailstrategy #grocery #fmi This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
🎙 OmniTalk Retail Podcast | Live from FMI 2025 🎙 Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga sit down with Chad Petersen, SVP of Digital at Lowes Foods, live from the Simbe Podcast Studio at FMI 2025, to dive into the next evolution of grocery retail and how digital transformation is reshaping the shopping experience. ⏱ Time Stamps & Topics: 🔹 [ 0:00 ] – Live from FMI 2025 at the Simbe Robotics Booth 🔹 [ 1:00 ] – Chad Petersen’s background & expansion of his role at Lowes Foods 🔹 [ 3:00 ] – The shift from e-commerce to an omnichannel digital strategy 🔹 [ 5:30 ] – How digital, automation & AI are shaping grocery shopping experiences 🔹 [ 8:00 ] – Food service & gathering spaces as a key retail trend 🔹 [ 10:30 ] – The evolving physical store footprint & integrating digital experiences 🔹 [ 13:00 ] – How Lowes Foods is driving loyalty, personalization & frictionless shopping 🔹 [ 15:00 ] – The role of AI & automation in operational efficiency 🔹 [17:00] – Future innovations & technology bets for the next 5-10 years 📢 Don’t miss this deep dive into the digital transformation of grocery retail! 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive retail insights from FMI! #groceryonline #fmi #retailtrends #retailstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
🎙 OmniTalk Retail Podcast | Live from FMI 2025 🎙 Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga sit down with Deborah Weinswig, Founder & CEO of Coresight Research, live from the Simbe Podcast Studio at FMI, to explore the biggest retail trends shaping 2025 and beyond. From AI-powered store experiences to the rise of live streaming commerce, this conversation is packed with insights on the future of grocery, digital transformation, and consumer behavior. ⏱ Time Stamps & Topics: 🔹 [ 0:00 ] – Live from FMI 2025 at the Simbe Robotics Booth 🔹 [ 1:00 ] – Meet Deborah Weinswig & Coresight Research’s role in retail insights 🔹 [ 2:30 ] – AI in the physical world & retail automation 🔹 [ 5:00 ] – Generative AI: How retailers must optimize for AI-driven search (SEO in AI) 🔹 [ 7:30 ] – Live streaming commerce: Why the U.S. lags behind China & how to catch up 🔹 [ 10:45 ] – Voice commerce & AI shopping assistants: The next wave of consumer engagement 🔹 [ 13:20 ] – The shift in grocery store design: From stockrooms to experiential retail 🔹 [ 15:00 ] – The importance of supply chain technology & inventory visibility 📢 Don’t miss this deep dive into the AI-powered future of retail! 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive insights from FMI! #ai #retailtrends #retailstrategy #seo #groceryinnovation #fmi This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
🎙 OmniTalk Retail Podcast | Live from FMI 2025 🎙 Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga sit down with Katie Waeltz, VP of Category Management & Market Insights at Topco, to discuss the future of grocery, the shift in consumer behavior post-inflation, and the evolution of private label brands. Learn how regional grocers are leveraging AI, data, and innovative merchandising to compete with national chains. ⏱ Time Stamps & Topics: 🔹 [ 0:00 ] – Live from FMI 2025 at the Simbe Robotics Booth 🔹 [ 1:00 ] – Meet Katie Waeltz & Topco’s role in the grocery industry 🔹 [ 2:50 ] – What is category management & why it matters for grocers 🔹 [ 4:30 ] – The shift toward premium private label & evolving consumer expectations 🔹 [ 6:15 ] – How shoppers define "value" today—beyond just price 🔹 [ 8:00 ] – The role of AI, data, and insights in grocery merchandising 🔹 [10:30] – Future of grocery retail: Digital shopping meets in-store experiences 🔹 [12:15] – Strategic priorities for grocers & CPG brands in 2025 📢 Don’t miss this discussion on the trends shaping the future of grocery retail! 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive retail insights & interviews from FMI! #retailtrends #grocery #fmi #retailstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga chat with Julian Mintz, VP of Sales at Albertsons Media Collective, live from the Simbe Podcast Studio at FMI 2025, to discuss the rapid evolution of retail media networks, ad measurement standardization, and the future of omnichannel brand engagement. Learn how AI-driven insights, loyalty data, and in-store analytics are transforming the way brands optimize their marketing spend and connect with shoppers at the right moments. ⏱ Time Stamps & Topics: 🔹 [ 0:00 ] – Live from FMI 2025 at the Simbe Robotics Booth 🔹 [ 1:00 ] – Meet Julian Mintz: His background in TV advertising & transition to retail media 🔹 [ 2:50 ] – Why retail media matters & how Albertsons is innovating 🔹 [ 4:30 ] – The power of grocery shopper data for ad targeting & customer engagement 🔹 [ 6:15 ] – Why standardizing measurement across retail media networks is essential 🔹 [ 7:50 ] – How Albertsons Media Collective connects brand awareness campaigns to real purchases 🔹 [ 9:40 ] – Challenges of a fragmented retail media landscape & why frictionless buying matters 🔹 [11:30] – Future goals: Optimizing omnichannel media & expanding measurement capabilities 📢 Don't miss this deep dive into the future of retail media and advertising ROI! 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive retail insights & interviews from FMI! #albertsons #retailtrends #retailmedia #retailmarketing #fmi This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
🎙 OmniTalk Retail Podcast | Live from FMI Conference 2025 🎙 Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga sit down with Bennett Morgan, EVP & CMO of SpartanNash, live from the Simbe Podcast Studio at FMI 2025, to discuss how automation, robotics, and AI-powered analytics are shaping the future of grocery merchandising. Learn how real-time shelf data, vendor collaboration, and digital inventory tracking are improving in-stock rates, pricing accuracy, and store efficiency. ⏱ Time Stamps & Topics: 🔹 [ 0:00 ] – Live from FMI 2025 at the Simbe Robotics Booth 🔹 [ 1:00 ] – Meet Bennett Morgan: His background in retail & merchandising 🔹 [ 2:30 ] – How SpartanNash operates as both a wholesaler & retailer 🔹 [ 3:50 ] – Merchandising trends in grocery: Freshness, health, and convenience 🔹 [ 4:49 ] – How AI & robotics are improving pricing, planograms, and inventory 🔹 [ 6:15 ] – Expanding Simbe’s Tally robots to 100 stores & how it helps retail operations 🔹 [ 7:40 ] – Using robotics to enhance vendor collaboration & optimize shelf stocking 🔹 [ 9:50 ] – New AI-powered backroom inventory management with Simbe’s Tally Spot technology 🔹 [ 12:10 ] – Why digitizing the shelf is a game-changer for grocery retail 📢 Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of grocery merchandising! 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive retail insights & interviews from FMI! #retailtrends #fmi #retailstrategy #groceryinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga sit down with Thom Blischok, Chairman and CEO, Dialogic Group, to discuss how automation, AI, and connected stores are reshaping retail live from the Simbe Podcast Studio at FMI. Thom breaks down the biggest mistakes retailers make with technology adoption, the future of real-time store analytics, and why robotic-powered shelf intelligence is the biggest industry breakthrough in 20 years. ⏱ Time Stamps & Topics: 🔹 [ 0:00 ] – Live from FMI 2025 at the Simbe Robotics Booth 🔹 [ 1:00 ] – Meet Tom Blischok: His background & expertise in retail transformation 🔹 [ 2:20 ] – Retail’s biggest automation mistakes & why technology adoption fails 🔹 [ 3:40 ] – Why choosing the right technology partner is critical 🔹 [ 4:50 ] – Point-to-point vs. holistic solutions: What works best? 🔹 [ 6:00 ] – How Walmart, Schnucks, & BJ’s Wholesale are leading in AI-driven retail 🔹 [ 7:30 ] – The Connected Store: How real-time shelf analytics are changing grocery retail 🔹 [ 8:50 ] – Simbe Robotics' role in next-gen store automation 📢 Don’t miss this expert breakdown of how AI & automation are shaping the future of retail! 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive retail insights & interviews from FMI! #retailtrends #retailtechnology #fmi #groceryinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
🎙 OmniTalk Retail Podcast | Live from FMI 2025 🎙 Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga sit down with Oliver Wright from Accenture to explore the technological trends transforming the grocery industry and beyond. Discover how AI, automation, and data-driven leadership are changing the way retailers operate and connect with customers. ⏱ Time Stamps & Topics: 🔹 [ 0:00 ] – Live from FMI 2025 at the Simbe Robotics Booth 🔹 [ 1:00 ] – Oliver Wright’s role at Accenture and the consumer industries he covers 🔹 [ 2:30 ] – Technology trends in retail and grocery – The impact of AI and generative AI 🔹 [ 4:45 ] – How AI is reshaping consumer decision-making and store experiences 🔹 [ 6:30 ] – The concept of a connected store and blending physical and digital retail 🔹 [ 9:00 ] – The human-AI flip – Transitioning from human-led processes to AI-assisted operations 🔹 [ 12:00 ] – Data leadership and the importance of technology adoption in retail 🔹 [ 15:00 ] – Global differences in technology adoption – Asia, Europe, and the U.S. 🔹 [ 18:00 ] – Leadership challenges and opportunities in adopting new technologies 📢 Don’t miss this in-depth look at the future of grocery retail with Accenture's Oliver Wright! 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive retail insights from FMI! #retailtrends #consumertrends #fmi #retail This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
🎙 OmniTalk Retail Podcast | Live from FMI Conference 2025 🎙 Chris Walton & Anne Mezzenga sit down with Stan Swinton, VP of Non-Perishable Grocery at Sprouts Farmers Market, live from the Simbe Podcast Booth at FMI 2025, to explore how Sprouts stays ahead in grocery innovation, selects emerging brands, and delivers high-quality products to meet the needs of its loyal customers. ⏱ Time Stamps & Topics: 🔹 [ 0:00 ] – Live from FMI 2025 at the Simbe Robotics Booth 🔹 [ 1:00 ] – Meet Stan Swinton: His role in Sprouts’ success & background in grocery retail 🔹 [ 2:54 ] – How Sprouts differentiates itself with high-quality, innovative grocery products 🔹 [ 3:39 ] – Inside Sprouts’ Innovation Center: Testing & launching emerging food brands 🔹 [ 5:37 ] – The Sprouts customer: What they value & why they’re loyal 🔹 [ 6:59 ] – Merchandising strategy: Every product has to earn its place on the shelf 🔹 [ 8:36 ] – Sprouts expansion plans: More stores, more markets, more innovation 🔹 [ 9:50 ] – The supply chain challenge: How Sprouts ensures in-stock availability & fresh products 📢 Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at one of the fastest-growing grocery retailers! 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive retail insights & interviews from FMI! #sprouts #sproutsfarmersmarket #fmi #groceryshopping #retailnews #retailtrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A "2-Ply" Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PmDEXwquuSE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Increasing Regional Manager Pay To Potentially Over $600k Per Year For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PmDEXwquuSE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If The Starbucks Ceramic Mug Rollout Is Hot Or Extra Hot For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PmDEXwquuSE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: Levi’s Claim That Data Helped It Capitalize On The Baggy Jeans Trend For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PmDEXwquuSE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Naming Whole Foods CEO Jason Buechel Head Of Worldwide Grocery For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PmDEXwquuSE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Allowing Suppliers To Test New Products With Walmart Customers For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PmDEXwquuSE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 30
In this episode of our 5 Insightful Minutes Series, the Head of Worldwide Retail, Restaurants & Consumer Goods Business Development at AWS, Justin Honaman, joins us to discuss the biggest retail trends of 2025. We explore how AI, Amazon Ads' new Retail Ad Services, and data-driven personalization are shaping the future of shopping. Plus, we dive into unified commerce, composable commerce, and how retailers can better integrate in-store and e-commerce experiences for customers and employees alike. Key Moments: 0:02 AWS retail trends for 2025 0:36 The rise of AI and AWS Nova models 1:09 Amazon Ads launches retail ad services 1:55 How retailers can maximize business value with AI 2:44 The future of retail media networks 3:56 What these trends mean for end consumers 5:02 The importance of unified commerce and in-store technology #amazon #aws #amazonadvertising #retailtrends #retailnews #retailinnovation Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 29
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , and Scratch Event DJs , Chris and Anne discussed: The appointment of Whole Foods CEO Jason Buechel to head up Amazon’s grocery strategy ( Source ) Whether CPGs will jump at the chance to pay Walmart to test products with Walmart’s actual customers ( Source ) If Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol could be getting ahead of himself with his plans for ceramic mugs ( Source ) The veracity of Levi’s claims that its partnership with Google Cloud helped it to jump on the “baggy jeans” trend (S ource ) And closed by lauding Walmart for increasing its pay scale for regional managers ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Justin Honaman of AWS stops by for 5 Insightful Minutes to chat about 2025 and Amazon’s new Retail Ad Service, and we’ve got a more hilarious lightning round than usual filled with deep insights into Chris’s travel and house slipper habits. Heading to eTail West? Get the Omni Talk Deal Here: https://etailwest.wbresearch.com//?utm_source=OmniTalk%20Media%20Partner&utm_medium=Media%20Partner&utm_campaign=10701.019-%20OmniTalk%20Media%20Partner&utm_term=&utm_content=&disc=ETAILPARTNER&extTreatId=7608370 Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 25
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by co-hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Kelly Carey and John Clear. In this clip, the group discusses: A "Gentle Rollercoaster" Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/s3yeI48E9A0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 25
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by co-hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Kelly Carey and John Clear. In this clip, the group discusses: Walmart Selling Luxury Goods Via Rebag For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/s3yeI48E9A0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 25
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by co-hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Kelly Carey and John Clear. In this clip, the group discusses: Sephora Redesigning Its Entire North American Store Fleet For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/s3yeI48E9A0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 25
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by co-hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Kelly Carey and John Clear. In this clip, the group discusses: If The American Consumer Needs Smaller Format Burlington Stores? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/s3yeI48E9A0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 25
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by co-hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Kelly Carey and John Clear. In this clip, the group discusses: If They're Buying Or Selling: Target Cutting Its Production Lead Time For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/s3yeI48E9A0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 25
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by co-hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, Kelly Carey and John Clear. In this clip, the group discusses: What Walmart's Symbotic Deal Signals About Its Approach To Delivery? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/s3yeI48E9A0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 22
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , and Scratch Event DJs , A&M’s Kelly Carey and John Clear joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Walmart’s new Symbotic relationship, aka its new robot deal ( Source ) The veracity of Target’s claims that it has cut its production lead times down from 7 months to 8 weeks ( Source ) Whether the American consumer really needs smaller Burlington stores ( Source ) Sephora’s plans to redesign its entire North American store fleet ( Source ) And closed with an examination of Walmart’s marketplace expansion via Rebag to sell the likes of Fendi, Chanel, and more ( Source ) There’s all that, plus pit diapers, roundabout rules of the road and the HQ amenities we all just can’t live without. Music by hooksounds.com #walmart #target #sephora #retailtrends #retailnews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 20
In our latest episode of Omni Talk's Investor Perspectives on Retail and the Consumer, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Simeon Siegel, Managing Director at BMO Capital Markets, to discuss the key trends and challenges facing retail and e-commerce as we approach 2025. They dive into topics such as market share, DTC strategy, and the importance of maintaining brand equity. Key Moments: 0:48 - Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga introduce Simeon Siegel, Managing Director at BMO Capital Markets. 1:30 – Simeon reflects on the joy of working at the intersection of retail operators and investors, balancing qualitative and quantitative analysis. 2:54 – Simeon shares his background, including the influence of his grandfather’s shoe store and how he developed a passion for retail analysis. 5:38 – A look at Simeon’s day-to-day role, from stock analysis to blending market data with human psychology insights. 8:44 – Simeon recaps 2024 trends, highlighting the return to a market share-driven environment and the shift from macroeconomic challenges to company-specific performances. 10:07 – Discussion on inflation, deflation, and how retailers should focus on microeconomic trends to identify opportunities. 11:38 – Simeon explains how to analyze earnings reports by asking probing questions to separate marketing narratives from business realities. 15:50 – The importance of margins over revenue growth and how brands like Under Armour and Victoria’s Secret can turn around by selling less but charging more. 19:49 – How to identify "quality of sale" as an early indicator of business health, with examples from Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works. 20:50 – Key challenges facing retail C-suites in 2025, with an emphasis on avoiding subjectivity and remaining objective in decision-making. 22:56 – Examples of companies successfully avoiding the subjectivity trap, including Under Armour’s pivot to focusing on quality over quantity. 24:49 – Simeon highlights brands he’s optimistic about for 2025, including Under Armour and Peloton, and why strategy shifts are critical for their success. 27:31 – Insights into TJX as a reliable retail investment and how its business model contrasts with higher-risk brands like Under Armour. 29:30 – Quick-fire brand analysis: Gap, Victoria's Secret, American Eagle 36:30 – The future of direct-to-consumer (DTC): Why DTC is a distribution mechanism, not an identity, and the economic challenges of eliminating middlemen. 41:30 – The TJX model: Why TJX thrives by maintaining minimal e-commerce presence and staying invisible for brand overstock. 43:10 – Clarification on the importance of direct-to-consumer channels for most brands while acknowledging wholesale-only exceptions. 44:32 – Closing remarks from Simeon Siegel, including how listeners can connect with him on LinkedIn. #retailtrends #dtc #businessinsights #podcast #ecommerce #marketanalysis Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 18
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A "Let's Dance" Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/MHY9wOkZ0LI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 18
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Ebay Allowing Sales Via Facebook Marketplace For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/MHY9wOkZ0LI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 18
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Selling Ad Tech To Other Retailers For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/MHY9wOkZ0LI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 18
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Pro Or Con: Best Buy’s New Marketplace For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/MHY9wOkZ0LI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 18
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs. Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Investing $11 Billion Towards Ai In Georgia For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/MHY9wOkZ0LI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 18
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Macy’s Announcing Store Closures For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/MHY9wOkZ0LI This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16
How can retailers and brands harness the power of AI to transform customer experiences? Sara Sullivan, Contentful's Global VP of Solution Engineering, explains how companies like Kraft Heinz, Klarna, and Ruggable are scaling content creation, streamlining workflows, and using LLMs to deliver hyper-personalized messaging at scale. Tune in for insights into workflow automation, team restructuring, and the future of marketing technology. Key Moments: [ 00:00 ] Introduction to Sara Sullivan and her background. [ 02:33 ] How Contentful empowers brands with scalable personalization. [ 06:25 ] The "creative graveyard" problem and how AI addresses it. [ 14:32 ] Kraft Heinz’s success with geotargeted content campaigns. [ 21:10 ] Ruggable’s use of AI for landing page personalization and efficiency. [ 25:28 ] Klarna’s LLM-powered innovations saving $40M in support costs. [ 30:25 ] Predictions for the future of AI and retail personalization. #personalization #aiinretail #retailinnovation Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16
In this latest episode of our 5 Insightful Minutes Series, Tim Robinson , Corporate Vice President at Blue Yonder, breaks down the findings of their recent consumer returns survey and what they mean for retailers. Key moments from the interview: 1:34 - Why treating returns as inventory is critical for retailers. 2:36 - How unique and tech-driven returns experiences can differentiate brands. 5:40 - The importance of visibility in the returns process for sustainability and customer satisfaction. 7:23 - Predictions on tailored return policies using customer and product data. To read Blue Yonder's report in full, head here: https://chat.blueyonder.com/reimagine-returns?utm_medium=paid&utm_source=omnitalk&utm_campaign=jan25&utm_content=tim Music by hooksounds.com #returns #ecommerceinnovation #customerexperience Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , and Scratch Event DJs , Chris and Anne discussed: Macy’s shuttering some of its small format stores ( Source ) Amazon's $11 Billion AI investment in the great state of Georgia ( Source ) Best Buy launching a new marketplace with Mirakl ( Source ) Amazon allowing online retailers to use its advertising tools ( Source ) And closed with a look at the 1 + 1 = 3 partnership between eBay and Facebook’s marketplace ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Tim Robinson of Blue Yonder also stopped by for Five Insightful Minutes on returns management, and we also had a NYC-style lightning round, replete with long cab ride discussions about horseshoes, bad mice, and Anne’s brief stint as a tiara model. To read Blue Yonder's comprehensive report on returns, head here: https://chat.blueyonder.com/reimagine-returns?utm_medium=paid&utm_source=omnitalk&utm_campaign=jan25&utm_content=tim Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15
Chris and Anne kick off Day 3 of NRF 2025 live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio with Michael Diedrich, VP of Store Productivity at Tractor Supply, discussing how the retailer is redefining store productivity while delivering legendary service. Discover how Tractor Supply leverages tools like Quorso's AI Co-Pilot to enhance customer interactions, streamline operations, and ensure consistent performance across 2,300+ stores. Key Moments: 0:10 - Introduction to Michael Diedrich and his 23-year journey at Tractor Supply. 2:12 - Measuring productivity and performance across Tractor Supply stores. 6:12 - How Quorso is revolutionizing sales missions and team engagement. 9:15 - Evolving leadership visits with AI-driven insights. 11:28 - Leveraging new technologies for instant product knowledge and legendary service. 13:39 - Backend optimization with the “Tractor Way” process. 14:55 - Plans for 2025: Relentless focus on productivity and customer engagement. #nrf2025 #tractorsupply #retailtech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15
In this episode recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF 2025, Omni Talk hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Christian Raveaux, Head of Retail Media Connect at the REWE Group. Key Moments 0:04 – Introduction to Christian Raveaux and his role at REWE Group. 0:30 – Christian shares his background and journey within REWE Group. 0:58 – Overview of REWE Group’s operations across Europe. 1:26 – Discussion on automated grocery stores in Hamburg and Cologne. 1:42 – Insights from the Retail Media Symposium at NRF 2025. 2:24 – The importance of in-store retail media for REWE Group’s strategy. 3:04 – Deployment of 3,500+ digital signage screens in REWE Group stores. 4:41 – The role of loyalty programs in retail media success. 5:12 – Activating and optimizing in-store digital content. 5:56 – Importance of engaging media agencies for in-store retail media. 6:30 – Predictions for retail media evolution in the U.S. and Europe. 7:14 – Challenges with GDPR compliance in European retail media. 8:18 – Christian's vision for the future of retail media at REWE Group. #NRF2025 #retailmedia #rewe #retailtech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15
Omni Talk Retail welcomes Cedric Clark, EVP of Store Operations at Walmart, for a live NRF 2025 interview from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio to discuss Walmart's latest tech innovations. From digital shelf labels to inventory accuracy solutions, Cedric explains how Walmart leverages technology to empower associates, streamline operations, and enhance the shopping experience. Key Moments: 0:15 - Cedric Clark’s 22-year journey from Sporting Goods associate to EVP. 2:05 - Walmart’s "people-led, tech-powered" approach to retail. 3:45 - How digital shelf labels simplify operations and boost productivity. 6:00 - The key ingredients for rolling out store-level technologies successfully. 8:10 - Addressing inventory accuracy as the next retail frontier. 9:20 - Cedric’s vision for Walmart’s leadership in retail and advice for future innovators. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 14
In this episode, Omni Talk speaks with Greg Pulsifer, SVP of E-commerce at Sam's Club, live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF 2025. Greg dives into Sam's Club's strategies for digital innovation, from AI-driven personalization and omnichannel optimization to its game-changing Scan and Go experience. Learn how Sam's Club uses data insights to connect online and in-club shopping and hear Greg's take on the future of retail technology. Key Moments: 0:06 - Introduction to Greg Pulsifer and his role at Sam's Club. 0:40 - Greg's career journey in e-commerce, from the 90s to Sam's Club. 3:46 - Responsibilities of the Sam's Club e-commerce team. 5:22 - Strategy for omnichannel assortments and online-only categories. 7:46 - Personalization through data and AI integration in Sam’s Club. 10:21 - Real-time data insights and the impact on retail operations. 12:47 - Measuring success and optimizing digital member experiences. 18:42 - AI’s role in personalization, search, and marketing content. #nrf2025 #ecommerceinnovation #retailtech This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 14
In this interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio, we speak with Joe Coll, VP of Asset Protection at Macy's, live from NRF 2025. Joe shares his insights on retail theft, Macy's safety-first strategies, and the evolution of asset protection technologies like RFID. Discover how Macy's balances theft mitigation with customer experience and what lies ahead for the industry in 2025. Key Moments: 0:12 - Introduction to Joe Coll and his role at Macy's. 1:14 - Joe's 27-year journey at Macy's and his current responsibilities. 2:40 - Strategies Macy's employs to combat retail theft and ensure safety. 6:02 - Exploring loyalty-based theft prevention solutions and their potential. 7:28 - The role of RFID technology in theft prevention and law enforcement collaboration. 9:18 - Industry perspectives on friction and customer experience in retail security. 10:22 - Priorities for Macy's asset protection in 2025. #nrf2025 #retailtech #retailstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 14
In this interview, we’re live from NRF 2025 at the VisionGroup booth with Mark Williamson, AVP of Retail Media at Costco. Mark shares Costco's strategic approach to retail media, emphasizing their focus on member value, data foundations, and merchandising collaboration. Learn how Costco plans to use retail media to enhance member experiences and drive top-line growth while leveraging their unique "last mover advantage." Key Moments: 0:20 - Introduction to Mark Williamson and his role at Costco. 1:32 - Mark discusses Costco's approach to retail media and their "last mover advantage." 2:20 - The core purpose of retail media at Costco. 3:50 - Retail media trends and opportunities for 2025. 6:54 - The relationship between merchandising and retail media at Costco. 12:08 - Prioritizing data foundations for 2025 and beyond. #nrf2025 #retailmedia #retailstrategy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 14
Anne and Chris sit down with Robert Jozic, SVP of Schwarz Media and Group Digital Strategy, to discuss the evolving landscape of retail media. Live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF 2025, Robert offers a detailed roadmap for leveraging retail media as a strategic growth driver, focusing on digital transformation, incremental revenue, and bridging brick-and-mortar with media innovation. Key Moments: 0:10 - Introduction to Robert Jozic and the Schwarz Group. 1:25 - Robert’s role and responsibilities in digital strategy and retail media. 4:37 - The strategic turning point for retail media in digitization. 6:56 - Timeframes and challenges in capturing true media dollars. 9:02 - The importance of standards, measurement, and media integration. 14:48 - Strategic positioning for retail media success. 17:18 - How retail media trends differ in Europe vs. the U.S. 18:45 - Future priorities for the Schwarz Group’s retail media initiatives #retailmedia #retailtech #nrf2025 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 14
In this special interview recorded from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio, Matthew Shay, President and CEO of the National Retail Federation, joins Omni Talk Retail live at NRF 2025 to discuss the future of the retail industry. From global macroeconomic challenges to the transformative power of AI and robotics, Shay shares his unique perspective on the state of retail and the continued evolution of NRF as a premier event for innovation and collaboration. Key Moments: 0:50 – The role of NRF in the retail industry: convening, curating, and communicating. 2:20 – Highlights from NRF 2025, including record-breaking attendance and a focus on AI. 4:00 – The impact of macroeconomic uncertainty on retail strategies. 6:15 – Insights into consumer behavior and disparities across income segments. 10:50 – Why NRF continues to call New York home for its global retail event. 12:30 – How NRF fosters innovation through a combination of education and exhibits. #nrf2025 #retailinnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 14
In this interview recorded live from the VusionGroup podcast studio at NRF 2025, Michelle Weiskittel Head of Media, Creative, and Operations at Albertsons Media Collective, dives into how Albertsons is transforming the retail media space. From leveraging machine learning for real-time optimization to aligning media efforts with merchant strategies, Michelle provides a comprehensive view of retail media's evolving role in grocery. Key Moments: 0:50 – Michelle Weiskittle introduces her role at Albertsons and her media-focused background. 2:00 – How retail media integrates with merchant strategies and Omni-channel customer journeys. 3:50 – Operational changes at Albertsons and the use of machine learning for optimization. 5:45 – Insights from Albertsons' retail media track at NRF 2025 and leadership perspectives. 7:20 – Albertsons’ focus for 2025: driving efficiency and effectiveness in retail media. #retailmedia #retailstrategy #albertsons This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 13
In this interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF 2025, Josh Friedman, Head of Digital Strategy and Transformation at Ulta Beauty, discusses the company’s approach to revolutionizing customer experiences. From leveraging AI for personalized content to transforming e-commerce and loyalty strategies, Josh provides valuable insights into how Ulta is staying ahead in the beauty retail industry. Key Moments: 0:50 – Josh Friedman introduces his role at Ulta and background in e-commerce. 1:30 – How Ulta prioritizes technology investments after annual planning. 2:20 – The importance of personalization and the role of Ulta’s loyalty program. 4:45 – AI’s impact on real-time content creation and personalization. 6:30 – The challenges and key elements of successful retail transformation. 8:00 – Josh’s serendipitous approach to discovering innovation at NRF. #nrf2025 #ultabeauty #retailindustry This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 13
In this interview recorded live from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF 2025, Greg Cathey, Walmart’s SVP of Transformation and Innovation, discusses how Walmart is revolutionizing operations with cutting-edge technologies. From their Sidekick AI tool that supports associates in real-time to the rollout of digital price tags in partnership with the VusionGroup, Greg highlights Walmart’s commitment to innovation and associate empowerment. Key Moments: 0:50 – Greg Cathey introduces his role at Walmart and his responsibilities. 1:30 – How Walmart gathers associate and customer feedback to drive transformation. 3:45 – Walmart's timeline for innovation, from rapid prototyping to long-term projects. 6:00 – The rollout of new inventory management practices and their impact on efficiency. 10:00 – A deep dive into the Sidekick AI tool and its role in democratizing knowledge. 13:40 – Walmart’s partnership with the VusionGroup for digital price tags and operational improvement. #nrf2025 #walmart #retailindustry This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 13
In this live interview recorded from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF 2025, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Todd Garner, SVP and Chief Product Officer at Sam's Club. Todd delves into the cutting-edge technologies powering retail innovation, including the success of scan-and-go and computer vision, as well as its digital-first Grapevine concept store. Key Moments: 0:50 – Todd Garner shares his career journey from the military to retail leadership. 3:20 – Insights on the Chief Product Officer role and its impact at Sam's Club. 4:50 – How Sam's Club uses design thinking to solve member and associate pain points. 5:30 – Scan-and-go technology and the introduction of computer vision at scale. 8:40 – A closer look at the digital-first Grapevine concept store innovations. 10:00 – Todd’s strategies for maximizing value from NRF 2025 and finding the right partners. #samsclub #nrf2025 #retailindustry This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 13
In this live interview recorded from the VusionGroup Podcast Studio at NRF, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Tyler Davis, VP of Merchandise Operations at PetSmart, live from NRF 2025. Tyler shares his strategies for adapting to inflation, implementing cutting-edge pricing systems, and incorporating generative AI into merchandising. Key Moments: 0:50 – Tyler Davis introduces his role at PetSmart and career journey. 2:15 – Tyler shares his approach to preparing for NRF and setting clear goals. 3:45 – Insights on generative AI and its potential to transform retail operations. 5:40 – How PetSmart adapted to inflation with pricing adjustments and product mix recalibration. 8:00 – Plans for 2025: enhancing merchandising flexibility, planogramming, and pricing technology. 10:00 – Discussion on online vs. in-store segmentation and future retail trends. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 13
Omni Talk Retail kicks off NRF coverage with a tour of Save A Lot’s innovative micro-fulfillment center in Brooklyn, powered by Fabric. Jonathan Morav, Fabric’s VP of Sales, shares insights into how robotic automation and tri-temperature zones are transforming grocery delivery economics in dense urban areas. Fabric develops automated MFCs, with everything built in-house, including unique features designed to support efficient operational processes. Fabric understands that technology can be amazing, but if it doesn’t seamlessly support what happens operationally outside of it, it won’t make an impact. Key Moments: 0:01 - 1:00 – Introduction and NRF kickoff 1:01 - 2:30 – Fabric's approach to fulfillment automation and company overview 2:31 - 4:30 – Key features of the Brooklyn facility, including tri-temperature zones 4:31 - 6:00 – Save A Lot’s entry into NYC through this facility 6:01 - 8:30 – Customer experience and order processing workflow 8:31 - 10:00 – Addressable market size and facility capabilities 10:01 - 12:00 – The evolution of micro-fulfillment and its future potential 12:01 - 14:00 – How the pandemic accelerated grocery automation adoption Explore the future of grocery innovation with this insightful tour and conversation! And, ff you're interested in learning more, you can reach out to Fabric through the following contacts: Jonathan Morav – VP Sales | Jonathan.Morav@getfabric.com Shirley Bachar – VP Marketing and Business Development | Shirley.Bachar@getfabric.com Website: www.getfabric.com LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fabriclogistics/ #groceryshopping #supplychainmanagement #savealot #groceryinnovation #retailtechnology #retailtrends *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 11
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Waymo Win Lightning Round For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/xw-boSNx8kc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 11
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Pro Or Con: Community Spaces Inside Grocery Stores? For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/xw-boSNx8kc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 11
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Doordash Teaming Up With Ibotta For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/xw-boSNx8kc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 11
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Simbe Rolling Out Tally Spot To Augment Its Robots For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/xw-boSNx8kc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 11
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Do Grocers Really Need ‘Vending Machines’ We Can Unlock With Our Phones? For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/xw-boSNx8kc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 11
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Simbe, Ocampo Capital and Scratch Event DJs Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Expanding Electronic Shelf Labels To All Stores For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/xw-boSNx8kc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 10
Get an exclusive preview of NRF 2025 as retail tech leaders dive into the game-changing innovations shaping the industry. From AI chatbots and RFID-driven inventory systems to unified commerce and omnichannel strategies, learn how these tools are driving better customer experiences and operational efficiency. Key moments include: 0:00 - Introduction and show overview 1:33 - GreyOrange: Revolutionary RFID and store intelligence 15:46 - Quorso: AI-powered store management solutions 25:16 - VusionGroup: Smart store technology and digital pricing 40:16 - Scandit: Smart data capture and computer vision solutions 51:48 - Microsoft: AI transformation in retail 1:04:25 - SPS Commerce: Supply chain optimization 1:17:40 - Aptos: Unified commerce solutions Music by hooksounds.com #NRF2025 #retailtechnology #retailinnovation #smartstores #digitaltransformation #retailtech #futureofretail #retailstrategy #retailsolutions Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 9
In this episode of 5 Insightful Minutes, Todd Barentine, President of the Club Division at The Barcode Group, offers a behind-the-scenes look at Costco’s 2025 initiatives and what it means for suppliers and customers. Todd discusses Costco's renewed focus on SKU management, treasure hunt shopping experiences, and its global expansion goals with plans to scale warehouses internationally. Key Moments: ( 0:30 ) Why 2025 is about returning to Costco's core strengths ( 1:50 ) What brands need to know about working with Costco ( 3:20 ) Insights into Costco’s treasure hunt and regional buying strategy ( 4:50 ) Plans for international growth and supplier opportunities ( 5:50 ) The competitive advantage of Costco’s global approach #costco #retailstrategy #globalexpansion #treasurehunt #retailinsights #retailtrends Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 8
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Simbe , Mirakl , Ocampo Capital , and Scratch Event DJs , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart accelerating its rollout of digital shelf labels to all stores ( Source ) Cantaloupe’s innovations in smart vending for grocery stores ( Source ) Simbe augmenting its Tally Robot with fixed-positioned sensors ( Source ) DoorDash and Ibotta teaming up to offer DoorDash users better pricing ( Source ) And closed by debating whether or not “community spaces,” like the one recently launched by Giant Food, are ever a good idea ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Todd Barentine of The Barcode Group stopped by for Five Insightful Minutes on Costco’s 2025 strategy, and we also announced this month’s OmniStar (congrats Christina Minardi of Whole Foods) and discussed Waymo, Peter, Paul, and Mary, and which member of the X-Men Anne would most want to go on a date with. Music by hooksounds.com #OmniTalkRetail #RetailInnovation #DigitalShelfLabels #SmartVending #RetailPodcast #Costco2025 #GroceryTech #DoorDash #Ibotta #CommunitySpaces This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 7
Join Chris and Anne as they interview Simbe Robotics CEO Brad Bogolea for an in-depth discussion about how retail robotics are revolutionizing store operations. Learn how Simbe's Tally robot reduces out-of-stocks by 60%, improves inventory accuracy, why both store associates and customers are embracing the use of robotics, and discover why 2025 could be the year retail robotics go mainstream! Key Moments Include: 1:51 - Origins of Simbe and the development of Tally 4:24 - How retailers utilize robotics data 8:13 - Real-world implementation examples 15:18 - Impact on store associates and operations 21:42 - Best practices for robotics deployment 26:31 - Customer reactions to in-store robots 30:35 - Future of retail robotics 34:40 - Discussion of shelf management challenges #retailtrends #retailtechnology #retailinnovation #retailoperations #inventorymanagement #robotics Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and Chad Lusk discuss 2024’s Retail Awards. In this short they explore which retail technologies and trends fell short of expectations in 2024, including device AI's premature rollout, the cost-prohibitive nature of smart carts, and Target's overemphasis on CarPlay integration. Learn why these technologies failed to meet expectations and what it means for retail innovation. 0:04 - Discussion of tariffs as overhyped trend 0:56 - Analysis of Caper Cart limitations 1:34 - Debate over smart cart value proposition 2:02 - Device AI's premature implementation 2:27 - Comparison to early tech adoption risks 2:59 - Target's CarPlay integration critique 3:13 - Digital growth comparison with competitors #retail #retailtrends #retailstrategy For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/iyNND1vZe7A This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and Chad Lusk discuss 2024’s Retail Awards. In this short, they analyze the year's most impactful retail headlines, from unprecedented store closures and bankruptcies to Walgreens' potential private equity sale and Google's revolutionary shopping updates. Discover how these stories shaped the retail landscape and what they mean for the industry's future. Key Moments: 0:03 - Introduction to headline nominations 0:19 - Analysis of 70% increase in store closures 0:54 - Discussion of retail bankruptcy trends 1:15 - Examination of retail channel blurring 2:15 - Walgreens' potential private equity sale 3:43 - Amazon's technology strategy shift 5:16 - Google's shopping experience transformation 6:36 - Final verdict on headline of the year #retailtrends #retailnews #retail For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/iyNND1vZe7A This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and Chad Lusk discuss 2024’s Retail Awards. In this short, they explore the groundbreaking retail technologies of 2024, including Walmart's invisible barcode implementation, the rise of in-store robotics, innovative marketplace platforms, and smart loyalty-based theft prevention solutions. Learn how these technologies are reshaping retail operations and customer experience. Key Moments: 0:14 - Discussion of in-store robotics and automation 0:32 - Analysis of Simbe's $500M funding round 1:06 - Impact of robotics on back-of-house operations 1:44 - Introduction of invisible barcode technology 2:16 - Self-checkout improvement potential 3:14 - Marketplace platforms analysis 4:09 - Walmart's loyalty-based theft prevention solution 5:02 - Customer experience implications 5:24 - Loyalty program benefits discussion #retailnews #retailtrends #retailstrategy For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/iyNND1vZe7A This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and Chad Lusk discuss 2024’s Retail Awards. In this short, they debate 2024's top retail performers, from Publix's impressive 49% earnings increase and regional expansion to Walmart's successful transformation attracting higher-income customers. Learn why Sprouts' small-format strategy and potential for growth earned them consideration alongside traditional powerhouses. An in-depth analysis of the year's most successful retailers and their winning strategies. Key Moments: 0:03 - Introduction to Retailer of the Year nominees 0:15 - Publix's impressive performance metrics and expansion 0:54 - Discussion of Publix's market penetration 1:18 - Introduction of Hermès as luxury contender 2:54 - Walmart's successful transformation story 3:39 - Analysis of Walmart's key initiatives 4:40 - Sprouts' remarkable growth and strategy 5:06 - Discussion of future growth potential #retail #walmart #retailtrends For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/iyNND1vZe7A This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and Chad Lusk discuss 2024’s Retail Awards. In this short, they explore why Doug McMillon's success in attracting high-income customers and driving Walmart's digital transformation earned him CEO of the Year, with strong competition from Fran Horowitz's Abercrombie revival and Brian Niccol's impressive leadership at both Chipotle and Starbucks. Key Moments: 0:02 - Introduction of CEO nominations 0:22 - Doug McMillon's success with high-income customers 0:37 - Personal anecdotes about Walmart+ impact 1:48 - Discussion of return-to-office strategy 2:57 - Fran Horowitz's Abercrombie transformation 4:27 - Analysis of other CEO nominations 5:14 - Brian Niccol's dual success story 5:54 - Examination of Starbucks turnaround strategy #retail #retailstrategy #retailtrends #walmart For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/iyNND1vZe7A This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and Chad Lusk discuss 2024’s Retail Awards. In this short, they discuss which retail headlines deserve the Hollywood treatment, including a $200M cocaine-in-bananas scandal, Starbucks' four-minute turnaround story, and Macy's mysterious auditor fraud case. See why these real-world retail dramas would make compelling entertainment. 0:08 - Initial movie pitch discussions 0:34 - Jeff Bezos character transformation concept 0:51 - Porch Pirates action-comedy pitch 1:32 - Starbucks turnaround story concept 2:45 - Introduction of cocaine-in-bananas scandal 3:41 - Macy's auditor fraud story analysis 4:31 - Final verdict on most filmable story #retail #starbucksceo #retailtrends For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/iyNND1vZe7A This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and Chad Lusk discuss 2024’s Retail Awards. In this short, they cover the most successful strategic decisions in retail this year, from Kohl's partnership with Babies R Us to Carvana's remarkable turnaround and Abercrombie & Fitch's successful brand reimagining. Learn how these companies transformed challenges into opportunities. Key Moments: 0:02 - Introduction to strategic moves discussion 0:10 - Kohl's and Babies R Us partnership analysis 0:47 - Shein and Children's Place collaboration 1:16 - Carvana's remarkable turnaround story 2:23 - Abercrombie & Fitch's successful transformation 2:40 - Discussion of growth metrics 3:00 - Analysis of fashion retail market context #retail #retailtrends #retailstrategy For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/iyNND1vZe7A This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and Chad Lusk discuss 2024’s Retail Awards. In this short, they analyze the year's most impactful retail partnerships, from SKIMS' strategic expansion with North Face to DoorDash's innovative collaborations with Starbucks and Lyft. Learn how these partnerships are reshaping retail delivery, brand expansion, and customer experience. Key moments: 0:08 - Introduction of partnership nominations 0:21 - Analysis of SKIMS and North Face collaboration 0:43 - Discussion of SKIMS' partnership strategy 1:13 - Examination of product quality synergies 2:25 - Cerave's creative marketing approach 3:24 - DoorDash and Starbucks partnership analysis 4:09 - DoorDash and Lyft collaboration impact #retailtrends #retail #retailinnovation For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/iyNND1vZe7A This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and Chad Lusk discuss 2024’s Retail Awards. In this short, they break down the most laughable retail headlines of 2024, including Coach's misguided Roblox venture, Amazon's hype about ordering Pepsi on your phone while shopping at Whole Foods, Macy's contradictory store closure strategy, and Wayfair's controversial workplace culture statement. Key Moments: 0:02 - Introduction to laughable headlines 0:10 - Coach's Roblox collection analysis 0:40 - Discussion of resource allocation in digital marketing 1:17 - Amazon's hype about ordering Pepsi on your phone while shopping at Whole Foods 2:17 - Macy's store closure contradiction 3:34 - Wayfair CEO's controversial email 4:15 - Impact analysis of poor leadership decisions For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/iyNND1vZe7A our retail experts This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital our industry experts share their bold predictions for retail in 2025, including Amazon's continued grocery struggles, potential leadership changes at Target, Macy's privatization, and the consolidation of retail media networks. Get unique insights into the future of retail from seasoned industry veterans For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/iyNND1vZe7A This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 18, 2024
In this special year end edition of the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , A&M’s Chad Lusk and David Ritter join Chris and Anne to look back on 2024 and to salute everything that stood out in retail this past year. Who will win retailer of the year? CEO of the year? And which retail headline would you most want turned into a feature film? You will just have to tune into find out! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 17, 2024
Join Chris and Anne for a candid conversation with Clarence Bethea, investor and executive in residence at True Ventures, as he shares his incredible journey from a troubled youth to startup success with Upsie and becoming a VC. Clarence discusses how AI is shaping the future of retail and startups, the importance of empathy and honesty in funding decisions, and share practical advice for early-stage entrepreneurs, including why early money matters. Key Moments: ( 1:00 ) Clarence’s personal journey from Georgia to VC success ( 3:00 ) Building Upsie and disrupting the warranty market ( 7:00 ) True Ventures’ focus on seed-stage investments and AI ( 11:00 ) Challenges for women and black founders in securing funding ( 17:00 ) The importance of having 3 key people in your entrepreneurial journey ( 22:00 ) Advice for entrepreneurs on persistence and overcoming breaking points #startupfunding #vcinsights #entrepreneuradvice #aiinvestments This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Dolly Musical Debut Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/J8I1H1pFBT8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: E.l.f. Beauty’s Virtual Luxe Lounge is a 3D shopping platform exclusive to its loyalty program members. But does it move the needle, or is it another unnecessary 3D gimmick? This week on Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Ownit AI, Avalara, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga dissect the concept and share alternative approaches to creating meaningful online loyalty experiences. Key Moments: [00:00] E.l.f. Beauty’s loyalty program strategy [01:30] What’s inside the Virtual Luxe Lounge [03:00] Why standalone 3D shopping rarely works [04:15] Better ideas for engaging loyal customers online [05:45] Live video, TikTok, and other loyalty innovations #elfbeauty #virtualshopping #loyaltyprograms #retailtech For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/J8I1H1pFBT8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Dollar General’s fresh produce rollout is slowing in 2025, with plans to add 300 new locations instead of the rapid pace seen in prior years. This week on Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Ownit AI, Avalara, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga analyze what’s behind this decision, including the challenges of running grocery within a dollar store model and the financial dynamics of competing with Walmart in rural markets. Key Moments: [00:00] Dollar General’s fresh produce plans for 2025 [01:30] Why grocery is tougher than it looks [03:00] Operational insights from Target’s fresh rollout expert [04:15] Competing with Walmart in grocery [05:45] Why this slowdown is actually a smart move #dollargeneral #freshproduce #grocerytrends #retailtrends For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/J8I1H1pFBT8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: PorchPals, a new insurance product for stolen packages, is now available nationwide. This week on Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Ownit AI, Avalara, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga dive into the numbers behind package theft, Porch Pals’ subscription model, and whether retailers or consumers should take the lead in solving this $13.4 billion problem. Key Moments: [00:00] PorchPals subscription model overview [02:30] The staggering cost of porch piracy [03:40] Who should pay: retailers or consumers? [05:20] Alternative solutions for package theft protection [07:10] Personalized insurance at checkout: a better model? #PorchPals #packagedelivery #ecommercetrends #retailinnovation For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/J8I1H1pFBT8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Tractor Supply is scaling new heights with its “Life Out Here 2030” expansion plan. This week on Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Ownit AI, Avalara, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga analyze its growth strategy, retail media potential, and B2B opportunities, making the case for why Tractor Supply is the retailer to watch in the next decade. Key Moments: [00:00] Tractor Supply’s store expansion goals [01:50] The growth potential in the pet category [03:00] Retail media opportunities for Tractor Supply [04:20] Why Tractor Supply could rival Walmart in scale For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/J8I1H1pFBT8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon has entered the car sales market with Amazon Autos, creating a groundbreaking e-commerce experience for purchasing vehicles. This week on Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Ownit AI, Avalara, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, Chris and Anne dive into the platform’s key features, its potential to disrupt dealerships, and how it will reshape automotive advertising. Key Moments: [00:00] Introduction to Amazon Autos and its features [01:47] How the platform simplifies the car buying process [03:23] The role of personalized automotive advertising [04:15] Why Amazon Autos could disrupt traditional dealerships [05:00] The future of car buying in an e-commerce world #amazonautos #carbuyingtips #hyundai #amazonecommerce For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/J8I1H1pFBT8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 12, 2024
In this episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series Podcast, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga dive into the world of private brands with special guests Brandon Warren and Bethany Davis of the Barcode Group. Discover why private brands are crucial to retail growth, who’s winning the private label game, and how retailers like Costco, Walmart, and Target are adapting their strategies. Brandon and Bethany also share actionable advice for manufacturers and retailers looking to elevate their private label programs. Key moments to look for: [ 00:00 ] Intro and overview of the Barcode Group [ 05:21 ] Why private brands are booming in retail [ 13:42 ] Comparing Costco, Walmart, and Target private label strategies [ 24:30 ] Challenges for manufacturers in adapting to private label growth [ 34:45 ] Winners, sleepers, and areas for improvement in private brands [ 39:55 ] Actionable advice for retailers and manufacturers Don’t miss this insightful conversation full of expert takes and innovative ideas! #privatelabel #retailstrategy #target #walmart #costco Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 12, 2024
Dive into the world of digital marketplaces with retail veteran Brooke Chambers, Director of Digital Marketplaces at Kroger. Brooke shares her extensive experience in the evolution of digital marketplaces from simple seller acquisition to comprehensive platform partnerships. She discusses the critical role of marketplaces in customer retention, the importance of bridging online and offline experiences, and predicts future trends including social selling and generational shopping shifts. Key Moments: 0:24 - Brooke's journey through retail giants (Sears, Walmart, Kroger) 1:12 - Current state of platforms and marketplaces 2:42 - Why marketplaces matter for customer retention 3:50 - Expert advice for e-commerce leaders 4:40 - Future trends in marketplaces and retail 5:46 - Insights on next-generation shoppers and retail evolution This insightful conversation explores the transformation of retail platforms and their crucial role in modern commerce! #digitalmarketplace #retailstrategy #ecommerce #retailinnovation #retailtechnology #kroger #marketplaces #customerexperience #socialcommerce Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 11, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Chris and Anne discussed: Amazon’s momentous launch of Amazon Auto ( Source ) Why Tractor Supply Company may be the retailer to watch over the next decade ( Source ) PorchPals new insurance offering for victims of package theft ( Source ) Whether Dollar General’s slowdown of its fresh expansion signals underlying issues with its grocery strategy ( Source ) And closed by dissecting the value of E.l.f. Beauty’s new 3D Virtual Luxe Lounge ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Brooke Chambers, Kroger’s Director of Digital Marketplaces, stops by for 5 Insightful Minutes, Shaboozy songs, Brain Rot, and Chris’s man crush on the Gambler. Click here to register for eTail West , and don't forget to use our promo code ETAILPARTNER. And, if you are interested in reading Chris’s latest article on marketplaces, you can also find that here: https://omnitalk.blog/2024/12/09/dont-leave-money-on-the-table-how-to-rethink-your-marketplace-strategy/ Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #AmazonAuto #TractorSupplyCompany #PackageTheftInsurance #DollarGeneral #VirtualShopping #RetailTrends #OmniTalkRetail #KrogerDigital #RetailPodcast #FastFiveNews This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 11, 2024
Join us for a dynamic conversation with SPS Commerce experts Brandon Pierre and Maayan Kaplan as they dive into bridging the gap between supply chain and merchandising teams in retail. From understanding the transformative power of the OTIF metric to introducing integrated business planning strategies, this episode offers practical advice for retail executives preparing for 2025. Key Moments Include: [ 00:00 ] Introduction and episode preview [ 02:50 ] Importance of supply chain and merchandising alignment [ 06:30 ] The role of OTIFF in retail success [ 14:10 ] Introducing S&OP and integrated business planning [ 25:05 ] Key metrics to focus on for cross-functional collaboration [ 35:07 ] Final takeaways and preparing for NRF 2025 Whether you’re a retailer or supply chain pro, this episode is packed with actionable insights to prepare for 2025! #retailstrategy #supplychainoptimization #NRF2025 Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Shrimp Jesus Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/JwnJXUy6y20 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss SHEIN And Temu Making Inroads On The Toy Market For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/JwnJXUy6y20 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss if they're buying or selling Invisible Barcodes On Your Salad Containers For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/JwnJXUy6y20 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss if they're Pro Or Con: OpenAI Deploying Ads For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/JwnJXUy6y20 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: How Walmart Has Been Working Overtime On Livestreaming For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/JwnJXUy6y20 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: The Implications From This Year’s Cyber Week Results For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/JwnJXUy6y20 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 4, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Chris and Anne discussed: The implications of this year’s Black Friday and Cyber Week data ( Source ) Walmart’s aggressive push into livestreaming, culminating with Dolly Parton live on Cyber Monday ( Source ) OpenAI’s evaluation of chatbot advertising ( Source ) Digimarc partnering with Picadeli to reduce price look up fraud at the salad bar ( Source ) And closed with a discussion on how the retail industry should view overseas marketplaces, aka “Digital Dollar Stores,” getting into the toys business ( Source ) There’s all that, plus something called “Shrimp Jesus” and how often Anne gets a craving for Kraft Mac & Cheese. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 2, 2024
In this episode, Chris and Anne sit down with Pam Simon, EVP and Conference Chair of Manifest , to discuss the must-attend event for global supply chain and logistics professionals. Learn about the exciting lineup of startups, investors, shippers, and innovative technologies that will take center stage at the Venetian in Las Vegas, February 10-12, 2025. Pam also highlights new initiatives like the mentorship program and why planning ahead ensures maximum ROI from attending. Key Moments: 0:01 – Intro to Manifest Vegas: What sets it apart as the premier global supply chain event. 2:00 – Startups and Investors: How Manifest connects innovators with funding. 5:00 – Shippers in Focus: Case studies from Mattel, Microsoft, Alibaba, and more. 8:00 – Day 1 Highlights: Maritime Symposium, Intermodal Workshop, and Cold Chain Forum. 14:00 – Mentorship Program: A new initiative to support women and fresh talent in logistics. 16:30 – Why Plan Ahead: Tips to maximize your Manifest Vegas experience. To register for Manifest, visit: ManifestVegas.com/SaveWithOmniTalk Music by hooksounds.com #ManifestVegas #supplychaininnovation #logistics #startups #investors #mentorship #networking #coldchain #sustainability #technologytrends Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Shake Shack On A Plane Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xDKKCu9Alfk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: Shopping Via Perplexity For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xDKKCu9Alfk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Qurate Aiming For $1.5 Billion From Livestreaming And Social Media For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xDKKCu9Alfk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: TikTok Adding Direct Product Links To Posts For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xDKKCu9Alfk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Ashley Buchanan Named New Kohl’s CEO For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xDKKCu9Alfk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Target Is Dull Or Chic? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xDKKCu9Alfk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29, 2024
In this inaugural episode of You're Such A Ranker, Chris and Anne rank their top 5 favorite holidays! From Memorial Day to Christmas, and even the surprising addition of the summer solstice, they debate the highs and lows of each holiday with plenty of laughs. Find out whose ranking you agree with and share your own! 0:11 – The genesis of ranking holidays: Why this idea sparked joy 1:03 – Defining “holidays” and what counts for the list 3:36 – #5: Anne’s surprising summer solstice pick and Chris’s New Year’s Eve nostalgia 7:53 – #4: St. Patrick’s Day vs. Memorial Day—a clash of barbecues and Irish bars 10:30 – #3: Fourth of July shines bright for both with parades and patriotism 12:27 – #2: Chris surprises with Memorial Day, Anne pitches for her birthday 16:54 – #1: The ultimate holiday debate: Thanksgiving vs. Christmas 22:25 – Wrap-up: Which holidays did we miss, and whose rankings do you agree with? #holidays #top5 #christmas #thanksgiving #summersolstice #memorialday #fourthofjuly #rankstuff #youresucharanker This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 27, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Chris and Anne discussed: Whom to blame for the WSJ calling Target “dull” ( Source ) Kohl’s recent disappointing quarter and its new CEO hire ( Source ) Qurate’s rebranding and strategic push into livestreaming and social media ( Source ) TikTok quietly testing product links in posts ( Source ) And closed with a look at how significant Perplexity introducing a new shopping feature for its paid Pro users is to the future of retail ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Dr. Seuss, the Original Recipe or Extra Crispy debate, and why Chris has had it with these motherf**cking Shake Shacks on this plane! To register for Manifest, visit: ManifestVegas.com/SaveWithOmniTalk Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #ECommerce #SocialCommerce #Target #Kohls #TikTokShopping #LivestreamShopping #DigitalRetail #OmniTalk #RetailTrends This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 26, 2024
Join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga in this dynamic episode of the Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series as they explore the future of retail with Jean-Denis Mariani, former Chief Digital Officer at Coty, and Kristi Vannatter, Head of Beauty at Firework.. Discover how video commerce, AI, and user-generated content are reshaping the shopping experience and hear practical advice for implementing these game-changing trends. 0:08 – Introduction and lead-up to NRF with Firework’s innovative offerings 2:03 – Jean-Denis highlights the critical role of content in retail strategy 5:00 – Top trends for 2025: personalization, influencers, and video commerce 7:10 – The impact of AI on product recommendations and customer service 11:01 – Firework’s tools for engaging customers through UGC and live streaming 16:45 – Building emotional connections with consumers through video content 23:00 – Scaling content creation and overcoming internal challenges 28:43 – Measuring the ROI of video content and adapting to consumer behavior 36:09 – Examples of video commerce across industries, from beauty to electronics 39:30 – Final takeaways and how to connect with today’s experts Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content #videocommerce #retailtrends #ecommerceinnovation #shoppablevideos #aiinretail #contentmarketing #microinfluencers #usergeneratedcontent #personalization This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 23, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Rockin' Rollerblading Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UxDXVG9DOuQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 23, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If The World Need A Super App For Mealtime? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UxDXVG9DOuQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 23, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Zara testing embeddable threads that emit radio frequencies to prevent theft. For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UxDXVG9DOuQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 23, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: REI Going After ‘Serial Returners’ For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UxDXVG9DOuQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 23, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Shutting Down A Secret Fertility Tracker Project For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UxDXVG9DOuQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 23, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Starbucks Offering In-app Delivery Via Doordash For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UxDXVG9DOuQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 21, 2024
Chris and Anne welcome Chad Lusk from the A&M Consumer and Retail Group to unpack findings from their latest consumer sentiment survey . They explore how economic factors are reshaping holiday spending, consumer loyalty, and shopping behaviors. Key topics include: [ 00:30 ] Consumer Spending Decline: A 9% net decrease in holiday spending. [ 01:45 ] Economic Impact on Basics: Why fresh food is losing ground to packaged goods. [ 02:50 ] Retail vs. Brand Loyalty: Consumers’ preference for banner loyalty when cutting costs [ 04:20 ] Generational Shopping Patterns: Contrasting online and in-store shopping behaviors. [ 06:10 ] Retail Strategies for 2024: How retailers can meet diverse consumer needs. Tune in for actionable insights and Chad’s expert analysis on the latest consumer behaviors! To read the full Consumer Sentiment Survey, click here Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content #holidayshopping #retailtrends #consumerinsights #shoppingtrends #retailstrategy #economicimpact #generationaldifferences This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 20, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Chris and Anne discussed: Starbucks offering delivery via DoorDash through the Starbucks app ( Source ) Amazon shutting down a secret fertility tracking project ( Source ) REI’s latest attempts to thwart “serial returners” ( Source ) Retailers, like Zara, experimenting with radio emitting threads to combat theft ( Source ) And closed with a look at whether we should all by into Marc Lore’s “super app for mealtime” hype coming off Wonder’s acquisition of Grubhub ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Pepsi’s “Undercover Cups” campaign, weirdly hot Santas, and home for the summer stories of when Chris last donned a pair of rollerblades. Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #Walmart #REI #Starbucks #Zara #Wonder #Grubhub #OmniTalk #RetailPodcast #RetailTrends #RetailInnovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Lululemon v. Vuori Lightning Round For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/HfqxboxZ35Q This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Opening 8 New Amazon Fresh Stores For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/HfqxboxZ35Q This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: Lowe’s New Digital Home Platform For Loyalty Members For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/HfqxboxZ35Q This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Carrot Tags, Caper Carts, Oh My! For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/HfqxboxZ35Q This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: How E.l.f.’s Dollar General Expansion Will Impact Beauty Retailing For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/HfqxboxZ35Q This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Testing Letting People Open Locked Display Cases With Their Mobile Devices For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/HfqxboxZ35Q This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 13, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart testing a new technology in its stores that would let people open security locks for products with mobile devices ( Source ) The E.l.f. Beauty expansion into Dollar General ( Source ) The flurry of announcements from Instacart this past week on everything from Caper Carts to Carrot Tags ( Source ) Lowe’s debuting a new home platform for its loyalty members ( Source ) And closed with a look at the odd media sound bytes surrounding Amazon’s eight new Amazon Fresh store openings this week ( Source ) There’s all that, plus the Vuori vs. Lululemon Battle Royale, falling raccoons, and what delicate aromas a sneaker sommelier would detect from Anne’s pre-owned Nikes. Music by hooksounds.com #RetailNews #Walmart #ELFBeauty #DollarGeneral #Instacart #Lowes #AmazonFresh #OmniTalk #RetailPodcast #RetailTrends #Innovation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 13, 2024
Placer.ai's Ethan Chernofsky joins Chris and Anne to reveal the 2024 Retail Superlative Awards. Ethan highlights: ( 4:58 ) Costco’s title as “Most Likely to Succeed Forever” ( 8:40 ) Fitness as the “Segment of the Year” ( 14:08 ) "Favorite Data Point of the Year" with surprising insights from eclipse-related foot traffic and home furnishings ( 17:11 ) The "Most Important Takeaway of 2024" on cross-shopping and consumer behavior ( 21:40 ) Retail Media as the "Buzziest Topic of the Year" ( 27:11 ) Just Walk Out Tech as the "Most Overrated Innovation" Finally, he makes a bold prediction with Macy’s as the “Biggest Sneaky Upside Retailer to Watch” in 2024 ( 36:41 ), offering a surprising perspective on department stores. #retailtrends #retailinsights #retailmedia #retailtechnology Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 9, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Splash Of Coconut Milk Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/uDYRYCTUsOk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 9, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Starbucks Unveiling Its Turnaround Plan For the full episode head here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDYRYCTUsOk&t=0s This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 9, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Their Thoughts On The Children’s Place Debuting On Shein For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/uDYRYCTUsOk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 9, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If they're Buying Or Selling: ChatGPT Search? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/uDYRYCTUsOk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 9, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Doordash And Lyft Upping The Ante For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/uDYRYCTUsOk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 9, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart+ Is 50% Off! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/uDYRYCTUsOk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 6, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Chris and Anne discuss: Walmart discounting its Walmart+ membership by 50% for the holidays ( Source ) The jaw dropping value of DoorDash and Lyft’s new partnership ( Source ) OpenAI’s launch of ChatGPT Search ( Source ) The Children’s Place’s decision to sell products via Shein ( Source ) And closed with an examination of Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol’s recently unveiled plans to turnaround Starbucks ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Oregon Trail, Westminster Dog Show trading cards, and why Chris refuses to eat hot dogs ever again. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 2, 2024
In this Fast Five Short sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss how Walmart's innovative marketing campaign features parodies of popular TV series like Yellowstone and Bridgerton, sparking excitement and humor among listeners. The hosts discuss their anticipation for these parodies and the creative angles Walmart might take. The conversation shifts to a unique offering from Walmart—a tiny house priced at $15,900—which leads to a playful exchange about what names they would give such a dwelling. As the discussion unfolds, Chris shares a humorous highlight from his high school basketball career, showcasing the lighthearted banter between the speakers. This episode blends entertainment and nostalgia while exploring the intersection of pop culture and consumerism. The podcast kicks off with a lively discussion about Walmart's innovative marketing campaign, which parodies popular television series like 'Yellowstone' and 'Bridgerton' to promote their Black Friday deals. Anne prompts Chris to share which parody they are most excited about. The anticipation builds as they dive into the details of these creative takes, with Chris particularly eager about the 'Bridgerton' parody, hinting at the potential for a humorous and engaging representation of the beloved series. As the conversation flows, they explore the implications of such marketing strategies in today's consumer landscape, considering how humor and relatability can enhance brand connection with customers. Transitioning from parodies to product offerings, the discussion shifts to Walmart's new venture into real estate with a tiny house priced at $15,900. Chris describes the compact, expandable prefab house, discussing its logistics and the necessity of a forklift for delivery. This revelation sparks a light-hearted exchange about personal space and retreat, with Anne and Chris playfully proposing names for the tiny house. Anne suggests 'Alone Time,' reflecting a desire for solitude, while Chris envisions a more glamorous title. This portion of the podcast highlights the intersection of lifestyle and consumer goods, emphasizing the growing trend of minimalism and the appeal of tiny living in modern society. The episode culminates with an engaging conversation about a new app called Film Room, developed by Dick Sporting Goods. This app utilizes AI to help coaches analyze footage from youth basketball and volleyball games. Anne prompts Chris to reminisce about their own athletic highlights, leading to a humorous recounting of a pivotal moment from their high school basketball career. Chris's modest reflection on shooting technical free throws brings an element of nostalgia and humor, showcasing the relatable ups and downs of youth sports. The dialogue wraps up with a thoughtful commentary on the role of technology in sports and its potential impact on young athletes, leaving listeners with a sense of camaraderie and inspiration. Through a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful commentary, the podcast offers a vibrant exploration of contemporary marketing, lifestyle trends, and the evolving landscape of youth sports coaching. Takeaways: Walmart is creatively using parodies of popular TV shows to promote their Black Friday deals campaign. The hosts express excitement about Walmart's Bridgerton parody and its potential humor. Walmart's tiny house offering for $15,900 is a unique and interesting product for consumers. The discussion veers into personal anecdotes, highlighting the hosts' different takes on the tiny house concept. The Film Room app launched by Dick's Sporting Goods aims to enhance youth basketball coaching with AI technology. One host humorously reflects on their own high school basketball highlight, highlighting personal achievement and camaraderie. Companies mentioned in this episode: Walmart Dick's Sporting Goods For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xJqW3cfOfRM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 2, 2024
In this Fast Five Short sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss how Marks and Spencer is pioneering the introduction of self checkouts in fitting rooms across its clothing stores, aiming to enhance the shopping experience by reducing the need for customers to queue multiple times. This initiative is set to roll out in about 100 stores by early 2028, with each changing room area expected to feature at least one self checkout. The strategy also addresses concerns about shoplifting by having staff oversee the changing rooms, ensuring customers don't leave without paying. The discussion delves into the potential challenges and innovations that come with this model, including the handling of security tags and the integration of RFID technology. As the retail landscape evolves, this move could inspire other apparel retailers to explore similar solutions, ultimately transforming the fitting room experience for consumers. Marks and Spencer's initiative to install self checkouts in fitting rooms represents a transformative approach to modern retailing, aiming to enhance both customer convenience and operational efficiency. This strategic move is not just about technological innovation; it reflects a deeper understanding of consumer behavior and the growing demand for streamlined shopping experiences. Anne outlines the specifics of the rollout, which includes the introduction of checkouts in 180 clothing stores, with the intent to roll out to 100 locations by 2028. This timeline, however, raises eyebrows as Chris questions whether such a long lead time indicates a lack of readiness for the challenges that lie ahead, including the complexities of handling security measures like tag removal and payment processing within fitting rooms. The conversation dives into the broader implications of this technology, particularly in relation to theft prevention and the overall shopping experience. Chris highlights the potential advantages of using RFID technology to monitor inventory movement more effectively, suggesting that controlled entry points could significantly reduce instances of shoplifting. The discussion also touches on the evolving role of store associates in this new checkout paradigm, emphasizing the importance of having staff present to facilitate transactions and ensure customer satisfaction. As Anne shares insights from their experiences with similar technologies in other retail environments, it becomes clear that while challenges remain, the potential benefits of self checkouts could ultimately lead to a more efficient and enjoyable shopping experience for consumers. As the conversation comes to a close, the hosts express excitement about the future of shopping technology and the potential for further innovations that can enhance the consumer experience. They acknowledge that while Marks and Spencer's approach is a significant step forward, the retail industry as a whole must embrace experimentation and adaptability to remain relevant in a rapidly changing landscape. This episode serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between technology and retail, providing valuable insights into the future of shopping. Takeaways: Marks and Spencer is implementing self checkouts in fitting rooms to streamline the shopping experience. The self checkout initiative is planned for around 100 stores by early 2028, indicating a slow rollout. The addition of fitting room self checkouts aims to reduce queue times and enhance customer convenience. Marks and Spencer will have staff present to monitor transactions and prevent theft during this process. Concerns remain about handling security tags and bagging with the new self checkout system. The incorporation of RFID technology could revolutionize the fitting room experience and improve theft prevention. Companies mentioned in this episode: Marks and Spencer Zara Uniqlo H&M Gray Orange For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xJqW3cfOfRM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 2, 2024
In the latest Fast Five Short, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss how Wayfair has introduced a new paid loyalty program, costing $29 per year, which offers members 5% back in rewards on purchases, early access to sales, and free shipping on all orders. The discussion explores the value of this subscription model in the context of growing consumer subscription fatigue and the reality that many customers may not frequently exceed the free shipping threshold of $35. Anne expresses skepticism about the program's effectiveness, arguing that most items purchased from Wayfair are likely to be above that threshold anyway, making the subscription less appealing. Meanwhile, Chris defends the program, suggesting it targets customers who would benefit from the loyalty incentives. The conversation also touches on broader themes of consumer behavior and the competitive landscape of e-commerce, including comparisons to other services like Walmart+. Wayfair has introduced a new paid loyalty program that aims to enhance customer retention across its various brands, including Wayfair, All Modern, Birch Lane, Joss and Main, and Paragould. Priced at $29 per year, the program offers rewards that never expire as long as the subscription remains active, alongside perks like 5% back on purchases, early access to sales, and free shipping on orders of any size. The hosts dive into the implications of this program, with the conversation revealing contrasting opinions on its potential value to consumers. While Anne expresses skepticism, arguing that many shoppers may not benefit from the rewards enough to justify the cost, Chris believes the program is a strategic move that could resonate with customers who frequently shop at Wayfair but might not reach the free shipping threshold. As they explore the psychology behind loyalty programs, they touch on broader themes of consumer behavior, subscription fatigue, and the competitive landscape of e-commerce. The discussion reflects a nuanced understanding of retail dynamics, particularly how brands like Wayfair are adapting to changing consumer preferences in an increasingly subscription-driven market. Takeaways: Wayfair's new paid loyalty program costs $29 per year and offers a 5% rewards back on purchases. The program includes free shipping on all orders and early access to major sales events. Some consumers may find value in the loyalty program if they often miss the free shipping threshold. Wayfair's management aims to address subscription fatigue by offering a lower-cost alternative to competitors like Amazon. The podcast hosts discuss the practicality of the program, considering shopping habits and purchasing frequency. Overall, the episode highlights differing perspectives on the value of the new subscription service. Companies mentioned in this episode: Wayfair All Modern Birch Lane Joss and Main Walmart Amazon Target Paramount For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xJqW3cfOfRM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 2, 2024
In the latest Fast Five Short sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss how Simbe has successfully raised $50 million in its latest Series C funding round, signaling a strong interest in robotics within the retail sector. The company plans to use this new capital to expand its technological solutions and pursue strategic growth opportunities, which could reshape the future of grocery operations. As Simbe's aisle-skating bots gain traction in various U.S. grocery chains, the discussion shifts to the broader implications of this investment trend on retail technology. Speakers detail how retailers are increasingly reliant on these robots for inventory management, pricing accuracy, and operational efficiency, making them indispensable assets in stores. With insights from industry leaders and ongoing interest from other retailers, the conversation highlights a potential shift towards more extensive robotic integration in retail by 2025. Simbe’s recent $50 million funding round has ignited discussions around the evolving landscape of retail technology, particularly as it pertains to robotics in grocery stores. The funding, part of a Series C round led by Goldman Sachs, signifies a robust confidence in tech solutions that promise tangible returns. Simbe’s aisle-skating robots, now integrated into various U.S. grocery chains, are not only enhancing operational efficiency but are also becoming integral to store teams. The episode delves into the implications of this investment, exploring the broader trend of retailers increasingly adopting robotic solutions to improve inventory management, pricing accuracy, and overall customer experience. The hosts underscore the importance of this trend, suggesting that the industry is on the cusp of a significant transformation, with 2025 potentially marking a pivotal year for robotics in retail as the technology expands beyond grocery into other sectors. The conversation also touches upon the strategic partnerships that Simbe has developed with notable retailers such as Spartan Nash and Albertsons, which are indicative of a growing acceptance and reliance on advanced technology in everyday operations. This strategic growth not only expands Simbe's market presence but also reflects a shifting mindset among retailers who are eager to innovate and enhance their operational capabilities. The hosts share insights from their discussions with industry professionals, emphasizing that once retailers implement these robotic solutions, they quickly realize their value, leading to a reluctance to let them go. The episode is rich with anecdotes and insights that paint a picture of a retail environment primed for technological disruption, where robots are not just tools but valued members of the workforce. Takeaways: Simbe has raised $50 million in its Series C funding round led by Goldman Sachs. The funding will help Simbie expand its robotics technology into new product areas and global markets. Retailers are increasingly valuing the operational benefits of robotics, indicating a trend in retail technology. The consistent demand for robots in grocery stores suggests a promising future for automation in retail. Simbe's partnerships with various grocery chains showcase the growing acceptance of robotics in the sector. Experts predict that 2025 will be a significant year for the deployment of retail robots. Companies mentioned in this episode: Simbe Goldman Sachs Spartan Nash Shoprite Northeast Grocery Albertsons Market Street United Supermarkets Albertsons Market BJ's Wholesale Club Schnuck Markets For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xJqW3cfOfRM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 2, 2024
In this Fast Five Short sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss how 7-Eleven is set to open over 600 new stores by 2027, featuring a contemporary design focused on food offerings and customer experience. These new "standard" stores will build on the learnings from their previous Evolution store concept, introducing expanded food and beverage selections, in-store seating, and electric vehicle charging stations. The discussion delves into the implications of this shift for the convenience store and quick-service restaurant (QSR) industries, highlighting the importance of adapting to changing consumer demands. The hosts reflect on their experiences at an Evolution store, noting how 7-Eleven is investing significantly in infrastructure to enhance customer convenience, including mobile checkout options. As they explore the potential impact of these developments, the conversation underscores the need for both industries to stay vigilant and responsive to evolving market trends. A seismic shift is underway in the convenience store landscape, exemplified by 7-Eleven's bold plan to open over 600 new stores in North America by 2027. This initiative introduces a new prototype known as the 'new standard stores,' which emphasizes a contemporary design and an extensive range of food and beverage offerings. The hosts of the podcast delve into the significance of this development, noting that it marks a departure from traditional convenience store models that have historically focused on quick snacks and fuel sales. Instead, 7-Eleven is positioning itself as a serious player in the food service sector, with features designed to enhance the customer experience, such as in-store seating and electric vehicle charging stations. The discussion also explores the implications of this strategy for the convenience store and QSR industries at large. By taking lessons from its previous Evolution store concept, 7-Eleven demonstrates a commitment to learning and adapting in response to consumer demands. The hosts highlight the potential for these new stores to attract repeat customers, not just for quick purchases but for a more engaging shopping experience. As convenience stores increasingly compete with QSRs for consumer attention, the podcast raises critical questions about the future of retail and the need for innovation to remain relevant in a fast-evolving market. The insights shared by the hosts emphasize the importance of investment in infrastructure and technology, particularly in relation to food offerings and customer service enhancements. With 7-Eleven's focus on kitchen build-outs and mobile checkout options, the conversation suggests that convenience stores are redefining their roles within the community. This episode encourages listeners to consider how such changes might influence their shopping habits and the competitive dynamics between convenience stores and fast-casual dining options. Ultimately, the episode paints a picture of a retail landscape that is rapidly evolving and invites its audience to pay close attention to the developments ahead. Takeaways: 7Eleven plans to open over 600 new convenience stores with a contemporary design by 2027. The new Standard C stores will focus on a larger food assortment and enhanced beverage options. Joseph DiPinto emphasized that the design leverages insights gained from previous Evolution store prototypes. Investments in kitchen infrastructure and mobile checkout capabilities are key components of the new store format. The introduction of in-store seating and electric vehicle charging stations marks a significant shift in convenience retailing. The new format reflects a strategic response to declining fuel and tobacco sales in the convenience store sector. Companies mentioned in this episode: 7Eleven Laredo Taco Del Taco Jack in the Box Gelson's Amazon Wayfair For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xJqW3cfOfRM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 2, 2024
In the latest Fast Five Short sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss how Amazon is taking aggressive measures to compete with Shein and Temu by imposing strict price caps on its new low-cost storefront, with limits set at $8 for jewelry, $13 for guitars, and astonishingly low prices for larger items like sofas. This strategic move aims to reclaim market share as these competitors have been encroaching on Amazon's e-commerce dominance. The discussion delves into whether Amazon can effectively win this pricing war, given the entrenched loyalty consumers have towards Shein and Temu. Both speakers explore the implications of Amazon's strategy, particularly regarding its ability to leverage its existing relationships with manufacturers in China. The episode highlights the challenges Amazon faces in adapting to a new e-commerce model while also addressing consumer preferences and brand perceptions among younger shoppers. Amazon's strategic pivot in the e-commerce landscape has set the stage for a fierce pricing battle with emerging competitors like Shein and Temu. The company's move to impose strict price caps on products in a new low-cost storefront signifies a response to the growing market share of these rivals, particularly among younger consumers. The podcast details specific price limits that Amazon has set, such as $8 for jewelry and $20 for sofas—a move that raises eyebrows about the feasibility of such pricing for quality goods. This aggressive strategy aims not only to reclaim market dominance but also to appeal to a demographic increasingly drawn to low-cost alternatives. The discussion delves into the implications of this pricing war, questioning whether Amazon can successfully penetrate a market where competitors have already established strong consumer loyalty. The conversation shifts towards the dynamics of Amazon's fulfillment strategies, revealing plans for direct shipping from Guangdong, China, which could streamline operations but also raises questions about quality control and consumer trust. As the hosts analyze the potential outcomes of this pricing war, they emphasize the importance of user experience and brand reputation in e-commerce. While Amazon has a well-known reputation for low prices, the podcast highlights the challenges it faces in replicating the engaging shopping experiences provided by platforms like Temu, known for their unique gamification strategies. The hosts ponder whether Amazon can adapt to this new market reality or if it risks losing its longstanding status as the go-to online retailer. Takeaways: Amazon is significantly lowering price caps on products to compete with Shein and Temu. The aggressive pricing strategy includes limits such as $20 for sofas and $8 for jewelry. Amazon plans to directly ship orders to US customers from Guangdong, China to reduce costs. Experts believe Amazon is facing challenges to regain market share lost to Temu and Shein. Despite aggressive pricing, Amazon may struggle to change entrenched consumer habits favoring competitors. The user experience and seller ratings on Amazon will play crucial roles in this pricing war. Companies mentioned in this episode: Amazon Shein Temu For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/xJqW3cfOfRM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 31, 2024
In this 5 Insightful Minutes interview from Omni Talk Retail, Doug Tiffan, Head of Solution Strategy for Fashion and Apparel at Amazon Web Services (AWS), discusses AI and cloud technology’s impact on fashion retail. He provides insights into personalization, data strategies, and the importance of long-term AI planning for retailers to stay competitive. Key moments include: 0:18 – Trends in fashion retail: Changing consumer expectations and the need for seamless experiences across channels. 1:25 – Leveraging AI for personalization: Tailored product recommendations and targeted marketing strategies. 2:53 – AI-powered product search and discovery: Enhancing user experience with visual and natural language search capabilities. 3:32 – AI in customer service: 24-hour chatbots and personal stylists for real-time assistance. 4:30 – Building a future-ready data strategy: AWS’s advice for long-term AI planning and retailer success. #fashionretail #aws #retailtechnology #aiinretail #cloudcomputing #ecommerce #digitalengagement #retailtrends #customerexperience Music by hooksounds Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 30, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Chris and Anne discuss: Amazon setting aggressive price targets for its rival online store to Temu and Shein ( Source ) 7-Eleven’s “New Standard” format which it plans open across 600 new stores ( Source ) Simbe’s $50 million Series C funding round led by Goldman Sachs Alternatives ( Source ) Wayfair’s new paid subscription loyalty program ( Source ) And closed with a discussion inspired by Marks & Spencer around the now, next, and future of self-checkout within the fitting room ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Doug Tiffan from AWS stops by for 5 Insightful Minutes about AI investments in the fashion & apparel space, along with pre-fab housing, waltzing, and basketball stories from when Chris was a strapping young lad. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 30, 2024
In this episode of the Omni Talk Ask An Expert series, Beachwaver CEO Sarah Potempa and Firework’s VP of Strategic Accounts Kristi Vannatter reveal how Beachwaver uses live video commerce to enhance customer engagement and drive sales. They discuss Beachwaver’s journey from QVC to Target, building a dedicated fan base, and using video to bridge online and in-store experiences. Key moments: 0:13 – Introduction to the Beachwaver and Firework Front Porch Series and upcoming presence at NRF 2025. 1:01 – Beachwaver’s journey from social media to Target’s shelves and the role of live video in driving product sales. 7:06 – Firework’s video commerce capabilities, including interactive video, live streaming, and personalized AI assistance. 16:48 – Strategies for creating engaging live video content and using brand ambassadors to build community. 24:40 – Sarah’s future vision: bringing video commerce into stores and using AI to support omnichannel customer experience. Perfect for retail professionals, this conversation explores the latest trends in social and video commerce, AI for customer experience, and omnichannel strategies to create a connected brand community. #beachwaver #videocommerce #retailinnovation #omnichannel #liveshopping #ecommerce #retailtechnology #beautyindustry Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 28, 2024
In this Omni Talk Retail podcast episode, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga talk with Troy Siwek, GM and Partner at GreyOrange, to discuss how RFID technology is transforming retail. Key topics covered include: 0:08 – Opening: Discussing RFID’s impact on retail and the recent H&M store experience. 0:28 – Introducing Troy Siwek, GM and Partner at GreyOrange, and his background in retail and technology. 1:15 – Troy’s preparation for the podcast, background in Omnichannel and retail tech, and transition to GreyOrange. 4:29 – Overview of GreyOrange: From supply chain automation to advanced in-store AI applications. 5:52 – How supply chain automation and AI intersect in retail innovation. 7:47 – gStore and AI in action: Real-world examples of automation in fulfillment and in-store operations. 8:45 – Moving from handheld to overhead RFID and the value of real-time inventory tracking. 9:42 – The benefits of RFID: Real-time inventory visibility, replenishment from the backroom, and increased conversion rates. 10:50 – How overhead RFID technology enables constant cycle counts, improving inventory accuracy. 12:29 – Enhanced customer experience: How RFID powers smart mirrors and interactive fitting rooms. 15:06 – Introduction to gStore and how it serves as an operational platform for retailers. 16:16 – RFID as an entry point for retail digital transformation, and how gStore integrates various in-store tasks. 18:59 – Why some retailers are investing in RFID and digital transformation now, especially with omnichannel demands. 20:58 – Use cases in merchandising: Compliance checks, inventory tracking, and heat mapping with G Store. 22:19 – How RFID technology supports product location in stores and enhances in-store experience. 24:03 – Scaling gStore: Considerations for store-to-store variations in RFID technology implementation. 27:13 – Challenges with scaling RFID and the importance of piloting across different store formats. 28:28 – Looking ahead: The future of RFID and other sensing technologies in retail, including the potential of single-platform analytics. 30:52 – The evolving consumer experience: How precise item location impacts omni-channel retail. 32:00 – Final thoughts: The role of real-time data and predictive insights in shaping modern retail. Music by hooksounds.com #rfidtechnology #retailautomation #inventorymanagement #retailinnovation #RetailPodcast #supplychain This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 26, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Lakshman Lakshmanan and Chris Creyts discuss: Bed, Bath and Beyond is exploring a new strategy by partnering with Kirkland's to launch smaller format stores, potentially reviving the brand after its struggles. The collaboration includes financial backing and a revenue-sharing agreement, raising questions about the effectiveness of this smaller incarnation in a competitive retail landscape. As the discussion unfolds, the speakers analyze the implications of this approach, considering whether the market truly needs a reimagined Bed, Bath and Beyond. They delve into the challenges the brand faces, including consumer preferences and the crowded retail environment, while highlighting the importance of location and operational efficiency. Ultimately, the conversation reveals a mix of skepticism and cautious optimism regarding the future of Bed, Bath and Beyond's new venture. A strategic partnership is on the horizon as Kirkland's Home and Beyond collaborates with Beyond to pilot the opening of small format Bed, Bath and Beyond stores. This initiative aims to create a more accessible shopping experience, condensing the usual time commitment for consumers into a quick visit to these charming, compact locations. The collaboration is marked by Beyond's investment of $17 million in debt financing to Kirkland's, suggesting a serious commitment to revamping the Bed, Bath and Beyond brand. Under the terms of their partnership, Beyond stands to gain a share of Kirkland's revenue, with fees tied to retail and e-commerce sales, which indicates a focus on integrating their operations effectively to maximize revenue potential. The podcast delves deeply into the implications of this partnership, discussing whether a smaller version of Bed, Bath and Beyond can successfully carve out a niche in an already crowded market. Speakers analyze the strategic rationale behind Beyond's push into the brick-and-mortar space again after previously declaring they would not open physical stores. The dialogue reveals a mix of skepticism and cautious optimism about the potential for these small locations to thrive, especially considering the changing landscape of retail, where e-commerce dominance has shifted consumer behavior significantly. The episode invites listeners to ponder the viability of such a venture and the lessons learned from Bed, Bath and Beyond’s previous struggles. Takeaways: Bed, Bath and Beyond is partnering with Kirkland's to open smaller format stores, potentially revitalizing the brand. This new strategy may focus on home improvement and decor, targeting a niche market. The partnership involves financial backing, with Beyond providing $17 million to Kirkland's for expansion. Experts express skepticism about whether a smaller Bed, Bath and Beyond will succeed in a competitive market. The new stores aim to capitalize on existing brand recognition while testing a new retail format. Concerns remain about whether customers will choose these stores over established competitors like Amazon. Companies mentioned in this episode: Bed Bath and Beyond Kirkland's Home Depot Zulily Overstock Container Store For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/k5dEe64NBUE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 26, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Lakshman Lakshmanan and Chris Creyts discuss: This podcast episode dives into the intersection of retail and entertainment, focusing on horror movies set in retail environments, with Chris Creyts leading the discussion. Anne shares her pick, "Bad Santa," and provides an intriguing behind-the-scenes fact about Billy Bob Thornton's performance. The conversation then shifts to a lighter topic as they explore food preferences in space, with Anne advocating for Quest Protein chips and Lakshman championing Doritos. Halloween candy rankings stir up some debate, especially when Lakshman's surprising choice of Hershey's Kisses takes center stage. The episode concludes with a humorous critique of LinkedIn posts, highlighting the oddities of office-themed memes that have no place in a professional networking space, showcasing the group's shared frustrations with social media content. Takeaways: Chris Creyts and Anne discussed their favorite movies filmed in retail settings, with Anne choosing 'Bad Santa'. Anne shared an interesting fact about 'Bad Santa' that Billy Bob Thornton was actually drunk during filming. Doritos recently made headlines with their first ad filmed in space, featuring crunching sounds from astronauts. Lakshman posed the question of what food would be taken into space, leading to a discussion on chips. Anne recommended Quest Protein chips as a nutritious alternative to Doritos, claiming they taste similar. The podcast delved into Halloween candy preferences, revealing that Hershey's Kisses ranked surprisingly high for one participant. Companies mentioned in this episode: Doritos Quest For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/k5dEe64NBUE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 26, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Lakshman Lakshmanan and Chris Creyts discuss: Chick-fil-A is set to launch its own entertainment app on November 18th, featuring original animated shows, scripted podcasts, games, recipes, and cooking tutorials aimed at families. The hosts discuss the implications of this move, exploring whether Chick-fil-A can successfully engage the next generation of consumers through digital content. While some express enthusiasm for the brand's innovative approach, others raise concerns about competing in a crowded digital landscape against platforms like TikTok and YouTube. The conversation delves into the potential benefits of increased customer engagement and restaurant traffic, highlighting how this strategy might enhance the brand's connection with younger audiences. Ultimately, the hosts debate the merits of this initiative and whether it could position Chick-fil-A ahead of its competitors in a rapidly evolving retail environment. Chick-fil-A is set to launch its own family-friendly entertainment app, a significant pivot for the fast-food giant that is traditionally known for its chicken sandwiches rather than content creation. The new app, scheduled for release on November 18th, will feature original animated shows, scripted podcasts, games, recipes, and ebooks, all tailored for families. Key highlights of this initiative include the debut of the animated series "Legends of Evergreen Hills," which follows the adventures of protagonist Sam in a fantasy realm, as well as a scripted podcast titled "Hidden Island," centered around a family marooned on a deserted island. This move is seen as a strategy to adapt to changing consumer behavior, particularly as families increasingly seek entertainment options that can be accessed during dining experiences or at home. The discussion among the podcast hosts delves into the implications of this venture, questioning whether Chick-fil-A can effectively engage its audience in a highly competitive digital landscape dominated by platforms like TikTok and YouTube. A critical aspect of the conversation examines the potential impact of the app on customer engagement. The hosts speculate that by integrating entertainment into the dining experience, Chick-fil-A could enhance customer retention and increase the time families spend in their restaurants. This strategy is particularly relevant as many fast-food chains are moving away from play areas and traditional family dining experiences. The hosts draw parallels with Procter & Gamble's historical foray into branded content, pondering whether Chick-fil-A can emulate this success by connecting with younger generations through digital media. The podcast suggests that while the concept is intriguing, its success will largely depend on the execution and the ability to create compelling content that resonates with the target audience without feeling overly commercial. The episode also raises questions about the sustainability of such ventures in the long run. As the conversation unfolds, the hosts express skepticism about the effectiveness of launching a standalone app, emphasizing the challenge of attracting users who are already inundated with entertainment options. They argue that integrating content within the existing Chick-fil-A app might be a more strategic move, allowing the brand to leverage its already loyal customer base while seamlessly introducing entertainment. Overall, the podcast provides a nuanced exploration of Chick-fil-A's innovative approach to customer engagement through digital content, weighing the potential benefits against the challenges of a crowded media landscape and shifting consumer expectations. Takeaways: Chick Fil A is launching an entertainment app focused on family-friendly programming and content. The app will feature original animated shows, podcasts, games, and cooking tutorials for kids. Experts debate whether Chick Fil A can successfully compete against existing entertainment platforms like TikTok. The initiative reflects a shift in family dining experiences, moving to digital engagement. There are concerns about the heavy investment required to produce content for the new app. Some believe Chick Fil A should integrate this content into their existing app instead. Links referenced in this episode: cnbc.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Chick Fil A Procter and Gamble McDonald's Walmart For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/k5dEe64NBUE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 26, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Lakshman Lakshmanan and Chris Creyts discuss: Buy Buy Baby is set to close all of its physical stores less than a year after its launch, transitioning to an online-only model. This decision comes amid a challenging retail landscape for baby products, characterized by declining birth rates and fierce competition from major retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart. The podcast features insights from Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guests Lakshman Lakshmanan and Chris Creyts, who discuss the implications of Buy Buy Baby's shift and whether a successful baby business can thrive without a physical presence. They explore how influencers have changed consumer behaviors and the commoditization of baby products, making it harder for standalone brands to compete. Ultimately, the conversation raises concerns about the viability of the baby retail market and suggests potential strategies for adapting to these challenges. Takeaways: Buy Buy Baby is transitioning to an online-only model, closing all physical stores by year-end. The closure reflects the challenges physical retailers face in the saturated baby market. Influencers and social media are now primary sources of product information for new parents. The declining birth rates present significant challenges for businesses in the baby product sector. Retail experts suggest that partnerships with established retailers could provide strategic benefits for Buy Buy Baby. The market is dominated by major players like Amazon, Target, and Walmart, leaving little room for smaller competitors. Companies mentioned in this episode: Buy Buy Baby Dream On Me Amazon Target Walmart Kohl's Babies R Us Gymboree Carter's Once Upon a Child Container Store Kirkland's Ikea For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/k5dEe64NBUE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 26, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Lakshman Lakshmanan and Chris Creyts discuss: Amazon's latest venture into the grocery sector is a new small format store called Amazon Grocery, launched in downtown Chicago. This store, featuring around 3,500 products, aims to provide convenience for customers looking to make quick grocery trips while also offering national grocery brands that Whole Foods does not carry. The hosts discuss the perplexing nature of Amazon's grocery strategy, questioning whether this new concept adds clarity or just complicates the existing landscape of Amazon's grocery offerings. They explore the potential implications of co-locating Amazon Grocery with Whole Foods and debate whether this experiment could ultimately lead to the erosion of the Whole Foods brand. The conversation reveals contrasting perspectives on the effectiveness of this approach, highlighting skepticism about its long-term viability and the challenges Amazon faces in the competitive grocery market. Amazon is venturing into a new grocery store format with its recent launch of a small-format grocery store in downtown Chicago, dubbed 'Amazon Grocery.' This store spans 3,800 square feet and is strategically located within a building that also houses a Whole Foods. The concept features around 3,500 products, focusing on quick grocery runs and essentials that complement the offerings at Whole Foods. The podcast delves into the implications of this new venture, questioning Amazon's overarching grocery strategy and how this new store fits into their existing ecosystem. The discussion highlights the challenges of co-locating a grocery store with Whole Foods, raising concerns about potential cannibalization of sales and the complexities of offering national brands alongside Whole Foods' private labels. The participants express skepticism about whether this new concept can effectively serve its target demographic—a younger, urban clientele seeking convenience and variety—without diluting the brand identity of both Amazon Grocery and Whole Foods. Takeaways: Amazon is experimenting with a new grocery store format in downtown Chicago, called Amazon Grocery. This new store concept is a small format with around 3,500 products, focusing on convenience. The strategic placement next to Whole Foods raises questions about competition and customer behavior. Experts debate whether this format will succeed or if it complicates Amazon's grocery strategy. Many see this as an experiment to integrate national brands alongside Whole Foods offerings. There's skepticism about the long-term viability of the Amazon Grocery concept in the market. Companies mentioned in this episode: Amazon Whole Foods Amazon Fresh Amazon Go 711 Sprouts Kroger Target Walmart Safeway Albertsons For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/k5dEe64NBUE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 26, 2024
In this Fast Five Short, Anne and Chris are joined by A&M CRG's Lakshman Lakshmanan and Chris Creyts to discuss how Walmart has launched a same-day prescription delivery service, aiming to reach 49 states and cover over 86% of U.S. households by the end of January. This innovative move allows customers to combine their grocery and medication orders, creating convenience for Walmart Plus members. The podcast discusses the potential impact of this service on traditional pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, which currently hold significant market share. As Walmart expands its pharmacy offerings, experts highlight the competitive landscape, noting that both Walmart and Amazon are vying for a larger share of the prescription market. The conversation emphasizes Walmart's strategic response to customer demand and the implications for the future of pharmacy retail. Walmart's recent announcement of a same-day prescription delivery service marks a significant shift in the retail pharmacy landscape. Starting with the ability to deliver prescriptions in as little as 30 minutes, this service is set to be available across 49 states and aims to cover more than 86% of U.S. households by the end of January. Walmart's strategy allows customers to combine their grocery and medication orders, particularly benefiting Walmart Plus members who will enjoy this service for free. This initiative not only positions Walmart as a competitive player in the pharmacy market but also highlights the growing demand for convenience in healthcare delivery. The discussion delves into the implications for traditional pharmacy giants like Walgreens and CVS, who currently dominate the market with significant shares. While Walmart holds only 5% of the prescription market, the speakers analyze how this move could potentially erode that dominance, especially considering that 90% of households live within 10 miles of a Walmart pharmacy. The conversation uncovers concerns about the future of these established pharmacies as they face increasing pressure from not only Walmart but also Amazon, which is expanding its pharmacy services. As the episode progresses, the speakers emphasize the importance of understanding customer needs. Walmart's decision to implement this service was driven by feedback from customers who expressed a desire for integrated grocery and prescription delivery. This customer-centric approach is contrasted with the reactive strategies of other retailers that often focus on what competitors are doing rather than what consumers want. The insights shared in this episode underline the evolving dynamics of retail pharmacy, highlighting the need for innovation and adaptability in an increasingly competitive market. Takeaways: Walmart's new same day prescription delivery service aims to reach 90% of US households within weeks. The move poses a competitive threat to CVS and Walgreens, who dominate the pharmacy market. Walmart's pharmacy market share is currently low, indicating significant growth potential for the company. Customers can now combine grocery and prescription deliveries, enhancing Walmart Plus membership value. Amazon is also expanding its pharmacy services, increasing competition in the prescription delivery market. Walmart's focus on customer feedback led to the launch of sought-after delivery options for prescriptions. Companies mentioned in this episode: Walmart CVS Walgreens Amazon Target For the full episode sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital head here: https://youtu.be/k5dEe64NBUEhttps://youtu.be/XlWTHMPWRDU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 23, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , A&M’s Lakshman Lakshmanan and Chris Creyts, joined Chris and Anne to discuss: The wide-ranging significance of Walmart offering same-day prescription delivery and making it free for Walmart+ members ( Source ) Amazon’s new “Amazon Grocery” store in Chicago and how it fits into Amazon’s growing ever more confusing grocery strategy ( Source ) If U.S. consumers really need a new, smaller incarnation of a Bed Bath & Beyond store ( Source ) BuyBuy Baby shuttering all its stores and whether going it alone via online is a good long-term solution ( Source ) And closed with an examination of why in the world Chick-fil-A would launch a new entertainment app ( Source ) There’s all that, plus we rank Halloween candy, discuss which food we would most like to bring with us into space, and pay homage to the LinkedIn Lunatics subreddit! P.S. Join us at Manifest: The Future of Supply Chain & Logistics conference in February where 300+ thought leaders will share their insights in over 130 engaging sessions! View the just announced agenda & SAVE $200 on the current registration rate ($800 off the on-site rate!) by visiting ManifestVegas.com/SaveWithOmniTalk . P.P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Apple Podcasts and on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 21, 2024
In this debut episode of Omni Talk Retail's new podcast series, highlighting investor perspectives on retail and consumer trends, Chris and Anne interview Karl Bracken, Founder and CEO of Ocampo Capital. Karl shares insights into the venture capital landscape for retail and consumer goods startups, touching on leadership, differentiated IP, and the importance of omnichannel strategies. He also highlights key challenges in today’s market, including the over-reliance on AI trends. Key moments include: 2:22 Karl’s career background and shift to VC 10:50 Lessons from DTC and Amazon aggregators 16:32 Raising funds in today’s environment 27:59 Emerging trends: AI and upcycled products 35:45 Investing Words of Wisdom #venturecapital #retailinvestors #consumergoods #startupadvice #entrepreneurship Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 19, 2024
In this Fast Five Short we discuss in our Lightning round how Walmart's recent hiring of a full-time meteorologist sparks a nostalgic conversation about childhood dreams and career aspirations. As the hosts explore their early ambitions, one reveals a love for meteorology rooted in a childhood fear of storms combined with a passion for retail. This lighthearted exchange transitions into a spirited debate about the best fried chicken restaurants, with Popeyes emerging as the clear favorite for one host, much to the surprise of the other who has never tried it. The discussion also touches on the upcoming Black Friday shopping season, highlighting Target's exclusive Taylor Swift merchandise and the discerning habits of shoppers. Finally, the hosts delve into the growing trend of meat snacks, contemplating their personal preferences and experiences with jerky and meat sticks, revealing a humorous take on the textures and flavors that appeal to them. Takeaways: Walmart's recent hiring of a full-time meteorologist highlights the intersection of retail and meteorology. Anne's childhood aspiration to be a meteorologist stemmed from a love for storms and retail. Chris reminisced about wanting to be a columnist like Mike Royko during their youth. Both speakers discuss their preferences for fried chicken, with Popeyes being the clear favorite. The conversation shifted to Black Friday deals, specifically Target's exclusive Taylor Swift merchandise. They also debated the appeal of meat sticks as a snack, revealing differing opinions on texture. Companies mentioned in this episode: Walmart KFC Popeyes Chick-fil-A Raising Cane's McDonald's Target Taylor Swift Thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital for making this episode possible For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/T_30gGTzlZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 19, 2024
In this Fast Five Short, we discuss how Amazon is testing a new concept by integrating micro fulfillment centers into Whole Foods, allowing shoppers to order items online while in-store and pick them up at checkout. This strategy aims to consolidate shopping trips and expand the range of products available to Whole Foods customers, including popular brands not typically found in the store. However, the discussion raises critical questions about the potential impact on customer behavior, with predictions that it may lead to fewer visits to Whole Foods by its regular shoppers. The conversation delves into the implications of this shift on Whole Foods' overall viability and its long-term future under Amazon's ownership. Ultimately, the hosts consider whether this approach will enhance the shopping experience or diminish it by forcing consumers into a more fragmented purchasing process. Amazon's innovative approach to grocery shopping is being tested with the integration of micro fulfillment centers at Whole Foods locations. This strategic move aims to enhance the shopping experience by allowing customers to order from Amazon's extensive product catalog while shopping in-store at Whole Foods. The pilot program in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, promises to combine the convenience of online shopping with the tactile experience of browsing physical grocery aisles. Shoppers can order popular items that Whole Foods does not traditionally stock, such as family favorites from Pepsi and Kellogg's. The discussion delves into the implications of this model, questioning whether it will attract non-Whole Foods shoppers to the store or simply reduce the frequency of visits from existing Whole Foods customers to other grocery retailers. As the hosts explore these dynamics, they ponder the potential impact on Whole Foods' brand and market position, including concerns about diminishing in-store experiences and the risk of alienating loyal customers who value the curated shopping atmosphere. Takeaways: Amazon is testing robot warehouses at Whole Foods to streamline shopping and pickup experiences. The new micro fulfillment center in Pennsylvania will allow shoppers to order online items while in-store. This strategy could reduce shopping trips to other grocery retailers for Whole Foods shoppers. Concerns arise about the practicality of ordering products like soda while browsing in-store. The addition of mini warehouses questions the merchandising of products in Whole Foods stores. A potential outcome of this strategy could be the decline of Whole Foods as a brand. Companies mentioned in this episode: Amazon Whole Foods Pepsi Kellogg Coca Cola Doritos Thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital for making this episode possible For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/T_30gGTzlZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 19, 2024
In this Fast Five Short we discuss how JD Sports has recently launched a new pre-owned shoe shopping platform called Rejd, aiming to provide consumers with significant discounts on gently used footwear. This initiative positions JD Sports uniquely in the aftermarket space as one of the few retail-owned platforms, rather than being brand-led. While the concept has potential, concerns arise about profitability, as similar resale platforms have struggled to maintain sustainable business models. The discussion highlights the challenges of managing inventory and logistics in the resale market, questioning how JD Sports can ensure financial success in this competitive landscape. Ultimately, the hosts recognize JD Sports' innovative approaches and their growing presence in the U.S. retail market, suggesting that they are a brand to watch as they navigate this evolving space. The launch of Rejd by JD Sports signifies a transformative step toward sustainable retail, providing consumers with an opportunity to buy pre-owned shoes at attractive prices. This initiative distinguishes JD Sports from other retailers, as it is one of the few to embrace an aftermarket platform not directly tied to a specific sneaker brand. Through Rejd, JD Sports aims to offer a wide variety of footwear options, ranging from casual sandals to high-performance shoes, ensuring that they cater to diverse consumer needs. Each product undergoes a thorough inspection and cleaning process, along with a grading system that informs buyers about the shoe's condition, enhancing the shopping experience and building trust in the quality of pre-owned items. The discussion explores both the excitement and the apprehensions surrounding JD Sports' new venture. Speaker B shares insights on the potential advantages, particularly JD's access to data from original shoe purchases, which could streamline the resale process and reduce waste by reintroducing products into the market. However, the conversation also addresses the precarious nature of profitability in the resale sector, citing challenges faced by platforms like ThredUp and Depop. The speakers delve into the economics of inventory management, questioning whether JD Sports can maintain a profitable balance while holding stock and managing returns. This tension reflects broader issues within the resale industry, as companies grapple with the implications of sustainability versus financial viability. As the episode unfolds, it becomes evident that JD Sports is not just testing the waters; they are making bold moves in the retail space. The speakers acknowledge the need for JD to remain operationally vigilant as they innovate and expand their offerings. With a proactive leadership team and a commitment to exploring new retail strategies, JD Sports stands at the forefront of potential change in the footwear market. Their willingness to experiment with new concepts like Rejd could position them as leaders in a sector that demands creativity and adaptability, fostering a retail environment that embraces both sustainability and profitability. Takeaways: JD Sports launched Rejd, a platform for pre-owned shoes at discounted prices. Rejd stands out as a retailer-owned resale platform, unlike typical sneaker brand outlets. All shoes on Rejd undergo inspection and cleaning, ensuring quality for buyers. There's concern about profitability for JD Sports' Rejd amidst struggles in resale markets. The model involves managing returned products, raising questions about long-term financial viability. JD Sports is taking innovative approaches in retail, aiming to differentiate itself in the market. Companies mentioned in this episode: JD Sports Nike New Balance thredup Depop Realreal Arrive Recommerce Thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital for making this episode possible For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/T_30gGTzlZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 19, 2024
In this Fast Five Short we discuss how Amazon is taking a significant step in enhancing the grocery shopping experience for Prime members by allowing them to combine purchases from Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods into a single cart for convenient delivery. This new feature, currently being piloted in Phoenix, offers customers the ability to shop for essentials and have their orders delivered together, tapping into the same-day delivery model that many consumers have come to expect. The conversation explores the implications of this change, particularly in the context of competition with retailers like Walmart, which has already streamlined its grocery shopping experience. Both speakers express curiosity about why it took Amazon so long to implement this feature, questioning its potential benefits for customers versus Amazon's logistical advantages. As they discuss the nuances of the shopping experience, they highlight the importance of making grocery shopping more efficient and accessible for consumers, while pondering the challenges that may arise from differentiating delivery charges and services. Takeaways: Amazon is integrating grocery shopping with its regular marketplace to enhance user experience. The new feature allows Prime members to find grocery items and other products in one cart. Retailers like Walmart may be threatened by Amazon's new grocery delivery capabilities. This consolidated shopping experience could simplify the process for customers looking to save time. Amazon's strategy appears to be a response to growing competition in the grocery e-commerce space. Understanding the delivery fees for groceries versus regular items may become complex for users. Companies mentioned in this episode: Amazon Amazon Fresh Whole Foods Walmart Target Costco Thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital for making this episode possible For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/T_30gGTzlZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 19, 2024
In this Fast Five Short we discuss Google Shopping has announced significant changes aimed at enhancing the online shopping experience through the integration of AI and more personalized features. The new updates include AI-generated briefs that help consumers make informed decisions when searching for products, like winter jackets suitable for specific climates. Additionally, the platform will offer dynamic filters for better product selection and a personalized deals page that simplifies deal discovery. The discussion highlights how these changes may alter consumer behavior by improving the search process and enabling more effective product discovery compared to traditional methods. The hosts also explore the implications for retailers, emphasizing the necessity of adapting to these evolving search dynamics to maintain competitiveness in the market. The recent updates to Google Shopping reflect a significant shift in how consumers will approach online shopping. With the integration of AI technology, the platform now offers personalized shopping experiences that cater to individual needs. For instance, if a user searches for a 'men's winter jacket for Seattle,' Google's new features will provide an AI-generated brief highlighting critical considerations for purchasing based on the local climate. This contextual information enhances the shopping process, as it not only presents product options but also informs consumers about what to look for in their purchases. The episode intricately discusses how these changes will not only improve user experience but also redefine the competitive landscape of e-commerce. As the conversation unfolds, the hosts dive into the mechanics behind these new features, including organized product categories and dynamic filters. These tools empower consumers to refine their searches based on specific preferences such as size and availability, transforming the way they navigate the online shopping experience. The introduction of a dedicated deals page is another exciting addition, allowing users to browse personalized offers that can influence their buying behavior. The episode emphasizes the importance of these innovations for retailers, urging them to adapt their online strategies to meet the new expectations set by these advancements. Toward the end of the discussion, the hosts tackle the relationship between Google Shopping and Google Lens, comparing the potential impacts of both features. While Google Lens has been heralded for its visual search capabilities, it becomes clear that the enhancements to Google Shopping may have broader implications for the retail sector. The hosts argue that these updates signal a transformative period for online shopping, with the potential to redefine consumer behavior and expectations. Retailers are encouraged to embrace these changes, as failing to do so could result in losing ground to competitors who are quick to adapt to the new landscape. Takeaways: Google Shopping is introducing AI-driven features to enhance the shopping experience for users. Users will benefit from personalized deal pages that help them find relevant discounts easily. Dynamic filters will enable shoppers to narrow down product searches based on specific preferences. The integration of credible source material alongside product searches will improve the shopping process. Retailers must adapt their strategies to align with changing consumer search behaviors on Google. Google's approach to shopping emphasizes discovery, potentially reshaping how consumers engage with eCommerce. Links referenced in this episode: google.com/shopping Companies mentioned in this episode: Google Amazon Target Thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital for making this episode possible For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/T_30gGTzlZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 19, 2024
Grabango has officially shut down, marking a significant moment for the future of fixed-position camera-based automated checkout systems. The podcast discusses the implications of this closure, particularly in light of the fact that Grabango's technology, which was aimed at offering a checkout-free shopping experience, struggled to gain traction despite its innovative approach. Speakers analyze how the perceived value of simply walking out of a store without checking out may not be enough for consumers to choose such technologies over more established solutions. They also emphasize a shift in retail technology investments towards more cost-effective options like in-store robotics, which could lead to a decline in interest for just walk-out systems. As the conversation unfolds, they reflect on recent trends in the industry, including Amazon's own setbacks with similar technologies, suggesting a broader reevaluation of the automated checkout landscape. Takeaways: Grabango has permanently ceased operations, highlighting challenges in automated checkout technology. The shutdown of Grabango raises questions about the viability of camera-based checkout systems. Retailers may prioritize lower-cost solutions like robotics instead of complex camera systems. The trend towards in-store robotics is expected to intensify following Grabango's exit from the market. Amazon's criticisms of its own just walk out tech suggest a broader industry reevaluation. Retailers are focusing on technologies that directly impact their core business and profitability. Companies mentioned in this episode: Grabango Aldi Amazon Instacart Sam's Club Thanks to the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital for making this episode possible For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/T_30gGTzlZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 19, 2024
In this exclusive podcast episode from Omni Talk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga join Shoptalk’s Joe Laszlo, Ben Miller and Alexa Tietjen, for a game show-style recap of all the key takeaways from Shoptalk Fall 2024 in front of the live conference audience, replete with tuxedos, buzzers, and amazing puns! Key topics covered include: The overall the state of the retail industry right now The rise of “Unified Commerce” How retailers are continuing to optimize their product assortments The renewed emphasis on team development The most pressing growth opportunities across the industry Loyalty, loyalty, and more loyalty AI and data strategies And the most interesting thing the panel learned off-stage, away from the planned conference content So, give it a listen, plug it into ChatGPT, and recap the conference for your team like a boss! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live at Shoptalk Fall 2024, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Sarah Post, VP of Interconnected Experiences at Home Depot. Key highlights include: [ 1:00 ] Sarah Post explains the role of interconnected experiences at Home Depot [ 2:50 ] How Home Depot caters to both DIYers and pros [ 3:50 ] Key advice for retailers looking to enhance their unified commerce strategy [ 4:30 ] Exciting holiday product launches, including viral Christmas trees and the iconic 12-foot skeleton [ 5:50 ] Home Depot’s approach to digital transformation in retail Thanks to Narvar and Microsoft for making all of Omni Talk Retail's Shoptalk Fall coverage possible. Visit Narvar at booth L45 or at Navar.com & Checkout Microsoft at aka.ms/AIatMicrosoft #shoptalk #retailinnovation #holidayshopping #unifiedcommerce #aiinretail #retailtechnology #homedepot This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18, 2024
In this interview recorded live at Shoptalk Fall 2024, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview David Morin, VP of Customer Strategy at Narvar, about the importance of post-purchase intelligence in retail. Key highlights include: [ 2:00 ] How Narvar empowers over 1,500 retailers with data-driven post-purchase solutions [ 4:10 ] Discussion on delivery estimates, return policies, and enhancing customer satisfaction [ 8:00 ] The role of post-purchase in unified commerce [ 10:20 ] Preparing for holiday season logistics and return strategies. Thanks to Narvar and Microsoft for making all of Omni Talk Retail's Shoptalk Fall coverage possible. Visit Narvar at booth L45 or at Narvar.com & Checkout Microsoft at aka.ms/AIatMicrosoft #Shoptalk2024 #retailinnovation #postpurchase #customerexperience #logistics #holidayshopping #unifiedcommerce #aiinretail #retailtechnology This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live at Shoptalk Fall 2024, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Lauri Joffe, Chief Marketing Officer at American Freight. Key moments include: [ 1:00 ] Lori introduces American Freight and her role as CMO [ 2:30 ] The importance of unified commerce for consistent customer experience across stores and online [ 4:10 ] How traffic counting and conversion metrics help unify e-commerce and stores [ 6:00 ] The role of data in understanding customer behavior [ 8:00 ] American Freight’s brand refresh and fun Q4 initiatives [ 9:50 ] What to expect for 2024 in the home furnishings industry Thanks to Narvar and Microsoft for making all of Omni Talk Retail's Shoptalk Fall coverage possible. Visit Narvar at booth L45 or at Navar.com & Checkout Microsoft at aka.ms/AIatMicrosoft #shoptalk #retailinnovation #holidayshopping #unifiedcommerce #retailtechnology #americanfreight #homefurniture This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live at Shoptalk Fall, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Emily Erusha-Hilleque, Senior Vice President of Private Brands at Macy’s. Key highlights include: [ 1:00 ] Emily discusses her role in overseeing Macy’s private brands [ 3:00 ] The seamless integration of private and national brands across digital and physical channels [ 4:30 ] Insights on new private brands On 34th, State of Day, and Mode of One [ 6:10 ] The growing influence of digital sales and how Macy’s tailors assortments online [ 7:20 ] Macy’s holiday collection highlights, including cashmere, beauty, and home decor Thanks to Narvar and Microsoft for making all of Omni Talk Retail's Shoptalk Fall coverage possible. Visit Narvar at booth L45 or at Navar.com & Checkout Microsoft at aka.ms/AIAtMicrosoft #shoptalk #retailinnovation #holidayshopping #unifiedcommerce #apparel #retailtechnology #macys #privatelabel This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live at Shoptalk 2024, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Denise Incandela, EVP of the Fashion Division at Walmart U.S. Key moments include: [ 1:00 ] Denise explains her role overseeing Walmart’s fashion division [ 3:40 ] Walmart’s strategy to expand national and private brands like Scoop and Free Assembly [ 5:50 ] How digital data informs Walmart’s assortment and store strategies [ 8:30 ] Walmart’s partnership with StockX and luxury brands like Chanel and Coach [ 10:20 ] The impact of store remodels on customer perception [ 12:00 ] Walmart’s focus on influencers and digital platforms like Roblox [ 14:00 ] Looking ahead to spring fashion and exciting brand relaunches Thanks to Narvar and Microsoft for making all of Omni Talk Retail's Shoptalk Fall coverage possible. Visit Narvar at booth L45 or at Navar.com & Checkout Microsoft at aka.ms/AIatMicrosoft #shoptalk #retailinnovation #holidayshopping #unifiedcommerce #retailtechnology #walmart #fashionstyle This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18, 2024
In this interview recorded live from Shoptalk Fall 2024, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga from Omni Talk interview Margaret Synan, Azure Sales Director at Microsoft. Key moments include: [ 1:00 ] Overview of the Azure platform’s role in retail [ 2:40 ] Key retail innovations through data-driven AI [ 3:50 ] Improving customer journey and personalization with AI [ 5:00 ] Unified commerce and how Microsoft helps retailers enhance store operations [ 6:20 ] Microsoft’s upcoming Ignite event and holiday season expectations [ 7:30 ] How generative AI is transforming retail [ 7:50 ] Challenges and progress in AI adoption across retail sectors Thanks to Narvar and Microsoft for making all of Omni Talk Retail's Shoptalk Fall coverage possible. Visit Narvar at booth L45 or at Navar.com & Checkout Microsoft at aka.ms/AIatMicrosoft #Shoptalk2024 #retailinnovation #unifiedcommerce #aiinretail #retailtechnology #microsoft #azure This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 16, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Chris and Anne took to the Windy City to discuss: Grabango calling it quits and what it means for the future of Just Walk Out-like tech ( Source ) Exciting new AI updates from Google Shopping ( Source ) Amazon’s decision to unify its e-commerce efforts across Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods ( Source ) JD Sports new reJD resale effort ( Source ) And closed with a look at why Amazon adding a microwarehouse to a Whole Foods in Pennsylvania could be a horrible idea for Whole Foods shoppers in the long-run ( Source ) There’s all that, plus childhood career dreams, a ranking of quick-serve fried chicken restaurants, and when was the last time Anne snapped into a Slim Jim. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 14, 2024
In this Fast Five Short we discuss Kroger's recent partnership with Disney marks a significant shift in the retail subscription landscape, as it now offers Disney's streaming options as part of its annual membership plans. This includes complimentary subscriptions to Disney Basic with ads, Hulu with ads, or ESPN Plus for both new and existing members. The discussion explores the competitive implications of this move, particularly for major players like Amazon and Walmart, and highlights how these subscription services could lead to increased customer loyalty. The conversation also touches on the potential challenges regional grocers may face and speculates on the future of retail memberships as more companies seek to enhance their value propositions. As consumer preferences evolve, the episode emphasizes that the real winners may ultimately be the consumers, who stand to benefit from an expanding array of enticing subscription options. Kroger has made a significant move in the retail subscription landscape by incorporating Disney's streaming services into its Boost by Kroger membership. This strategic decision allows members to choose from a complimentary subscription to Disney Basic with ads, Hulu with ads, or ESPN Plus as part of their annual fee. The $99 membership plan is designed to attract both new enrollees and existing members looking for added value in their subscriptions. Additionally, a more accessible $59 plan offers a six-month subscription to the same streaming services, appealing to a broader audience. This partnership with Disney is seen as a major win for Kroger, positioning it as a formidable competitor against giants like Amazon and Walmart, which already offer similar subscription models that include access to extensive content libraries. This move signals a shift in consumer preferences towards bundled services that integrate both retail and entertainment, raising questions about how regional grocers will keep pace with these developments. The implications of such partnerships extend beyond mere consumer offerings; they hint at a future where grocery retailers leverage media content to enhance customer loyalty. As subscription models become more popular, the potential for customer retention increases, making it harder for consumers to switch to competing brands. The conversation also touches on the future of retail subscriptions, with both speakers contemplating what other services could be integrated into these models. The discussion raises interesting points about the direction of services like Walmart Plus and the ongoing evolution of consumer expectations, particularly among younger demographics like Gen Z and Gen Alpha. These groups prioritize experiences and value, suggesting a future where grocery shopping could incorporate elements of hospitality and lifestyle services, further blurring the lines between retail and entertainment. Additionally, the episode delves into the competitive landscape of retail subscriptions, highlighting how companies like Target may need to rethink their strategies to remain relevant. As Kroger enhances its offerings with Disney's vast content portfolio, the pressure mounts on other retailers to find unique partnerships or services that can differentiate them in a crowded market. The speakers express curiosity about how Target will respond and what additional streaming or media content they could potentially offer. This episode underscores the significance of innovation in the subscription space, as retailers vie for consumer attention and loyalty in an increasingly digital world. Companies mentioned in this episode: Kroger Disney Hulu ESPN Amazon Walmart Paramount Netflix Albertsons PBS This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 14, 2024
In this Fast Five Short we discuss how Google has introduced exciting new shoppable visual search features in Google Lens just in time for the holiday shopping season. The update allows users to easily identify products in photos and access comprehensive information, including pricing, deals, and reviews, all from one platform. With the new "circle to search" feature, consumers can seamlessly transition from browsing social media or watching videos to shopping with just a few taps. The hosts discuss how these advancements could significantly alter the way consumers shop for gifts and everyday items, potentially shifting market dynamics away from traditional retailers like Amazon. They emphasize the importance of retailers investing in this technology to ensure that their products are easily discoverable through visual search, highlighting a transformative moment in digital commerce. Google's latest enhancements to its Lens visual search technology are set to revolutionize the way consumers shop online, particularly during the bustling holiday season. The podcast dives deep into these new features, which allow users to take photos of products and instantly receive comprehensive information about pricing and availability. The ability to search visually is becoming increasingly important, as evidenced by the significant percentage of shopping-related searches being conducted through Google Lens. Among the new functionalities, the 'circle to search' feature stands out as a game-changer. This tool enables users to easily transition from casual browsing to focused shopping without the hassle of switching apps. The hosts express their excitement about how this capability allows for a seamless shopping experience, where consumers can quickly find what they like in their everyday lives, whether it's a trendy jacket or a unique piece of furniture. They share their own experiences with visual search, illustrating not only the convenience but also the potential for discovering new products that align with personal tastes. Furthermore, the podcast addresses the competitive landscape, highlighting the rivalry between Google and Amazon in the realm of digital commerce. The hosts speculate on the long-term implications of Google's advancements, suggesting that its ability to gather and present information from a wide array of retailers may compel consumers to favor Google over Amazon for their shopping needs. As visual search technology continues to evolve, retailers will need to adapt quickly to these changes, ensuring their products are accessible and easily searchable. The ongoing dialogue about the future of online shopping sets the stage for significant transformations in how consumers engage with retail, making this a timely and relevant topic. Takeaways: Google Lens is integrating new shopping features to enhance visual search capabilities, especially for holiday shopping. With Lens, users can now search for products using images and text simultaneously for better results. The introduction of 'circle to search' allows seamless transitions from browsing to image-based shopping. Retailers are adapting rapidly to changes in consumer search behaviors driven by Google Lens innovations. The competition between Google and Amazon for e-commerce dominance is becoming increasingly intense. The success of Google Lens will depend heavily on how retailers optimize their product visibility online. Companies mentioned in this episode: Google Amazon Walmart Best Buy YouTube TikTok This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 14, 2024
In this Fast Five Short We discuss why Whole Foods has decided not to implement Amazon's Just Walk Out technology in its daily shops, signaling potential challenges for the future of this technology in grocery retail. Christina Minardi, Whole Foods' executive vice president, described the system as cumbersome and inflexible, particularly in a retail environment that requires frequent changes. This raises questions about the viability of Just Walk Out as a competitive advantage, especially when more flexible alternatives like scan-and-go systems are emerging. The discussion highlights a broader uncertainty regarding Amazon's grocery strategy and the effectiveness of its current offerings compared to traditional retailers like Walmart. As the grocery landscape evolves, the need for adaptable and cost-effective solutions becomes increasingly critical. The episode discusses the significant decision by Whole Foods to exclude Amazon's Just Walk Out technology from its daily shops, highlighting the challenges and limitations associated with its implementation in grocery retail. Christina Minardi, an executive at Whole Foods, articulated that the technology, while innovative, is not suitable for a retail space that frequently changes products and displays. The dialogue focuses on how the cumbersome nature of the technology may hinder its adoption in a grocery setting, where flexibility and adaptability are paramount. The hosts contemplate whether this decision signals a broader trend away from automated checkout systems in grocery stores and what it means for the future of retail technology overall. As the discussion unfolds, the hosts emphasize the increasing importance of flexibility in grocery shopping environments, suggesting that the high costs and complexity of Just Walk Out technology may deter other retailers from pursuing similar paths. They also explore alternative technologies such as robotics and scan-and-go systems that could offer retailers the insights needed to manage inventory more effectively without the burdensome infrastructure of camera systems. The episode provides a rich analysis of the technological landscape in grocery retail and considers how retailers must adapt to meet evolving consumer expectations. In addition to examining the implications of Whole Foods' decision, the podcast also scrutinizes Amazon's overall grocery strategy. The hosts express concerns about the lack of clarity in Amazon's approach, especially following a recent presentation that left them more confused than informed. They critique the idea that grocery shopping has become more complicated, arguing instead that the multitude of options available today simplifies the process for consumers. By questioning the logic behind opening more physical stores to simplify shopping, the episode encourages listeners to think critically about the strategies retailers are employing to capture market share in an increasingly competitive landscape. Takeaways: Whole Foods' daily shops will not utilize Amazon's Just Walk Out technology due to flexibility concerns. Christina Minardi described Just Walk Out technology as cumbersome and ill-suited for frequently changing displays. The limitations of the current Just Walk Out technology may signal its decline in grocery retail. Grocery retailers are exploring alternative technologies that offer more flexibility than Amazon's system. There's skepticism about Amazon's grocery strategy and whether it effectively meets customer needs. The debate continues about the practicality of grocery shopping evolution amidst many competing options. Companies mentioned in this episode: Whole Foods Amazon Walmart BJ's Schnucks For the full episode, sponsored by the the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Ownit AI, Avalara, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, head here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0O2k1chOTM&t=501s This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 14, 2024
In this Fast Five Short we discuss how Instacart has introduced new features for its smart shopping carts, including gamification, location-based coupons, and aisle-aware advertising. These enhancements aim to transform grocery shopping into a more engaging experience, encouraging consumers to embrace smart carts. The discussion delves into whether gamification can effectively motivate shoppers to adopt these new technologies and make their grocery trips more enjoyable. As the hosts share insights from their interview with Instacart's chief connected stores officer, they explore the challenges of achieving mass adoption and the potential benefits for both consumers and retailers. Ultimately, the conversation raises questions about the future of grocery shopping technology and how retailers can leverage these innovations to enhance customer experiences. Takeaways: Instacart has introduced gamification and personalized coupons to enhance the grocery shopping experience. The effectiveness of gamification in driving consumer adoption of smart carts remains uncertain. Retailers still face challenges in getting consumers to consistently use smart carts effectively. Instacart's features aim to transform mundane grocery trips into more engaging and enjoyable experiences. The caper cart's adoption is growing, but it still lags behind competitors like Sam's Club. Retail media strategies need upfront capital investment, which can be a barrier for grocers. Companies mentioned in this episode: Instacart Pepsi Sam's Club Grocery Dive For the full episode, sponsored by the the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Ownit AI, Avalara, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, head here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0O2k1chOTM&t=501s This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 14, 2024
In this Fast Five Short, we discuss how Sam's Club is revolutionizing the shopping experience by opening a new store in Grapevine, Texas, that eliminates traditional checkout lines. Instead, customers will utilize a smartphone app called Scan and Go to scan items as they shop, culminating in a streamlined exit through a computer vision-based archway. This innovative approach allows for the display of unique online-only products, like a twelve-foot Christmas tree and a five-carat lab-grown diamond, directly linked to the app for easy access. The store is designed to enhance e-commerce fulfillment, providing staff with significantly more space for preparing curbside pickups and home deliveries. With a membership model that enables them to enforce this new shopping method, Sam's Club is poised to learn from this experiment and adapt to the evolving preferences of tech-savvy consumers, positioning itself ahead of competitors like Costco in the retail landscape. Takeaways: Sam's Club is innovating by opening a store without checkout lines, enhancing the shopping experience. The new store in Grapevine, Texas, emphasizes a tech-savvy approach using a smartphone app. Sam's Club is expanding its e-commerce fulfillment capabilities with a larger area for online orders. The store will feature online-only items, including luxury products that members can access easily. The Scan and Go app will allow customers to shop efficiently, improving overall store operations. This new model positions Sam's Club ahead of competitors like Costco in the digital shopping space. Companies mentioned in this episode: Sam's Club CNBC Amazon Costco Instacart Mercedes For the full episode, sponsored by the the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Ownit AI, Avalara, Mirakl, and Ocampo Capital, head here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0O2k1chOTM&t=501s This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 10, 2024
In this exclusive podcast episode from Omni Talk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga join Groceryshop's Ben Miller and Rocquan Lucas for a rapid fire recap of all the key takeaways from Groceryshop 2024 in front of the live conference audience. Key topics covered include: The overall the state of the Grocery industry right now What’s next for the evolution of the physical grocery store The importance of adjacent revenue streams The best AI use case or case study heard at the conference The technology that excited the panel the most The "Quote of the Show" The most surprising thing from the conference And the most interesting thing the panel learned off-stage, away from the planned conference content So, give it a listen, plug it into ChatGPT, and recap the conference for your team like a boss! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 10, 2024
This week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , was recorded live in front of an audience at Groceryshop. This week Chris and Anne discussed: Sam’s Club’s bold new store concept ( Source ) Instacart adding gamification to its Caper smart cart ( Source ) An Amazon and Whole Foods executive reportedly calling Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology “cumbersome” ( Source ) Google adding new visual search shopping features in time for the holidays ( Source ) And closed with a look at the retail subscription landscape in light of Kroger’s new tie-up with Disney+ ( Source ) Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 9, 2024
Alicia LeBeouf, the Head of retail and E-Commerce at Meta, shares insights on how the company is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance marketing strategies for retailers and brands. During a press breakfast at Groceryshop 2024, LeBeouf discusses the significant role of generative AI in creating personalized marketing experiences and driving return on investment for businesses. She emphasizes the importance of creators in this ecosystem, noting how they connect with brands and facilitate in-store experiences that resonate with consumers. Additionally, LeBeouf also highlights the evolving landscape of retail media networks and Meta's commitment to being a key partner in helping retailers understand and measure their advertising impact. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, the conversation explores the future of retail media and the seamless integration of digital and physical shopping experiences. Takeaways: Meta has been using AI since 2006, significantly impacting product personalization and automation. Alicia LeBeouf emphasizes that creators are central to retail partnerships and enhancing customer engagement. The introduction of new AI tools by Meta focuses on enhancing video content for advertisers. Retail media networks are rapidly evolving, with Meta aiming to support their growth and scalability. AI tools can help creators focus on creativity instead of technical video production tasks. Meta's partnership with retailers allows for a better understanding of customer behavior both online and in stores. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 9, 2024
Join us as we dive into the innovative world of food waste reduction with Mette Lykke, CEO of Too Good To Go. This B Corp certified company connects consumers with food businesses to save surplus food from going to waste, offering a win-win solution for businesses, consumers, and the planet. During the discussion, Mette highlights the environmental impact of food waste—accounting for 10% of greenhouse gas emissions—while emphasizing the importance of awareness and solutions in tackling this pressing issue. The episode takes you through the workings of their platform, including the popular "surprise bag" concept that provides consumers with discounted food items. As Too Good To Go expands into new markets and partners with retailers like Whole Foods, learn how their approach is reshaping the food industry and creating new opportunities for sustainability. Takeaways: Too Good To Go connects consumers with food businesses to reduce food waste effectively. The platform allows users to buy surprise bags of surplus food at significant discounts. Food waste contributes to 10% of greenhouse gas emissions while millions go hungry daily. Retailers benefit from partnering with Too Good To Go through cost savings and customer acquisition. The surprise bag concept offers flexibility for stores while providing consumers with a fun experience. Too Good To Go plans to expand geographically and introduce new solutions in its value chain. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 9, 2024
Dr. Oliver Vogt, the newly appointed CEO of Transcend Retail Solutions (a subsidiary of Tesco), joins hosts Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton to discuss the evolving landscape of e-commerce in grocery retail. The conversation highlights the importance of having a cohesive ecosystem that integrates hardware, software, and processes to ensure successful online operations. Oliver shares insights from his extensive background in logistics and e-commerce, emphasizing that while automation is essential for scaling, manual picking can still be effective for certain volumes. The discussion also touches on the significance of innovation in the grocery sector, noting that it doesn't always have to be large-scale but can be achieved through smaller, incremental changes. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on how retailers can navigate the challenges of the current market and the critical role of partnerships in driving success. Takeaways include: Dr. Oliver Vogt, the new CEO of Transcend Retail Solutions, emphasizes the importance of logistics in grocery e-commerce. A successful e-commerce grocery operation requires a balanced ecosystem of software, hardware, and processes. Manual picking can be effective for lower volume orders, but automation becomes essential at scale. Micro fulfillment is still viable if approached correctly; experience and planning are crucial. Transcend aims to partner with retailers globally to streamline their logistics and fulfillment processes. Understanding customer feedback from both online and in-store experiences is vital for operational improvement. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 9, 2024
This podcast episode features an insightful conversation with Kristi Argyilan, the Senior Vice President of Retail Media at Albertsons Media Collective, who discusses the evolving landscape of retail media and the innovative initiatives being undertaken by her team. Kristi Argyilan shares her journey from the advertising world to leading retail media efforts, emphasizing the importance of leveraging first-party data to enhance digital marketing strategies. The discussion delves into Albertsons' unique approach to Collective TV, highlighting how it integrates various media solutions to drive sales and better connect with consumers. Additionally, Kristi Argyilan addresses the challenges and opportunities within in-store advertising, focusing on the need for a cohesive digital experience that enriches customer interactions. As the retail media space continues to grow rapidly, Kristi Argyilan outlines her vision for the future, prioritizing innovation while ensuring responsible scaling and effective measurement strategies. Takeaways: Retail media is evolving rapidly, with Albertsons focusing on in-house capabilities for growth. Kristi Argyilan emphasizes the importance of first-party data in retail media effectiveness. The concept of Collective TV aims to unify various advertising strategies under retail media. In-store advertising opportunities are expanding with digital experiences integrated into shopping. Albertsons is prioritizing innovation while maintaining stability in their retail media approach. The future of retail media involves collaboration with other industries to enhance customer experience. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 9, 2024
Neil Stern, CEO of Good Food Holdings, shares insights on the evolution of the connected store and his journey from consultant to CEO during the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses how the company's e-commerce sales skyrocketed by 450% under his leadership, largely driven by consumer demand for technology like self-checkouts. Neil Stern emphasizes the importance of adapting to consumer needs and the challenges of integrating disparate technologies within the retail space. He explains the ongoing trials in different banners, including the implementation of innovative solutions like Caper carts and scan-and-go systems. The conversation highlights the necessity of experimenting and failing fast in order to stay competitive and meet the evolving expectations of customers in the grocery industry. Takeaways: Neil Stern discusses his unconventional journey from consultant to CEO during COVID-19, highlighting the challenges faced. The importance of adapting to technology was emphasized as Good Food Holdings introduced self-checkouts to meet consumer demand. Stern notes that understanding customer needs is crucial for retailers to stay relevant in a rapidly changing landscape. The podcast underscores the significance of having a connected store to bridge the gap between online and in-store experiences. Stern acknowledges that trial and error are essential in implementing new technologies for retail success. Finally, he emphasizes that flexibility and adaptability in technology choices can enhance customer experiences significantly. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 9, 2024
David McIntosh, the Chief Connected Stores Officer at Instacart, joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss the innovative solutions Instacart is implementing to create a connected store experience. McIntosh explains how the connected store initiative aims to bridge the gap between online and in-store shopping by leveraging technology, such as AI-powered smart carts and digital solutions that enhance customer engagement and streamline operations for retailers. The conversation delves into the importance of screens and sensors in delivering delightful shopping experiences, highlighting how these tools can drive customer loyalty and improve revenue streams for grocery stores. They explore the gamification features of the Caper cart, which encourage customer interaction and make shopping more enjoyable. Overall, the episode emphasizes the transformative potential of technology in the grocery industry and the necessity of aligning solutions with both consumer needs and retailer capabilities. Takeaways: David McIntosh, the Chief Connected Stores Officer at Instacart, discusses his role and the concept of connected stores. Instacart's connected store solutions aim to enhance the in-store shopping experience by integrating digital technologies. Gamification features in the Caper cart are designed to engage families and encourage more interactive shopping. The importance of having a digitally enabled screen and sensors in the connected storefront for real-time consumer engagement is emphasized. Retailers have seen significant basket lifts and increased consumer engagement through Instacart's innovative technology solutions. Successful adoption of the Caper carts relies on ensuring they are consistently available and charged in stores. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 8, 2024
Frans Muller, the President and CEO of Ahold Delhaize, joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, live from the VusionGroup Studio at Groceryshop 2024, to discuss the evolving landscape of grocery retailing and the importance of data-driven strategies in enhancing customer experiences. He emphasizes that the key to success lies in creating the best customer value proposition while harnessing clean and actionable data. Muller highlights the significance of omnichannel approaches, blending both brick-and-mortar and online shopping, to meet the diverse needs of their 63 million customers each week. The conversation also delves into the role of retail media as a means to foster partnerships with CPGs, focusing on insights that drive mutual growth. Additionally, Muller reflects on the lessons learned during his tenure, particularly the heightened importance of trust and community engagement in retail, especially in the wake of recent global challenges. Takeaways: Frans Muller emphasizes the importance of clean data as foundational for customer satisfaction and growth in retail. The fusion of e-commerce and brick-and-mortar strategies is crucial for delivering exceptional customer value. Muller believes in the significance of local presence and community trust in retail success. Retail media is not just advertising; it’s about providing insights that enhance supply chain efficiency and growth. Understanding customer behavior through loyalty programs is essential for personalized offerings and improving customer experiences. Muller highlights that the pandemic has made retailers more aware of their community responsibilities and customer trust. Links referenced in this episode: bol.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 8, 2024
Walmart+ is making waves in the retail landscape, particularly among high-income households, as it evolves to meet customer demands for convenience and value. In this engaging conversation, Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton speak with Venessa Yates, the SVP and GM of Walmart+, live from the VusionGroup Studio at Groceryshop 2024. Venessa shares insights into the membership program's growth and the benefits it offers, including free shipping, delivery, and unique partnerships. Venessa discusses her journey from merchandising to leading Walmart+ and highlights how the program originated during the pandemic as a response to changing consumer needs. The trio delves into Walmart's strategy of leveraging customer insights to enhance the membership experience and attract new demographics. As they explore the innovative features of Walmart+, the discussion underscores the program's potential to compete directly with giants like Amazon Prime, positioning Walmart as a formidable player in the retail market. Takeaways: Walmart Plus is designed to provide undeniable value to customers through various membership benefits. Venessa Yates emphasized the importance of customer insights in shaping the Walmart Plus program. The membership program includes unique third-party benefits like video streaming and telehealth services. Walmart+ aims to cater to a wide range of income levels and lifestyles. The program has evolved since its launch in 2020, adapting to changing customer needs. Walmart is leveraging digital strategies to engage new customer cohorts effectively. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 8, 2024
Chris Nicholas, CEO and president of Sam's Club, joins Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton, live from the VusionGroup Studio at Groceryshop 2024, to discuss the future of retail and the innovative steps Sam's Club is taking to enhance the shopping experience. One of the standout features highlighted is the introduction of a fully digital shopping experience at their new store in Grapevine, Texas, where there are no traditional checkout lanes, allowing customers to shop seamlessly using the Scan and Go app and innovative computer vision technology. Nicholas shares insights on how these technologies not only streamline operations but also significantly improve customer satisfaction, with 64% of members enjoying a frictionless exit process. The conversation also touches on the importance of engaging with members and creating meaningful experiences, emphasizing the connection between innovation and growth. As the podcast unfolds, listeners learn about exciting new product offerings and the vision Sam's Club has for elevating the retail landscape in the coming years. Takeaways: Chris Nicholas, CEO of Sam's Club, emphasizes the importance of digital engagement in retail. The innovative Scan and Go feature allows members to shop and checkout seamlessly. Sam's Club is opening a fully digital store in Grapevine, Texas, eliminating checkout lanes completely. Members report a significantly higher satisfaction rate when using the Scan and Go app. Chris Nicholas highlights the connection between innovation and member experience at Sam's Club. The $100 Thanksgiving dinner offering demonstrates Sam's Club commitment to quality and value. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 8, 2024
Kristin Popp, the Executive Vice President of Woodman's Food Markets, joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, live from the VusionGroup Studio at Groceryshop, to discuss the unique operational model of Woodman's, known for its large-scale grocery stores that focus exclusively on groceries. With an impressive 27 years of experience at the organization, Kristin shares insights into the company's innovative approach, particularly highlighting their successful robot program that enhances efficiency in their stores. The conversation delves into the impact of technology on grocery retail, including the potential applications of generative AI, which Woodman's is cautiously exploring. As the company prepares for growth with a new store opening in Racine, Kristin emphasizes the importance of staying curious and open to new opportunities in the ever-evolving retail landscape. Tune in to hear about the exciting developments at Woodman's and their commitment to providing consumers with a vast selection at great value. Takeaways: Kristin Popp has been with Woodman's Food Markets for 27 years, gaining extensive experience across various departments. Woodman's operates large grocery stores, averaging 235,000 square feet, focusing exclusively on grocery items. The company prioritizes technology, particularly their innovative robot program that enhances operational efficiency. Generative AI is an area of interest for Woodman's, though they are still exploring its applications. The upcoming store opening in Racine represents Woodman's commitment to growth after recent challenges. Kristin emphasizes the importance of learning from both team members and customers in their operations. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 5, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Joe Laszlo of Shoptalk discuss: Meta's RayBans: Runway Ready or Runaway Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XlWTHMPWRDU Meta's Mark Zuckerberg has unveiled new AR glasses in collaboration with Ray-Ban, retailing at $299, sparking a lively discussion among the hosts about their potential success. Joe expresses a cautious optimism, noting that these glasses might solve the common problem of making users look like a "doofus." The conversation shifts to other innovative products, such as a new sneaker from Target designed to grow with the wearer, prompting a light-hearted debate about which clothing items would be most beneficial if they could also adapt to changes in size. Additionally, the hosts tackle the implications of United Airlines and Air France introducing Starlink Wi-Fi, which could allow passengers to stream videos and take Zoom calls mid-flight—an idea that raises mixed feelings about in-flight etiquette. Finally, the episode concludes with a whimsical exploration of untapped entertainment experiences, with Joe revealing his passion for a Star Trek-themed experience, highlighting the appeal of immersive, science fiction worlds. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 5, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Joe Laszlo of Shoptalk discuss: Klarna’s Bold Move: Bringing BNPL In-Store For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XlWTHMPWRDU The partnership between Klarna and Adyen represents a revolutionary step for retail, merging the convenience of buy now, pay later (BNPL) services with the traditional shopping experience. As most purchases still occur in physical stores, Klarna's integration into over 450,000 Adyen payment terminals across key global markets could reshape how consumers approach financing their purchases. The discussion reveals insights into the current state of BNPL in retail, with only a fraction of retailers adopting this model in-store. However, the speakers express optimism about its potential growth as consumer preferences shift, particularly among younger shoppers who are gravitating towards alternative payment methods. An intriguing aspect of the conversation centers around the marketing strategies retailers may utilize to promote BNPL options at checkout. Whether through vibrant in-store displays or subtle branding cues, the speakers contemplate the effectiveness of different approaches in attracting customers. Gen Z, noted for their tech-savviness and changing financial habits, is highlighted as a key demographic that retailers must engage. Research suggests that this generation is more inclined to use BNPL than credit cards, and understanding their preferences will be crucial for retailers looking to remain relevant in a competitive landscape. The dialogue further touches on the strategic importance of creating a cohesive shopping experience that aligns online and offline platforms. By allowing consumers to use preferred payment methods in-store, retailers can enhance loyalty and drive sales. The potential for retailers to develop their own BNPL services is also discussed, emphasizing an opportunity for brands to foster deeper connections with their customers. Ultimately, the episode concludes with a compelling argument that the Klarna-Adyen partnership could fundamentally change the way consumers shop and pay, suggesting that this innovative approach could lead to lasting changes in retail dynamics and consumer behavior. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 5, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Joe Laszlo of Shoptalk discuss: Giant Eagle Investing In Cutting Driver Wait Times For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XlWTHMPWRDU Giant Eagle's partnership with Flyby marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of grocery delivery services, as the two companies collaborate to enhance last-mile logistics. The initiative aims to slash delivery wait times by leveraging Flyby’s sophisticated location-based technology, which not only optimizes the driver’s route but also provides real-time updates on order status. With the technology reducing average wait times to less than two and a half minutes, Giant Eagle is setting a new standard for efficiency in grocery delivery, a crucial factor as consumer expectations continue to rise. This investment reflects a broader trend in the grocery sector, where operational efficiency is becoming as important as the consumer experience itself. The panelists delve into the significance of in-store fulfillment versus other delivery models, such as micro-fulfillment centers. They posit that while many retailers are exploring diverse strategies to meet customer demands, the local store picking model remains essential for driving down costs and ensuring prompt deliveries. The discussion emphasizes that even small improvements in logistics can yield significant returns, both financially and in terms of customer retention. The hosts suggest that as grocery retailers adapt to new technologies, they must also consider how these advancements can enhance customer loyalty and streamline the shopping experience. Furthermore, the conversation shifts to customer transparency in delivery services, where real-time order tracking can significantly impact consumer satisfaction. The hosts highlight that notifying customers about the status of their deliveries not only manages expectations but also reinforces trust in the retailer. By focusing on backend operations and investing in technologies that improve efficiency, Giant Eagle and others in the industry are positioning themselves to better meet the needs of modern consumers. The episode ultimately underscores the grocery sector's innovative potential, emphasizing the importance of marrying operational improvements with enhanced customer service. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 5, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Joe Laszlo of Shoptalk discuss: Doordash Releasing A New Suite Of Business Solutions For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XlWTHMPWRDU DoorDash has introduced a new suite of digital business tools aimed at enhancing operational efficiency for restaurants and retailers. The primary focus of the discussion revolves around DoorDash's strategic moves compared to those of Instacart, highlighting the challenges and opportunities each faces in the fragmented food service and grocery markets. Speaker B strongly favors DoorDash's approach, emphasizing that the restaurant industry is in greater need of innovative solutions due to its complexity. The speakers explore various features of DoorDash's new offerings, including a drive-on-demand solution, online ordering, phone ordering, table-side ordering, and dedicated customer support. The conversation also touches on the stickiness of DoorDash's user base, noting that their existing clientele already values the app's functionality, which positions them favorably in the competitive landscape. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 5, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Joe Laszlo of Shoptalk discuss: If Costco & Sam’s Are The Choice Of A New Generation? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XlWTHMPWRDU Costco and Sam's Club are successfully attracting younger generations, with a significant increase in memberships among Millennials and Gen Z. Recent statistics reveal that approximately half of Costco's new signups are under 40, while Sam's Club has seen a remarkable 68% increase in Gen Z memberships over the past two years. The discussion delves into the factors driving this trend, including the financial pressures faced by younger consumers, who prioritize value and quality in their shopping choices. Both retailers are positioned to meet these demands, but the conversation also highlights the competitive dynamics between Costco and Sam's Club, particularly regarding convenience and technological advancements. As the hosts analyze the implications of these shifts, they consider how changes in demographics and shopping habits might shape the future of bulk retail shopping. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 5, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Joe Laszlo of Shoptalk discuss: Walmart Gaining Share From $200K+ Income Earners For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XlWTHMPWRDU Walmart's online grocery growth in the first half of 2024 has been significantly influenced by affluent households, with those earning over $200,000 now representing 8% of Walmart's average monthly active users. This trend highlights a shift in consumer behavior, as higher-income shoppers are increasingly turning to Walmart for grocery purchases, even as lower-income households remain a core segment. The discussion delves into the implications of these changes, particularly how Walmart's customer experience may be driving this success compared to other retailers. Experts on the podcast explore the sticky nature of grocery shopping habits and the potential for Walmart to capture more market share as the economy improves. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of Walmart's digital innovations and marketing strategies in attracting and retaining affluent customers, while also considering the need for continued investment in the physical store experience. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 3, 2024
In this Insightful 5 Minute podcast episode, Marco Valentini, Managing Director at the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, breaks down his company's latest report on why private label brands are essential for retailers and how they should capitalize on this growing trend. To access the full report, click here . From product innovation to leadership alignment, Marco shares key strategies for fostering successful private brands that resonate with consumers and boost market share. Key Moments: [ 0:08 ] - Introduction to Marco Valentini and the topic of building private brand strategies. [ 0:28 ] - Why private brands are outgrowing national brands and capturing more market share. [ 1:52 ] - How customer perceptions of private brands are changing, with examples like Trader Joe’s and Costco’s Kirkland. [ 2:56 ] - The role of innovation, unique product ranges, and differentiation in private brand success. [ 3:35 ] - Key advice for retail executives on how to accelerate private label growth through leadership commitment and cross-functional collaboration. [ 5:54 ] - Why private brand development is an imperative for retailers today and how the right strategy delivers strong market and shareholder results. Tune in to learn how you can elevate your private brand strategy and stay ahead in today’s competitive retail landscape! #privatelabel #groceryshopping #shopping Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 2, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Shoptalk’s Joe Laszlo joined Chris and Anne to discuss: The high income demographic tailwind behind Walmart’s back ( Source ) If Costco and Sam’s Club are the shopping choice of a new generation ( Source ) DoorDash's suite of new business solutions ( Source ) Giant Eagle’s partnership with Flybuy to cut delivery driver wait times ( Source ) And closed with a debate about just how momentous Klarna bringing BNPL in-store could be ( Source ) There’s all that, plus this month’s OmniStar (congrats Lauri Joffe of American Freight), Ray-Bans, clothes that grow with you, and A&M’s Marco Valentini stops by for 5 Insightful Minutes on private brands! To read A&M’s full report on private label brands, click here . Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 1, 2024
Get ready for the holiday rush with this special Omni Talk Retail Spotlight episode! Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Natalija Pavic, the Senior Product Marketing Manager at Salesforce Commerce Cloud and host of the Commerce Cloud Innovations podcast, and Melissa Dallmeyer, the Global Leader of Enterprise & Mid-market Partnerships at Avalara, to discuss how retailers can best prepare for the busy holiday season. From the benefits of composable and headless commerce to the critical importance of tax compliance, our guests break down the tools and strategies retailers need to ensure a smooth, profitable holiday season. Whether it’s optimizing site speed, managing customer personalization, or avoiding costly mistakes during peak shopping times, this episode is packed with insights to help your business succeed. Key moments from the interview include: [ 0:08 ] – Introduction [ 1:04 ] – Kicking off the holiday retail prep conversation: What retailers should expect? [ 5:04 ] – Natalija explains headless vs. composable commerce and why it’s essential for holiday preparation. [ 10:06 ] – Melissa covers the importance of tax compliance and seamless integrations for retail success. [ 13:12 ] – How composable architectures help retailers react quickly to unexpected crises during the holiday season. [ 17:00 ] – Real-world examples of costly mistakes retailers make and how to avoid them. [ 24:50 ] – Final advice on testing systems, ensuring fast checkouts, and keeping operations running smoothly during peak times. [ 31:03 ] – Wrapping up: Last-minute tips for holiday retail success and how to connect with today’s guests. Tune in to learn how to prepare for a successful holiday season and get ahead of potential crises before they happen! For content like this and more from Natalija Pavic listen to the Salesforce Commerce Cloud Innovations Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/3Ishg29W #ecommerce #taxcompliance #tax #retail Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 28, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Res "ZA" me Lighting Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/18lMxsBIt7o This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 28, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart And Sam’s Club Merging Their Supply Chains For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/18lMxsBIt7o This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 28, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: There’s An (Amazon AI-Generated) Ad For That For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/18lMxsBIt7o This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 28, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: Walmart’s New Shop With Friends Feature For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/18lMxsBIt7o This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 28, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Amazon’s New ‘Buy It Now’ Program Will Be Must-See TV? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/18lMxsBIt7o This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 28, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Moving Up Its Holiday Promotions For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/18lMxsBIt7o This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 26, 2024
In this episode of OmniTalk’s “Ask an Expert” series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with JD Sports’ EVP and Chief Digital Officer, Arianne Parisi, and Firework’s SVP of Revenue, Billy Cladek, to discuss how video commerce is shaping the future of retail. Arianne shares JD Sports' journey of integrating video shopping into their digital strategy, emphasizing partnerships with top athletic brands like Nike, while Firework highlights how their video infrastructure is enhancing customer engagement. • 0:08 – Introduction to the “Ask an Expert” series • 1:13 – Firework and JD Sports collaboration for NRF 2024 • 2:19 – Overview of JD Sports’ digital strategy and expansion • 4:04 – Billy Cladek introduces Firework’s video commerce platform • 5:47 – JD Sports’ content strategy and brand differentiation • 7:06 – Why video content is key for brand and customer engagement • 12:04 – Leveraging influencers and digital content creation • 15:48 – How JD Sports secures brand partnerships for video commerce • 18:00 – Retail media and ROI from video commerce implementations • 23:02 – Future plans for live shopping and digital showrooms • 29:00 – Closing thoughts and invitation to NRF 2024 booth #3951 Be sure to tune in for valuable insights on how to stay ahead in retail’s digital transformation! #ecommerce #retailmarketing #retailtech #onlineshopping #socialmediamarketing Music by hooksounds Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 26, 2024
In this episode of our popular 5 Insightful Minutes Podcast Series, Scott Langdoc, Global Head of Grocery, Drug, and Convenience Retail Strategy at Amazon Web Services, dives deep into the key challenges and opportunities shaping the retail landscape. From adapting to shifting consumer behaviors to leveraging cloud and AI solutions, Scott shares actionable insights for retailers looking to stay competitive. He emphasizes the importance of infrastructure, data maturity, and personalized customer engagement in boosting top-line growth and operational efficiency. Key Moments Include: [ 0:30 ] Changing consumer behaviors and the need for new retail models [ 1:15 ] Retailers’ focus on cost reduction and labor optimization [ 2:00 ] How cloud technology supports retail operations [ 2:55 ] The impact of demand forecasting and personalization in grocery retail [ 3:45 ] Case study: Hyper-personalization success in driving market basket growth [ 5:00 ] The role of generative AI and choosing the right large language models [ 5:45 ] How retailers can tie insights to real-time actions through automation #RetailInnovation #CloudTechnology #ConsumerBehavior #CostReduction #DemandForecasting #RetailStrategy #GenerativeAI Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 25, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five weekly retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Walmart and Amazon takeover the headlines in their ongoing innovation duel, as Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart starting its holiday promotions earlier than ever, with a digital twist ( Source ) Amazon’s new Shark Tank-style TV show, “Buy It Now” ( Source ) Walmart’s latest e-commerce innovation, aka “Shop with Friends” ( Source ) Amazon’s new AI image generator for sellers ( Source ) And closed with a look at the brilliance of merging Sam’s Club and Walmart’s supply chains ( Source ) There’s all that, plus AWS’s Scott Langdoc joins us for 5 Insightful Minutes , the Schwan’s song, why Chris and Anne love the Minneapolis airport, and to whom Anne would send her resume attached to a Pizza Hut pizza box. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Laminated Croissant Lamp Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rECqY8C92yE?si=4FFNfACPH31T2FJ1 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Telling Employees To Return To The Office 5 Days A Week For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rECqY8C92yE?si=4FFNfACPH31T2FJ1 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: Zara Pre-Owned? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rECqY8C92yE?si=4FFNfACPH31T2FJ1 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: What The Long-Term Ramifications Of Ending The "De Minimis Exemption" Are For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rECqY8C92yE?si=4FFNfACPH31T2FJ1 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They Would Advise Costco To Rollout Mobile Inventory Search? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rECqY8C92yE?si=4FFNfACPH31T2FJ1 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 21, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga discuss: What Ads Within Amazon Rufus Signal For The Future Of Digital Commerce? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rECqY8C92yE?si=4FFNfACPH31T2FJ1 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 19, 2024
In this episode of the Omni Talk Expert Series, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga are joined by Nikki Baird, VP of Strategy and Product at Aptos, for a deep dive into modern store transformation and the critical role of point of sale (POS) technology. Nikki shares her vast expertise in retail and explains how retailers can upgrade their store operations by leveraging cloud-based POS solutions that empower associates, enhance customer experiences, and drive profitability. Key Moments: [ 0:25 ] - Introduction to Nikki Baird and her background in omnichannel retail [ 4:15 ] - The importance of POS systems in modern store transformation [ 7:02 ] - How POS technology has evolved in the past 3-5 years [ 10:02 ] - Cloud-based POS systems and their role in offline resiliency [ 12:26 ] - The business case for upgrading POS systems and its impact on employees and customers [ 18:23 ] - Case study: How The North Face successfully piloted a POS transformation [ 22:02 ] - The role of customer experience in measuring POS success [ 26:24 ] - Key myths and misconceptions around retail POS upgrades and modern store tech This conversation is a must-listen for retail leaders looking to upgrade their store operations and enhance customer experiences through modern POS technology. Tune in now! #retailtech #omnichannel #pointofsale Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 19, 2024
Dive into the world of e-commerce as we explore the game-changing intricacies of dropship versus digital marketplace models. Our expert guest, Mirakl's CRO Alex Hase, breaks down the crucial differences and synergies between these retail approaches. Key moments: 0:30 - Defining dropship vs. marketplace platforms 1:30 - The power of seller-set pricing in marketplaces 2:54 - Why retailers should consider both dropship and marketplace options 4:30 - Debunking the myth: Does marketplace expansion hurt first-party inventory? 5:39 - The surprising truth about marketplace attachment rates to 1P products Discover how these strategies impact inventory management, pricing, and customer lifetime value. Learn about leveraging third-party sellers, expanding product assortment, and boosting SEO and conversion rates. Whether you're a seasoned retailer or e-commerce newcomer, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the evolving landscape of online retail. #ecommerce #digitalmarketplace #retailstrategy #dropshipping Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 19, 2024
In this exciting episode of Omni Talk’s “Ask an Expert” series, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Ownit AI co-founders Payman Nejati and Evan Shiue to discuss how Amazon’s Rufus and Google’s AI overviews are revolutionizing e-commerce. They dive into the potential impact these innovations will have on product searches, consumer behavior, and how retailers can leverage AI to stay competitive. If you’re interested in the future of retail and AI-driven shopping experiences, this episode is a must-listen. Key Moments Include: [ 0:25 ] - Introduction to Amazon Rufus and generative AI in retail. [ 2:05 ] - Payman and Evan's journey in e-commerce and AI technology. [ 5:50 ] - What Rufus does for Amazon users and its significance for e-commerce. [ 7:50 ] - How retailers need to adapt to AI-driven search models. [ 10:43 ] - How Google’s AI overview competes with Amazon and changes search behaviors. [ 14:11 ] - Practical examples of how retailers can take advantage of AI in their product catalog. [ 22:10 ] - Impact of trends like social media on retail and AI’s role in keeping retailers competitive. [ 26:26 ] - Discussion on AI in retail media and the integration of ads in AI-driven search. [ 30:13 ] - Final advice for retailers looking to leverage AI in their e-commerce strategies. Tune in for a detailed exploration of how generative AI is setting a new standard for shopping! #retailinnovation #ecommerce #Amazon #generativeai #retailtech Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five weekly retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Chris and Anne discussed: How important ads within Amazon Rufus could be ( Source ) Costco testing mobile inventory search ( Source ) The Biden administration putting an end to the de minimis exception ( Source ) Zara’s plans to sell secondhand apparel in the U.S. ( Source ) And closed with a look at Amazon’s decision to bring its employees back into the office five days a week ( Source ) There’s all that, plus Mirakl’s Alex Hase joins us for 5 Insightful Minutes on how retailers can leverage dropshipping and marketplaces at the same time, tips to improve Starbucks, croissant-shaped lamps, and the last time Anne wore leopard print. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Brooks Levering and David Schneidman discuss: A Best TV Episode Ever Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sdOO6pmTBlw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Brooks Levering and David Schneidman discuss: Walmart Deploying Digimarc Barcodes For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sdOO6pmTBlw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Brooks Levering and David Schneidman discuss: If ShopSimon Will Become The Standard By Which We All Shop Online? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sdOO6pmTBlw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Brooks Levering and David Schneidman discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: High-End Kicks For Sale On Walmart.com For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sdOO6pmTBlw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Brooks Levering and David Schneidman discuss: What’s So Special About Dick’s? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sdOO6pmTBlw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 14, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Brooks Levering and David Schneidman discuss: If Integrating Curbside With Carplay A Wise Use Of Target’s Technology Budget? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sdOO6pmTBlw This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 12, 2024
Join us for our insightful conversation with Morgan Seybert, Chief Business Officer and Head of Retail at Tredence, as we explore the cutting-edge dynamics of AI-driven data analytics in retail, and, most importantly, how retailers can actually make money from them. Key moments: [0:54] Introduction to Tredence and Morgan Seybert's background [4:01] The importance of "Last Mile" adoption in analytics [9:41] Tredence's unique approach to retail data analytics [16:32] Strategies for pricing and promotions in the current economic climate [20:54] The rise of retail media networks and their impact on the industry [27:20] Future innovations in retail data and analytics [31:06] Real-world examples of AI applications in retail [34:59] Advice for retailers looking to leverage data analytics Morgan shares valuable insights on the challenges and opportunities in implementing AI-driven solutions, from enterprise data platforms to generative AI applications. Whether you're a retail executive or a tech enthusiast, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the future of retail. Don't miss out on Morgan's key tips for success amid this data-driven retail revolution! #RetailAnalytics #AIinRetail #DataDrivenRetail #RetailInnovation #PersonalizedRetail #RetailMediaNetworks Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 11, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , A&M’s David Schneidman and Brooks Levering, joined Chris and Anne to discuss: If Target wasted its 2024 tech budget on its new CarPlay integration ( Source ) The likelihood that Dick’s Sporting Goods keeps up its phenomenal Q2 sales growth ( Source ) Just how special Walmart’s new partnership with StockX is or is not ( Source ) Simon’s introduction of ShopSimon and whether it heralds a new way to shop your local mall ( Source ) And closed with a look at the many use cases of Walmart’s new invisible barcodes ( Source ) There’s all that, plus this month’s OmniStar (congrats Michael Diedrich of Tractor Supply), the return of Barney the Dinosaur, and our votes for the best television episode of all-time! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Ben Miller of Groceryshop and Shoptalk discuss: A Fresh or Frozen Fish Debate Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/aoMj89few1E This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Ben Miller of Groceryshop and Shoptalk discuss: How Significant Instacart Waiving Delivery Fees On Next-day Orders Is? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/aoMj89few1E This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Ben Miller of Groceryshop and Shoptalk discuss: If Nordstrom’s Reported Connection Between Supply Chain And Cx Improvements Is Real? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/aoMj89few1E This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Ben Miller of Groceryshop and Shoptalk discuss: If They're Pro Or Con: Electronic Shelf Labels? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/aoMj89few1E This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Ben Miller of Groceryshop and Shoptalk discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: Ikea Preowned? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/aoMj89few1E This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 7, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Ben Miller of Groceryshop and Shoptalk discuss: If We Should Still Pay Attention To Amazon Fresh? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/aoMj89few1E This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 4, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Shoptalk and Groceryshop VP of Original Content and Strategy, Ben Miller, stopped by to discuss with Chris and Anne: The four new Amazon Fresh store openings and whether Amazon Fresh still is a concept deserving of grocers’ attention ( Source ) Whether they would “buy or sell” (pun intended) IKEA’s new Preowned peer-to-peer used goods marketplace ( Source ) Netto Denmark joining the growing list of grocers rolling out electronic shelf labels chain-wide ( Source ) The veracity to Nordstrom’s reported claims that supply chain improvements led to its recent CX and sales improvements ( Source ) And they closed with a discussion on the significance of Instacart waiving its next-day delivery fees ( Source ) There’s all that, plus mushy peas, Adele, and Ben Miller’s favorite Las Vegas guilty pleasure. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 4, 2024
Dive into the future of retail logistics with Omni Talk's Ask An Expert Series featuring Blake Neal from TGW Logistics. Uncover how e-commerce trends are revolutionizing supply chains, from ultra-fast delivery to sustainable practices. Key moments in the interview include: 0:08 - Introduction to the Omni Talk expert series 5:42 - The rise of ultra-fast delivery and its impact on supply chains 11:52 - Digital marketplaces and the challenges of returns management 20:23 - Sustainability in retail logistics: balancing efficiency and environmental impact 26:54 - The evolution of omnichannel strategies and common mistakes to avoid Join hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga as they explore Blake's insights on warehouse automation, reverse logistics, and the future of retail operations. Whether you're a retail professional or logistics enthusiast, this episode offers valuable perspectives on staying competitive in the ever-evolving world of retail technology and supply chain optimization. #RetailTrends #SupplyChain #Ecommerce #logisticssoftware Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 31, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Scandit’s Empower Event in New York City, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: An Oasis And Olympic Home Remedy Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AR39eCVRUdU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 31, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Scandit’s Empower Event in New York City, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Unilever Installing Computer Vision AI Inside 350,000 Freezers Worldwide For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AR39eCVRUdU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 31, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Scandit’s Empower Event in New York City, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Who’s Winning The Retail Subscription War: Amazon Or Walmart? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AR39eCVRUdU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 31, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Scandit’s Empower Event in New York City, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: Amazon Allowing Its Sellers To Ditch Taking Physical Returns? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AR39eCVRUdU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 31, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Scandit’s Empower Event in New York City, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Chick-Fil-A: 4 Drive-Thrus But No Dining Room? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AR39eCVRUdU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 31, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Scandit’s Empower Event in New York City, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Walmart's Hosted U.S. Fulfillment Boost Its Marketplace? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/AR39eCVRUdU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 29, 2024
Join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga as they dive deep into the future of retail supply chains with Flexport CEO Ryan Petersen. In this interview, Flexport CEO Ryan Petersen discusses the future of retail supply chains, emphasizing the importance of technology in improving visibility, flexibility, and efficiency. He highlights Flexport’s end-to-end approach to logistics, the impact of recent acquisitions, and the potential for data-driven decision-making to transform inventory management and customer experiences in retail. Key Highlights Include: 0:00 – Introduction and Flexport’s origin story 6:05 – Understanding end-to-end logistics and Flexport’s value proposition 11:16 – The future of speed in supply chains 19:48 – Improving product availability and inventory management 22:08 – Building resilience in an unpredictable world 25:54 – Enhancing flexibility in supply chain operations 32:27 – Increasing reliability in retail supply chains 36:34 – How to connect with Flexport and Ryan Petersen Gain valuable insights into how technology is reshaping the retail supply chain landscape and what it means for the future of commerce. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 28, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart opening up hosted U.S. fulfillment for Chinese goods ( Source ) Chick-fil-A opening a new “elevated” store with not 1, not 2, not 3, but 4 drive thru lanes! ( Source ) Amazon allowing its FBA sellers to ditch taking physical returns ( Source ) The ongoing subscription wars between Amazon and Walmart, prompted by Amazon’s new grocery delivery subscription and Walmart+’s new Burger King perk ( Amazon Source and Walmart Source ) And they closed, as one always should, with ice cream, and a look at Unilever’s unique use of AI inside the freezer ( Source ) There’s all that, plus at-home remedies they regret trying, their favorite Oasis songs, and the meaning of the word, “skibidi.” Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 26, 2024
Join Chris and Anne for an eye-opening discussion on how how to make retail supply chains more sustainable! Our experts from Dematic, DeAnn Hargis and Danielle Dakin, dive deep into how leading companies are prioritizing their distribution centers for a greener future. Key moments include: 0:08 – Introduction and history of sustainability efforts across retail supply chains 3:52 – The role of banks in driving sustainable practices 14:50 – Three practical scenarios for improving grocery retail distribution 21:53 – Case study: How Groupe Robert implemented sustainable practices in their distribution center 28:13 – Inside look at Aldi’s solar-powered distribution centers 28:39 – Tesco’s innovative approach to automated shuttle technology and micro-fulfillment 30:15 – Expert advice for supply chain executives on implementing sustainable practices Discover how automation, energy efficiency, and waste reduction strategies are transforming the industry. Learn about micro-fulfillment, automated palletizing, and inventory optimization techniques that reduce carbon footprints while boosting efficiency. From solar panels to rainwater retention, our guests share real-world examples and invaluable insights on collaborative sustainability, supplier engagement, and adapting to evolving customer demands and regulations. Whether you’re a supply chain professional or simply interested in sustainable business practices, this episode is packed with actionable information to help you navigate the future of retail logistics. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and Adam Thompson discuss: A Late Nite Grub Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IpxQ9sh4zMU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and Adam Thompson discuss: If Walmart’s Drone Pullback Spells The Eventual End Of Drone Delivery? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IpxQ9sh4zMU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and Adam Thompson discuss: Which Would You Give Up First: Your Dashpass Or Amazon Prime? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IpxQ9sh4zMU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and Adam Thompson discuss: Whether They're Buying Or Selling: Best Buy’s New Up-to-the-minute Delivery For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IpxQ9sh4zMU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and Adam Thompson discuss: How ‘Super’ The Victoria’s Secret CEO Will Turn Out To Be For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IpxQ9sh4zMU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Ocampo Capital Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and Adam Thompson discuss: What Starbucks’ New CEO Should Fix First For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IpxQ9sh4zMU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 22, 2024
Discover how AI and cloud computing are transforming digital commerce with Vince Koh, leader of worldwide strategy for digital commerce at AWS. Learn about key trends in #DigitalCommerce, including #AIPersonalization and #OmnichannelIntegration. Vince discusses how retailers can leverage #CloudTechnology to enhance customer experiences and drive profitability. He highlights three critical areas for #AIInvestment in retail: AI-powered product search and discovery Dynamic pricing optimization Personalized marketing and recommendations Find out how #AWS is helping retailers adopt #AI solutions and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape. Perfect for retail executives and tech enthusiasts interested in the future of shopping. #RetailTechnology #AWSCloud #EcommerceInnovation #AIAdoption #RetailStrategy Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 21, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Ocampo Capital , A&M’s Chad Lusk and Adam Thompson, joined Chris and Anne to discuss: The “tall” order that awaits Starbucks’ new CEO ( Source ) Victoria’s Secret’s new CEO Hillary Super and what her first-year priorities should be ( Source ) Whether we should all buy or sell Best Buy’s new up-to-the-minute delivery monitoring as a point of differentiation ( Source ) If forced to pick just one, would they rather have the DashPass or Amazon Prime ( Source ) And closed with a look at Walmart’s decision to pull drones out of three states and if it signals the end of all the drone delivery hype ( Source ) And, the Global Head of Digital Commerce at AWS even stopped by for 5 Insightful Minutes on how and where retailers should make investments in AI! There’s all that, plus this month’s OmniStar (congrats Tony Costanzo of Torrid), dating deal breakers, Greek delicacies, and whether Adam is Team Alfie or Team Gabriel. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: An Amazon Studio Acquisition, Anti-Shoplifting Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/BFqhL9EnFN8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Pro Or Con: Amazombies? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/BFqhL9EnFN8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: How The Google Chrome Cookie Will Crumble? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/BFqhL9EnFN8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: How Significant Simbe’s New Remote Monitoring Enhancement Is For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/BFqhL9EnFN8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: What They Think Of Best Buy’s Push Into Video For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/BFqhL9EnFN8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling The Narrative That Target Employees Hate Their New AI Chatbot? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/BFqhL9EnFN8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 25, 2024
Join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for this compelling 5-minute discussion with John Clear, Senior Director at the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, as he delves into the pressing issue of retail shrinkage. Learn about the latest strategies for combating retail shrink, focusing on external theft, internal theft, and operational shrink. Discover how effective inventory management and staff training can significantly reduce shrinkage in retail organizations. Don't miss these valuable insights from their recent study on retail loss prevention. A link to the full study can be found here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insight/retails-trojan-horse/ Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 24, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: If Target’s new in-store chatbot is really the “sh*tbot” Forbes makes it out to be (Source: Forbes ) Best Buy’s push into video (Source: Chain Store Age ) Simbe Robotics’ new remote planogram monitoring solution (Source: Grocery Dive ) Google’s big Chrome cookie pivot (Source: WSJ ) And closed with a look at whether any retailers should let Amazombies, aka Amazon package returners, into their stores (Source: Yahoo News ) There’s all that, plus A&M’s John Clear stopped by to give us 5 Insightful Minutes on what retailers can do to combat shrinkage, along with teenage dirtbags, french fries, and how much Anne and Chris both despise putting fitted sheets on their beds. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 24, 2024
Join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for an insightful discussion with Placer AI's Ethan Chernofsky as he hands his 2024 Midyear Retail Report Card grades. You'll hear Ethan discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the retail landscape. Key moments include: 0:08 - Introduction and overview of Placer AI's data collection methods 8:02 - Overall retail performance grade and analysis 15:09 - Small format revolution: Promising or overhyped? 22:20 - The future of retail media networks 28:28 - Value retail: The rise of the "middle" and the tri-furcation of retail 35:30 - Surprising mall renaissance and its implications 40:53 - The impact of strategic decisions on retail success Ethan shares valuable insights on foot traffic analytics, consumer behavior shifts, and how major retailers like Costco, Walmart, and Target are adapting. Learn about the potential of retail media networks, the evolution of value retail, and why malls might be making a comeback. This episode offers a comprehensive look at retail performance and emerging opportunities. Don't miss Ethan's thoughts on how retailers can navigate both headwinds and tailwinds in today's dynamic market! #RetailTrends #PlacerAI #RetailAnalytics #RetailStrategy #ConsumerBehavior Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 23, 2024
In an era where customer loyalty is more critical than ever, retailers are shifting their focus from transactional efficiency to interactive engagement across channels, with generative AI spearheading much of the change. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Michael Klein, Talkdesk’s Director of Retail Product Marketing, joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to explore the future of retail CX, and, specifically, how retailers should prioritize it and attack it head on. Collectively the three of them went deep on: The shift from transactional efficiency to interactive engagement Strategies for integrating new technologies and enabling talented staff The expanding ecosystem of customer service roles The critical importance of unifying customer data across all touchpoints Practical insights and lessons learned from leading retailers It's the perfect conversation for retail executives, technology enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of retail operations and customer engagement. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 23, 2024
In this episode of Omni Talk Retail Technology Spotlight Series, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga dive deep into the rapidly evolving world of 2D barcodes with experts Carrie Wilkie from GS1 US and Ayub Mohammed of Bitly. Discover how these small squares are reshaping retail, from supply chains to consumer engagement. Key moments include: 0:08 - Introduction to the future of barcoding in retail 3:50 - The fascinating history of barcodes and their evolution 10:26 - How 2D barcodes are revolutionizing food safety and waste reduction 16:51 - Unlocking consumer engagement through connected packaging 21:37 - ROI for retailers implementing 2D barcode technology 24:51 - How grocers can differentiate themselves with advanced barcoding 27:27 - The future of retail technology and connected packaging With the Bitly Connections Platform, users can manage and track all of their 2D Barcodes and Short Links in one place while getting robust insights into consumer behavior including where and when they are engaging, down to their geographic location, referral source, and time of scan. To learn more, click here . Join us as we explore how these tiny codes are making a massive impact on inventory management, product traceability, and personalized marketing. This episode offers valuable insights into the future of shopping experiences and brand interactions. #RetailTech #2DBarcodes #ConsumerEngagement #SupplyChain #futureofretail *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 20, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Mohit Mohal and Chris Disa discuss: Pro Or Con: Petaluma’s City-wide Reusable Cup Pilot With Starbucks? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/mt_9Rzw3a6g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 20, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Mohit Mohal and Chris Disa discuss: Buying Or Selling: 2025 As The Year Of The Electronic Shelf Label? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/mt_9Rzw3a6g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 20, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Mohit Mohal and Chris Disa discuss: If Macy’s Will Finally Get A Break From Being On The Acquisition Block? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/mt_9Rzw3a6g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 20, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Mohit Mohal and Chris Disa discuss: How Long It Will Be Before Walmart Retail Media Dwarves The Competition? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/mt_9Rzw3a6g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 20, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Mohit Mohal and Chris Disa discuss: How Rufus Will Shape Digital Commerce For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/mt_9Rzw3a6g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 17, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Sezzle , A&M’s Mohit Mohal and Chris Disa, joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Amazon rolling outs it generative AI assistant, “Rufus,” to all shoppers (Source: Chain Store Age ) Walmart’s wide lead in retail media (Source: Marketing Dive ) Macy’s ending its acquisition talks (Source: Retail Dive ) Hy-Vee rolling out ESLs with the VusionGroup (Source: Progressive Grocer ) And closed with a look at Petaluma, California’s new city-wide reusable cup pilot with Starbucks and many others (Source: Chain Store Age ) There’s all that, plus how AI could have improved our college dating lives, the inconsistent weights of Chipotle’s burrito bowls, and even more reasons to be scared about facial recognition. And, to get The Cappy, head here ! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 13, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Love It Or Leave It: Walmart Stocking 101 For College Credit? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/wRZQbkcFGrE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 13, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Pro Or Con: Paying For Groceries With Venmo? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/wRZQbkcFGrE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 13, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: Training Store Employees With Gamified iPads For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/wRZQbkcFGrE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 13, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Co-op The First Of Many More Wins For Walmart Commerce Technologies? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/wRZQbkcFGrE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 13, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Saks & Neimans: Will Two Wrongs Make A Right? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/wRZQbkcFGrE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 10, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: The Saks and Neiman Marcus merger and what to expect from Amazon’s involvement in it (Source: NPR ) Co-op opting to use “Store Assist” from Walmart Commerce Technologies (Source: PYMNTS ) Circle K gamifying employee training via iPads (Source: Chain Store Age ) Hy-Vee enabling its online shoppers to pay for their groceries with Venmo (Source: Chain Store Age ) And closed with a “love it or leave it” discussion about Walmart and McDonald’s working to secure college credit for the hours their employees work in their stores (Source: NPR ) There’s all that, plus Taco Bell retirement communities, drone mishaps, and the best way to toast a marshmallow before putting it into a s’more. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 6, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: The Future Of Smart Carts For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/W_w19M1CeVQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 6, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They Would Use BNPL With Tiptop Trade-in For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/W_w19M1CeVQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 6, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If We're Really Amidst The ‘Second Barcode Revolution For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/W_w19M1CeVQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 6, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Target’s More Aggressive Shoplifting Thresholds Make A Difference? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/W_w19M1CeVQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 6, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: What To Make Of Amazon’s SHEIN And Temu Copycat For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/W_w19M1CeVQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 3, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Amazon’s plans to copycat Shein and Temu (Source: CNBC ) Target lowering its in-store theft threshold from $100 to $50 (Source: Bloomberg ) Tesco piloting on-pack, scannable QR codes (Source: Grocery Gazette ) Tiptop adding the new wrinkle of trade-ins to its BNPL offering (Source: Digital Transaction ) And we closed with yet another look at the future of smart carts through the lens of Shoprite’s further expansion of its Instacart Caper Cart pilot to more stores (Source: Retail Dive ) There’s all that, plus this month’s OmniStar (congrats Diana Marshall of Sam’s Club), how Chris would improve the Delta Sky Club, dating app wingmen, and who Anne would most want to call the play-by-play of a 10-minute recap video of her life. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 29, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Kelly Carey and Jeff Dwyer discuss: Buying Or Selling: Target’s New Shopify Partnership? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sCbPr56WuxQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 29, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Kelly Carey and Jeff Dwyer discuss: If The World Really Needs A $5 Per Month GenAI Alexa? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sCbPr56WuxQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 29, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Kelly Carey and Jeff Dwyer discuss: If Unilever's Taken A Quantum Leap Too Far? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sCbPr56WuxQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 29, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Kelly Carey and Jeff Dwyer discuss: If They Would Advise Netflix To Build ‘Netflix Houses’ Within Malls? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sCbPr56WuxQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 29, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Kelly Carey and Jeff Dwyer discuss: If Target Is Right To Push Gen AI Into Stores? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/sCbPr56WuxQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27, 2024
In this insightful 5-minute segment, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Chuck Anderson-Weir, Senior Director of Measurement Solutions at Ovative, to discuss the latest EMR (Enterprise Marketing Return) Power Rankings. Link to power rankings: ovative.com/insights/2024-media-power-rankings/ Discover the marketing trends that are driving incremental revenue, customer acquisition, and long-term brand equity for retailers. Learn how digital video platforms like CTV and YouTube are rising in the rankings, thanks to their ability to drive in-store traffic and provide full-funnel marketing solutions. Chuck shares examples of retailers like Men's Wearhouse and Torrid, who are leveraging digital video to increase their marketing ROI by up to 20%. Explore the potential of shoppable TV ads, as seen with Amazon Prime Video, and how this technology is catching up to meet consumer engagement preferences. Chuck also predicts that influencer and creator marketing will flip the entire marketing planning cycle on its head by 2025, as retailers become more data-driven and customer-centric. Don't miss out on these valuable insights that could help your retail business stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving marketing landscape. #EMRPowerRankings #RetailMarketing #DigitalVideo #InfluencerMarketing #CreatorMarketing #ShoppableTVAds #Ovative #ChrisWalton #AnneMezzenga #RetailIndustryPredictions #2025RetailTrends Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 26, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Sezzle , A&M’s Kelly Carey and Jeff Dwyer joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Whether Target is making a smart move in rolling out generative AI so quickly across its store base (Source: Target Press Release ) What Netflix has to get right for its “Netflix House” concept to work (Source: The Verve ) Unilever’s new partnership with Microsoft to expand its use of quantum computing ( Consumer Goods Technology ) The long-term value and viability of a generative AI Amazon Alexa (Source: Reuters ) And we closed with a discussion of whether we should buy or sell Target’s new partnership with Shopify (Source: CNBC ) There’s all that, plus Ovative’s Chuck Anderson-Weir stops by to give us 5 Insightful Minutes on his company’s latest Enterprise Marketing Return Power Rankings , along with a lighting round filled with questions about postage stamps, Tom Brady, and spicy romance novels. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 24, 2024
In yet another one of those, "Holy Cow! That is so cool!" episodes of the Omni Talk Retail Technology Spotlight Series, hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga explore the groundbreaking potential of generative AI in the retail industry. Sravanth Aluru, the Founder and CEO of Avataar, alongside Avataar’s SVP of Creative AI, Jane Rawnsley, share insights on how their cutting-edge technology is radically improving retail product visualization and storytelling. You'll discover how Avataar harnesses the convergence of AI and computer vision to drastically reduce operational costs and time for retailers while enhancing the consumer experience. You'll also learn about the seamless creation of digital assets, from still images to immersive 3D environments, enabling personalized and engaging product exploration. You'll even gain insights into the future of retail, where the lines between physical and digital blur, and how Avataar empowers brands to scale their content creation and meet customers where they are. The top digital marketplaces and brands like Samsung are already leveraging Avataar's capabilities and witnessing impressive ROI and conversion rate uplifts, so whether you're a retail professional, marketer, or simply fascinated by the transformative power of AI, this episode is a must-watch, with immediate real-world application. Join the conversation and immerse yourself in the boundless possibilities that generative AI brings to the world of retail. And, for additional video footage to complement the interview, check out this link that showcases the full power of Avataar on display: youtu.be/c2aaKbUI_Ec #GenerativeAI #RetailTechnology #ProductVisualization #DigitalAssetCreation #ImmersiveExperiences #RetailInnovation #AvatarAI #OmniTalk #Avataar *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 22, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: What Retailers Should Do To Capitalize On The Adult Toy Trend For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/8N2dDdOJ_5g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 22, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: McDonald’s Calling It Quits On Automated Ai Ordering At The Drive Thru . .. For Now For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/8N2dDdOJ_5g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 22, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Instacart Plugging Retail Media Data Into Youtube Shopping For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/8N2dDdOJ_5g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 22, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: TikTok Launching Image Search – Should Google And Amazon Be Scared? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/8N2dDdOJ_5g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 22, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Buy ing Or Selling: Kohl’s Return Drop? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/8N2dDdOJ_5g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 20, 2024
In this insightful five minute interview, Rajen Raval, Microsoft's Director of Supply Chain Industry Solutions, discusses how Microsoft's cloud services and AI technologies are transforming supply chain visibility, collaboration, and decision-making. Learn how Microsoft's secure storage, compute power, and applications like Power Platform, Teams, and blockchain enable companies to create a strong data foundation and drive traceability across the value chain. You will also hear about the role of Copilot, an AI-powered personal assistant that contextualizes data from various sources, providing insights and recommending next best actions to streamline supply chain processes. Rajen shares real-life examples of how Copilot helps retail organizations optimize inventory management and facilitate communication between stakeholders, such as retail stores, warehouses, and distribution centers. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 19, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, recorded live from the lovely Marriott in Salt Lake City, and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Whether Kohl’s new return drop is a sign of an ongoing identity crisis within the retailer (Source: Retail Dive ) TikTok going after Google (and Amazon before it) with image search (Source: TechCrunch ) Instacart plugging into YouTube shopping ads (Source: Grocery Dive ) McDonalds calling it quits, for now, on automated order taking at the drive-thru (Source: Restaurant Business ) And closed with a story on how adults are buying more toys for themselves than they are for pre-schoolers (Source: Retail Dive ) There’s all that, plus Microsoft’s Rajen Raval of Microsoft stops by to give us 5 Insightful Minutes on improving supply chains with AI, and Anne and Chris get absolutely wacky with taxes in honor of Avalara and our upcoming work at the Outdoor Retailer conference. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 18, 2024
Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with David Dorf, Global Head of Retail Industry Solutions at AWS, and Filippo Battaini, Research Manager for Retail Insights at IDC, to discuss the most impactful and practical use cases for AI and generative AI in retail. Discover how retailers can leverage AI to drive profitability and ROI through innovative applications in inventory management, demand forecasting, product descriptions, hyper-personalization, and ideation. Learn about the IDC Techscape , a comprehensive framework for evaluating AI use cases in retail, and how it can guide retailers in their AI adoption strategy. David and Filippo share real-world case studies demonstrating the transformative power of AI in improving customer experience, enhancing employee efficiency, and streamlining omnichannel operations. They also discuss the organizational changes required for successful AI implementation and offer practical advice for retailers looking to embark on their AI journey. This podcast is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of AI in retail. #AIinRetail #GenerativeAI #RetailTechnology #ROI #InventoryManagement #DemandForecasting #Hyperpersonalization #Ideation #RetailMedia #IDCTechscape #AWS #RetailInnovation Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 18, 2024
In this mind-blowing interview, Sabesan Sithamparanathan, the founder and president of PervasID, shares groundbreaking insights on how new breakthroughs in RFID technology (that are already being implemented at a major global apparel retailer) will soon radically change the retail landscape. Learn how PervasID’s cutting-edge RFID solution, powered by AI and machine learning, empowers retailers to optimize omnichannel operations, reduce shrink, and enhance loss prevention strategies. Sabesan also discusses the wide-ranging applications of RFID technology beyond retail, including healthcare, aerospace, and supply chain management. Key topics covered include: What it takes to achieve 99%+ stock accuracy and real-time inventory visibility How RFID can enhance your click and collect and omnichannel capabilities How real-time data can reduce shrink and improve loss prevention The future of RFID technology in retail and beyond This podcast is already one of Chris and Anne’s favorites of 2024. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a true expert in the field and discover how RFID technology is still evolving to upend the industry. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 15, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from CommerceNext in NYC, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Buying Or Selling: Starbucks Studio? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DHHDZtEQB3M This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 15, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from CommerceNext in NYC, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Ikea Staffing Employees Within Roblox For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DHHDZtEQB3M This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 15, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from CommerceNext in NYC, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: What We Can Learn From Tesco’s Online Marketplace For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DHHDZtEQB3M This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 15, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from CommerceNext in NYC, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Body Cameras Keep Store Employees Safer? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DHHDZtEQB3M This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 15, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from CommerceNext in NYC, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Rolling Out Vusion ESLs To Half The Chain For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DHHDZtEQB3M This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14, 2024
In this exclusive interview from the Mirakl Summit, Adrien Nussenbaum, CEO and co-founder of Mirakl, shares his insights on the evolving landscape of marketplaces and how they are transforming the retail industry. Discover how the marketplace model, popularized by Amazon, is now being adopted by retailers worldwide to drive increased revenue, inventory efficiency, and high profit margins. Adrien discusses the critical role of AI in shaping personalized customer experiences and how marketplaces provide the necessary data to fuel these strategies. Learn about the importance of differentiation in a crowded marketplace ecosystem and how Mirakl's platform enables retailers to stand out. The conversation also delves into the growing significance of retail media and its symbiotic relationship with marketplaces. Adrien explains how Mirakl's innovative approach to retail media benefits both retailers and suppliers, creating a flywheel effect that drives advertising ROI. Looking ahead, Adrien shares his vision for the future of marketplaces, including the impact of AI-powered catalog ingestion, unique customer displays, and the evolution of the backend engine. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from a true marketplace visionary. #MiraklCEO #MarketplaceModel #AmazonCompetition #RetailerSolutions #AIinRetail #PersonalizedCustomerExperience #RetailMedia #AdvertisingROI #BackendEngine #MiraklSummit *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14, 2024
Monil Kothari, President at House of Brilliance and third-generation jeweler, shares his expertise on navigating the world of fine jewelry marketplaces. Discover the importance of a multi-channel approach and e-commerce diversification for reaching affluent customers and driving high-value online sales. Learn about the onboarding process with the Mirakl platform and how its hands-on support and standardized system streamline the experience for sellers. Monil emphasizes the significance of return policies in building customer confidence and the role of retailer trust and domain authority in fostering successful partnerships. From product variety to win-win collaborations, this video offers valuable insights for jewelry brands looking to excel in the online marketplace landscape. Don't miss out on these key strategies for mastering fine jewelry marketplaces and achieving multi-channel success. #FineJewelryMarketplaces #MultiChannelApproach #EcommerceDiversification #OnboardingProcess #MiraklPlatform #SellerPerspective #HighValueOnlineSales #RetailTrust #AffluentCustomers #WinWinPartnerships *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14, 2024
In this engaging discussion from the Mirakl Go Beyond Summit, Tzipi Avioz, GM for APAC and Global Delivery at Mirakl, and Mario Muñoz, Marketplace Director at Liverpool, share their experiences and insights on the transformative power of marketplaces in the e-commerce landscape. Discover how marketplaces enable retailers to achieve unprecedented growth, streamline operations, and venture into unexpected categories. Learn about the key considerations for retailers when implementing a marketplace strategy, including brand value, customer promise, and the importance of strategic seller recruitment and product selection. Mario shares a fascinating case study of Liverpool's success in becoming the largest distributor of tires through their marketplace, showcasing the potential for expanding into new categories. Tzipi highlights the critical role of data insights, AI, and retail media in driving innovation and helping retailers stay at the forefront of the ever-evolving e-commerce industry. The discussion also delves into the challenges and opportunities surrounding quality standardization and seller onboarding, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a consistent customer experience while rapidly expanding the product catalog. Whether you're a retail executive, e-commerce professional, or entrepreneur, this video offers valuable insights and practical advice for leveraging the power of marketplaces to achieve growth, innovation, and success in the digital age. #MiraklMarketplace #EcommerceGrowth #RetailInnovation #DropShip #Multichannel #RetailMedia #QualityStandardization #SellerOnboarding #CatalogExpansion #customerexperience *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14, 2024
Tom McFadyen, CEO of McFadyen Digital and author of "Marketplace Monetization" and "Marketplace Best Practices," shares his extensive expertise on the transformative power of marketplaces live from the Mirakl Summit. Learn about the asset-light model of marketplaces, the importance of developing a comprehensive marketplace strategy, and the benefits of selling on established marketplaces. Tom also discusses key topics such as brand protection, marketplace differentiation, and the evolving landscape of marketplace monetization. Explore the cutting-edge features and capabilities offered by Mirakl, including retail media networks, fintech solutions, and AI-powered tools that enable businesses to go beyond the traditional marketplace model. Gain valuable insights into the marketplace maturity model and the multiple monetization opportunities available, from data insights to advertising platforms. Whether you're an e-commerce professional, a business leader, or an entrepreneur, this video is packed with actionable advice and strategic insights to help you unlock the full potential of marketplaces. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's foremost experts and take your business to the next level. #MarketplaceMonetization #MarketplaceBestPractices #BusinessTransformation #EcommerceSolutions #RevenueGrowth #Profitability #MarketplaceStrategy #RetailMediaNetwork #Fintech #aicapabilities *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14, 2024
In this insightful interview from the Mirakl Go Beyond Summit, Eskander Matta, President of Tasharina Corporation, shares his company's experience navigating the complex world of online marketplaces. With a diverse catalog of over 500,000 SKUs spanning multiple continents, Eskander reveals the challenges and triumphs of marketplace selling. Discover the intricacies of the onboarding process, SKU management, and content optimization across various marketplaces. Learn how Tasharina Corporation leverages Mirakl Connect for seller-marketplace matchmaking and how diversification helps mitigate risks associated with overreliance on a single channel like Amazon. Eskander also shares his company's success story of entering the Australian market through a serendipitous match on Mirakl Connect and how AI-powered solutions can streamline the process of meeting unique retailer requirements. Gain valuable insights into the benefits of multi-continent selling and the importance of a diversification strategy in today's competitive e-commerce landscape. Whether you're a seasoned seller looking to expand your reach or a newcomer to online marketplaces, this video offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice to help you go beyond your current limits and achieve global success. #OnlineMarketplaces #SellerExperience #OnboardingProcess #SKUManagement #AmazonAlternatives #DiversificationStrategy #MiraklConnect #InternationalExpansion #AustraliaMarketEntry #MultiContinentSelling Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14, 2024
In this exclusive interview from the Mirakl Summit, Josh Janos, VP of Marketplaces at Macy's, shares his expertise on building a successful curated marketplace. Discover how Macy's is leveraging the Mirakl platform to expand product assortment, meet customer demand, and enhance the overall brand experience. Learn about the importance of retail partnerships, the advantages of Mirakl's extensive seller network, and how Macy's is entering new categories like consumer electronics and video game consoles through its marketplace. Josh also discusses the critical role of seller onboarding, marketplace expertise, and addressing operational issues in creating a seamless experience for customers. Whether you're a retailer looking to launch a curated marketplace or a brand aiming to expand your reach through online platforms, this video offers valuable insights into the strategy behind Macy's successful marketplace initiative. Don't miss out on these key takeaways for building a thriving curated marketplace that meets customer needs and strengthens your brand. #MacysMarketplace #CuratedMarketplace #ExpandingProductAssortment #RetailPartnerships #MiraklPlatform #SellerNetwork #BrandExperience #ConsumerElectronics #CustomerDemand #MarketplaceExpertise *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Mirakl Summit in NYC, Molly Hop, EVP Market at Havas Media Network, shares her expertise on navigating the world of retail media networks and e-commerce advertising. Discover key strategies for optimizing your paid media spend, leveraging first-party data, and enhancing customer experience across retail marketplaces. Learn how to strike the right balance between endemic and non-endemic advertising, align your KPIs, and drive incremental growth for your brand. Molly emphasizes the importance of agency partnerships and finding the sweet spot between short-term and long-term strategies to maximize your success in the rapidly evolving retail media landscape. Whether you're a brand looking to boost your relevance or a retailer aiming to create a winning retail media network, this video is packed with actionable insights to help you stay ahead of the curve. Don't miss out on these tips for mastering retail media networks and elevating your e-commerce advertising performance. #RetailMediaNetworks #EcommerceAdvertising #RetailMarketplaces #FirstPartyData #CustomerExperience #MiraklSummit *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from CommerceNext 2024, Payman Nejati, co-founder and CEO of Ownit AI, shares groundbreaking insights on how his company is transforming the e-commerce landscape with AI-powered overviews and search optimization. With a background spanning 21 years in e-commerce and multiple successful startups, Payman brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Discover how Ownit AI's innovative technology, similar to Google's recently announced AI overviews, helps retailers like Ulta Beauty provide context-driven product recommendations, improve conversion rates, and achieve free customer acquisition through SEO. Payman discusses the importance of answering consumer questions throughout the shopping journey and how this approach can help brands and retailers thrive in an era of voice search and AI assistants like Amazon's Alexa and Apple's Siri. Learn about Ownit AI's user-friendly onboarding process, the company's commitment to partnering with forward-thinking retailers, and their plans for continued innovation in the rapidly evolving world of e-commerce and artificial intelligence. Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Ownit AI Podcast Studio at CommerceNext 2024, Noam Paransky, Chief Omni and Innovation Officer at Tapestry, shares insights on the company's digital transformation journey and the evolving role of omnichannel in luxury retail. With an extensive background in consulting at Kurt Salmon Associates (now part of Accenture Strategy), AlixPartners, and Gap Inc., Noam brings a wealth of experience to his current position. Noam discusses the importance of creating unified platforms across Tapestry's family of brands, including Coach, while also tailoring omnichannel initiatives to each brand's unique needs. He emphasizes the significance of empowering store associates and adapting digital strategies to enhance the human touch in retail. Discover how Tapestry is leveraging generative AI to improve customer service, synthesize field feedback through the innovative "Tell Rexy" program, and create more engaging shopping experiences during the holiday season and beyond. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Ownit AI Podcast Studio at CommerceNext 2024, Jill Pavlovich, SVP of Digital Shopping Experiences at Albertsons, shares insights on the company's digital transformation journey from a traditional brick and mortar grocery store to an omnichannel retailer. With a background in fashion merchandising and experience at Wayfair, Jill brings a unique perspective to the grocery industry. Jill discusses the challenges and opportunities of reducing customers' cognitive load when it comes to meal planning and grocery shopping. She highlights Albertsons' innovative shoppable recipes feature, which offers over 9,000 proprietary recipes created by in-house dietitians and chefs, tailored to customers' dietary preferences and household sizes. Discover how Albertsons is leveraging digital engagement, retail media, and customer insights to cater to the evolving needs of consumers, including the upcoming Gen Z shoppers, in this engaging conversation. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Ownit AI Podcast Studio at Commerce Next 2024, Chris Hansen, VP of Digital Product at Sally Beauty, shares insights on the company's approach to strategic personalization and digital transformation. With over 20 years of experience in digital and e-commerce across various industries, Chris discusses the challenges and opportunities of catering to both B2B and B2C audiences in the hair and beauty sector. Chris emphasizes the importance of speed to market, a test and learn methodology, and leveraging AI and generative AI to create dynamic, personalized experiences for Sally Beauty's diverse customer base. He also touches on the role of social media in driving conversion and frequency, and the challenges of integrating best practices in a predominantly brick and mortar business. Discover how Sally Beauty is navigating the digital landscape and harnessing the power of personalization to drive growth and customer engagement in this engaging conversation. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Ownit AI Studio at CommerceNext 2024, Rick Lockton, SVP of Digital at Tractor Supply Company, shares insights on navigating the challenges and opportunities of omnichannel retail. With a background in merchandising and over a decade of experience in digital product management, Rick discusses the importance of organizational design, incentives, and collaboration between digital and store teams. Rick shares his priorities for Tractor Supply, including improving site conversion, leveraging AI in marketing, and building a CDP to better understand and engage customers. He also touches on the value of adopting agile methodology and a product mindset in key areas of the business, such as e-commerce and merchandising. Discover how Tractor Supply is driving digital transformation and omnichannel success by staying close to customers, integrating store and digital experiences, and embracing new retail technologies in this engaging conversation. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Ownit AI Podcast Studio at CommerceNext 2024, Amber Turley, VP of Omni Convenience and Commerce Partnerships at Sephora and an OmniStar Award recipient, shares insights on the beauty retailer's approach to delivering convenience and personalization across multiple channels. Amber discusses the various ways Sephora offers convenience to its customers, including same day delivery, buy online pickup in store (BOPIS), curbside pickup, auto-replenishment subscriptions, and partnerships with on-demand marketplaces like Instacart and DoorDash. Amber emphasizes the importance of inventory management and cross-functional collaboration in ensuring a seamless customer experience. She also touches on the role of personalization in Sephora's CRM journey and the integration of omnichannel convenience options throughout the shopping experience. Discover how Sephora is setting the standard for omnichannel retail and learn about the key factors driving their success in this engaging conversation. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Ownit AI booth at CommerceNext 2024, Mara Sirhal, Chief Merchant and Brand Officer at Saks OFF 5TH, shares insights on the power of off-price luxury and how the company delivers attainable aspiration to its customers. With a career spanning nearly two decades at Macy's and Bed Bath & Beyond, Mara discusses the importance of vulnerability and being "selfish" in driving one's career forward. Mara emphasizes the emotional experience that Saks OFF 5TH provides, offering incredible deals on aspirational brands, especially during times of macroeconomic pressure. She also touches on the value of staying curious about new retail technologies and building relationships in the industry. Discover how Saks OFF 5TH is navigating the evolving retail landscape and delivering value to its customers in this engaging conversation. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 12, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, recorded live from CommerceNext 2024, and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart rolling out electronic shelf labels to nearly half its U.S. stores (Source: Retail Dive ) TJX asking its sales associates to wear body cameras (Source: CNN ) Tesco building its own third-party digital marketplace (Source: Retail Gazette ) IKEA hiring employees to work inside of Roblox (Source: Marketing Dive ) And closed with a look at Starbucks’ decision to open its own in-house production studio (Source: Adweek ) There’s all that, plus Capri Suns, Dr. Pepper, and some really spicy enchiladas. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 8, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Shoptalk Europe, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If The Latest Earnings Are The Canary In The Kohl’s Mine? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/VZN770YxL6g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 8, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Shoptalk Europe, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling: Walmart Realm? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/VZN770YxL6g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 8, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Shoptalk Europe, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If The Takeoff Chapter 11 News Is The End Of Automated Microfulfillment? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/VZN770YxL6g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 8, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Shoptalk Europe, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: How They'll Have What Abercrombie Is Having For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/VZN770YxL6g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 8, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Shoptalk Europe, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Mirakl, Ownit AI and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Adding Grubhub To Amazon Prime For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/VZN770YxL6g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 5, 2024
Live from the Shoptalk Europe stage, Omni Talk's Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga recap the key takeaways from all three days of the conference with Shoptalk's very own Ben Miller and Zahra Mohamed, all in rapid fire style, and allocating no more than 4 minutes per topic! Highlights include: The overall state of European Retail How real is the concept of "Unified Commerce" Is AI overhyped? Underhyped? Or properly hyped? The power of brand Retail Media -- is it all it's cracked up to be? And, of course, our biggest surprises from the conference and much, much more! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 5, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Ownit AI , Avalara , Mirakl , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Amazon adding Grubhub food delivery for free to Amazon Prime (Source: Verge ) Abercrombie & Fitch’s first billion dollar Q1 (Source: Retail Dive ) Takeoff Technologies filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy (Source: Grocery Dive ) Walmart’s “trippy” new online storefront, Walmart Realm (Source: Fast Company ) And closed with a look at Kohl’s disastrous earnings report (Source: Reuters ) There’s all that, plus this month’s OmniStar (congrats Burlington’s Connie Droge), how to best take care of bald scalps, Prince, and whether an AI digital twin of Chris would actually enhance Anne’s work life. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 5, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Walmart Commerce Technologies Studio from Shoptalk Europe, Caroline Welsh, Customer Digital and Trading Board Director at Brico Dépôt (part of the Kingfisher Group), shares insights on the company's remarkable journey in launching an e-commerce website in just eight days and a marketplace in three months during the COVID-19 pandemic. Caroline also discusses her role in overseeing merchandising, advertising, loyalty, pricing, and customer data to create exceptional omnichannel experiences. Discover how Brico Dépôt stays true to its purpose while expanding its assortment, leveraging store colleagues' expertise, and fostering partnerships. Caroline also emphasizes the importance of clearly defining the MVP to move quickly and efficiently. Looking ahead, Caroline highlights the critical need for attracting future trade professionals and increasing female representation in the home improvement industry. She also touches on the importance of sustainability and how Kingfisher Group is supporting apprenticeships to build a strong workforce. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 5, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Walmart Commerce Technologies Studio at Shoptalk Europe, Dr. Jan Philippe Wintjes, Executive Vice President Global Omnichannel, Hugo Boss, shares insights on the company's approach to omnichannel retail, digital product discovery, and exploring new frontiers like Web 3 and the metaverse. With over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, JP oversees a wide range of responsibilities, including retail, e-commerce, app development, loyalty programs, customer relationship management, and merchandising. JP discusses the importance of creating engaging and exciting customer journeys across various touchpoints, from retail stores to online platforms. He emphasizes the role of digital product discovery in promoting brands through social media, live shopping, and 360-degree product visualization. Discover how Hugo Boss is leveraging innovative technologies like AI and logistics to enhance operational efficiency and profitability while maintaining an entrepreneurial mindset to test and learn new concepts, such as their successful Roblox collaboration. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 5, 2024
In this exclusive interview from the Walmart Commerce Technologies Studio at Shoptalk Europe, Bruno Mourão, Head of Ecosystem at Sonae MC, shares insights on the company's approach to omnichannel retail, partnerships, and meeting customer expectations. Sonae MC, a leading Portuguese grocery retailer with a strong presence in both physical stores and e-commerce, is focusing on expanding its ecosystem beyond grocery to include food, health and wellness, loyalty, medical services, and marketplaces. Bruno discusses the company's journey from hypermarkets to supermarkets, convenience stores, and franchising models, as well as its efforts to consolidate omnichannel services like click and collect, curbside pickup, and quick commerce. He also touches on the growing importance of retail media and the need for consistency in delivering on customer promises. Discover how Sonae MC is navigating the evolving retail landscape and fostering partnerships with brands and local businesses to better serve Portuguese consumers in this engaging conversation. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 5, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Walmart Commerce Technologies Studio at Shoptalk Europe, Baltazar Ozonek, VP of AI & Innovation at Pandora, the world's largest jewelry company, shares insights on unlocking the value of data and AI in an omnichannel retail environment. With a focus on customer experience and brand alignment, Baltazar discusses the importance of data quality, AI deployment, and personalization across all channels. Discover how Pandora is navigating the challenges of legacy tech and leveraging its vertically integrated supply chain as a competitive advantage. Baltazar also delves into the critical components of successful AI implementation, including data requirements, tech requirements, and people capabilities. Learn about the significance of measuring incremental gains, avoiding diminishing returns, and ensuring true revenue uplift when deploying AI solutions. Baltazar emphasizes the need for a pragmatic approach that balances commercial opportunity with the complexity of AI models. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 5, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Walmart Commerce Technologies Studio at Shoptalk Europe, Sanjeeth Cherian, Head of Product Strategy and Business Operations at Walmart Commerce Technologies, shares insights on the company's journey to offer innovative retail technology solutions to retailers worldwide. As part of the founding team, Sanjeeth discusses the challenges and opportunities of building a SaaS platform that leverages Walmart's extensive experience in e-commerce, store operations, and supply chain. Sanjeeth highlights the importance of customer feedback in shaping product development and the key benefits of their offerings, such as route optimization, which addresses supply chain disruption, cost reduction, and carbon footprint reduction while providing flexibility to retailers. Discover how Walmart Commerce Technologies is positioning itself within the retail tech ecosystem and driving digital transformation through a platform play approach in this engaging conversation. Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 4, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Walmart Commerce Technologies Podcast Studio from Shoptalk Europe 2024, Nikki Sale, Chief Digital Commerce Director at Diageo, shares insights on the company's digital transformation journey and omnichannel retail strategies. Diageo, known for iconic brands like Johnnie Walker, Baileys, and Guinness, is focusing on creating personalized and seamless consumer experiences across both physical stores and online platforms. Nikki discusses the importance of breaking down organizational silos and achieving alignment to effectively deliver omnichannel experiences. She also shares examples of innovative digital tools, such as "What's Your Whiskey," which utilizes flavor print technology to help consumers discover their preferred whiskey tastes. Discover how Diageo is leveraging digital tools and strategies to drive personalization and enhance the customer journey in this engaging conversation. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 3, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Walmart Commerce Technologies studio at Shoptalk Europe, Arianne Parisi, Chief Digital Officer at JD Sports, discusses the company's retail transformation journey and omnichannel commerce strategy. As a leading sports fashion retailer, JD Sports is focusing on putting the customer at the center of their operations while expanding their presence in the US market. Parisi shares insights on overcoming legacy systems, achieving cross-channel consistency, and meeting evolving consumer expectations. She emphasizes the importance of building brand awareness and redefining success metrics in the age of omnichannel retail. Discover how JD Sports is navigating the challenges of digital leadership and driving retail innovation in this engaging conversation. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 3, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Walmart Commerce Technologies Studio at Shoptalk Europe. Sathya Nandakumar, CTO at Holland & Barrett, shares insights on the company's digital transformation journey and the role of AI in the health and wellness retail sector. Holland & Barrett, a leading retailer of vitamins, supplements, and healthy food, is focusing on leveraging technology to enhance personalization and to improve its customer experiences across its omnichannel ecosystem. Nandakumar discusses the importance of a comprehensive AI strategy, highlighting the potential applications of generative AI in search, content creation, and personalization. She also emphasizes the significance of data as the foundation for machine learning, customer insights, and CLV optimization. Discover how Holland & Barrett is navigating the digital landscape, driving omnichannel excellence, and empowering store colleagues to deliver exceptional customer experiences in this engaging conversation. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 3, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the Walmart Commerce Technologies Studio at Shoptalk Europe, Marc Vicente Sala, Chief Digital Director at Kingfisher PLC, shares insights on the company's digital transformation and omnichannel journey. Kingfisher, a leading home improvement retailer with brands like B&Q, Screwfix, Castorama, and Brico Dépôt, is focusing on harnessing the power of AI, marketplaces, and retail media to enhance customer experiences. Marc Vicente discusses the importance of organizing and leveraging customer data to enable effective AI implementation, including algorithmic AI for forecasting and demand planning, as well as generative AI for catalog improvement and image quality enhancement. He also highlights the growing significance of marketplace business models and their synergy with retail media, allowing sellers to gain visibility and monetize through performance-based strategies. Discover how Kingfisher is navigating the digital landscape and driving omnichannel retail innovation in this engaging conversation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 1, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, Mirakl and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Buying Or Selling: Google’s New AI Fit Tech? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/WRfZZXuntpg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 1, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, Mirakl and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Schnucks Partnering With Ibotta For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/WRfZZXuntpg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 1, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, Mirakl, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Adding Free Pet Telehealth To Walmart+ For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/WRfZZXuntpg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 1, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, Mirakl, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: TikTok To Make It Easier For Creators To Make Money For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/WRfZZXuntpg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 1, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, Mirakl, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Wayfair Opening Its First Large Format Store! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/WRfZZXuntpg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 30, 2024
In this quick 5-minute interview, Joanna Ranagarajan, Managing Director at the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, explains how Shein has disrupted the fast fashion industry and discusses what other retailers can learn from the disruption. Learn about Shein’s key strategies, including incorporating consumer feedback into product development, optimizing supply chain agility, and leveraging social media marketing. Discover how Shein’s data-driven approach and rapid go-to-market strategy have enabled them to capture market share in the competitive retail landscape. Gain insights into how brands can adapt to changing consumer trends and improve financial metrics by embracing “seasonless” products, reducing lead times, and responding decisively to customer analytics. Stay ahead of the curve in the evolving world of fast fashion and retail disruption. To read Joanna and her team’s report on Shein and Fast Fashion, head here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insight/navigating-the-rapid-pace-of-fashion/ Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 29, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , Mirakl , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: What Wayfair has to get right in the opening of its first large-format store (Source: Chain Store Age ) TikTok lowering the thresholds for creators to earn seller commissions (Source: Bloomberg ) Walmart adding free pet telehealth to Walmart+ (Source: CNBC ) Schnucks partnering with Ibotta (Source: Chain Store Age ) And closed with a lively debate on the value of Google’s new AI tool that lets advertisers showcase clothing on various models and body types (Source: Wired ) There’s all that, plus A&M’s Joanna Rangarajan stops by for 5 Insightful Minutes on Shein and fast fashion, and we also talk head transplants, beach vibes, and why Chris is now a dead ringer for Mikhail Gorbachev. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 27, 2024
Discover how AI is impacting practically impacting retail inventory planning and allocation through the eyes of Spanish fashion retailer Desigual. Join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga from Omni Talk as they interview James Theuerkauf, CEO of Syrup Tech, and Carla Roger Casacuberta, Head of Merchandising at Desigual. Learn how Desigual leveraged Syrup Tech's AI optimization solutions to improve demand forecasting, its omnichannel retail strategies and capabilities, and its overall inventory efficiency. Understand the importance of balancing AI and human intelligence in retail analytics and innovation. Gain insights into the successful implementation of AI technology for merchandising and how it can transform your retail business. Don't miss this informative discussion on the future of AI in retail! #AIinRetail #InventoryPlanning #InventoryAllocation #RetailTechnology #AIOptimization #RetailAnalytics #OmnichannelRetail #DemandForecasting #RetailInnovation #InventoryEfficiency #SyrupTech #Desigual #RetailAISolutions #JamesTheuerkauf #CarlaRogerCasacuberta #AIandHumanIntelligence #AIforMerchandising Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 25, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Truett Horne and Jeremy Levine discussed: Hims Offering Wegovy For $199 Per Month For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/38T1iAyglTM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 25, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Truett Horne and Jeremy Levine discussed: Lego Tying Sustainability Goals To Employee Bonuses For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/38T1iAyglTM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 25, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Truett Horne and Jeremy Levine discussed: If GoPuff Price Matching Aldi Is Sustainable? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/38T1iAyglTM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 25, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Truett Horne and Jeremy Levine discussed: Walmart Expanding Neighborhood Market In More Ways Than One For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/38T1iAyglTM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 25, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Truett Horne and Jeremy Levine discussed: Buying Or Selling: Target’s Price Cuts For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/38T1iAyglTM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 23, 2024
For our money, we cannot think of another technology that unlocks as much value when it is deployed and harnessed across multiple levels of a retail organization in the right way as RFID. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Marshall Kay, Global Director of Retail Transformation Services at Avery Dennison, and Randy Dunn, Director of Business Development at Zebra Technologies, joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to share all the ways the best of the best retailers are utilizing RFID. Chris and Anne go deep with Marshall and Randy on: The history of RFID, i.e. where it has been and where it is going next, inclusive of current pricing, use cases, and category penetration What Randy refers to as the “ladder” approach to RFID implementation How to move from a basic, foundational RFID implementation into a world of “RFID+” And, perhaps most importantly, how to know when you have actually unlocked the full value of RFID inside of your retail organization Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 22, 2024
Very few retailers realize that underneath all their years of operating a retail business lies a technological foundation from which others can learn. But not Walmart. Walmart gets it. Enter Walmart Commerce Technologies. Walmart understands this phenomenon as well as anyone, which is why Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Anshu Bhardwaj, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Walmart Global Technology and Walmart Commerce Technologies, joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series. Chris and Anne plan went deep with Anshu on: Anshu’s career journey and what led up to her leading Walmart Commerce Technologies What Walmart Commerce Technologies is and the origin story surrounding it What differentiates Walmart Commerce Technologies in the SaaS space and why selling technology to other retailers is the right move for Walmart Walmart Commerce Technologies’ currently product portfolio, including Store Assist and Route Optimization And, of course, where Anshu plans to take things next Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 22, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , Mirakl , and Sezzle , A&M’s Truett Horne and Jeremy Levine joined Chris and Anne to discuss: The potential ramifications of Target’s decision to cut prices on roughly 5,000 items (Source: Retail Dive ) Walmart’s two new (and much larger) Neighborhood Market grocery stores (Source: Grocery Dive ) Gopuff’s decision to price match Aldi in the U.K. (Source: Internet Retailing ) Lego’s new plan to tie employee compensation to its carbon reduction goals (Source: ESG Dive ) And closed with a look at how Hims’ new $199 per month Wegovy copycat could impact food retailing strategies (Source: Bloomberg ) There’s all that, plus chicken or fish at Long John Silver’s, Costco birthday parties, and the candies at the bottom of grandma’s purse that we all loved most as kids. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 20, 2024
Chris and Anne chat with Chris Stoyles, CEO of Last Yard, about how electronic shelf labels (ESLs), price optimization, and data-driven retail promotions can come together to transform today's in-store retail experiences. Learn how retail data can be used to enhance retail marketing, and streamline retail operations to build shopper trust and drive success. You will also discover just how important accurate pricing, effective merchandising, and agile retail IT are in today's competitive landscape. Whether you're a retail executive, store manager, or marketing professional, this podcast offers valuable insights into the future of retail technology execution in-store. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest host Ben Miller of Shoptalk discussed: Are They Buying Or Selling: JCP Opening New Stores? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/5NLe5lpZPJ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest host Ben Miller of Shoptalk discussed: How Automatic Age Verification Comes To Self-checkout, In Of All Places, Germany? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/5NLe5lpZPJ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest host Ben Miller of Shoptalk discussed: Best Buy's Redesigned Mobile App For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/5NLe5lpZPJ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest host Ben Miller of Shoptalk discussed: Exchange Zones: Will They Or Won’t They Take Off In The States? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/5NLe5lpZPJ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest host Ben Miller of Shoptalk discussed: How Big Of A Deal Walmart’s Restructuring Announcement Is For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/5NLe5lpZPJ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 15, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Shoptalk’s Ben Miller stopped by to guest host with Chris and Anne as they discussed: Walmart’s reported job cuts and back-to-office push (Source: WSJ ) The first-ever exchange zone in Atlanta from Harbor Lockers (Source: Harbor Lockers Press Release ) Best Buy’s new mobile app features (Source: Best Buy Press Release ) Diebold Nixdorf bringing automatic age verification to self-checkout in Germany (Source: Retail Dive ) And closed with a look at whether JCP can be successful via new store growth (Source: Retail Dive ) There’s all that, plus Peugeots, Belfast bike messenger must haves, and the posh retail store in which Ben would most like to live for a full year. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 11, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Mobile Ordering Is The Worst Thing That Could Have Happened To Starbucks? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XXuGumke8ws This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 11, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Happy Returns Enabling Shein Returns At Forever 21 Stores For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XXuGumke8ws This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 11, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If They're Buying Or Selling Walmart’s New In-store AI Tools For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XpiUgVgeGjo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 11, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Instacart Featuring Restaurant Delivery Through Uber Eats For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XpiUgVgeGjo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 11, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Target Expanding Its Hudson’s Bay Wholesaling Partnership For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XpiUgVgeGjo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 8, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Target expanding its wholesale relationship with Hudson’s Bay (Source: BNN Bloomberg ) Instacart and Uber Eats’ intriguing new partnership (Source: Joint Instacart and Uber Eats Press Release ) Walmart’s new in-store AI tools for produce and apparel (Source: CNBC ) Happy Returns enabling Shein returns at Forever 21 stores (Source: Supply Chain Dive ) And closed with a look at whether mobile ordering is one idea Starbucks wishes it could disinvent (Source: CX Dive ) There’s all that, plus NYC apartments furnished to look like Skittles, beer ballads, and the Monopoly token Anne thinks she resembles most. P.S. We are also gearing up for CommerceNext out in NYC in June. Scaled retailers and brands can register for FREE with code “FASTFIVE” in the referral field. Secure your spot now — head to commercenext.com/conference/ and don’t forget to use “FASTFIVE” P.P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our #1 podcast ranking in all of retail on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 4, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Nordstrom Finding Digital Religion With A Marketplace Mirakl For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XpiUgVgeGjo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 4, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Launching A New Owned Brand Food Line For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XpiUgVgeGjo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 4, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Tesco Gamifying Loyalty With EagleAI For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XpiUgVgeGjo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 4, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Best Buy & CNET’s Partnership A Signal Of More To Come? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XpiUgVgeGjo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 4, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Closing All 51 Health Centers For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/XpiUgVgeGjo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 1, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart’s out-of-nowhere decision to shut down all 51 of its health centers (Source: Bloomberg ) Best Buy’s “groundbreaking” new partnership with CNET (Source: Best Buy Press Release ) Tesco bringing EagleAI’s gamification to its loyalty program (Source: Tesco Press Release ) Walmart launching its first new private label food line in two decades, aka bettergoods (Source: Bloomberg ) And closed with a look at why Nordstrom launching a new digital marketplace may just be the Mirakl it needs (Source: Retail Dive ) There’s all that, plus this month’s OmniStar (congrats Ryan Nalette of Bob’s Discount Furniture ), Chris V4.7, the vagaries of selling live chickens, and why jalapeños should be branded like Dole Pineapples or Chiquita Bananas. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 30, 2024
In this episode of The Omni Talk Retail Ask an Expert Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Brian Kavanaugh, Director of Global Revenue Marketing at Bynder, and Alex Alves, Head of Analyst Relations at Salsify, to discuss the importance of product experience management (PXM), product information management (PIM), and digital asset management (DAM) in the world of e-commerce and digital commerce. Learn how brands and retailers can optimize their product content and digital assets to win on the digital shelf across any digital retailing platform, discover the role of AI in enhancing omnichannel strategies and retail media, and gain insights into the future of brand marketing and analytics in the ever-evolving retail landscape. #DigitalShelf #PXM #PIM #DAM #Ecommerce #DigitalCommerce #Retail #Brands #ProductContent #ProductInformation #Omnichannel #AI #BrandMarketing #RetailMedia This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the CARW Conference in Milwaukee, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Kenny Loggins, Paris Hilton & LinkedIn Tarot Lightning Round For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Ft2Y7Ob3EZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the CARW Conference in Milwaukee, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: WSJ's Uncovering Of Secret Amazon Spy Operation For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Ft2Y7Ob3EZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the CARW Conference in Milwaukee, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Instagram Allowing Users To Search With Generative AI For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Ft2Y7Ob3EZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the CARW Conference in Milwaukee, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Launching A Standalone Grocery Delivery Subscription For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Ft2Y7Ob3EZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the CARW Conference in Milwaukee, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Grubhub And Mercato Forming A New Partnership For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Ft2Y7Ob3EZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 27, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the CARW Conference in Milwaukee, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Launching Its Own BNPL Offering For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Ft2Y7Ob3EZ4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 25, 2024
In this insightful Retail Technology Spotlight Podcast, Akshay Madhani, CEO and Co-Founder of Scrollmark, shares how their innovative social media automation platform is transforming the way brands approach social media marketing. Discover how Scrollmark's powerful features, such as direct response marketing, influencer marketing, and social media engagement, can help you boost your social media ROI and drive revenue for your business. Learn about the importance of social media analytics and how scrollmark's platform provides valuable insights to optimize your social media strategy. Akshay also discusses the significance of social media loyalty campaigns and how they can increase customer retention and brand advocacy. Whether you're a social media manager, marketer, or business owner, this video will provide you with actionable tips and strategies to revolutionize your social media marketing efforts and stay ahead of the competition. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from an industry expert about how to take your social commerce to the next level. #SocialMediaMarketing #SocialCommerce #InfluencerMarketing #DirectResponseMarketing #SocialMediaAutomation #SocialMediaEngagement #SocialMediaAnalytics #SocialMediaROI #SocialMediaStrategy #SocialMediaLoyaltyCampaigns *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 24, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart’s new BNPL offering (Source: CNBC ) Grubhub’s Mercato partnership (Source: Chain Store Age ) Amazon’s low cost subscription grocery delivery plan (Source: Reuters ) Instagram getting AI-powered search (Source: Daily Star ) And closed with a look at the WSJ report last week that Amazon was running a secret operation to gain intel on its rivals (Source: WSJ ) There’s all that, plus Milwaukee hotels, death by lady bugs, and grooming tips for hairless dachshunds. P.S. We are also gearing up for CommerceNext out in NYC in June. Scaled retailers and brands can register for FREE with code “FASTFIVE” in the referral field. Secure your spot now — head to commercenext.com/conference/ and don’t forget to use “FASTFIVE” P.P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our #1 podcast ranking in all of retail on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2024
In this exclusive interview from the VusionGroup studio at the World Retail Congress in Paris, Jose Gomez, Chief Development Officer at ETAM Group, sits down with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga from Omni Talk to discuss the company's innovative approach to retail development and customer experience. ETAM Group, a leader in lingerie brands with over 1,500 stores across 50 countries, is revolutionizing the in-store experience with cutting-edge technology. Discover how ETAM Group is: Leveraging its in-house developed clienteling app to provide personalized shopping experiences Utilizing RFID technology and smart fitting rooms to streamline product selection and checkout Expanding its presence in the US market through a strategic partnership with Nordstrom Adapting to the preferences and needs of American consumers Prioritizing meaningful growth in existing markets to build strong customer relationships Jose also shares insights on the importance of omnichannel retail, the role of data in enhancing customer interactions, and the collaborative approach required to develop successful retail technology solutions. #JoseGomez #etam #RetailDevelopment #RetailStrategy #ClientelingApp #SmartFittingRooms #USExpansion #NordstromPartnership #PersonalizedShopping #OmnichannelRetail #RetailInnovation #CustomerExperience #OmniTalkPodcast #WorldRetailCongress This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2024
In this exclusive interview from the VusionGroup stuido at the World Retail Congress in Paris, Sanjay Luthra, Executive Vice President EMEA and Global Direct-to-Consumer at Mattel, sits down with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga from Omni Talk to discuss the company's innovative approach to building a premium D2C business. Discover how Mattel Creations is tapping into the growing market of adult fans and collectors, known as "kidults," by offering customized, nostalgic products and immersive digital experiences. Key Takeaways: The power of innovation and nostalgia in driving Mattel's D2C strategy Building communities for passionate adult fans and toy collectors Creating complementary partnerships with omnichannel retailers The surprising success of the Ken's hoodie from the Barbie movie Mattel's vision for franchise building beyond toys Sanjay also shares insights on the importance of a purpose-driven organization and how Mattel Creations fits into the company's overall strategy. Learn how Mattel is leveraging its iconic brands and cultural impact to create unique, premium experiences for fans of all ages. #SanjayLuthra #Mattel #DtC #MattelCreations #AdultFans #Kidults #ToyCollectors #NostalgicToys #CustomizedProducts #DigitalExperiences #OmnichannelRetail #StrategicPartnerships #BarbieMovie #KensHoodie #FranchiseBuilding #OmniTalkPodcast #WorldRetailCongress This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2024
In this exclusive interview from the VusionGroup studio at the World Retail Congress in Paris, Fahed Ghanim, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle, sits down with Omni Talk's Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss the company's success in bringing fashion brands to the Middle East. With a portfolio of over 29 shopping malls, Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle is a major player in the region's retail landscape. Discover how Fahed and his team: Identify and bring relevant, exciting brands like Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister to the Middle East Create localized products that resonate with consumers in the region Embrace experiential retail concepts with brands like Lego and Lululemon Build authentic partnerships and engage communities beyond transactions Navigate the challenges of concept stores and sustainable retail practices Achieve omnichannel success and profitability in just five years Fahed also shares his insights on the importance of finding the right partner when expanding into new markets and the value of seamless online and offline experiences for customers. #MajidAlFuttaimLifestyle #FahedGhanim #RetailintheMiddleEast #FashionBrands #ExperientialRetail #OmnichannelSuccess #AuthenticPartnerships #LocalizedProducts #LegStores #Lululemon #OmniTalkPodcast #WorldRetailCongress This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2024
In this exclusive interview from the VusionGroup studio at the World Retail Congress in Paris, Anton Vincent, President of Mars Wrigley North America and Global Ice Cream, sits down with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga of Omni Talk to discuss the company's approach to engaging Gen Z consumers, creating memorable retail experiences, and driving innovation in the ice cream category. Discover how Mars Wrigley is: Leveraging iconic brands like M&M's, Snickers, and Twix to stay relevant to younger consumers Transforming brand transactions into immersive brand experiences Navigating the evolving landscape of omnichannel retail and direct-to-consumer strategies Ensuring brand consistency across multiple touchpoints and retail partners Capitalizing on the growth of retail media to reach target audiences Anton also shares his insights on the importance of understanding Gen Z's values and how they influence purchasing decisions, as well as the role of digital channels, influencer marketing, and personalization in connecting with this key demographic. #AntonVincent #MarsWrigley #GenZ #Omnichannel #IceCreamInnovation #MMs #Snickers #Twix #RetailExperiences #BrandConsistency #RetailMedia #OmniTalkPodcast #WorldRetailCongress This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2024
In this exclusive interview with Omni Talk recorded in the VusionGroup studio live at the World Retail Congress in Paris, Ian Bailey, Managing Director of Kmart Group Australia, shares fascinating insights into the world of Australian retail. Discover how Kmart Australia differentiates itself through its strong focus on own brands, rapid product development, and the integration of cutting-edge technology like 3D design. Key takeaways: The power of private label and Kmart Australia's unique approach to own brands Adapting to changing consumer behaviors and expectations post-pandemic Leveraging digital tools to enhance the in-store experience and supply chain resilience The story behind Kmart Australia's successful partnership with Mattel for wooden toys Ian also reveals how Kmart Australia is navigating the challenges of a shifting retail landscape and geopolitical uncertainties. Learn valuable lessons that retailers across the globe can apply to their own strategies. #KmartAustralia #IanBailey #RetailTrends #PrivateLabel #RetailTech #ConsumerInsights #OmniTalkPodcast This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2024
In this exclusive interview from the VusionGroup studio at the World Retail Congress in Paris, Scott Price, CEO of DFI Retail Group, sits down with Omni Talk's Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss the critical issues shaping the future of retail in Asia. With over 11,000 stores across 13 countries, DFI Retail Group is a major player in the Asian market, operating food, health and beauty, and convenience stores, as well as the IKEA franchise in multiple markets. Key Takeaways: The growing importance of sustainability in retail and the challenges of reducing scope 3 emissions Navigating the digital transformation of brick and mortar retail and creating seamless omnichannel experiences Understanding the unique characteristics and expectations of Asian consumers Leadership insights on the evolving role of the CEO in the retail industry Scott also shares his thoughts on the future of global retail, the importance of retail innovation, and the lessons learned from the exit of Western retailers from the Asian market. #ScottPrice #DFIRetailGroup #RetailinAsia #Sustainability #DigitalTransformation #OmniChannel #RetailTrends #LeadershipInsights #OmniTalkPodcast #WorldRetailCongress This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2024
In this exclusive interview recorded live from the VusionGroup studio at the World Retail Congress in Paris, Susan Viscon, VP and Executive Director of Path Ahead Ventures at REI, sits down with Omni Talk's Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss the groundbreaking venture fund aimed at supporting entrepreneurs of color in the outdoor industry. With a career spanning over two decades at REI, including a role as Chief Merchant, Susan shares her journey and the inspiration behind Path Ahead Ventures. Key Takeaways: The $30 million fund's unique approach to direct equity investments and grants Strategies for inviting and supporting diverse founders in the outdoor industry The power of inclusive design and community activation in driving business success Leveraging purpose to shape decision-making and create customer loyalty Learn how REI is working to scale Path Ahead Ventures and drive meaningful change in the outdoor industry. #REI #PathAheadVentures #SusanViscon #RacialEquity #OutdoorIndustry #EntrepreneursOfColor #InclusiveDesign #PurposeDrivenBusiness #OmniTalkPodcast #WorldRetailCongress This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2024
Join Omni Talk's Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga as they speak with Martin Urrutia Islas, Global Head of Retail Innovation and Experience at Lego, live from the VusionGroup studio at the World Retail Congress in Paris. In this exclusive interview, Martin shares the secrets behind Lego's success in creating engaging retail experiences that keep customers coming back for more. Discover how Lego: Develops and tests new in-store experiences, like the Minifigure Factory Balances digital and analog experiences to enhance customer engagement Evolves from omnichannel retail to "omni experiences" that bridge the gap between in-store and online Leverages AI while maintaining a human-centric approach to retail innovation Collaborates with brands and the United Nations to celebrate creativity and play Plus, get a sneak peek at the exciting Lego products and events coming soon, including the first-ever Global Day of Play! #Lego #RetailInnovation #CustomerEngagement #OmniExperiences #AIinRetail #HumanCentricRetail #GlobalDayOfPlay #LegoxUN #OmniTalkPodcast #WorldRetailCongress This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2024
Join us for an enlightening session from the VusionGroup studio at the World Retail Congress in Paris. In this exclusive interview, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga delve into a transformative discussion with Ulrika Biesert, Chief People Officer of the Ingka Group, the organization behind IKEA. Discover how IKEA integrates Swedish heritage with modern retail challenges to foster a workplace that believes in the magic of empowering its people. Learn about the strategies that have led to remarkable improvements in employee engagement and customer satisfaction at IKEA. Ulrika shares her journey from a counselor to leading HR at one of the world's most people-centric companies. The conversation covers topics from the role of leadership in retail, the impact of corporate culture on business performance, to the innovative use of technology in enhancing employee roles and customer interactions. This video is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersections of retail management, employee empowerment, and customer satisfaction. Dive into the discussion to see how IKEA’s focus on happy employees translates to happier customers and better business results. 🔹 Key Topics Discussed: Empowering employees in retail The significance of corporate culture and values at IKEA How leadership and technology are shaping the future of retail Insights into employee benefits and work flexibility Stay tuned for more insights and discussions from industry leaders at the World Retail Congress, brought to you by Omni Talk and the VusionGroup. Subscribe to Omni Talk Retail for more updates and expert interviews from the forefront of retail innovation. #IKEA #WorldRetailCongress #RetailManagement #EmployeeEmpowerment #CustomerSatisfaction #Leadership #RetailTechnology #HumanResources #OmniTalkRetail #VisionGroup This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2024
In this insightful interview from the VusionGroup studio at the World Retail Congress in Paris, Elsa Pedro do Souto, who currently works at MARS as the Global Senior Manager for Data & Analytics Engagement, sits down with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga from Omni Talk to discuss the evolving role of data in driving personalized, human-centric retail experiences. With a diverse background spanning retail banking, energy, and now the retail industry, Elsa shares her unique perspective on the power of data and analytics. Discover how Elsa and her team at Mars are: Leveraging big data, real-time analytics, and predictive analytics to drive business value Navigating the challenges of data quality, connected data, and self-service analytics Adapting to the pandemic's impact on digital commerce and the renewed focus on retail experiences Collaborating with industry leaders from Ulta, Lego, and Zappos to humanize retail Empowering organizations to understand consumers as individuals, not just data points Elsa also shares insights from her thought-provoking workshop on humanizing retail, where attendees left with personalized action plans to drive change within their organizations. Learn how to combine quantitative and qualitative research to gain a deeper understanding of your customers and create truly human-centric retail experiences. #ElsaPedrodoSouto #Mars #DataAnalytics #Insights #RetailBanking #EnergySector #RetailIndustry #DataScience #BigData #RealTimeAnalytics #PredictiveAnalytics #Personalization #GenerativeAI #DataQuality #ConnectedData #SelfServiceAnalytics #PandemicImpact #DigitalCommerce #RetailExperience #Omnichannel #DataSkepticism #DataLiteracy #Collaboration #HumanizingRetail #ConsumerUnderstanding #QuantitativeResearch #QualitativeResearch #OmniTalkPodcast #WorldRetailCongress This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 20, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the World Retail Congress in Paris, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Parisian, Cookie-Filled, Lighting Round This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 20, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the World Retail Congress in Paris, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Just Walk Out Or The Dash Cart? Which One Is Better? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/CtdgYyYnafs This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 20, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the World Retail Congress in Paris, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Why Aldi’s New “Aldigo” Store With Grabango So Notable For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/CtdgYyYnafs This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 20, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the World Retail Congress in Paris, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: How Long It'll Be Before We See Zoom Cashiers At More QSRs? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/CtdgYyYnafs This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 20, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the World Retail Congress in Paris, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Powered By Gopuff: Smart? Desperate? Or Both? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/CtdgYyYnafs This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 20, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the World Retail Congress in Paris, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: What’s So Special About Walmart Canada’s Store Of The Future For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/CtdgYyYnafs This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 18, 2024
In this exclusive 5 Insightful Minutes interview, Chad Lusk, Managing Director at the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, shares eye-opening insights from their latest consumer sentiment survey. Discover how the economic downturn is impacting consumer spending trends, particularly among high-income households, and learn how retailers can adapt their strategies in marketing, inventory management, and pricing. Key takeaways: Discretionary spending shifts and the prioritization of experiential purchases The growing importance of personalization technology, virtual try-on, and VR in retail The rise of social media shopping and secondhand market growth Stay ahead of the curve and position your retail business for success in the face of changing consumer behaviors. Watch now to gain critical insights that will help you navigate the challenges ahead. You can also read the latest Consumer Sentiment Survey in full by heading here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insight/consumer-sentiment-survey-spring-24/ *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 17, 2024
In this exclusive and candid interview with Omni Talk, Dilip Kumar, Amazon's VP of AWS Applications, sets the record straight on the future of the company's groundbreaking Just Walk Out technology and its Amazon Dash Carts. Kumar discusses the decision to pull Just Walk Out from Amazon Fresh stores, explaining how Dash Carts are the foundational platform for larger format grocery stores. He also dives into the role of computer vision, sensor fusion, and retail analytics in shaping the future of checkout-free shopping and retail automation, while dispelling many of the rumors out there surrounding manual workers in India driving Amazon's Dash Cart and Just Walk Out technology. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 17, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart Canada’s big store of the future reveal (Source: Canadian Grocer ) Gopuff’s debut of “Powered by Gopuff” (Source: Chain Store Age ) A NYC Chicken restaurant that has replaced its cashiers with Zoom (Source: 404 Media ) Aldi retrofitting a store to become checkout-free with Grabango (Source: Chain Store Age ) Their perspectives on the Amazon Just Walk Out vs. Dash Cart debate (Source: GeekWire ) And A&M’s Chad Lusk stopped by for 5 Insightful Minutes on the state of U.S. consumer sentiment (Source: A&M CRG ) There’s all that, plus Oreos vs. Softbatch cookies, whether Chris would like to drive a cab more in NYC or Paris, and if Anne agrees with Chicagoans who despise putting ketchup on their hot dogs. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 13, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A lightning round of questions around Eclipse Soundtracks, JCP Splurges, and More! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/6L4-pympUzo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 13, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Home Depot Just Spent A Boatload To Acquire SRS For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/6L4-pympUzo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 13, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Costco Hit A Home Run With Ozempic? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/6L4-pympUzo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 13, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: What Kroger Shutting Down Its Spoke Facilities Says About E-grocery? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/6L4-pympUzo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 13, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Why Target Wouldn't Want Its Partnership With TruScan To Get Out For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/6L4-pympUzo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 13, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Why Amazon Is Pulling Just Walk Out From Amazon Fresh & Whole Foods? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/6L4-pympUzo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 11, 2024
In this episode of the Omni Talk Ask An Expert Podcast Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Billy Cladek, SVP of Revenue at Firework, to discuss the latest trends in retail technology. They explore how video commerce, digital showrooms, and AI chat assistants are revolutionizing e-commerce by creating more authentic, interactive, and human experiences for customers. Discover how shoppable videos, live commerce, and conversational commerce are transforming the virtual store and bridging the gap between physical and digital retail. Stay ahead of the curve with insights on the future of retail innovation and learn how to humanize your digital store. For more retail technology news and insights, visit omnitalk.blog. Sponsored Content This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 10, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: The real reasons why Amazon would pull its Just Walk Out Technology out of its Fresh grocery stores and Whole Foods stores (Source: Payments Dive ) Target installing cameras above its self-checkout machines (Source: Bloomberg ) Kroger closing its three e-commerce facilities (Source: Grocery Dive ) Costco offering Ozempic to some of its members (Source: CNN ) And closed with a look at Home Depot’s recent acquisition of SRS (Source: Reuters ) There’s all that, plus this month’s OmniStar, gig driver nightmares, and all the new ways to screw up a burrito. P.S. We are also gearing up for CommerceNext out in NYC in June. Scaled retailers and brands can register for FREE with code “FASTFIVE” in the referral field. Secure your spot now — head to commercenext.com/conference/ and don’t forget to use “FASTFIVE” P.P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our #1 podcast ranking in all of retail on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 2, 2024
In a stroke of retail conference genius, RetailSpaces asked Omni Talk Retail’s Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton to sit down with two retail industry leaders, David Carey, VP of Design, Construction & Maintenance at Schnucks, and Dan Gavin, VP of National Real Estate at Aldi , to record a live podcast from the conference stage about how these two well-respected retailers drive growth and foster innovation while navigating the challenges of store design, construction, and expansion. Carey shares insights on Schnucks’ approach to implementing cutting-edge retail technology, such as smart carts and electronic shelf labels, and how the company manages to maintain a fast pace of innovation that puts Schnucks, not just on par, but ahead of the industry. Gavin delves into Aldi’s ambitious growth plans, including their recent acquisition of Southeastern Grocers as well as their ambitious new store expansion expansion plans. He compares the processes involved in acquisitions and new builds, touching on lease negotiations, employee considerations, and the complexities of driving sustainability across different formats. The conversation also covers Schnucks’ and Aldi’s approach to theft prevention and shrink reduction, as well as the unique processes and technologies both companies use to manage their capital investments efficiently. There’s even live Q&A at the end! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 1, 2024
In this exclusive interview from recorded live on Shoptalk TV, and brought to you with the help and support of Meta, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga of Omni Talk Retail sit down with Chris Rupp, Chief Customer Officer at Victoria’s Secret, to discuss the brand’s digital transformation and innovative strategies for enhancing the customer experience. With an impressive background spanning roles at Amazon, Microsoft, and Albertsons, Rupp shares insights on Victoria’s Secret’s journey to leverage technology and data to better serve its diverse customer base. Discover how the company is utilizing RFID, fitting room technology like Crave, and a revamped loyalty program to create more seamless omnichannel experiences. Rupp dives into the success of Victoria’s Secret’s home try-on program, the launch of the new Body by Victoria collection, and the brand’s focus on comfort and evolving consumer preferences. She also discusses the importance of customer segmentation, using generational and psychographic data to personalize marketing efforts and product recommendations. Learn how Victoria’s Secret is empowering store associates with mobile POS, virtual backroom capabilities, and exploring generative AI to provide exceptional customer service. Rupp also touches on the company’s influencer marketing strategy, partnerships, and efforts to streamline returns and self-checkout processes. Don’t miss this engaging conversation about the future of retail and how Victoria’s Secret is staying ahead of the curve with Chris at the helm! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Benjamin Lowden and Abhinav Chandra discussed: What Amazon's New Same-Day RX Delivery Means For Walgreens, CVS, And Others For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/17eGHgSsPSA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Benjamin Lowden and Abhinav Chandra discussed: Which Retailers Would Benefit From Shein’s New “Supply Chain As A Service?” For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/17eGHgSsPSA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Benjamin Lowden and Abhinav Chandra discussed: What It Means For Nike As They Go Back To The Well On Wholesaling For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/17eGHgSsPSA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Benjamin Lowden and Abhinav Chandra discussed: If Walmart Is Adding Self-Checkout Perks To The Growing List Of Walmart + Benefits? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/17eGHgSsPSA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Benjamin Lowden and Abhinav Chandra discussed: How Scared Google And Amazon Should Be About Tiktok Search Commissions For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/17eGHgSsPSA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 27, 2024
SPS Commerce's Nick Schwalbach and Brandon Pierre dive deep into the critical importance of item data accuracy for retailers and brands in today's fast-paced, omnichannel landscape. Discover how gaps in item information can lead to supply chain inefficiencies, missed sales opportunities, and poor customer experiences. Schwalbach and Pierre discuss the challenges retailers face when relying on manual processes and disparate systems like Excel and EDI for managing item data. They emphasize the need for effective vendor collaboration and the adoption of standardized data pools such as GDSN and GS1 to streamline data exchange and ensure consistency across channels. Learn how retailers can tackle specific business problems, such as optimizing freight and reducing dimensional weight charges, by focusing on critical item attributes. The duo also shares best practices for seamless new item setup and the importance of aligning e-commerce and in-store experiences through accurate and complete item data. As consumer demands evolve and government regulations like ESG, FISMA, and traceability requirements come into play, having a solid foundation of item data becomes increasingly crucial. Schwalbach and Pierre offer actionable advice for retailers and brands looking to embark on their item data accuracy journey and position themselves for success in the ever-changing retail landscape. #SPSCommerce #NickSchwalbach #BrandonPierre #ItemDataAccuracy #OmniTalkRetail #Retailers #Brands #ItemInformation #PIMs #EDI #SupplyChain #Excel #ManualProcesses #VendorCollaboration #DataPools #GDSN #ExtendedAttributes #GS1 #SupplierLanguage #RetailLanguage #DataGaps #BusinessProblems #DimensionalAttributes #FreightOptimization #NewItemSetup #Ecommerce #Omnichannel #InStoreDigitalSignage #DataJourney #GovernmentRegulations #ESG #FISMA #Traceability #ConsumerDemands #Sustainability #LinkedIn This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 27, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , A&M’s Abhinav Chandra and Ben Lowden joined Chris and Anne to discuss: TikTok paying creators commissions based on how well their content shows up in search (Source: The Verge ) The serendipitous position Walmart+ affords Walmart in regards to self-checkout (Source: Supermarket News ) Nike’s refocus on wholesale (Source: Retail Dive ) Shein introducing its “Supply Chain as a Service” offering to U.S. retailers (Source: WSJ ) And closed with an examination of what Amazon same-day pharmacy delivery means for CVS and Walgreens (Source: CNBC ) There’s all that, plus some pub for our soon to be released podcast with Aldi’s VP of National Real Estate that Chris and Anne recorded live at RetailSpaces, college courses on Metallica, and just how much Ben was a true Dungeon & Dragons fan in his youth. P.S. We are also gearing up for CommerceNext out in NYC in June. Scaled retailers and brands can register for FREE with code “FASTFIVE” in the referral field. Secure your spot now — head to commercenext.com/conference/ and don’t forget to use FAST FIVE. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our #1 podcast ranking in all of retail on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the Shoptalk TV Studio sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Dollar General & Target Cutting Back Self-checkout For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rHpWvSWuZIs This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the Shoptalk TV Studio sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Simon Is Building The Mall Of The Future? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rHpWvSWuZIs This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the Shoptalk TV Studio sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart’s Route Optimization SaaS Play For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rHpWvSWuZIs This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the Shoptalk TV Studio sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Target Going Wholesale With Cat & Jack For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rHpWvSWuZIs This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from the Shoptalk TV Studio sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Macy’s Bold New Chapter For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/rHpWvSWuZIs This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 22, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, recorded live from Shoptalk in Las Vegas, and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Macy's launching their "Bold New Chapter" strategy (Source: Retail Dive ) Target going wholesale with their Cat & Jack line at Hudson's Bay (Source: Retail Dive ) Walmart launching another SaaS play for retailers, "Route Optimization" (Source: Investing.com ) Whether or not Simon's Southdale Mall is the truly the "Mall of the Future" (Source: Wall Street Journal ) And closed with Dollar General and Target cutting back self-checkout (Source: PYMNTS.com and Axios ) There’s all that, plus the condiments we can't live without, the best Grey's Anatomy category, and what Chris's best birthday party memory is. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P. S. Also, be sure to check out our #1 podcast ranking in all of retail on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 20, 2024
Join the Omni Talk Retail crew as they dive deep into key takeaways from the retail industry's premier event. Alongside Shoptalk's very own Head of Content for the U.S., Joe Laszlo, VP of Original Content and Strategy, Ben Miller, and Content Director, Alexa Tietjen, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga unpack the hottest topics from on and off the conference floor. From the intersection of GenAI to the evolution of Unified Commerce and beyond, no stone is left unturned. Whether you experienced the event firsthand or followed Omni Talk's coverage from home, this podcast is your ultimate guide to all things Shoptalk. Don't miss out on the Shoptalk goods you need to know – only on this podcast! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 20, 2024
In this Omni Talk Retail interview at Shoptalk 2024, Alicia LeBeouf, Head of Industry for Retail and E-commerce at Meta, dives deep into how the social media giant is helping retailers and brands drive growth through advertising, innovative features like Reels, and the evolving landscape of retail media networks. Discover how Meta proves the "halo effect" of ads on its platform, with 82% driving in store outcomes. LeBeouf shares insights on Meta's unified commerce solutions, which combine retailers' first-party data with Meta's extensive user base across Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, to create powerful advertising opportunities. Learn about cutting-edge tools like Advantage Plus catalog ads with omni-product level reporting, designed to help retail media networks and brands reach targeted audiences and boost conversions. ALeBeouf also emphasizes the significance of short-form video content, particularly Reels, which garner a staggering 3.5 billion daily views, in capturing attention and delivering results. Looking to the future, LeBeouf predicts closer integration between marketing, merchandising, and retail media network teams, as well as potential consolidation among third-party retail media networks. She discusses the evolving cost structures and benefits for retailers managing these platforms in-house. #Meta #RetailGrowth #SocialAdvertising #Reels #RetailMediaNetworks #UnifiedCommerce #FirstPartyData #AdvantgePlusCatalogAds #OmniProductLevelReporting #ShortFormVideo #Audiences #Conversions #MarketingIntegration #MerchandisingIntegration #ThirdPartyConsolidation #CostStructures #InhouseManagement *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 20, 2024
In this Omni Talk Retail interview, sponsored by Meta, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Christine Rupp, Chief Customer Officer at Victoria's Secret, at Shoptalk 2023. Rupp shares insights from her 30+ years of retail experience, spanning physical stores, e-commerce giants like Amazon, and her current role at Victoria's Secret. Discover how Victoria's Secret is revolutionizing the customer experience with innovative initiatives like home try-on subscription boxes, which allow customers to sample products, provide preferences, and enjoy a personalized, convenient shopping experience from the comfort of their homes. Rupp also delves into the cutting-edge technology being implemented in Victoria's Secret stores, such as RFID-enabled fitting room tech that provides product information, recommendations, and valuable customer data. She discusses the importance of digital convenience, new payment options, and same-day delivery in enhancing the customer journey. The conversation also explores the potential of generative AI in empowering store associates with instant access to information on bra sizing, sister sizes, store policies, and more, ultimately improving the customer experience. Rupp emphasizes the importance of creating seamless omnichannel experiences, streamlining processes like returns and shipping, and maintaining a focus on saving customers time, which has been a guiding principle throughout her career. #ChristineRupp #VictoriasSecret #ChiefCustomerOfficer #HomeTryOn #SubscriptionBoxes #CustomerPreferences #FittingRoomTechnology #RFID #ProductInformation #CustomerData #DigitalConvenience #PaymentOptions #SameDayDelivery #AssociateSupport #GenerativeAI #BraSizing #SisterSizes #StorePolicies #OmnichannelExperiences #Returns #Shipping #SavingTime #Shoptalk #OmniTalkRetail #Meta This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 20, 2024
In this exclusive interview from Shoptalk 2024, sponsored by Meta, Rina Hurst, VP of Walmart GoLocal, sits down with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga of Omni Talk Retail to discuss how Walmart is revolutionizing last mile delivery for retailers of all sizes. Hurst shares insights on GoLocal's white label delivery service, which leverages Walmart's extensive delivery network and expertise to serve clients across 10 retail verticals, including home improvement giant Home Depot. Discover how GoLocal prioritizes delivery quality and cost, boasting a 98% on-time delivery rate for same-day deliveries and a 20% year-over-year reduction in delivery costs. Hurst emphasizes the importance of a customer-centric, defect-free culture and explains how GoLocal's tech-powered model enables seamless integration and rapid expansion of delivery capabilities for retail partners. Looking ahead, Hurst discusses GoLocal's focus on growth, attracting new retail partners, and expanding next-day delivery offerings. She also teases the potential for leveraging Walmart's extensive supply chain capabilities to further enhance GoLocal's services. Finally, Hurst reflects on her first five months at Walmart, praising the company's humble, problem-solving culture and the dedication of her team in building GoLocal from the ground up. #RinaHurst #WalmartGoLocal #VP #LastMileDelivery #WhiteLabelDelivery #RetailVerticals #HomeDepot #Shipt #DeliveryQuality #DefectFreeCulture #DeliveryCost #CustomerCentric #Growth #TechPoweredModel #NextDayDelivery #SupplyChainCapabilities #RetailPartners #HumbleCulture #ProblemSolving #Shoptalk2024 #OmniTalkRetail #Meta This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 20, 2024
In this exclusive Omni Talk interview from Shoptalk, sponsored by Meta, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Jon Alferness, Walmart's Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer. Alferness shares insights on his role overseeing a wide range of areas, including e-commerce, associate tools, merchant tools, financial services, and health and wellness. Discover how Walmart is leveraging data and AI to create seamless customer journeys and empower associates through initiatives like me@walmart, a unified platform consolidating various tools and technologies. Alferness discusses the impact of AR technology on inventory visibility and the role of generative AI in processing associate feedback and enhancing search experiences. Learn about Walmart's approach to product management, prioritization, and ROI, as Alferness emphasizes the importance of cross-functional collaboration between engineering, design, and business teams. He also shares his thoughts on the hype surrounding generative AI and its potential to revolutionize the retail industry. Alferness concludes by outlining Walmart's priorities for 2024, including the expansion of AI-powered search capabilities, improved product detail pages, and the development of "next best action" recommendations for associates. #JonAlferness #Walmart #ChiefProductOfficer #Shoptalk #MetaOmniTalk #Ecommerce #AssociateTools #MerchantTools #FinancialServices #HealthAndWellness #CustomerJourneys #ProductManagement #Engineering #Design #Prioritization #Data #ROI #Me @Walmart #ARTechnology #InventoryVisibility #GenerativeAI #AssociateFeedback #SearchExperience #ProductDetailPages #NextBestAction #CES This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 20, 2024
In this exclusive interview from Shoptalk 2024, from the Meta podcast studio,, Lisa Roath, Chief Marketing Officer at Target, shares insights on her impressive 18-year career journey, spanning merchandising, operations, pricing, and promotions. Roath discusses Target's latest initiative, Target Circle 360, and how it's revolutionizing the company's loyalty program. Discover how Target Circle, the company's free loyalty program, now offers personalized deals, rewards, and automatic savings at checkout, eliminating friction for guests. Learn about the Target Circle Card (formerly RedCard), which provides 5% off purchases and free shipping, and the new paid membership tier, Target Circle 360, powered by Shipt, which offers same-day delivery in as little as one hour. Roath also delves into Target's strategy for the future, including the company's aim to be America's favorite discovery destination, the intersection of digital, physical, and social media, and the concept of "micro joy." She shares her thoughts on the evolving roles of merchandising and marketing in supporting retail media networks and the exciting potential of generative AI and its specific use cases in retail. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from one of the industry's top marketing leaders as she discusses Target's brand refresh, the power of networking, and the future of loyalty in retail. #LisaRoath #Target #ChiefMarketingOfficer #Career #Merchandising #Operations #Pricing #Promotions #Shoptalk2024 #TargetCircle360 #TargetCircle #FreeLoyaltyProgram #PersonalizedDeals #Rewards #AutomaticSavings #Checkout #TargetCircleCard #RedCard #5%Off #FreeShipping #PaidMembership #Same-dayDelivery #Shipt #RetailMediaNetworks #BrandRefresh #MicroJoy #DiscoveryDestination #SocialMedia #GenerativeAI #UseCases #Networking This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 20, 2024
In this exclusive Omni Talk interview from Shoptalk 2023, sponsored by Meta, Kathryn Mazza, the newly-appointed SVP of Red Media at Hy-Vee, shares her insights on the rapidly-evolving world of retail media networks. With an impressive 18-year career at Dick's Sporting Goods, where she launched and scaled their retail media network, Mazza brings a wealth of experience to her new role at Hy-Vee. Discover how Hy-Vee's Red Media stands out in the competitive landscape, leveraging the company's diverse portfolio across grocery, banking, pharmacy, construction, and distribution to offer unique opportunities for advertisers. Mazza emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with CPG brands and delivering best-in-class customer service and white glove support. Learn about Red Media's focus on innovation, including their impressive network of 10,000 high-impact digital screens and in-store audio advertising capabilities. Mazza also discusses the significance of establishing industry-wide reporting standards, championed by the IAB, to help advertisers compare performance and optimize their ad spend across various retail media networks. With Mazza at the helm, Hy-Vee's Red Media is poised to elevate the retail media experience for advertisers, driving growth and setting new standards in the industry. #KatherineMaza #SVPRedMedia #HyVee #RetailMediaNetwork #HyVeePortfolio #Grocery #Banking #Pharmacy #Construction #Distribution #CPGRelationships #BestInClassCustomerService #WhiteGloveService #Data #Innovation #DigitalScreens #InStoreAdvertising #InStoreAudioAdvertising #IABReportingStandards #OptimizingAdDollars #Shoptalk2023 #DicksSportingGoods #Meta #OmniTalk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Lululemon Mall Of America sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: How Good Of A Marketing ‘hook’ Walmart’s New Early Am Express Delivery Is For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/YFJ7V0B0LmU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Lululemon Mall Of America sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: AirBNB, Photoshop, Oscars and Jukebox in their latest lightning round. For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/YFJ7V0B0LmU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Lululemon Mall Of America sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Wayfair Rebrands But Should Anyone Care? For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/YFJ7V0B0LmU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Lululemon Mall Of America sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Michaels Bringing Its Digital Maker Marketplace To Stores For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/YFJ7V0B0LmU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Lululemon Mall Of America sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Kohl’s Partnering With Babies R Us For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/YFJ7V0B0LmU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Lululemon Mall Of America sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Aldi Announcing An 800 Store Expansion For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/YFJ7V0B0LmU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 13, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, recorded live from Lululemon at the Mall of America, and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart expanding express delivery into the wee hours of the morning (Source: Chain Store Age ) Aldi’s aggressive U.S. expansion plans (Source: Fox Business ) Kohl’s new partnership with Babies R Us (Source: CNBC ) Michaels bringing its online maker marketplace alive in store (Source: Chain Store Age ) And closed with a look at Wayfair’s new marketing campaign and a discussion of what it must get right (and what it must avoid) when it opens its first large format store in Illinois (Source: Marketing Dive ) There’s all that, plus the new shoe line from Lululemon, the song in which Chris would most like to own stock, and the degree to which cameras inside of an Airbnb freak Anne out. P.S. Don’t forget to use our promo code “OMNITALK” to save on your Shoptalk registration . P.P.S. If you are interested in renting out space at Lululemon in the Mall of America (aka where we recorded today’s podcast), head here: https://www.partyslate.com/venues/lululemon-mall-of-america-experiential-store P.P.P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our #1 podcast ranking in all of retail on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 12, 2024
In this exclusive interview from the NGA show, Michael Wang, CEO, and Vaughn Roller, Chief Business Officer at SIRL, reveal how their cutting-edge retail technology is transforming the way retailers track shopping journeys and optimize store operations. SIRL's real-time location system leverages low-cost tracking tags and wireless infrastructure to achieve an unprecedented 3-foot accuracy and 1-second latency, effectively creating a "physical search engine" for retail. Discover how SIRL's solution empowers retailers to enhance shopper privacy while tapping into the potential of retail media networks and in-store advertising. Learn about the significant ROI and revenue opportunities generated by this technology, as well as its ability to streamline merchandising optimization and shopper behavior clustering. With its easy deployment and reliance on Bluetooth Low Energy, SIRL is poised to revolutionize the retail landscape. And thank you to the VusionGroup for making our coverage of NGA possible! #SIRL #retailtechnology #indoorpositioning #realtimeloca ionsystem #shoppingjourneytracking #lowcosttrackingtags #wirelessinfrastructure #3footaccuracy #1secondlatency #physicalsearchengine #shopperprivacy #retailmedianetworks #instoreadvertising #improvedstoreoperations #ROI #revenueopportunities #easydeployment #merchandisingoptimization #shopperbehaviorclustering #BluetoothLowEnergy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 12, 2024
In this insightful interview from the NGA show, Dennis Host, SVP of Marketing at Coborn's, shares his expertise on e-commerce marketing, loyalty programs, and the power of Big Data in the grocery industry. Host discusses Coborn's journey from operating a full e-commerce warehouse model to implementing store pickup, and how their loyalty program has been instrumental in understanding and segmenting their customers. He highlights the importance of leveraging customer data and partnering with CPGs to create targeted campaigns and personalized offers through AI. Host also touches on the challenges and opportunities of retail media networks for regional grocers. Discover how Coborn's is re-platforming their e-commerce experience and leveraging in-store digital media, such as dynamic digital circulars, QR codes, and video recipes, to create an experiential and engaging shopping environment for their customers. Special thanks to the VusionGroup for making all our show coverage possible! #DennisHost #Coborn's #NGAshow #ecommercemarketing #loyaltyprogram #BigData #retailmedia #customerdata #shopperdata #datawarehouse #datainfrastructure #CPGpartnerships #dynamicdigitalcircular #emailmarketing #textmarketing #instoreactivations #customersegmentation #AIpersonalization #omnichannelshoppers #analyticsinfrastructure #ecommercereplatforming #digitalmediainstore #experientialgroceryshopping #QRcodes #videorecipes #digitalsignage This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 12, 2024
In this exclusive interview from the NGA conference, Amy McClellan, Chief Customer Officer, SpartanNash, shares her insights on how the company is helping independent grocers thrive in today's competitive landscape. With a focus on technology implementation, such as electronic shelf labels, e-commerce programs, and retail media networks, SpartanNash aims to provide solutions that enable independents to compete at scale. McClellan also emphasizes the importance of mastering grocery fundamentals, from exceptional produce departments to well-maintained store facilities. Discover how SpartanNash's wholesale distribution, retail stores, and services for US military commissaries contribute to their mission of supporting independent grocers. Plus, learn about the role of AI and robotics in creating the smart store of the future. Special thanks to VusionGroup for making all our NGA show coverage possible! #SpartanNash #NGAconference #independentgrocers #grocerybusiness #retailstores #wholesaledistribution #USmilitarycommissaries #technologyimplementation #electronicshelf labels #ecommerceprograms #retailmedianetworks #customerservice #tallyrobots #smartstoreofthefuture #storetours #producedepartment #groceryfundamentals This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 12, 2024
In this exclusive interview from the NGA conference, Emily Coborn Wright, SVP of Growth Initiatives at Coborn's, shares her insights on the evolving grocery industry and the role of independent grocers. As a fifth-generation leader in the family-owned business, Coborn Wright discusses Coborn's early adoption of online grocery shopping and delivery, and how their e-commerce model has propelled them forward. She also delves into the company's growth initiatives, including their focus on liquor, fuel, franchise, and pharmacy. Coborn Wright highlights the importance of NGA's advocacy efforts and legislation in supporting independent grocers. Discover how Coborn's is leveraging retail media, exploring Farm to Fork trends, and navigating the challenges of being a regional grocer in this informative conversation. Special thanks to the VusionGroup for making all our conference coverage possible! #EmilyCobornWright #Coborn 's #NGAconference #groceryindustry #independentgrocers #ecommerce #onlinegroceryshopping #deliverymodel #growthinitiatives #liquor #fuel #franchise #pharmacy #digitalstore #retailmedia #FarmtoFork #verticalfarms #regionalgrocer #retailtrademedia #advocacy #legislation This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 12, 2024
In this interview from the NGA show floor, Dylan Queen, VP of Marketing and Operations at Queens Price Shopper, shares insights on how independent grocers can leverage technology and innovative strategies to compete in a saturated market. Queen discusses the role of artificial intelligence in retail pricing, the importance of personalized advertising and loyalty programs, and the challenges of implementing self-checkout and scan-and-go solutions. He also emphasizes the significance of exceptional customer service and unique in-store experiences, such as retail theater, to differentiate independent grocers from larger competitors. Tune in for valuable takeaways on omnichannel marketing, brand partnerships, and more. Thanks to the VusionGroup for making all our show coverage possible! #DylanQueen #QueensPriceShopper #NGA #independentgrocers #artificialintelligence #retailpricing #loyaltyprograms #personalizedadvertising #omnichannelmarketing #instoremarketing #retailtheater #selfcheckout #scanandgo #customerservice #saturatedmarket #brandpartnerships #vusiongroup This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 12, 2024
Alex Galkin, CEO and founder of Competera, delves into the complex world of AI-powered retail pricing. Discover how machine learning and Big Data are revolutionizing price optimization, enabling retailers to move beyond price elasticity and embrace contextual, personalized pricing strategies. Galkin shares insights with Chris and Anne on the five levels of price maturity, highlighting the importance of a data foundation and customer behavior in driving profitable pricing decisions. Learn how industry leaders are leveraging advanced techniques such as LTV optimization, and explore the impact of AI-generated reports, retail media, and price reviews on the future of pricing. From navigating inflation and recession to the unique challenges of cruise line pricing and the rise of TikTok shopping, this interview is a must-watch for anyone interested in the cutting-edge of retail technology. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 12, 2024
In this interview from the NGA conference, Michael La Kier, VP of Brand Development at IGA, discusses the importance of retail media, AI, and omnichannel marketing for independent grocers. La Kier emphasizes the need for data aggregation, overcoming legacy systems, and creating a "linked and liquid" strategy to help independents compete. He also touches on the role of in-store retail media, digital attribution, and partnerships with CPG brands and fresh food producers. Learn how IGA is working to support independent grocers through innovative strategies and technologies in this insightful conversation. Thanks to the VusionGroup for making all our show coverage possible! #IGA #MichaelLakier #independentgrocers #retailmedia #NGAconference #omnichannelmarketing #multichannelmeatmarketing #proximitytosales #linkedandliquidstrategy #dataaggregation #legacysystems #AIingroceryretail #instoreretailmedia #digitalattribution #CPGpartnerships #freshfoodfocus This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 11, 2024
Thaddeus Segura, Vice President of Data Products & Algorithms at Wiliot joins Chris and Anne for the latest installment of their Retail Technology Spotlight Series to discuss how Wiliot’s Bluetooth-connected tags provide real-time inventory management, freshness monitoring, and omni-channel fulfillment solutions, offering advantages over traditional RFID technology. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Thaddeus on: How Wiliot’s IoT tags work and their advantages over RFID technology The low cost of ownership and easy deployment of Wiliot’s tags compared to RFID Applications of Wiliot’s tags in freshness monitoring, temperature tracking, and omni-channel fulfillment The importance of total cost of ownership when evaluating retail technology solutions The future of IoT in retail and the potential for a true ambient environment with Bluetooth connectivity Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 9, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Whole Foods Introducing A Smaller Daily Shop Store For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DAgLFDbnEGo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 9, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Sam’s Club Opening New Design Studio For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DAgLFDbnEGo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 9, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: The Realreal Planning More Stores For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DAgLFDbnEGo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 9, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Target Announcing Its New Circle 360 Membership For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DAgLFDbnEGo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 9, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: What Wendy’s Was Thinking? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DAgLFDbnEGo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 6, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Wendy’s about face on surge pricing (Source: KTLA-5 ) Target’s new paid membership program, Circle 360 (Source: CNBC ) The RealReal’s store expansion plans (Source: WSJ ) Sam’s Club’s new design thinking studio (Source: Chain Store Age ) And closed with an examination of whether Whole Foods’ plan to open smaller stores is, first, a good idea, and, second, if it is an idea that will actually work (Source: Grocery Dive ) There’s all that, plus cereal for breakfast, our newest OmniStar, and a tip of our cap to all our loyal fans for helping to make this our 1,000 podcast episode! P.S. Don’t forget to use our promo code “OMNITALK” to save on your Shoptalk registration . P.P.S. We are also gearing up for CommerceNext out in NYC in June. Scaled retailers and brands can register for FREE with code “FAST FIVE” in the referral field. Secure your spot now — head to commercenext.com/conference/ and don’t forget to use FAST FIVE. P.P.P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our #1 podcast ranking in all of retail on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 5, 2024
You want to use GenAI at work, but it can be difficult to know when and how to do so safely. As part of our ongoing live Ask An Expert Interview Series on LinkedIn, Chris and Anne have called on two legal experts, Mary Newcomer Williams, Assistant General Counsel at Microsoft, and Michael Brick, Assistant General Counsel US Commercial Industries at Microsoft, to explain how executives can make sure they’re using AI to maximize the productivity of their teams and do so responsibly. Chris and Anne go in-depth with Mary and Michael as they discuss the four areas in which retailers and brands can use GenAI responsibly, right now, including: eCommerce and Marketing Merchandising and Planning Stores and Service Supply Chain Operations To read any of information discussed during the podcast, head here: Microsoft’s Responsible AI Website Microsoft’s Responsible AI Standards Microsoft’s AI Tools and Best Practices Microsoft’s Copilot Copyright Commitment Microsoft’s Overview of Responsible AI Practices for Azure OpenAI Models Microsoft’s Transparency Note for Azure OpenAI Service Walmart Case Study for New Generative AI-Powered Capabilities for Shoppers and Associates Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 2, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from eTail West sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Marc Lore’s Wonder Set To Open Inside Of Walmart For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/67YNMyUtLgU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 2, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from eTail West sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Schnucks Debuting Its Smart Cart From Instacart For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/67YNMyUtLgU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 2, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from eTail West sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Microsoft Bolstering Its AI Ranks With Mistral AI Investment For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/67YNMyUtLgU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 2, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from eTail West sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Announcing Scheduled Grocery Delivery And Pickup For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/67YNMyUtLgU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 2, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from eTail West sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Macy’s Closing 150 Stores For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/67YNMyUtLgU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 28, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Macy’s bold decision to close 150 stores (Source: CNBC ) Why Amazon’s move to offer scheduled grocery delivery could be one of the most important headlines of the year (Source: Chain Store Age ) Microsoft's decision to fortify its Gen AI position by investing in Mistral AI (Source: Fast Company ) Schnucks breaking ground on its smart cart from Instacart pilot (Source: NBC 5 St. Louis ) And closed with an examination of Marc Lore’s restaurant startup, Wonder, opening up inside of a Walmart store (Source: Chain Store Age ) There’s all that, plus Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, imaginary dinner dates with Minka Kelly, and the merits of a fried chicken pizza mashup. P.S. Don’t forget to use our promo code “OMNITALK” to save on your Shoptalk registration . P.P.S. We are also gearing up for CommerceNext out in NYC in June. Scaled retailers and brands can register for FREE with code “FAST FIVE” in the referral field. Secure your spot now — head to commercenext.com/conference/ and don’t forget to use FAST FIVE. P.P.P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our #1 podcast ranking in all of retail on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27, 2024
Nick Sarraf, VP Digital Transformation & Customer Satisfaction at AutoZone, joins us at eTail West 2024 to discuss his company's omnichannel strategy. Learn how AutoZone is leveraging composable commerce to piece together best-in-class retail technology for both its B2B and B2C lines of business. Hear about their goals for modernizing e-commerce capabilities while connecting digital touchpoints to their 7,000+ stores. We cover the next phase of their roadmap for boosting customer experience across devices, implementing new POS systems, upgrading store pick-up, and more. Thanks to Firework for making all our #etail2024 content possible! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27, 2024
Rachel Frederick, VP & GM of Ecommerce at Sur La Table, joins us at eTail West 2024 to discuss Sur La Table's omnichannel retail strategy. Learn how they are leveraging artificial intelligence to generate product images and drive personalization. Hear about their goals for boosting loyalty programs, implementing a customer data platform, moving to progressive web apps, and enhancing product returns. We also cover how they expanded into same day delivery and the Amazon marketplace to grow online. Thanks to Firework for making all our live coverage at #etail2024 possible. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27, 2024
We chat with Sam's Club's VP of Digital Merchandising Jordan Eddie about why he fell in love with retail, the membership model, frictionless shopping rollouts, data-driven decisions, and member obsession. Jordan discusses curating the Sam's Club assortment for quality and value, the pace of innovation, and why he's excited to execute at an even higher level in 2024. Whether you're interested in club retail, digital operations, delightful experiences, or NPS, this interview provides an inside look at Sam's Club's approach. A big shout out to Firework for making all our #etail2024 content possible! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27, 2024
Katie Reeves, Managing Director of COS North America, joins us at eTail West 2024 to discuss how fashion retailers can leverage technology like RFID and data visualization to enable omnichannel experiences. Learn how they've invested in “smart store” tech for inventory management, operational efficiency, and frictionless customer experiences across brick-and-mortar stores and ecommerce. We cover all the top trends in retail's digital transformation across stores, online shopping, mobile apps, and more. Thanks to Firework for making all our #etail2024 content possible. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27, 2024
We chat with Firework founder Vincent Yang about innovations in live stream shopping and shoppable video to create personalized 1:1 shopping experiences that double e-commerce conversion rates. Vincent explains how Firework is bringing the tactile, high-touch experience of physical stores online with tools like digital humans and AI assistants. We discuss the post-purchase experience, the future of omnichannel retail, and why these digital innovations are key for brands with high AOV products. Whether you're interested in brick and mortar conversion optimization or leading edge e-commerce, this interview provides unique insights into the digital retail experience of the future. Thanks to Firework for making all our #etail2024 coverage possible. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27, 2024
We chat with Target's SVP of Apparel & Accessories Gena Fox about partnerships with brands like DVF, navigating fast-changing trends on TikTok, the importance of supply chain speed, and Target's focus on sparking joy through fashion. Gena discusses Target's specialty in store fulfillment, same-day delivery, how they adapt processes to meet guest demand, and why she's so excited about Target's upcoming collaborations and ability to deliver newness. Whether you're interested in Target, apparel retail, fast fashion, or omnichannel, this interview provides unique insights from one of Target's long-tenured executives. Thanks to Firework for making all our #etail2024 content possible. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 26, 2024
Ovative’s Beth McKigney and Troy Neidermire join Chris and Anne for the latest installment of their Retail Technology Spotlight Series to discuss how shifting to unified marketing measurements, like Enterprise Marketing Return (EMR), can help retailers and brands optimize budget allocation, incrementality, and overall business outcomes. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Beth and Troy on: The limitations of overly relying on legacy metrics like ROAS How to implement a holistic “full funnel” approach Properly valuing funnel efforts, particularly at the upper funnel Establishing a testing framework to generate the right lessons learned And how to get stakeholder buy-in through metrics tied to revenue and customer file health To reference any of the materials discussed during this podcast or to get in touch with Beth and Troy, please see below: Ovative’s EMRGE: ovative.com/emrge/ Ovative’s People: ovative.com/people/ Ovative’s The Lead: Conversations That Matter: ovative.com/insights/the-lead-measurement/ Ovative’s EMR Power Rankings: ovative.com/insights/2023-emr-power-rankings/ Get in touch with Beth: Beth.mckigney@ovative.com (email) or linkedin.com/in/bethmckigney/ (LinkedIn) Get in touch with Troy: Troy.neidermire@ovative.com (email) or www.linkedin.com/in/troy-neidermire-4832491b/ (LinkedIn) Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 26, 2024
Tom Burgess, the President of SnippMedia, joined Anne and Chris to share his thoughts on how CPGs can attribute in-store retail purchases by leveraging banks’ loyalty programs, and how retailers can also plug these same loyalty programs into their retail media networks. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Tom on: The history of bank card loyalty programs and attribution How new digital media channels can power attribution by connecting banking apps and retail purchases How payments media allows banks to offer targeted deals and cash back to incentivize their card usage How CPGs, in particular, can now reach bank loyalty program members with offers at the point of purchase on their banking apps And ultimately how the whole process simplifies digital attribution by connecting ad views to store purchases With 60 million engaged consumers on banking apps, payments media represents the potential for retail media to expand in innovative directions, linking financial services to in-store buying in a new win-win structure. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Joanna Rangarajan and Cassie Ryding discussed: How Retailers Should Approach Electrification For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UJ5nNgAF7Eo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Joanna Rangarajan and Cassie Ryding discussed: A 50% SKU Reduction Is Quite Drastic – What’s The Rationale? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UJ5nNgAF7Eo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Joanna Rangarajan and Cassie Ryding discussed: If Bank Loyalty Programs An Untapped Gold Mine For Retail Media Networks? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UJ5nNgAF7Eo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Joanna Rangarajan and Cassie Ryding discussed: If There's Anything Noteworthy About Dealworthy? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UJ5nNgAF7Eo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 24, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Joanna Rangarajan and Cassie Ryding discussed: Why Walmart Would Acquire Vizio? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UJ5nNgAF7Eo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 21, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , A&M’s Joanna Rangarajan and Cassie Ryding joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Why in the world Walmart would acquire Vizio (Source: CNBC ) Whether Target’s new brand, “dealworthy,” is actually noteworthy (Source: PR Newswire ) Starbucks new loyalty partnership with Bank of America (Source: Chain Store Age ) Hasbro’s drastic decision to cut 50% of its skus (Source: Retail Dive ) And closed with a look at Walmart’s plans to build a “coast-to-coast” network of electric DC fast chargers (Source: Electrek ) There’s all that, plus which body parts we would most want scanned at an airport, Mars simulations, and the rising cost of the Tooth Fairy. P.S. Don’t forget to use our promo code “OMNITALK” to save on your Shoptalk registration . P.P.S. We are also gearing up for CommerceNext out in NYC in June. Scaled retailers and brands can register for FREE with code “FAST FIVE” in the referral field. Secure your spot now — head to commercenext.com/conference/ and don’t forget to use FAST FIVE. P.P.P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our #1 podcast ranking in all of retail on Feedspot Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 21, 2024
Dematic’s Market Development Director Kim Baudry is back once again to help Chris and Anne kick off 2024 as part of their ongoing live Ask An Expert Interview Series on LinkedIn. Chris and Anne go in depth with Kim as she discusses the big trends that are shaping retailers’ and manufacturers’ approaches to supply chain network development, including: Why retailers are moving their investments into smaller facilities with more flexible automation Why manufacturers are going in the opposite direction and trying to get bigger with more proven automation solutions What considerations each party should give towards these decisions And perhaps, most importantly, how long we can expect these trends to last and what will happen next Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 19, 2024
Shoptalk's Krystina Gustafson and Joe Laszlo joined Anne and Chris to field pointed questions about this year's Shoptalk 2024 agenda. In this podcast, Chris and Anne put Krystina and Joe on the spot about: How they plan to cover and present the topic of AI How important omnichannel or "unified commerce" fundamentals will be in this year's track session design Whether employee safety and shrink will be a more overt focus of this year's show How Shoptalk plans to focus on helping store level employees The big "what to do about" retail media And whether this will finally be the year sustainability initiatives break through and make a lasting impact You won't find a more candid and honest dialog about what to expect at Shoptalk 2024 than right here! Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 17, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: What The Outlook Is For Robots In Grocery Stores For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fVXIRk9VGqg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 17, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Why Tanger Outlet Is Looking More And More Beautiful Everyday For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fVXIRk9VGqg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 17, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Safeway's receipt check at checkout For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fVXIRk9VGqg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 17, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Gen AI Search Makes More Sense For Home Furnishings Than Other Categories? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fVXIRk9VGqg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 17, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: The Walmart Pluses And Minuses Of A Paid Membership At Target For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fVXIRk9VGqg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 14, 2024
To help you get ready for the major tax changes in 2024 that will impact omnichannel retailers, Chris and Anne sat down with Avalara’s Senior Director of Global Strategic E-commerce & Marketplace Partnerships, Kris Rabideau, for the latest installment of their 5 Insightful Minutes Series. Watch and learn about the tax compliance complexity of omnichannel commerce, marketplace facilitator requirements, warehousing inventory, the new concept of a “delivery fee” tax, the emergence of recommerce, and the expansion of tax holidays. This video will help you to understand the tax consequences these 2024 tax changes could have for your retail business, large and small! You can also read Avalara’s full report on all 2024 tax changes by clicking here: Avalara Tax Changes 2024 Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 14, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Avalara’s Kris Rabideau stopped by for 5 Insightful Minutes on 2024 tax changes, and Chris and Anne discussed: The rumors that Target will roll out a paid membership program (Source: Bloomberg ) If IKEA’s use of generative AI indicates that generative AI-based search may be more applicable to home furnishings shopping than to other categories (Source: Chain Store Age ) Safeway’s move to install more receipt-check gates at self-checkout (Source: Grocery Dive ) Tanger Outlets push into full-price beauty retailing (Source: Glossy ) And closed with look at SpartanNash’s robot expansion plans and what they mean for the future of robotics (Source: Progressive Grocer ) There’s all that, plus Tiger Woods, Jessica Rabbit, and the saying Chris would most want embossed on a a candy Valentine’s Day heart. P.S. All you retail tax junkies out there can read Avalara’s full report on the most important retail tax changes for 2024 by clicking here: Avalara Tax Changes 2024 P.P.S. Don’t forget to use our promo code “OMNITALK” to save on your Shoptalk registration . Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 13, 2024
Get an inside look at the grocery store of the future, from the firsthand perspective of John Clear and David Schneidman of the A&M Consumer and Retail Group. This video explores the latest retail technologies being implemented at Schnucks' grocery stores, including shelf-scanning robots, computer vision, electronic shelf labels for dynamic pricing, mobile ordering, GS1 barcodes to reduce food waste, and smart carts. Together with Chris and Anne, John and David provide their expert opinions as they review how these innovations are transforming inventory management, checkout efficiency via single line queuing, and the overall customer experience. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 10, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Manifest: The Future Of Logistics Conference and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If People Really Need Starbucks From GoPuff In The Middle Of The Night? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/nLwypI0f9wg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 10, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Manifest: The Future Of Logistics Conference and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Apple Vision Pro Is A Flash In The Pan Or Idea With Staying Power? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/nLwypI0f9wg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 10, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Manifest: The Future Of Logistics Conference and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Zac Posen Is A Good Or Bad hire For The GAP? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/nLwypI0f9wg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 10, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Manifest: The Future Of Logistics Conference and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: The Significance Of ALDI's Partnership With Grabango For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/nLwypI0f9wg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 10, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from Manifest: The Future Of Logistics Conference and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Launching Rufus, Its New AI Shopping Assistant For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/nLwypI0f9wg This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 7, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne were live from Manifest as they discussed: Amazon’s new AI-assistant Rufus Grabango’s large scale autonomous store installation with Aldi near Chicago Gap Inc.’s hiring of Zac Posen Lowe’s and J. Crew's recent Apple Vision Pro endeavors And closed with a look at Starbucks new late night delivery partnership with Gopuff There’s all that, plus delivery memories, barracudas, and what Anne would make her husband do if she could control him via an implanted chip in his brain. P.S. Don’t forget to use our promo code “OMNITALK” to save on your Shoptalk registration . P.P.S. Chris and Anne are also headed to the 25th Anniversary show of eTail West out in Palm Springs. Use our promo code OMNITALK20 to save 20% on your registration. Go to eTailPalmSprings.com to learn more. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 7, 2024
LIVE FROM Manifest: The Future of Supply Chain & Logistics 2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton with Mars VP of Global Supply Chain Kristen Daihes . This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 7, 2024
Jeff Barry, Chief Innovation Officer at Dot Foods, joins us to share how the wholesale food redistributor is driving innovation across its supply chain operations and business models. Listen as Jeff explains Dot Foods' approach to piloting new AI capabilities for fuel procurement optimization, predictive truck maintenance, and more. We also discuss how large companies can enable startup-like innovation cultures, the role of innovation labs, and Dot Foods' expanding portfolio of innovation pilots with external startups. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 7, 2024
Bhavani Subramaniam, Chief Supply Chain Officer at mattress manufacturer Serta Simmons, joins us to discuss the complexities of managing a made-to-order supply chain. He explains how they build resilience through dual sourcing, nearshoring, and an intense focus on supply chain visibility, along with how his team uses data analytics and AI for insights across supply chain operations like new product launches. We also talk about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, with Bhavani emphasizing authentic leadership. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 7, 2024
We go live from Manifest 2024 to speak with Patrick McIntyre, Head of Development at Krispy Kreme, about retail and supply chain innovation. Topics include omnichannel expansion, automating the consumer journey, daily delivered fresh donuts, scaling up production and delivery, partnerships with Amazon and others, using AI and technology to enhance experiences and operations, reaching new consumers, and much more. Gain insights directly from the show floor on how an iconic brand balances growth, experience, and profitability. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 7, 2024
We go live from Manifest 2024 to speak with David Sobie, Co-Founder and CEO of Happy Returns, on the future of retail returns and innovations in supply chain. Topics include their recent acquisition by UPS, plans for expansion through large enterprise retailers, incorporating more automation like robots into their processing facilities, how sustainability plays a role in returns, the importance of omnichannel drop off locations for customers, managing high volumes of co-mingled shipments, advice for entrepreneurs, and much more. Gain valuable insights from a leader in reshaping the returns experience. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 6, 2024
We go live from Manifest 2024 to speak with Moid Alwy, EVP & Chief Supply Chain Officer at American Tire Distributors, about the future of distribution and supply chain. Topics include the launch of their B2B marketplace "Radius", last mile delivery scaling, AI implications, network design changes, omnichannel complexity, inventory management innovations, consolidation and more. Get the inside scoop direct from the show floor on how one of the largest tire distributors in the US is transforming their supply chain and distribution operations with the latest in retail and logistics tech. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 6, 2024
We go live at Manifest 2024 to discuss the future of retail logistics and supply chain technology innovations with Drew Taranto, Senior Director of Ecommerce Strategy at DHL. Topics covered include omni-channel retail trends, B2B ordering experiences, cost reduction through automation and AI, machine learning for better decision making, returns and recommerce programs, final mile delivery improvements, and more. This insider perspective on the transformation ahead for logistics and fulfillment highlights all the latest technologies and strategies direct from the show floor. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 3, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest host Ben Miller of Shoptalk discussed: TikTok Trialing Making All Posts Shoppable For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/hjehOT4ddMM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 3, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest host Ben Miller of Shoptalk discussed: If A Grocery Store Really Feel Like Pokemon GO? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/hjehOT4ddMM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 3, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest host Ben Miller of Shoptalk discussed: Everseen's new self-checkout data For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/hjehOT4ddMM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 3, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest host Ben Miller of Shoptalk discussed: Walmart Store Managers Making Up To $400K/Year For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/hjehOT4ddMM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 3, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest host Ben Miller of Shoptalk discussed: What All These Layoffs Mean For The Future For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/hjehOT4ddMM This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 3, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five live from eTail West sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW-Logistics and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Macy’s Closing 150 Stores For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/67YNMyUtLgU This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 31, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle, Shoptalk VP of Original Content & Strategy Ben Miller joined Chris and Anne to discuss: The rash of recent layoffs across retail and what they mean for how the average retail executive is thinking about 2024 Walmart’s big announcement this week that its store managers can make over $400K per year Some absolutely startling statistics on self-checkout from Everseen’s survey of over 1 billion transactions Instacart’s desire to make your average grocery shopping trip feel more like Pokemon Go And closed with a look at whether TikTok’s attempt to make all its video content shoppable will actually work There’s all that, plus Wizard of Oz favorites, Super Bowl vices, and the most unusual things to do while jogging. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 30, 2024
Placer.ai’s SVP of Marketing Ethan Chernofsky is back once again to help Chris and Anne kick off 2024 as part of their ongoing live Ask An Expert Interview Series on LinkedIn. Chris and Anne go in depth with Ethan as he discusses the big questions that will drive retailers’ strategies in the coming year. Questions like: Will the economic pressures continue? How concerned should we all still be about inflation? Are the top performing segments in retail heading for what he calls a “pull forward moment?” And, ultimately, who stands to win and who stands to lose depending upon how you answer any of the questions above, too! Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Manola Soler and Michael Prendergast discussed: How Retailers Should Merchandise To Generation Alpha For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fZMYBMWRPSo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Manola Soler and Michael Prendergast discussed: If Plan & Order Stores Work For IKEA For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fZMYBMWRPSo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 30, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Manola Soler and Michael Prendergast discussed: If Wayfair's CEO Remove The Egg From His Face After The Most Recent Layoffs For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fZMYBMWRPSo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 29, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Manola Soler and Michael Prendergast discussed: If Innovation Labs: Right or Wrong Way To Spur Innovation based on the latest Walmart Store No. 8 Closure and Shipt's opening of an innovation lab For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fZMYBMWRPSo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 29, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Avalara, Wiliot, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Manola Soler and Michael Prendergast discuss: If Macy's Was Wrong For Rejecting The Buyout Bid? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fZMYBMWRPSo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 24, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , A&M's Michael Prendergast and Manola Soler joined Chris and Anne to discuss: If Macy's made the right move rejecting its buyout offer this week Whether innovation labs, like Walmart's Store No. 8 , are ever a good idea How Wayfair's CEO can ever get the egg off his face in light of recent leaks and layoffs Estimated the viability of IKEA's new plan and order store concept And closed with a look at the #SephoraKids phenomenon and what it means for how retailers and brands should be thinking about Generation Alpha There's all that, plus grills that are way too hot to handle, how carb-laden a last meal at In-N-Out should be, and Chris somehow manages to spell "OMNITALK" correctly this week. P.S. Don't forget to use our promo code "OMNITALK" to save on your Shoptalk registration . P.P.S. Chris and Anne are also headed to eTail West in Palm Springs in February, and you can join them and save by using code "OMNITALK20" on your registration . Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 23, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Sam's Club Applying AI For Receipt Checkout For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/BJpkXIQqRtQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 23, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: What Impact CVS Closures Will Have On Target For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/BJpkXIQqRtQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 23, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Expanding DFW Drone Delivery Pilot For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/BJpkXIQqRtQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 22, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Bringing Just Walk Out To Healthcare For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/BJpkXIQqRtQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 22, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Deploying GenAI Search Across Site For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/BJpkXIQqRtQ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 17, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart’s new Gen AI search announcement at CES Amazon implementing its Just Walk Out technology at hospitals Walmart’s Texas drone expansion plans CVS closing “dozens” of pharmacies inside Target stores And closed with a look at Sam’s Club’s brilliant new use case for computer vision, i.e. for exit receipt checks There’s all that, plus grocery store spas, whether executives should give out their cell phone numbers, and the tech question Anne asks Google the most. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Live From NRF 2024 Office Depot's Sr. Director Of Omnichannel Jonas Stillman joins Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton Thanks to our partners at VusionGroup for making all our #NRF2024 coverage possible. Come stop by and visit us in booth #5420 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton with Sam's Club 's Chief Growth Officer Diana Marshall talking about their newly launched #seamless receipt check at exit, #personalization, #scanandgo, and more. Thanks to our partners at VusionGroup for making all our #NRF2024 coverage possible. Come stop by and visit us in booth #5420 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton with Northern Tool + Equipment Chief Marketing Officer Frank Crowson Thanks to our partners at VusionGroup for making all our #NRF2024 coverage possible. Come stop by and visit us in booth #5420 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton with Captana VP Pierre-Marie Rallu and Blue Yonder 's VP of Retail Shannon Wu-Lebron . Thanks to our partners at VusionGroup for making all our #NRF2024 coverage possible. Come stop by and visit us in booth #5420 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton with Wegmans Food Markets SVP of Technology and Data Smita Katakwar . Thanks to our partners at VusionGroup for making all our #NRF2024 coverage possible. Come stop by and visit us in booth #5420 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Offering Mammograms For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IeBVjU9IiQ8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Starbucks Launching Bring Your Own Cup Nationwide For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IeBVjU9IiQ8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Sizing Up Amazon's AI Fashion Fit Tech For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IeBVjU9IiQ8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton with Amazon #JWOT Vice President Jon Jenkins . Jon Jenkins went into detail on their latest announcement deploying #JWOT for #healthcare workers, their #RFID -enabled #JWOT activations in stadiums like Lumen Field , and what the #retailindustry should anticipate from Amazon , and #checkoutfree experiences in the future. Thanks to our partners at VusionGroup for making all our #NRF2024 coverage possible. Come stop by and visit us in booth #5420 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton with Prathibha Rajashekhar SVP Automation & Innovation, Stores & Supply Chain at Walmart . Prathibha talks #drone delivery, #esl deployment to 500 #walmart stores, and what we in the #retailindustry can get excited about in 2024 from the retailer. Thanks to our partners at VusionGroup for making all our #NRF2024 coverage possible. Come stop by and visit us in booth #5420 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton with Stop & Shop SVP and Chief Marketing Officer Karen Mitchell talking about "Marty" the robot by Jabil , and the importance of taking into consideration the human side of #robotics . Thanks to our partners at VusionGroup for making all our #NRF2024 coverage possible. Come stop by and visit us in booth #5420 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton are joined by The Vitamin Shoppe Chief Operating Officer Andrew Laudato . Thanks to our partners at VusionGroup for making all our #NRF2024 coverage possible. Come stop by and visit us in booth #5420 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton, joined by Tractor Supply Company's SVP of Information Technology Al Lettera. Thanks to our partners at VusionGroup for making all our #NRF2024 coverage possible. Come stop by and visit us in booth #5420 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton are joined by AutoZone 's Calandra Cleveland from their podcast studio inside the VusionGroup booth #5420. Thanks to VusionGroup (formerly SES-imagotag ) for their support of all of our National Retail Federation Big Show Coverage. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Peloton Launching On TikTok For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IeBVjU9IiQ8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15, 2024
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Instacart's Smart Carts Are A Smart Investment? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/IeBVjU9IiQ8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 14, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton with Walmart CEO and President John Furner from their podcast studio inside the VusionGroup booth #5420. John covered Walmart+, what we can expect from Walmart stores this year, new fulfillment centers, and more. Thanks to VusionGroup (formerly SES-imagotag ) for their support of all of our National Retail Federation Big Show Coverage. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 14, 2024
DICK'S Sporting Goods VP Scott Casciato LIVE FROM #NRF2024 witj Omni Talk Retail ’s Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton from their video studio inside the VusionGroup booth #5420. Thanks to VusionGroup (formerly SES-imagotag for their support of all of our National Retail Federation Big Show Coverage. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 14, 2024
LIVE FROM #NRF2024 Omni Talk Retail 's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton with Walmart 's EVP of Supply Chain David Guggina . Hear David discuss Next Generation Fulfillment Centers, Walmart+, and how he uses Gen AI as a management tool. Thanks to VusionGroup (formerly SES-imagotag ) for their support of all of our National Retail Federation Big Show Coverage. Come stop by and check out the Omni Talk Retail studio in booth #5420. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 12, 2024
Are we there yet? Is inflation over and finally coming down? Who the heck knows? And that is exactly the point – there is no way to be sure but there are things retailers and brands can do to maximize their performance amid these economic conditions. So we are pleased to announce that Ben Reich, the CEO of Datasembly, joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of Omni Talk’s Live Ask An Expert Series on LinkedIn to discuss the role pricing transparency across retailers and brands can play in everyone’s shared success. Chris and Anne went deep with Ben on: Whether the inflationary environment is cooling down and, if so, what it implies retailers and brands should do? Pricing transparency: what does it really mean and why is it so important? The finer points of pricing data collection, both from the perspective of one’s own data to that of one’s competitors And, perhaps most importantly, they will discuss real-life examples that highlight the power of being able to correlate pricing and assortment size to performance by locale *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 10, 2024
Eagle Eye CEO and former Tesco executive Tim Mason joined Anne and Chris to share his thoughts on how retailers can leverage customer data, personalized promotions, and new technologies to strengthen loyalty and drive incremental sales. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Tim on: The history of Tesco’s clubcard Omnichannel personalization AI analytics Actionable tips on winning through customer relationships Point-of-Sale integrations Optimal product assortments And how to create long-term strategic retail partnerships *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 10, 2024
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Wiliot , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne: Discussed Instacart serving up advertisements on its smart carts Split on Peloton and TikTok’s new partnership Lauded Starbucks for allowing customers to bring their own cups Debated the merits of fit tech through the lens of Amazon's new fashion AI enhancements And closed with another salute to Walmart for piloting mammograms in a Delaware store There’s all that, plus bifocal issues, Taco Bell chalupas, and why Costco should never get rid of its $1.49 churros. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 10, 2024
We have all heard about the operational benefits of robots in stores but not enough attention has been paid to the impact they could have on the human side of a retail operation. Everyone from customers to employees could be impacted by robots moving down an aisle. It is a question no retailer should take lightly, and so we are pleased to announce that Stop & Shop Chief Marketing Officer Karen Mitchell will join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of Omni Talk’s Live Ask An Expert Series on LinkedIn to share the successful and leading approach Stop & Shop has taken to make “Marty the Robot” an irreplaceable part of its store operations. Chris and Anne will go deep with Karen on: – Stop & Shop’s history and background with robotics in-store – How personalizing the robot with the name, “Marty,” came to be – What Marty the Robot does and does not do in-store – And, perhaps most importantly, how Stop & Shop came to understand that Marty’s success was dependent on its human touch *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 8, 2024
Onebeat VP of Retail Strategy, Greg Arthur, joined Chris and Anne to share how leveraging AI for inventory optimization can help retailers maximize sell-through rates and profitability. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Greg on: Self-adjusting, short-term algorithms for granular inventory level predictions Allocating the right inventory across stores and channels Reducing markdowns and carryover stock with data-driven replenishment Achieving higher sales velocities and sell-through rates Streamlining onboarding with quick proof of value simulations Real Success stories of boosted sales and margins with less total inventory This video highlights smart approaches to retail inventory planning using AI and machine learning for better results. To learn more about Onebeat, visit 1beat.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 7, 2024
In this episode of the Omni Talk Retail Technology Spotlight Series, Chris and Anne discuss an innovative approach to improving last-mile delivery with Buncha CEO Bharat Pulgam. They explore how Buncha leverages scheduled time windows, refrigerated vehicles, and W-2 drivers to drive value, quality of service, and sustainability in last mile grocery delivery. Bharat outlines Buncha's milkman-style model, order aggregation technology, and white-label partnerships with retailers seeking reliability, affordability and delighted customers. Tune in to learn how thoughtful consolidation and scheduling could unlock a win-win for both consumers and retailers. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 26, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Target Will Soon Have Some Explaining To Do Around Theft For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/gvA1lq3ngrA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 26, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Google Releasing New Shopping Features For Holiday Procrastinators For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/gvA1lq3ngrA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 26, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Macy's Shareholders Should Take The Money And Run For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/gvA1lq3ngrA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 25, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Prime Testing $9.99 Per Month Grocery Delivery For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/gvA1lq3ngrA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 25, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Expanding BNPL With Affirm At Self Checkout For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/gvA1lq3ngrA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 20, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discussed: Walmart’s bold and beautiful move to put BNPL via Affirm at self-checkout Amazon’s confounding decision to test an additional $9.99 per month fee on top of Amazon Prime for grocery delivery Why Macy’s shareholders should take a hard look at their buyout offer on the table Google’s second brilliant move over the last two months in search commerce And closed with a look at why CNBC may have gotten it right on the money when it questioned Target’s claims about theft There’s all that, plus tastes we would rather eat than drink, DNA data storage, and an allusion to Vera Farmiga in The Departed saying why “honesty is not always synonymous with truth.” Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 19, 2023
Undoubtedly, 2023 was a year of retail challenges – inflation, shrink, sustainability, and, let’s also not forget, the always increasing demands of the everyday consumer. But, at the same time, 2023 was also a year of extraordinary technological breakthroughs, with AI, and particularly GenAI, showing us new ways to run our operations and inspire our end customers. So we are pleased to highlight the juxtaposition of these two ideas with Philippe Bottine, CEO North America, SES-imagotag. Philippe joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of Omni Talk’s Live Ask An Expert Series on LinkedIn to discuss how this confluence will shape the evolution of physical retail stores in 2024. Chris and Anne go deep with Philippe on: – Which macroeconomic factors he predicts will most impact retail in the coming year – How he thinks AI will impact store operations – How he predicts the role of the store associate will continue to change and evolve – How he believes technology will further shape consumer expectations – And, perhaps most importantly, why, amid everything, Philippe sees physical stores becoming the focal points for a more sustainable economy *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 19, 2023
The latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five was our annual Retail Awards Show sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle where Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown gave the award for: 2024 Top Retail Headline Predictions For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PVSuISOz41k This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 19, 2023
The latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five was our annual Retail Awards Show sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle where Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown gave the award for: 2023 Retail Concept You Wish You Had In Your Neighborhood But Don't For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PVSuISOz41k This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 19, 2023
The latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five was our annual Retail Awards Show sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle where Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown gave the award for: 2023's Retail Headline That Made You LOL For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PVSuISOz41k This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 19, 2023
The latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five was our annual Retail Awards Show sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle where Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown gave the award for: 2023's Best New Retail Partnership For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PVSuISOz41k This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 19, 2023
The latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five was our annual Retail Awards Show sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle where Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown gave the award for: Best Strategy Move From A Struggling Retailer For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PVSuISOz41k This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 19, 2023
The latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five was our annual Retail Awards Show sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle where Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown gave the award for: Retail Headline You'd Most Like Turned Into A Movie For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PVSuISOz41k This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 18, 2023
Get an inside look at the Manifest 2024 supply chain conference happening in February in Las Vegas. Tanzil Uddin, SVP of Production at Manifest, joins us to highlight keynote speakers, programming tracks, exhibits, and networking opportunities at this must-attend event for end-to-end supply chain professionals. With over 300 exhibitors, 40+ supply chain CEOs and CSCOs presenting across 3 days, and 5000 attendees from 50 countries, Manifest 2024 is shaping up to be a premier gathering for those in logistics, procurement, manufacturing, transportation, warehousing, and more. Don't miss special kickoff summits, innovation showcases, a dynamic expo hall featuring the latest technologies, plenty of networking, and more reasons why Manifest Vegas has doubled in size since last year. Register today at www.manifestvegas.com/OmniTalk *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 18, 2023
The latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five was our annual Retail Awards Show sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle where Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown gave the award for: 2023's Most Overhyped Retail Technology For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PVSuISOz41k This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 18, 2023
The latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five was our annual Retail Awards Show sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle where Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown gave the award for: Retail Person Of The Year For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PVSuISOz41k This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 18, 2023
The latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five was our annual Retail Awards Show sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle where Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown gave the award for: Retail Technology Of The Year For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PVSuISOz41k This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 18, 2023
The latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five was our annual Retail Awards Show sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle where Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown gave the award for: Retail Headline Of The Year For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PVSuISOz41k This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 18, 2023
The latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five was our annual Retail Awards Show sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle where Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown gave the award for: 2023's Retailer Of The Year For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/PVSuISOz41k This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 14, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle ,, David Ritter and David Brown, from the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, stopped by to help Chris and Anne hand out this year’s retail awards. All told, they gave out awards across 10 categories and also made some predictions for 2024, including: Retailer of the Year Headline of the Year Retail Technology of the Year Retail Person of the Year Most Overhyped Retail Technology of the Year Retail Headline You Would Most Like to See Turned Into a Movie Best Strategic Move from a Struggling Retailer Best New Partnership of the Year Most Laughable Headline of the Year Retail Concept You Most Wish You Had In Your Neighborhood So give this week’s podcast a listen, tell us what we got right and what we got wrong, and be sure to share your thoughts on social media, too! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 13, 2023
Automation, empowerment, and illumination – those are the three words we would use to describe GenAI’s impact on retail customer service in 2024 and beyond. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Michael Connor, the Global Head of Consumer Goods for Amazon Web Services, and Shannon Flanagan, the VP of Global Industry Strategy for Retail & Consumer Goods at Talkdesk, joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to provide their expert opinions on how retailers and brands should approach the application of GenAI to customer service. Collectively the four of them went deep on: Talkdesk’s latest research findings on customer service and Generative AI Whom GenAI will impact the most – the retailer, the customer, or the service agent? Where we can expect GenAI to find its most immediate applications within retail and brand customer service operations And, perhaps most importantly, what, if any, roadblocks retailers face in adopting GenAI and how they can overcome them *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 12, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Canada's Store Of The Future For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/pzzbTRnYCy8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 12, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Shoppable Programming: Fad Or Here To Stay? For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/pzzbTRnYCy8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 12, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Best Buy Becoming First Electronics Retailer On DoorDash For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/pzzbTRnYCy8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 11, 2023
TGW’s Vice President of Business Development, James Osborn, joined Chris and Anne to continue the ongoing education around the topic of microfulfillment. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with James on: A good working definition of microfulfillment (i.e. between 500 and 1,000 orders per day) The key differences between microfulfillment and grocery operations in the U.S. vs. Europe (e.g. European stores are much smaller, which increases picking efficiency) Considerations for colocation vs. dark stores How to use backroom automation for multiple purposes And, most importantly, how to avoid the common mistakes that make mircrofulfillment projects fail and, even worse, disappoint your customers *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 11, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Uber Launching Store Pickup For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/pzzbTRnYCy8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 11, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: For the full episode head here:https://youtu.be/pzzbTRnYCy8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6, 2023
In this episode of "5 Insightful Minutes," we dive deep into the world of generative AI, with a focus on Microsoft's General Manager for Modern Work in Retail and Consumer Goods, Jeff Strasser. Join us for an enlightening discussion as we explore how GenAI is transforming the retail landscape and helping retailers tackle today's challenges and shape the future. Discover how top retailers are leveraging GenAI to address supply chain disruptions, labor availability issues, changing customer expectations, and more. Learn about the significant impact GenAI has on improving productivity, data privacy, and security. Explore real-world examples from companies like Mars, Domino's, and Starbucks, and gain insights into how they are using generative AI to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and contribute to sustainability goals. If you're curious about the role of AI in the store of the future and want to stay ahead in the retail industry, this video is a must-watch. Join us as we unlock the potential of GenAI and its profound implications for the future of retail. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne: Discussed what really could be impacting shrink in light of NRF’s softening on its previously stated impact from Organized Retail Crime Disagreed about whether the world really needs Uber Store Pickup Lauded DoorDash for once again fortifying the strength of DashPass with its new Best Buy relationship Showed tempered enthusiasm for Walmart’s store of the future plans from their Canadian brethren up North And closed with a look at why in the world anyone needs shoppable “TV” programming from Walmart called “Add to Heart” There’s all that, plus gingerbread cannibalism, how long we could survive living in a grocery store, and Microsoft’s Jeff Strasser also stops by for 5 Insightful Minutes on Generative AI. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 5, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Victoria's Secret Store Of The Future 2.0 For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/y-ZMxhPwJ7g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 5, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Allbirds Starts Selling On Amazon For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/y-ZMxhPwJ7g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 5, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Nuuly Has Cracked The Code On Rental And Resale? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/y-ZMxhPwJ7g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 4, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Foxtrot and Dom's Kitchen - A Match Made In Heaven? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/y-ZMxhPwJ7g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 4, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Trigo Taking Checkout Free To Telecom For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/y-ZMxhPwJ7g This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29, 2023
Amazon VP Dilip Kumar joins Chris and Anne on the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast to share 5 Insightful Minutes on the future of Amazon's Just Walk Out technology and Amazon One Palm Payments. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five retail news roundup, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Discussed why Etisalat’s new telecom store with Trigo is such an important mark in the evolution of retail Got excited for the merger between Foxtrot and Dom’s Threw shade at Allbirds for its apparent attitude and timing in selling on Amazon Explored what Nuuly is getting right in the rental and resale market And closed with a look at why Victoria’s Secret is making “stores of the future” sexy again There’s all that , plus Cyber Monday’s origins, what Anne and I would do with eight more teeth, and Amazon VP Dilip Kumar also stopped by to give us 5 Insightful Minutes on the future of Amazon Just Walk Out and Amazon One Palm Pay. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29, 2023
The hype behind AI is real, and those that dawdle are already at risk of being behind. Way behind. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Romeo Bolibol, the Managing Partner & Head of Sales for Strategic Retail & Consumer Goods at Microsoft, and Crys Kelch, the Enterprise Solutions Sales Leader for the Americas at GitHub, joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to explain why timing is of the essence when it comes to AI. Chris and Anne went deep with Romeo and Crys on: Why the hype around AI might not be big enough The common fears over AI that retail executives are sharing in the boardroom The extent of the investment in AI needed across one’s full tech stack Real-life examples of next-generation AI already in use at leading retailers And, perhaps most importantly, how the right approach to AI will create efficiencies that stack on top of each other so that one plus one will equal three or even four or five in your organization *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 27, 2023
Bynder’s Director of Global Field and Customer Marketing, Brian Kavanaugh, joined Chris and Anne for the second time in 2023 to give an even deeper look into Digital Asset Management. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Brian on: The challenges retailers are faced when it comes to Digital Asset Management (aka DAM) Why these challenges become particularly acute during the key holiday selling season The value gained, both in sales and productivity, from having a strong DAM setup in place The many integration points that come into play with a DAM system, particularly a retailer’s PIM system And, perhaps most importantly, why not taking Digital Asset Management seriously now, across every level of a retail organization, could come back to bite you in the future *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 27, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: An On The Ground Report From The New Toys R' Us MOA Store For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/lRse7drV6GY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 27, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: A Ho Ho Hot Mess For Kohl's For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/lRse7drV6GY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 27, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walgreens Killing Warehouses To Ship More From Store For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/lRse7drV6GY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 27, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If new GAP, Inc. Earnings Signal A GAP turnaround afoot? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/lRse7drV6GY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 27, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon & Hyundai Auto Team Up For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/lRse7drV6GY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22, 2023
Anne and Chris put the A&M Consumer and Retail Group's Chad Lusk on the 5-minute hot seat as he shares with us the most recent findings from their survey on current consumer sentiment heading into the holidays. Chad outlines what actions retailers need to take to stay relevant, along with some great last minute holiday advice. For the full copy of the 2023 Fall Consumer Sentiment Survey From Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group, click here . This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle, Anne and Chris: Got really geeked up about Amazon selling Hyundai online Pulled the caution flag out on all the Gap turnaround headlines Lauded Walgreens for its decision to close an e-commerce fulfillment center in favor of shipping more from its stores Feared we can already start to smell the smoldering dumpster fire at Kohl’s And closed with an in-person review of the new Toys R Us flagship store at the Mall of America There’s all that, plus 5 Insightful Minutes on U.S. consumer sentiment with Chad Lusk, Stanley mugs, our favorite camels, and the always unanswerable question of, “Where does the sidewalk really end?” To sign up for eTail West, click here To download the Consumer Sentiment Report discussed in Chad's 5 Insightful Minutes, click here This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 21, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Cassie Ryding and Chris Creyts discuss: Chipotle Founder's New Robot Restaurant For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DvEijbd1bfk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 21, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Cassie Ryding and Chris Creyts discuss: Poshmark's Second Hand Sunday Livestream For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DvEijbd1bfk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 21, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Cassie Ryding and Chris Creyts discuss: Buy With Prime 24/7 Agent Assist For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DvEijbd1bfk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 20, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Cassie Ryding and Chris Creyts discuss: Amazon & Meta Buddy-up For Facebook & Instagram In-App Shopping For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DvEijbd1bfk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 20, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Cassie Ryding and Chris Creyts discuss: Target, Walmart, & The Home Depot Earnings For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/DvEijbd1bfk This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 16, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle, A&M’s Chris Creyts and Cassie Ryding stopped by to discuss: What to make of this week’s earning reports The new Amazon and Meta partnership Amazon Buy with Prime Assist Poshmark’s livestream Secondhand Sunday plans And the Founder of Chipotle’s new restaurant concept that runs on robots There’s all that, plus Nepalese TikTok bans, Andre 3000, and an all too intellectual discussion about WTF McDonald’s Grimace actually is. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 14, 2023
Amazon VP AWS Applications, Dilip Kumar, is back for his regular annual appearance to discuss how Amazon continues to think about the evolution of checkout and personal identification. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Dilip on: - The latest Amazon Just Walk Out innovations, including the two new recently opened Seattle Seahawks and Texas Rangers Fan Shops. - The evolution of Amazon One palm payment - And, finally, where Just Walk Out and Amazon One could be headed next! Dilip is a past OmniStar for a reason -- because whenever we have him on the program, you undoubtedly learn something new! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 14, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: DoorDash Urging Customers To Tip Or Prepare To Wait For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/8KTPdFct7bY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 14, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: IKEA Cutting Its Friends & Family Five Percent Loyalty Perk For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/8KTPdFct7bY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 14, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: SHEIN's $90 Billion US IPO For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/8KTPdFct7bY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 13, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Google Shopping Now Does Deals For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/8KTPdFct7bY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 13, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Stores Are Going Out Of Style For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/8KTPdFct7bY This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 10, 2023
With over 60 million users in the US and topping the app store charts for the most downloaded shopping apps, TEMU and SHEIN are positioned to take serious share from every retailer from dollar stores to Dolce & Gabbana. In Omni Talk Retail's latest Five Insightful Minutes, Tomorrow's Jordan Berke breaks down why Singles Day and cross-border players like TEMU and SHEIN should be on the radar of U.S. Retailers. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 8, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework , Avalara , TGW , and Sezzle , Chris and Anne discussed: Amazon calling it quits on its Amazon Style fashion store concept Google’s launch of discount search Shein’s $90 billion IPO valuation IKEA pulling back its 5% loyalty discount And DoorDash piloting a new warning to customers about bad service should they forgo tipping There’s all that, plus Tomorrow's Jordan Berke gives us 5 Insightful Minutes on Singles Day, the right starting price point for human artifacts, Silent Doritos, and what we think Jeff Bezos most likely would buy himself as a housewarming gift. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 7, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Tommy Bahama Moving From Restaurants Into Resorts For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/beDTcCOLbT8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 7, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Instagram And Facebook Trialing An Ad-Free Subscription For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/beDTcCOLbT8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 7, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Schnucks Launching Real-Time Local Produce Alerts For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/beDTcCOLbT8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 6, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: H&M's AI Design Tool For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/beDTcCOLbT8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 6, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Pharmageddon At Walgreens, CVS, & RITE AID For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/beDTcCOLbT8 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 1, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discussed: The recent pharmacy walkouts at CVS and Walgreens H&M enabling customers to design their own clothes with AI Schnucks taking local produce mobile merchandising to an unparalleled level The implications of Instagram and Facebook offering ad-free subscriptions in Europe Tommy Bahama opening its own coastal theme resort in, ironically, Palm Springs, of all places There’s all that, plus magicians claiming they can make the moon disappear, crying fowl over pheasant hunting, and our favorite Chandler Bing memory. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 31, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Truett Horne and David Schneidman discuss: BuyBuy Baby's Store Rollout Success Plan For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/c9fuebv4LAc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 31, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Truett Horne and David Schneidman discuss: Kroger's RMN Marketing Its Sustainability Efforts For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/c9fuebv4LAc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 31, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Truett Horne and David Schneidman discuss: Homegoods Giving Its E-Commerce Site The Axe For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/c9fuebv4LAc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 30, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Truett Horne and David Schneidman discuss: Amazon's AI Photo Tool Is A Seller's Best Friend For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/c9fuebv4LAc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 30, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Truett Horne and David Schneidman discuss: Walmart's AI Pledge For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/c9fuebv4LAc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 26, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle, A&M’s David Schneidman and Truett Horne joined Chris and Anne to discuss: Walmart’s new corporate AI guidelines Amazon’s new AI for product imagery HomeGoods calling it quits on e-commerce Kroger’s sustainable media push And the rebirth of BuyBuy Baby There’s all that, plus Mom’s favorite Tinder date, Bush Beans, and whether David is full on original recipe or extra crispy. P.S. Be sure to register for Manifest by Friday, October 27th! Just head here: partner.manife.st/OmniTalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 25, 2023
Traffic tells all. Nothing gives you a better sense of what is working versus what is not. So Placer.ai’s SVP of Marketing Ethan Chernofsky is back once again to look back on 2023 and to share with us the biggest lessons learned from retail traffic data as we head into the holidays. Chris and Anne go in depth with Ethan as he discusses the major trends he has identified in 2023, including: Whether or not the pandemic has created new customer profiles and shopping patterns Why great product still matters above all else If convenience is coming at the expense of excitement The potential and challenges facing the promise of Retail Media And, of course, what segments of retail are winning and losing, from c-stores to grocery and dollar stores, and what it all says about the future *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 24, 2023
Omni Talk Retail’s Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga put George Trantas, Avalara's Senior Director Global Marketplaces, on the 5-minute hot seat to discuss the common mistakes retailers make when it comes to filing taxes on their e-commerce sales. Click here to read the discussed report in full: Ecommerce and Tax compliance: 10 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 24, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Achieving First Carbon Neutral Store For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-zDY5jgNhL4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 24, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Shipt Trying To Recruit More Drivers By Offering Benefits For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-zDY5jgNhL4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 24, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Netflix Making Moves To Capture Show Nostalgia With Stores & Restaurants For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-zDY5jgNhL4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 23, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart's New AR Makeup Tool For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-zDY5jgNhL4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 23, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Hy-Vee Moving Forward With Microfulfillment From Takeoff For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-zDY5jgNhL4 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discussed: Hy-Vee breathing life into microfulfillment once again by way of its recently announced implementation with Takeoff The aforementioned AR beauty experience within Walmart’s app Netflix’s new store plans Shipt’s support of a legal framework that allows gig workers to receive benefits while retaining their independent contractor status And closed with a look at why Amazon Fresh being named the first-ever zero carbon grocery store says so much about the right way to think about smart store design There’s all that, plus our favorite ghosts, “Billionaire Bunker,” and Avalara's George Trantas stopped by to give us 5 Insightful Minutes on e-commerce tax compliance. You can read Avalara's recently published white paper on the 10 common mistakes people make with e-commerce tax compliance and how to avoid them by clicking here: Ecommerce and Tax Compliance: 10 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 17, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Ulta Wanting To Bring Associates More Joy For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/O9TqxN7EO4M This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 17, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: If Bloomie's Is The Boom Macy's Needs For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/O9TqxN7EO4M This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 17, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Scheels Going Big In Arizona For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/O9TqxN7EO4M This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 16, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Warning Of Ozempic Impacts For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/O9TqxN7EO4M This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 16, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Stop & Shop Trialing Coupon Kiosks For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/O9TqxN7EO4M This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11, 2023
The size and scope of managing a retailer’s brand content has gotten out of control. There’s TikTok, there’s Instagram, there’s digital marketplaces, there’s retail media networks. The list could go on and on, but our brains hurt just from typing that last sentence. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Bynder’s Director of Global Field and Customer Marketing, Brian Kavanaugh, joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to share his expertise on what retailers can and should do to get a handle on everything. Chris and Anne go deep with Brian on: - The confluence of factors that have made digital asset management so complex - The impact that the increasing complexity has on retailers - The benefits from a platform-based approach to digital asset management - The role AI will play both in generating and maintaining content going forward - And, perhaps most importantly, how the right approach to digital asset management can give retailers unparalleled insight into what creative decisions are actually driving sales *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne: Lauded Stop & Shop for its new coupon kiosk in-store to help the “digital hesitant” Went down the very cool rabbit hole of exploring the Ozempic craze and what makes its potential impact on retail different from other trends that have come before it Praised Scheels for answering the “why” – as in why come to a physical store – with its new 250,000 square foot store in Phoenix Bought hook, line, and sinker into the idea that Bloomingdale’s could in fact be Macy’s “growth vehicle” And closed with a look at why purpose matters for store employees through the lens of Ulta’s efforts to inspire joy within its team members There’s all that, plus Crocs cowboy boots, AI celebrities, and why Chris ain’t no hollaback guy. To register for Manifest, head here: www.manifestvegas.com/omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 10, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walgreens and Cooler Screens Going Yo Court For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/_Dd000s1510?si=wT8f1-MpLyveYrN6 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 10, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Macy’s Going Off Mall With 30 Small Stores For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/_Dd000s1510?si=wT8f1-MpLyveYrN6 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 10, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Gelson’s Convenience Store Of The Future For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/_Dd000s1510?si=wT8f1-MpLyveYrN6 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 9, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Removing Self Checkout From ABQ Stores For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/_Dd000s1510?si=wT8f1-MpLyveYrN6 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 9, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Lululemon and Peloton Partnering Up For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/_Dd000s1510?si=wT8f1-MpLyveYrN6 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 4, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Avalara, TGW, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne: Discussed why the Peloton and Lululemon partnership feels like vanilla ice cream Looked at the “shrinking” list of reasons behind Walmart removing self-checkout from three New Mexico stores Highlighted Gelson’s new store concept as the potential convenience store of the future Questioned everything there is to question about Macy’s small store strategy And closed with a look at why Cooler Screens lawsuit against Walgreens could signal that the in-store retail media craze is way overhyped There’s all that, plus ravioli-shaped moons, frozen caveman lawyers, and Anne’s worst wedgie of all-time. To register for Manifest, head here: www.manifestvegas.com/omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 3, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Kelly Carey and John Clear discuss: Albertsons Launching Flash Fulfillment For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-Mna7ZB7ToE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 3, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Kelly Carey and John Clear discuss: Best Buy Doing Drops For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-Mna7ZB7ToE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 3, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Kelly Carey and John Clear discuss: Nike Launching Refurb Shoe Site For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-Mna7ZB7ToE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 2, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Kelly Carey and John Clear discuss: Kroger's First Marketplace Coming For Target & Walmart For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-Mna7ZB7ToE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 2, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Kelly Carey and John Clear discuss: Amazon's FTC Woes For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/-Mna7ZB7ToE This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 28, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, A&M’s John Clear and Kelly Carey made their maiden podcast voyage with Chris and Anne as they debated: Whether the FTC has a legitimate case against Amazon How scared Walmart and Target should be of Kroger’s new Marketplace store concept The value of Nike getting into resale with the launch of refurbished.nike.com If Best Buy Drops is merchandising genius or just a copycat gimmick And closed with a look at whether Albertsons new Flash delivery program heralds a new era in retailing in which consumers will be asked to pay for the value added services they crave There’s all that, plus Irish college courses on influencing, Tom Cruise in Far And Away, and the one sitcom location we most wish was turned into a tourist location. To register for Manifest, head here: www.manifestvegas.com/omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 22, 2023
The Omni Talk Retail crew takes the stage alongside Groceryshop’s very own, VP of Content, Rocquan Lucas, Groceryshop’s Director of Original Content, Ben Miller, and Groceryshop’s SVP of Content, Krystina Gustafson to recap the key takeaways from this year's conference. They cover every hot Groceryshop topic from AI to Retail Media Networks and everything in between. Whether you were at the show or watching the Omni Talk coverage from home, this podcast covers all the grocery goods you need to know. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 19, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: TikTok Opening Shop In The US For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UpBuCCwtdl0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 19, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Couche-Tard Expanding Mashgin Self-Checkout For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UpBuCCwtdl0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 19, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: IKEA Saying Customers Want The Maze Back For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UpBuCCwtdl0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Kroger Pumping The Breaks On Fulfillment Centers For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UpBuCCwtdl0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Adding Late Night And Text Delivery For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/UpBuCCwtdl0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 14, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discuss: Which innovation we like better – Walmart late night delivery or delivery from Walmart via text? All the possible reasons why Kroger would pause its automated microfulfillment expansion plans IKEA’s recent declaration that its customers miss the seventh circle of hell maze-like design of its stores The operational efficiency gains Couche-Tard is seeing from Mashgin’s computer vision platform And closed with a look at the launch of TikTok Shop and what it could mean for retailers and brands within the social commerce landscape There's all that, plus AI generated Coke, Kendra Scott jewelry, and whether a bean is also an orb. To register for Groceryshop, head here: www.groceryshop.com/omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 12, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Ulta Expanding Ship From Store For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/EDZuVrAXq7Q This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 12, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: JCPenny Investing $1B In Its Turnaround For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/EDZuVrAXq7Q This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 12, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: John Varvatos Taking The Design Helm At Under Armour For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/EDZuVrAXq7Q This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 11, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Shopify And Amazon Buddying Up For Buy With Prime For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/EDZuVrAXq7Q This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 11, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Giant Food Checking Receipts And Stopping Sales of Tide For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/EDZuVrAXq7Q This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 7, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne: Called Giant Foods' decision to implement receipt checks and to pull branded merchandise from its shelves a momentous moment in the history of retail. Enjoyed riffing on the seemingly best frenemies that Shopify and Amazon have become in light of their new Buy With Prime partnership. Hotly debated Under Armour's hiring of John Varvatos as its new Chief Design Officer (Anne loved it; Chris did not). Both surprisingly supported JCP's $1 billion turnaround plan. And closed with a salute and a watch out for Ulta over the recent tripling of its ship-from-store locations. There's all that, plus in-flight biohazards, sex ring code words, and whether Taylor Swift will gross a cool billion at the box office. To register for Groceryshop, head here: www.groceryshop.com/omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 5, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Sephora Bringing Checkout To Employee Devices For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/J2pvzUzqY-o This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 5, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Macy's And GAP Making A Sleepy Collab For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/J2pvzUzqY-o This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 5, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Grubhub & Amazon JWOT Heading For Campus Domination For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/J2pvzUzqY-o This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 4, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Forever 21 And SHEIN Partnering Up For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/J2pvzUzqY-o This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 4, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Starbucks Going Scanless For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/J2pvzUzqY-o This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 31, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne had a wee delight discussing (and sometimes ranting about): How much they would use Starbucks' new scanless pay feature at the drive thru The long-term implications of the Shein and Forever 21 partnership The brilliance of Amazon combining its Just Walk Out technology with campus delivery and Grubhub Gap’s insanely ludicrous sleepwear collaboration with Macy’s And closed with a look at Sephora's new mobile checkout pilot and whether other retailers should rush to emulate it There’s all that, plus Capri Sun, Billy bookcases, and why no one should ever raise their hands even if they are Sure. To register for Groceryshop, head here: www.groceryshop.com/omnitalk To get your own sweet version of the special edition 30 for 30 MLB hat Chris is wearing, head to HatClub.com Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 29, 2023
In the latest edition of Omni Talk’s Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and Ben Lowden discuss: Amazon Cutting Private Brands For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/hawXQR5_ADo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 29, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and Ben Lowden discuss: Trader Joe's Saying No Self Checkout EVER! For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/hawXQR5_ADo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 29, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and Ben Lowden discuss: Etsy Starting Baby Registry For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/hawXQR5_ADo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 28, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and Ben Lowden discuss: Aldi Acquiring Winn-Dixie And Harveys For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/hawXQR5_ADo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 28, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and Ben Lowden discuss: Dick's Sporting Goods Shrinkage Problem For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/hawXQR5_ADo This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 27, 2023
Dematic's Market Development Director, Kim Baudry, joins Chris and Anne for the second time in 2023 to discuss the major trends she is seeing as retailers try to bring their fulfillment closer to their end consumers. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Kim on: Why more and more retailers are investing in " sortation centers " Why investment in on-site microfulfillment may be slowing down, particularly in grocery Why many retailers are starting with a software and manual approach to order fulfillment Why retailers are looking harder at AMRs (aka autonomous mobile robots) for their automation needs over other automation options And, finally, why all the complexity involved in getting closer to the consumer could make for some strange bedfellows across the OMS, WMS, and warehouse automation landscape True to form, Kim is again frank, blunt, and to the point — and, for that reason, she is always one of our favorite podcast guests. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 24, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, A&M's Chad Lusk and Ben Lowden joined Anne and Chris to discuss: Dick’s growing theft problem and what, if anything, the industry can do about it Aldi’s major 400 store expansion plans Etsy’s new baby registry Trader Joe’s claims that it will never put self-checkout machines in its stores And closed with a look at why Amazon would make such drastic cuts to its private label apparel assortment There’s all that, plus Publix pup bans, pizza crust proclivities, and what baby food we would most want to eat as adults. To register for Groceryshop, head here: www.groceryshop.com/omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 15, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Launching JWOT For Apparel For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/2Q3MmcGlR54 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 15, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Luring SMBs To Do Last-Mile Delivery With Amazon Hub For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/2Q3MmcGlR54 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 15, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: JD Sports Doing An AR Mirror Pilot For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/2Q3MmcGlR54 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 14, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Wawa Testing A Shelfless Store For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/2Q3MmcGlR54 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 14, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Nike Opening A Boutique Fitness Concept For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/2Q3MmcGlR54 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 11, 2023
Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga put the A&M Consumer and Retail Group’s Chad Lusk on the 5-minute hot seat as they discuss the latest technology trends shaping grocery in-store. To access the reference In-Store Technology: Customer-Facing Retail Tech Report — Grocery Edition head here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insight/in-store-technology-customer-facing-retail-tech-report-grocery-edition/ Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 10, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne: Politely disagreed on whether Nike should be getting into the boutique gym business Tried to understand all the angles and reasons why Wawa would pilot a shelfless store in Philly Threw tremendous shade at JD Sports for piloting in-store AR mirrors Put themselves in the mind of a local florist (as they have always wanted to do) and asked, “Why in the world would we ever want to help deliver Amazon packages through Amazon Hub?” And closed with unbridled enthusiasm over Amazon bringing its Just Walk Out technology into apparel this week A&M's Chad Lusk even stopped by to give us 5 Insightful Minutes on in-store grocery technology. To access the In-Store Technology: Customer-Facing Retail Tech Report — Grocery Edition head here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insight/in-store-technology-customer-facing-retail-tech-report-grocery-edition/ There’s all that, plus why In-N-Out Burger is always better consumed on-premise, their favorite Lindas, and the forever named mall security robot, Ro-Blart. To register for Groceryshop, head here: www.groceryshop.com/omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 8, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Gap Selecting Former Mattel Exec Richard Dickson As New CEO For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fzEsJJKP0yc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 8, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Clevon Taking Multi-Parcel Autonomous Delivery To Texas For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fzEsJJKP0yc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 8, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Poshmark Introducing Visual Search With Poshmark Lens For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fzEsJJKP0yc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 7, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Big Amazon Grocery News Or Bust? For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fzEsJJKP0yc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 7, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Bed Bath & Beyond's Rebirth With Overstock For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/fzEsJJKP0yc This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 3, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five , sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discuss: - Overstock going live with its Bed Bath & Beyond rebranding - The ridiculous hyperbole surrounding Amazon's "biggest grocery overhaul since Whole Foods" - Poshmark adding visual search to its mobile app - Clevon embarking on multi-parcel autonomous last-mile delivery in Texas - And closed with some skepticism surrounding Gap's new CEO hire There’s all that, plus rocks in our food, some all-time great CEO name alliteration, and the degree to which Cap'n Crunch cereal tastes like Band-Aids. To register for Groceryshop , head here: www.groceryshop.com/omnitalk To register for Manifest , head here: www.manifestvegas.com/OmniTalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 28, 2023
In our latest Spotlight Series Podcast, Anne and Chris learn all they can about generative AI from Amanda Saunders, the Senior Manager for Enterprise and Edge AI Product Marketing at NVIDIA . Together they discuss: – What makes generative AI "generative" – The size and the scope to which generative AI will impact retail – The three approaches retailers can take to harness generative AI's value – And, most importantly, real examples and case studies that highlight generative AI in actual practice Also, if you are interested in even more educational content surrounding AI, NVIDIA is the go-to source. Just click here to learn more: Generative AI for Enterprises Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 25, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Abhinav Chandra and Manola Soler discuss: Target Allowing All Employees To Wear Shorts For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/r4lIf_4-3fk Music By HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 25, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Abhinav Chandra and Manola Soler discuss: Signet Jewelers Trialing Jewelry Rental For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/r4lIf_4-3fk Music By HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 25, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Abhinav Chandra and Manola Soler discuss: H&M Selling More Third-Party Products For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/r4lIf_4-3fk Music By HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 24, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Abhinav Chandra and Manola Soler discuss: Fast Five Shorts | Schnucks Throwing Instacart A Caper Cart Lifeline For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/r4lIf_4-3fk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 24, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Abhinav Chandra and Manola Soler discuss: NRF Predicting A Big Back-to-School For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/r4lIf_4-3fk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 20, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five , sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, A&M's Abhinav Chandra and Manola Soler joined Chris and Anne to debate: The level of hyperbole in NRF’s predictions surrounding “unparalleled” Back-to-School sales Why in the world Schnucks would throw Instacart a Caper Cart lifeline? H&M’s move to sell more third-party products Whether getting into fine jewelry resale is a smart move for Signet Jewelers And closed with a lively discussion about whether Target will regret its decision to allow its store employees to wear shorts in long-run There’s all that, plus pinky rings, Agatha Christie scares, and Taco Tuesdays. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 18, 2023
If you are in retail, cover retail, or even just like to wow your friends with your retail knowledge at cocktail parties, then you are going to want to listen to this! Placer.ai’s SVP of Marketing Ethan Chernofsky is back to give his mid-year report card assessment of which retailers are setting the pace and which ones are lagging behind. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 18, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Dollar General Piloting A Checkout-Free Store For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/x9gAOLEvv1s This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 18, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Ashley Furniture's New Marketing Tactics For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/x9gAOLEvv1s This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 18, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: YouTube Expanding In-Video Shopping For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/x9gAOLEvv1s This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 17, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Google Kills Its Online Shopping Marketplace For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/x9gAOLEvv1s This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 17, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Keeping Back-to-School Pricing Same As Last Year For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/x9gAOLEvv1s This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 13, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Anne and Chris: - Tipped their caps to Walmart for marketing its Back-to-School pricing as the same as last year - Discussed whether Google made the right decision in killing its online shopping marketplace - Lauded YouTube (aka Google) for placing more of an emphasis on video commerce - Argued over whether Ashley using experiential marketing events to rebrand itself is the best place for Ashley to spend its money - And closed with high praise for Dollar General’s early desire to pilot and to understand just WTF the value of Just Walk Out-like tech might be in its stores There’s all that, plus a sweet vs. savory debate, “snackstituting” and making guacamole with robots. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 7, 2023
Lucky Co-Founders Sneh Parmar and Nafis Azad discuss the new way DTC brands are "going direct" through social media with leading companies like Sephora and Walgreens. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Sneh and Nafis on: – The gap (and sometimes duplicative efforts) between brands and retailers in reaching customers on TikTok and Instagram – The new wholesale-like channel that is about to emerge to help brands and retailers collaboratively attack DTC social media commerce via technology – The value of shared first-party data transparency across brands and retailers within this new channel – And, most importantly, why the end consumer is ultimately the winner in the long-run because he or she can shop online with a new level of confidence So make like Daft Punk and Pharrell and get lucky by listening to this podcast right now. *Sponsored Content* Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 4, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Dollar Tree Going Beyond The $1 Price Point For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/30/fast-five-video-doordash-pays-by-the-hour-mr-smith-targets-marketplaces-amazon-go-is-as-good-as-gone/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 4, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: DoorDash Offering Drivers Hourly Pay For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/30/fast-five-video-doordash-pays-by-the-hour-mr-smith-targets-marketplaces-amazon-go-is-as-good-as-gone/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 4, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Closing Another AmazonGo Store For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/30/fast-five-video-doordash-pays-by-the-hour-mr-smith-targets-marketplaces-amazon-go-is-as-good-as-gone/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 3, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Ocado Acquisition Rumors For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/30/fast-five-video-doordash-pays-by-the-hour-mr-smith-targets-marketplaces-amazon-go-is-as-good-as-gone/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 3, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group , Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: INFORM Legislation Passed To Prevent Retail Theft For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/30/fast-five-video-doordash-pays-by-the-hour-mr-smith-targets-marketplaces-amazon-go-is-as-good-as-gone/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 29, 2023
Hear Microsoft General Manager for the US Retail Business, David Leibowitz, and Nuance Director of Intelligent Engagement, Sebastian Reeve as they discuss with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga how Generative AI can have a significant impact on your retail business. From personalized product recommendations to enhanced visual merchandising, generative AI can help you reimagine your retail business by improving customer experience, optimizing operations, and driving growth. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 29, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Anne and Chris: - Discussed why the new INFORM legislation to curb organized retail theft is a necessary first step but nowhere near enough - Questioned the veracity of the report that Amazon is interested in acquiring Ocado - Highlighted why Amazon Go as a store concept had a flawed experimentation plan from the get-go - Predicted what the ramifications of DoorDash going to guaranteed hourly pay would be on retail store operators - And closed with a look at why Dollar Tree’s decision to expand its assortment and pricing tiers is a gosh darn no brainer There’s all that, plus Jack in the Box tacos, first dates, and the favorite fictional homes from their youth that Chris and Anne would most like to see on Airbnb. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 28, 2023
“Digitizing the physical store” is one of those buzzword phrases pundits like to say but knowing how to do it is a different matter entirely. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce we assembled a top notch panel of real experts who are actually going about such work and can walk the walk. Anika Vooes, Chief Acceleration Manager, at Rewe Digital, Nitu Kaushal, Managing Director, Cloud First Intelligent Edge Business, Europe Region at Accenture, Andre Bechtold, SVP & Head of Solution & Innovation Experience at SAP, and Guy Yair, Chief Revenue Officer at Trigo, all joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of Omni Talk’s Live Ask An Expert Series on LinkedIn. Chris and Anne go deep with this group of experts on: – What computer vision AI is and why it is a centerpiece of retailing’s future – How and why Rewe embraced computer vision AI with an innovation mindset, along with all the operational dividends it has seen thus far – The dos and don’ts of implementing computer vision in physical stores – And, finally, what we can expect next from digitized stores in the very near future This podcast features some of the foremost experts in the world on deploying AI within physical stores and, for that reason alone, it is not to be missed! *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and David Schneidman discuss: Mercedes-Benz Adding ChatGPT Functionality to New Cars For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/22/fast-five-walmart-media-rei-resale-sweetgreen-goes-full-robot/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and David Schneidman discuss: REI Launching Another Physical Resale Store For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/22/fast-five-walmart-media-rei-resale-sweetgreen-goes-full-robot/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 27, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and David Schneidman discuss: SHEIN Expanding Its Marketplace To Include Home And Electronics Products For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/22/fast-five-walmart-media-rei-resale-sweetgreen-goes-full-robot/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 26, 2023
Vyrill's Ajay Bam joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga live from CommerceNext to discuss the growing importance of in-video search for both retailers and brands. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Ajay on: – Video's growing impact on e-commerce conversion – Why video reviews are more trustworthy than text reviews – How in-video search helps brands find video insights for marketing campaigns and also helps shoppers find answers to product questions by returning search results as video clips – And, most importantly, the power of cataloging demographic, sentiment, brand appropriateness and safety data in every video about your brand out there! Video is the future, and this podcast helps to paint the picture as to why. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 26, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and David Schneidman discuss: Sweetgreen Going "Full Robot" Within 5 Years For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/22/fast-five-walmart-media-rei-resale-sweetgreen-goes-full-robot/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 26, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Chad Lusk and David Schneidman discuss: Walmart and NBCUniversal Teaming Up For Legendary RMN Offering For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/22/fast-five-walmart-media-rei-resale-sweetgreen-goes-full-robot/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 23, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, A&M’s Chad Lusk and David Schneidman joined Anne and me to discuss: - The impact of Walmart’s new partnership with NBCUniversal - Why in the world Sweetgreen would publicly announce its plans to deploy robots across all its locations over the next five years - Shein’s decision to sell home appliances and cast a wider marketplace net - REI opening its second Re/Supply store dedicated to resale - And closed with an examination of whether ChatGPT inside of a Mercedes Benz could one day be the new way we are all ordering groceries There’s all that, plus Hulkamania at the Mall of America, spinach at 2 AM, and two-strapping vs. one-strapping. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 20, 2023
In this week's #fastfive Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, discuss their thoughts on: Uber Moving Into Car Sharing Catch their full analysis, and the entire #fastfive episode made possible by our sponsors: Microsoft, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff Technologies, Inc., Sezzle, and Silk here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/15/fast-five-video-nike-just-does-wholesale-walmart-employees-try-ai-bed-bath-is-overstocked/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 20, 2023
In this week's #fastfive Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, discuss their thoughts on: Overstock's Bid For Bed Bath & Beyond Catch their full analysis, and the entire #fastfive episode made possible by our sponsors: Microsoft, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff Technologies, Inc., Sezzle, and Silk here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/15/fast-five-video-nike-just-does-wholesale-walmart-employees-try-ai-bed-bath-is-overstocked/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 20, 2023
In this week's #fastfive Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, discuss their thoughts on: Walmart Building A GenAI Playground For Employees Catch their full analysis, and the entire #fastfive episode made possible by our sponsors: Microsoft, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff Technologies, Inc., Sezzle, and Silk here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/15/fast-five-video-nike-just-does-wholesale-walmart-employees-try-ai-bed-bath-is-overstocked/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 19, 2023
Jason Del Rey joins Chris and Anne to discuss his new book, Winner Sells All: Amazon, Walmart And The Battle For Our Wallets. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 19, 2023
In this week's #fastfive Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, discuss their thoughts on: Stitch Fix Hiring New CEO Catch their full analysis, and the entire #fastfive episode made possible by our sponsors: Microsoft, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff Technologies, Inc., Sezzle, and Silk here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/15/fast-five-video-nike-just-does-wholesale-walmart-employees-try-ai-bed-bath-is-overstocked/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 19, 2023
In this week's #fastfive Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, discuss their thoughts on: Nike Selling At DSW Again Catch their full analysis, and the entire #fastfive episode made possible by our sponsors: Microsoft, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff Technologies, Inc., Sezzle, and Silk here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/15/fast-five-video-nike-just-does-wholesale-walmart-employees-try-ai-bed-bath-is-overstocked/ #retail #retailing #ecommerce #commerce #retailnews #shoppingandtheretailindustry #brands #retailinnovation #futureofretail #omnichannel #omnichannelretail #fastfive This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 16, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discussed: - Nike’s shrewd handling of its wholesale distribution strategy - Whether Macy’s Chief Digital Officer heading to Stitch Fix says more about Macy’s or Stitch Fix - Walmart making the right move on AI for its employees - Why Overstock potentially getting Bed Bath & Beyond’s assets for just north of $20 million is a steal of a deal - And closed with a look at what Uber car sharing could mean for the future of commerce There’s all that, plus Vanna White, San Francisco retail nostalgia, and what Anne’s hypothetical first day agenda as Krispy Kreme’s Chief Donut Dreamer would look like. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Instacart Tapping ChatGPT For Ask Instacart Search For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/08/fast-five-video-walmart-radio-amazon-prime-mobile-chatgpt-search-the-great-petco-baby-debate-of-2023/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Petco Launching New NYC Flagship For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/08/fast-five-video-walmart-radio-amazon-prime-mobile-chatgpt-search-the-great-petco-baby-debate-of-2023/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 13, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Foxtrot Expanding Store Footprint In Austin, TX For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/08/fast-five-video-walmart-radio-amazon-prime-mobile-chatgpt-search-the-great-petco-baby-debate-of-2023/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 12, 2023
A first-of-its-kind Unified Commerce Benchmark Index for Specialty Retail has just been released! The report uncovers what leading retailers are doing to pave the way forward for exceptional in-store and digital customer experiences, and so Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga have asked a trio of experts to discuss the findings and, particularly, what, in their minds, makes a great Unified Commerce Leader. Join Chris and Anne as they interview Ann Ruckstuhl, Senior VP & CMO at Manhattan, Amy Eschliman, Managing Director of Retail at Google Cloud, and Rob Armstrong, CMO at Zebra Technologies. Together Chris and Anne will discuss with them what separates good from great along the following dimensions: - Search & Discovery - Cart & Checkout - Promising & Fulfillment - Service & Support You will walk away from this discussion with a clear vision of how to deliver outstanding experiences across the customer buying journey and what, at the end of the day, most differentiates retail leaders from non-leaders. If interested, you can also access the full benchmark report by clicking here: www.retailbenchmark.manh.com. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 12, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Possibly Adding Mobile Contracts To Prime Benefits For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/08/fast-five-video-walmart-radio-amazon-prime-mobile-chatgpt-search-the-great-petco-baby-debate-of-2023/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 12, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Adding New In-Store Ad Features For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/08/fast-five-video-walmart-radio-amazon-prime-mobile-chatgpt-search-the-great-petco-baby-debate-of-2023/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 9, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne: - Lauded Amazon for courting mobile carriers to offer potentially free phone service as part of Amazon Prime. - Were split like a pair of too tight pants over the idea of in-store ads via Walmart radio. - Had a more cordial than usual kerfuffle over Anne’s claim that Petco’s new flagship store should be an inspiration for the baby industry. - Saluted Foxtrot for opening up its biggest store yet in, you guessed it, Texas. - And closed with a look at why Instacart using ChatGPT for search could be a big moment in the history of retail. There’s all that, plus Anne’s high school drive-in memories, “stroke”-iversaries, and synonyms for the word "orgy." Register for Groceryshop at www.groceryshop.com/omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 8, 2023
Omni Talk Retail's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton sit down with the A&M Consumer and Retail Group's John Clear to talk about how retailers can approach the looming labor shortage and better retain the employees they already have in just five minutes! To learn more about A&M Consumer and Retail Group, head here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 6, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Pesto Changing Up The Pawn Shop Game With Mastercard For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/01/fast-five-video-ulta-puts-fragrances-behind-bars-while-cooler-screens-prevail-at-kroger/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 6, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: DoorDash's Summer Of Dash Pass For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/01/fast-five-video-ulta-puts-fragrances-behind-bars-while-cooler-screens-prevail-at-kroger/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 6, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Ulta Locking Up Fragrances For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/01/fast-five-video-ulta-puts-fragrances-behind-bars-while-cooler-screens-prevail-at-kroger/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 5, 2023
Avalara's Meg Higgins and BigCommerce's Sharon Gee join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss all the pressures the omnichannel evolution has placed on retailers' abilities to collect tax accurately at a local level. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Meg and Sharon on: – The increasing amount of digital access points consumers have by way of things like digital marketplaces, BOPIS, cross-border retailing and more – All the complicated tax issues that arise for retailers in trying to offer these capabilities to their consumers - What it takes to get in front of these issues and to keep the IRS off your back – And, most importantly, how tax collection will only get more complicated in the future as AI takes hold and we can all "checkout anywhere" Whether you are an SMB or a large scale retailer, this podcast scores a 10 out of 10 on our Omni Talk education meter. Curious about where you may owe sales tax? Almost every state requires businesses to register to collect and file sales tax if their sales volume is high enough. Take this free assessment to help you figure out where you could be on the hook for sales tax: https://avlr.co/42ksrvE Going to the Retail Innovation Conference & Expo #RICE23? Join Omni Talk and Avalara and BigCommerce in the Retail Therapy Lounge at booth #1412 on Wednesday, June 14 to learn how our innovative technology can simplify your operations, streamline your tax compliance, and provide a seamless shopping experience for your customers. Register here: https://www.linkedin.com/events/avalaraandbigcomemerceretailthe7066857647156670464/comments/ *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 5, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Instagram Launching Search Marketing API For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/01/fast-five-video-ulta-puts-fragrances-behind-bars-while-cooler-screens-prevail-at-kroger/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 5, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Kroger Bringing Cooler Screens To 500 Stores For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/06/01/fast-five-video-ulta-puts-fragrances-behind-bars-while-cooler-screens-prevail-at-kroger/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 1, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne: - Kicked the tires on Kroger’s 500 store Cooler Screens rollout - Got jazzed up about Instagram’s new search marketing API - Hoped like hell that Ulta’s decision to place product behind locked doors ends up heralding a new wave of retail innovation - Wholeheartedly endorsed the summer as the “Summer of DashPass” - And quizzically examined what would motivate a Stanford grad to, one, reimagine the pawn shop and, two, to name his startup, “Pesto.” There’s all that, plus Sloane Peterson’s white leather jacket, dudes named “Lucien,” and the Judy Garland heist of the century. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 31, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Adding Age Verification To Amazon One For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/25/fast-five-video-a-walmart-innovation-alert-something-called-a-freeosk-amazon-id-verification/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 31, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart And Pawp Offering Virtual Veterinary Care For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/25/fast-five-video-a-walmart-innovation-alert-something-called-a-freeosk-amazon-id-verification/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 31, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Uber Launching Group Grocery Buying In The US For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/25/fast-five-video-a-walmart-innovation-alert-something-called-a-freeosk-amazon-id-verification/ Uber Launching Group Grocery Buying In The US For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/25/fast-five-video-a-walmart-innovation-alert-something-called-a-freeosk-amazon-id-verification/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 30, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Wakefern Piloting Freeosk In 95 Stores. For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/25/fast-five-video-a-walmart-innovation-alert-something-called-a-freeosk-amazon-id-verification/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 30, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Advancing MFCs In Stores For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/25/fast-five-video-a-walmart-innovation-alert-something-called-a-freeosk-amazon-id-verification/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 29, 2023
Openforce CEO Wendy Greenland joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss all the hidden and messy truths that come with doing last-mile delivery well at scale. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Wendy on: – The mounting pressures e-commerce is placing on the demand for gig labor – The varying requirements one encounters when moving from managing their own employees to managing more contract labor for deliveries – And, perhaps most importantly, the very real issues retailers could face if they aren't ready for the shift It is quite possibly the podcast with the most "Holy crap! I never would have thought about that!" moments in Chris and Anne's six year history of podcasting. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 25, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne: – Were conflicted, yet optimistic, about Walmart’s new microfulfillment center inside of an Arkansas store – Decidedly split in their opinion about Wakefern’s new Freeosk take on in-store sampling – Agreed on the long-term significance of Uber debuting group buying for groceries – Lapped up Walmart adding free virtual veterinary visits to its Walmart+ membership – And, finally, already started jonesing for the day when they can pay for everything with their palms, including alcohol via Amazon’s new age verification system There’s all that, plus Pipedreams, marriage proposals aboard superyachts, and the oh so important disclaimer that, yes, Anne and Chris indeed do all their own stunts for their podcast. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 24, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Dave Ritter and David Brown discuss: Google Adding AI To Search For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/18/fast-five-video-free-tvs-walmarts-earnings-report-why-amazon-is-now-anywhere/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 23, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Dave Ritter and David Brown discuss: Telly Giving Away Free TVs For Customer Data For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/18/fast-five-video-free-tvs-walmarts-earnings-report-why-amazon-is-now-anywhere/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 23, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Dave Ritter and David Brown discuss: Amazon Anywhere Now Enables In Game Shopping For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/18/fast-five-video-free-tvs-walmarts-earnings-report-why-amazon-is-now-anywhere/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 22, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Dave Ritter and David Brown discuss: Amazon Awarding Customers $10 For Pickup At Amazon Hubs For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/18/fast-five-video-free-tvs-walmarts-earnings-report-why-amazon-is-now-anywhere/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 22, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group Dave Ritter and David Brown discuss: Walmart, Home Depot, And Target Earnings For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/18/fast-five-video-free-tvs-walmarts-earnings-report-why-amazon-is-now-anywhere/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 19, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, A&M’s David Ritter and David Brown joined Chris and Anne to debate: – This week’s string of earnings announcements from Home Depot, Target, and Walmart – Amazon’s wild marketing scheme to pay customers $10 to pick up packages – What Google using generative AI heralds for the future of search and for commerce – Amazon’s latest innovation, Amazon Anywhere, that allows Amazon to sell goods directly through video games – And closed with a look at a new startup, Telly, that wants to give people free 55 inch TVs with one catch – each TV comes with a separate screen on which to display always-on ads There’s all that, plus our favorite Bat toys, spicy sauce making, and bridal registry brouhahas. P.S. #RICE2023 is just a few weeks away. Click here to register: https://retailinnovationconference.com/?utm_source=OmnitalkPodcast Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 16, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five live from Shoptalk Europe in Barcelona and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/11/fast-five-video-walmart-bets-big-on-esls-lululemon-goes-after-dupes-sephora-gets-lucky/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 16, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five live from Shoptalk Europe in Barcelona and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Lululemon Attempting To Beat #lululemondupes With New Strategy For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/11/fast-five-video-walmart-bets-big-on-esls-lululemon-goes-after-dupes-sephora-gets-lucky/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 16, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five live from Shoptalk Europe in Barcelona and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Firework Adding AI Upgrade For Shoppable Video For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/11/fast-five-video-walmart-bets-big-on-esls-lululemon-goes-after-dupes-sephora-gets-lucky/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 15, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five live from Shoptalk Europe in Barcelona and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Deploying 60 Million ESLs With Vusion For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/11/fast-five-video-walmart-bets-big-on-esls-lululemon-goes-after-dupes-sephora-gets-lucky/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 15, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five live from Shoptalk Europe in Barcelona and sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Shopify Cutting Staff And Offloading Last Mile Partner Deliverr For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/05/11/fast-five-video-walmart-bets-big-on-esls-lululemon-goes-after-dupes-sephora-gets-lucky/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 11, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discussed: – Walmart’s massive push and deployment of electronic shelf labels – Shopify’s layoffs and its smart decision to sell off Deliverr – Firework’s latest AI upgrade to its shoppable video and livestreaming capabilities – Lululemon’s hotly contested strategy to thwart the dupe market – And closed with a look at yet another brilliant move from Sephora, as it partners with Lucky to enable more efficient direct-to-consumer commerce for the brands it sells within its stores. There’s all that, plus the sexiest robots of all-time, Miller High Life infused chocolate, and sewists. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 2, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: NYC Launching Packaging Microhubs For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/27/fast-five-video-amazon-pet-day-ikeas-billion-dollar-expansion-north-dakotan-palm-reading/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 2, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Why Brands Are Turning Away From Pinterest For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/27/fast-five-video-amazon-pet-day-ikeas-billion-dollar-expansion-north-dakotan-palm-reading/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 2, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Extending Pet Extravaganza Sale To Two Days For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/27/fast-five-video-amazon-pet-day-ikeas-billion-dollar-expansion-north-dakotan-palm-reading/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 1, 2023
In the latest episode of our Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, 1010data's Chief Product Officer Jonah Ellin joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss why dedicating data and AI resources to promotional effectiveness may be the smartest decision retailers and CPGs can make right now. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Jonah on: - What makes the typical retail promotional planning process so arcane and fraught with issues - Where and how retailers can improve their promotional processes - Why AI stands to have a big ROI impact on promotions - And, most importantly, how software deployments that harness AI could one day make all these fancy hardware investments, like robots and cameras in-store, obsolete It is a podcast so chock full of "ah-ha" moments that we wouldn't be surprised if it changed the way you think about retail technology going forward. It sure as heck did for us! *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 1, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: North Dakota Convenience Store Enerbase Offering Amazon One Palm For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/27/fast-five-video-amazon-pet-day-ikeas-billion-dollar-expansion-north-dakotan-palm-reading/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 1, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: IKEA Invests In US With New Stores For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/27/fast-five-video-amazon-pet-day-ikeas-billion-dollar-expansion-north-dakotan-palm-reading/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 28, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discussed: - Why IKEA’s U.S. expansion plans highlight how asleep at the wheel Wayfair has been about physical stores - Whether Enerbase’s pilot of Amazon One in three North Dakota stores indicates that palm payment is ready to cross the chasm of consumer adoption - What to make of reports that advertisers are pulling back spend on Pinterest - The stroke of merchandising genius that is Amazon Pet Day with Dolly Parton - And closed by sending up NYC over its plans to roll out up to 20 delivery “microhubs” this year There’s all that, plus swiping right for mayonnaise, slap chops, and just how delectable Anne would find a side of special sauce at her local McDonald’s. P.S. RICE 2023 is only 8 weeks away — register to attend now: https://retailinnovationconference.com/?utm_source=OmnitalkPodcast Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 25, 2023
Meta’s Head of Industry for Retail, Fashion and Luxury Karin Tracy joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to provide her expert opinion on the tactics in the Meta universe that retailers and brands are using to aid in product discovery. Collectively the three of them go deep on: – The best placement types for product discovery – How to get customers from discovery to checkout seamlessly – How product discovery connects to Retail Media Networks – And, finally, how retailers and brands can prepare for product discovery during the holiday season Also to view the referenced Facebook Guide For Businesses, click here: https://www.facebook.com/business/industries/retail#spotlight-content *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 25, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Truett Horne and Jeff Dwyer discuss: Petco Trialing In Store Recycling With Trex For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/20/fast-five-video-mirror-mirror-on-walmarts-wall-why-was-bonobos-such-a-bad-idea-after-all/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 25, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Truett Horne and Jeff Dwyer discuss: ShopRite Testing In Store TV Promos For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/20/fast-five-video-mirror-mirror-on-walmarts-wall-why-was-bonobos-such-a-bad-idea-after-all/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 25, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Truett Horne and Jeff Dwyer discuss: What Port Strikes Mean For Brands For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/20/fast-five-video-mirror-mirror-on-walmarts-wall-why-was-bonobos-such-a-bad-idea-after-all/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 24, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Truett Horne and Jeff Dwyer discuss: Lululemon Looking To Sell Off Mirror For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/20/fast-five-video-mirror-mirror-on-walmarts-wall-why-was-bonobos-such-a-bad-idea-after-all/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 24, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Truett Horne and Jeff Dwyer discuss: Walmart Selling Bonobos For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/20/fast-five-video-mirror-mirror-on-walmarts-wall-why-was-bonobos-such-a-bad-idea-after-all/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 21, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group’s Truett Horne and Jeff Dwyer joined Chris and Anne to discuss: - Walmart's DOA Bonobos acquisition and why it sheds light on just much (or how little) Marc Lore actually knows about e-commerce - What went wrong with Lululemon’s purchase of Mirror - How retailers should approach and contingency plan for the growing labor troubles at West Coast ports - ShopRite placing large digital screens at its checklanes - And closed with a look at what we can all learn from Petco’s latest recycling initiative There’s all that, plus embroidered TMNT denim jackets, special sauces, and Anne’s serene, mammal-filled vision of Heaven. P.S. Home Delivery World 2023 is only 8 weeks away — register to attend now Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 18, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: IKEA Democratizing Interior Design With $99 Style Offering For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/13/fast-five-video-amazon-return-fees-walmarts-capital-offense-a-starbucks-run-no-one-wants-to-make/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 18, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Quiet Platforms Cuts CEO And Reviews Growth Plan For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/13/fast-five-video-amazon-return-fees-walmarts-capital-offense-a-starbucks-run-no-one-wants-to-make/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 17, 2023
A&MCRG’s Jonathan Sharp joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss his company’s latest research on consumer sentiment in just five minutes! To access A&MCRG's Spring 2023 Consumer Sentiment Survey, head here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insight/consumer-sentiment-survey-spring-23/ Link to Jonathan's Alzheimer's fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jonathan-sharp11?utm_source=copyLink&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=jonathan-sharp11&utm_campaign=pfp-share&utm_term=f8545af14d0e47728e54dc7a6af5a1f3 *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 17, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Cutting Ties With Capital One For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/13/fast-five-video-amazon-return-fees-walmarts-capital-offense-a-starbucks-run-no-one-wants-to-make/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 17, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: GNC Rolling Out New Store Model For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/13/fast-five-video-amazon-return-fees-walmarts-capital-offense-a-starbucks-run-no-one-wants-to-make/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 17, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Charging Fees For Returns To UPS For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/13/fast-five-video-amazon-return-fees-walmarts-capital-offense-a-starbucks-run-no-one-wants-to-make/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 13, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discussed: - Why in the world Amazon is going to start charging for returns - What embedded finance could have to do with Walmart suing Capital One to end its credit card deal - GNC’s intriguing new store operating model, replete with a mobile POS solution - Whether American Eagle parting ways with its Quiet Platform’s CEO signals a further slowdown of American Eagle’s 3PL dreams as well - And closed with an angry Walton rant about why IKEA’s new virtual design service is such a brilliant idea There’s all that, plus Cate Blanchett in a pants suit, Mountain Dew retirement village ragers, and Olestra vs. Oleato – is there really a difference? Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 13, 2023
You heard it here first: embedded finance will be one of the biggest, if not the biggest, trends to impact retail customer loyalty over the next decade. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Alviere’s Tim Dardis, VP of Sales and Business Development, will joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to provide his expert opinion on what embedded finance is, how retailers should approach it, and why it just makes so much financial sense. Collectively the three of them went deep on: – The overall trend of retailers looking to grow their income from services as opposed to products – A step-by-step guide on how retailers can crawl/walk/run to implement embedded finance within their organizations – And, finally, why more and more retailers are already beginning to offer a full suite of banking services that customers can use as an alternative to traditional banks, all in the name of deeper customer loyalty *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 11, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart's Pickleball Partnership For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/06/fast-five-video-walmart-gets-in-a-pickle-american-eagle-is-on-the-radar-ikea-is-fine-as-is/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 11, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Kohl's Attempting A Marketplace, Again For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/06/fast-five-video-walmart-gets-in-a-pickle-american-eagle-is-on-the-radar-ikea-is-fine-as-is/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 11, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: IKEA Expanding "As-Is" Resale Program For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/06/fast-five-video-walmart-gets-in-a-pickle-american-eagle-is-on-the-radar-ikea-is-fine-as-is/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 10, 2023
Buncha Co-Founder and CEO Bharat Pulgam joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss a smarter way to think about last-mile delivery, i.e. giving customers scheduled weekly neighborhood deliveries at a fraction of the cost. In this podcast, Chris and Anne go deep with Bharat on: - The misconceptions around speed vs. convenience, especially when the former is far more expensive - The economic value of scheduled neighborhood deliveries both for consumers and for retailers - How such a model increases pick and pack efficiency (by enabling orders to be processed in stores overnight) while also significantly lowering delivery costs - And why the whole concept may just be a radical new way to think about localized fulfillment It is a concept that draws many parallels with how airlines operate and one that is sure to challenge your conventional ways of thinking about e-commerce. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 10, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: AEO And Radar Partnering On The Future Of Apparel Shopping For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/06/fast-five-video-walmart-gets-in-a-pickle-american-eagle-is-on-the-radar-ikea-is-fine-as-is/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 10, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart's New Social Commerce Inspired Site For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/04/06/fast-five-video-walmart-gets-in-a-pickle-american-eagle-is-on-the-radar-ikea-is-fine-as-is/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 7, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discussed: – The pros and cons (mostly pros) of Walmart’s new social media-inspired website design – IKEA launching its As-Is program for used items – The long-term potential of American Eagle deploying Radar’s inventory tracking system – Kohl’s going all-in on a digital marketplace – And closed with a look at why we just love Walmart’s new pickleball partnership with Break The Love There’s all that, plus which of Anne’s parents would most likely be responsible for the two of us looking alike, annual pizza budgets, and dirty old Irish bars in San Francisco. P.S. Go to commercenext.com/conference and use VIP code “OMNITALK" to register for your complimentary ticket TODAY to CommerceNext Ecommerce Growth Show. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 4, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Billy Christensen and Lakshman Lakshmanan discuss: Levi's Tapping AI Models For More Diversity For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/30/fast-five-video-gap-grounds-its-retail-media-plans-panera-pilots-palm-pay-levis-loses-its-ai-mind/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 4, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Billy Christensen and Lakshman Lakshmanan discuss: Telfar Testing New Pricing Strategy For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/30/fast-five-video-gap-grounds-its-retail-media-plans-panera-pilots-palm-pay-levis-loses-its-ai-mind/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 4, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Billy Christensen and Lakshman Lakshmanan discuss: Gap Nixing Its Retail Media Network For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/30/fast-five-video-gap-grounds-its-retail-media-plans-panera-pilots-palm-pay-levis-loses-its-ai-mind/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 3, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Billy Christensen and Lakshman Lakshmanan discuss: Choice Market Expanding With Mini, Fully Autonomous Stores For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/30/fast-five-video-gap-grounds-its-retail-media-plans-panera-pilots-palm-pay-levis-loses-its-ai-mind/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 3, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Billy Christensen and Lakshman Lakshmanan discuss: Panera Bread Offering Amazon One Palm For Payment And Loyalty For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/30/fast-five-video-gap-grounds-its-retail-media-plans-panera-pilots-palm-pay-levis-loses-its-ai-mind/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 31, 2023
In this week'ss Fast Five Podcast, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group’s Billy Christensen and Lakshman Lakshmanan joined Anne and Chris to discuss: - The interesting loyalty angles behind Panera and Amazon’s new palm pay partnership - Choice Market’s unique advantage in rolling out autonomous mini-marts - Whether Gap is clairvoyant or foolish in shutting down its retail media efforts - How much to make of Telfar’s new creative pricing scheme - And closed with a look at whether Levi’s has lost its freaking mind over AI There’s all that, plus CEOs making like baristas, post-travel illnesses, and chance encounters in the airport with Omni Talk fans when Anne really needs to use the bathroom. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 23, 2023
Every retailer has gone down the rabbit hole of trying to improve their sales and inventory planning systems with little to no financial results to show for it. And that is because the real ROI lies not in better planning but in better allocation, for where a retailer decides to place its goods in-season, considering all the constraints it must optimize against, has an immediate impact on the bottom line. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Manhattan's Senior Director, Product Strategy, Scott Fenwick, joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to discuss all the ways retailers can capitalize on the financial opportunity latent in better allocation. Collectively the three of them go deep on: – The increased pressures all the various fulfillment options coming out of the pandemic (e.g., BOPIS, ship-from-store, etc.) have placed on allocation systems – How most legacy allocation systems do not know how to read and react to these new "Omni"-signals – And, perhaps most importantly, why all of that ladders up into one heck of an ROI opportunity Please check out additional information on Manhattan's Allocation and Order Management Solutions. Manhattan Active® Allocation https://www.manh.com/sites/default/files/sys/documents/2021/11/manh-manhattan-active-allocation-brochure-en.pdf *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 21, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Meijer Rolling Out Flashfood For SNAP & EBT Customers For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/17/fast-five-video-what-happens-when-best-buy-tells-roku-your-buffalo-wings-arent-actually-wings-at-all/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 21, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Apple Introducing Shopping With Live Video For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/17/fast-five-video-what-happens-when-best-buy-tells-roku-your-buffalo-wings-arent-actually-wings-at-all/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 21, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: H-E-B Bringing In Thumbtack For Groceries & Services In A One Stop Shop For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/17/fast-five-video-what-happens-when-best-buy-tells-roku-your-buffalo-wings-arent-actually-wings-at-all/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 20, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Rewe Opening Largest Autonomous Store Yet With Trigo For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/17/fast-five-video-what-happens-when-best-buy-tells-roku-your-buffalo-wings-arent-actually-wings-at-all/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 20, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Best Buy & Roku Teaming Up Swapping TV Exclusive For Best Buy Customer Data For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/17/fast-five-video-what-happens-when-best-buy-tells-roku-your-buffalo-wings-arent-actually-wings-at-all/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 20, 2023
In our latest 5 Insightful Minutes, Pear Commerce Founder Eric Martell discusses what retail commerce enablement is and why it may be the next great retail innovation that helps CPGs go direct, without actually going direct. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 16, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discussed: - How crazy it is to think that our first-party shopping data at Best Buy is that valuable to Roku - Rewe’s now fourth and largest autonomous grocery store, powered by Trigo - H-E-B’s new partnership with Thumbtack that offers their grocery shoppers a range of additional household services - Meijer making Flashfood work for SNAP recipients - And why we both think Apple’s new “Shop with a Specialist over Video” won’t just be the way we purchase iPhones going forward There’s all that, plus bad German accents, Anne’s love of butter, and the degree to which we should all be disturbed from knowing that boneless buffalo wings aren’t actually wings at all. P.S. Get your All-Access pass to #RICE23 by April 6th to Save $800! Visit omnitalk.rice.events to register. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 14, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Shef C2C Meals Platform Expanding With New Funding For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/10/fast-five-video-amazon-gos-pull-back-dollar-trees-grocery-push-the-walmart-doctor-will-see-you-now/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 14, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Uber Converting Drivers To Shoppers With App Updates For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/10/fast-five-video-amazon-gos-pull-back-dollar-trees-grocery-push-the-walmart-doctor-will-see-you-now/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 14, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Dollar Tree Expanding Fresh And Private Label Grocery For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/10/fast-five-video-amazon-gos-pull-back-dollar-trees-grocery-push-the-walmart-doctor-will-see-you-now/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 13, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Closing Several AmazonGo Stores For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/10/fast-five-video-amazon-gos-pull-back-dollar-trees-grocery-push-the-walmart-doctor-will-see-you-now/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 13, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Opening More Health Clinics For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/10/fast-five-video-amazon-gos-pull-back-dollar-trees-grocery-push-the-walmart-doctor-will-see-you-now/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 10, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discussed: – All there is to love about Walmart’s plan to double its health centers by 2024. – Why Amazon’s Just Walk Out tech, in the wake of more Amazon Go store closures, may be forever relegated to licensing opportunities. – Dollar Tree’s sure-to-win large scale push into grocery. – The scale efficiencies of Uber’s new “Shop and Pay” concept. – And closed with a look at a new digital marketplace, Shef, that makes it easy for anyone to test the waters of becoming an actual chef. There’s all that, plus Anne’s 82 insect bites, Blue Steel gazes, and the body part I would most likely pierce (and the answer may just surprise you). P.S. Go to terrapinn.com/homedeliveryworld to register for Home Delivery World 2023. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 7, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Men's Warehouse Lures New Customers With Snap Mirror AR Tool For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/02/fast-five-video-amazons-prime-disadvantages-targets-curbside-returns-kohls-pricing-pitfalls/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 7, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Instacart's "New-ish" Store Offerings For Retailers For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/02/fast-five-video-amazons-prime-disadvantages-targets-curbside-returns-kohls-pricing-pitfalls/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 7, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Prime's New Same Day Delivery For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/02/fast-five-video-amazons-prime-disadvantages-targets-curbside-returns-kohls-pricing-pitfalls/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 6, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Kohl's Testing New Pricing Strategy For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/02/fast-five-video-amazons-prime-disadvantages-targets-curbside-returns-kohls-pricing-pitfalls/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 6, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Target Earnings & Expansion Of Curbside Returns For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/03/02/fast-five-video-amazons-prime-disadvantages-targets-curbside-returns-kohls-pricing-pitfalls/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 3, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, SPS Commerce, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne: - Discussed Target's recent earnings announcement and what we think of Target taking Drive Up Returns to all stores this year. - Begged Kohl's not to follow through on new CEO "Burlington" Tom Kingsbury's claim that Kohl's is reevaluating its pricing strategy. - Wondered whether Amazon's investment in more same-day fulfillment sites signals a chink in its once shiny armor. - Piled onto Instacart for its "new" omnichannel solutions and, particularly, its smart cart remote monitoring system. - And closed with a discussion of whether "Prom Your Way" AR from Men's Warehouse will have the desired effects Men's Warehouse wants from it. There's all that, plus sweaty vinyl bunk beds, TikTok addictions, and what came first, the cookie or the cookie dough? P.S. Don't forget to register for Shoptalk to take advantage of their new onsite Meetup networking opportunity: shoptalk.com/us/omnitalk P.P.S. Go to commercenext.com/conference and use VIP code “FAST FIVE” to register for your complimentary ticket to the Ecommerce Growth Show Conference TODAY. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 1, 2023
You’re only as good as the products that are on your physical and digital shelves and if you aren’t setting your vendors up for success, you definitely won’t satisfy your customers. We wanted to find out how best-in-class retailers are investing in foundational tech to ensure their vendors are following protocol and, most importantly, that they have visibility into how they’re performing in a retailer’s store. So, Omni Talk's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton welcomed SPS Commerce’s very own Brandon Pierre and David Verette for the latest installment of Omni Talk’s Live Ask An Expert Series on LinkedIn to discuss how they’ve helped retailers and vendors be successful in EDI setup and compliance. Chris, Anne, David, and Brandon went deep on: - Tapping tech to help internal EDI teams scale - Getting internal teams on board with EDI compliance, it’s not just for IT - Setting up successful vendor compliance manuals and processes - Getting to the right balance of people, process, and technology For more information on SPS Commerce, head to: https://www.spscommerce.com/ To get in contact with SPS, head here: https://www.spscommerce.com/contact/ Music By HookSounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 28, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Barnes & Noble's New Subscription Program For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/23/fast-five-video-walmart-earnings-barnes-noble-subscriptions-why-thredup-is-betting-on-lucky-7/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 28, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Heinen's Grocery Stores Call It Quits With Instacart For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/23/fast-five-video-walmart-earnings-barnes-noble-subscriptions-why-thredup-is-betting-on-lucky-7/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 28, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: thredUP's New Online Thrift Store 777Thrift For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/23/fast-five-video-walmart-earnings-barnes-noble-subscriptions-why-thredup-is-betting-on-lucky-7/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: What Can We Glean From Walmart and Home Depot Earnings Reports? For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/23/fast-five-video-walmart-earnings-barnes-noble-subscriptions-why-thredup-is-betting-on-lucky-7/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 27, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Instagram Removing Livestream Shopping For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/23/fast-five-video-walmart-earnings-barnes-noble-subscriptions-why-thredup-is-betting-on-lucky-7/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 24, 2023
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, Shoptalk's Krystina Gustafson and Ben Miller join Chris and Anne to discuss what they believe are the five trends most shaping retail right now and how they plan to cover them at Shoptalk 2023. Chris and Anne go deep with Krystina and Ben on: – The ever-involving innovations around better shopper engagement – The new emerging growth channels on which to keep an eye - The increasing focus on in-store experience - The right technology to deliver revenue growth and profitability - And, finally, how retailers can find the right organizational structure that best ensures their long-term success The conversation is enlightening, fun, and a hallmark of why Chris and Anne will be at Shoptalk with bells on at the end of March. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 24, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne: - Tried to read the tea leaves in Walmart and Home Depot’s latest earnings reports - Lauded ThredUP’s new online store, 777Thrift, where everything is on sale for under $7. - Discussed Instagram calling it quits on live shopping and what it means for Meta’s future and the future of CPG advertising - Threw more shade at Instacart for Heinen’s ending its relationship with the delivery service - And closed with a counterintuitive take on why Barnes & Noble’s new subscription program may be a stroke of genius merchandising There’s all that, plus vegetable rationing, Patrón Margarita Generators, and everyone’s favorite made up holiday, Supermarket Appreciation Day. P.S. Don’t forget to register for Shoptalk to take advantage of their new onsite Meetup networking opportunity: shoptalk.com/us/omnitalk P.P.S. Head to omnitalk.rice.events to register for #RICE23 in Chicago. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 21, 2023
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, Treasure Data Industry Principals Irene Sibaja and Danica Konetski join Chris and Anne to discuss how retailers and CPGs can best leverage a CDP (Customer Data Platform) in this new era of omnichannel retailing. Chris and Anne go deep with Irene and Danica on: – All the pain points a CDP helps to resolve – How a good CDP can be a springboard for better 1st-party data - How the lines between CPG and retail are blurring in the ongoing quest for 1st-party data and each one's desire to get closer to their end consumer - And, finally and in keeping with our themes for 2023, how a CDP can show both retailers and CPGs the money right now *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 21, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Joanna Rangarajan and Chad Lusk discuss: Fit:Match and Savage X Fenty Reinventing The Fit Process Again For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/17/fast-five-video-walmart-forces-staff-back-to-the-office-ups-expands-rfid-wegmans-tries-to-get-smart/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 21, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Joanna Rangarajan and Chad Lusk discuss: Wegmans Piloting Smart Carts For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/17/fast-five-video-walmart-forces-staff-back-to-the-office-ups-expands-rfid-wegmans-tries-to-get-smart/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 21, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Joanna Rangarajan and Chad Lusk discuss: Lidl Moving Toward No More Meat For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/17/fast-five-video-walmart-forces-staff-back-to-the-office-ups-expands-rfid-wegmans-tries-to-get-smart/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 20, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Joanna Rangarajan and Chad Lusk discuss: UPS Deploying New RFID Warehouse Tech For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/17/fast-five-video-walmart-forces-staff-back-to-the-office-ups-expands-rfid-wegmans-tries-to-get-smart/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 20, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Joanna Rangarajan and Chad Lusk discuss: Walmart Closing Tech Hubs And Requiring Tech Workers To Return To Office For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/17/fast-five-video-walmart-forces-staff-back-to-the-office-ups-expands-rfid-wegmans-tries-to-get-smart/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 17, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, A&M’s Chad Lusk and Joanna Rangarajan stopped by and joined Chris and Anne to discuss: - The impact of Walmart shutting down three of its U.S. technology hubs and forcing its tech employees back into the office at least two times per week - UPS investing almost $150 million in #rfid. - Why in the world Lidl would want to sell less meat? - FIT:Match’s new lidar-equipped fitting rooms. - And whether Wegmans latest Shopic smart cart pilot will turn out any better than its failed scan-and-go implementation. There’s all that, plus grocery store dates, how best to get from Point A to Point B, and sodas that “move” us. P.S. Don’t forget to register for Shoptalk to take advantage of their new onsite Meetup networking opportunity: shoptalk.com/us/omnitalk P.P.S. Head to terrapinn.com/homedeliveryworld to register for Home Delivery World 2023 Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 16, 2023
2022 is now in our rearview, but this Holiday season was like almost none other in history – we have had inflation, supply chain shortages, overstated January omicron comps and more! So Omni Talk Retail has asked Placer.ai’s VP of Marketing Ethan Chernofsky to break it all down for us in the next installment of our Live Ask An Expert Series on LinkedIn. Together Chris, Anne, and Ethan go deep on: – Who were the big winners and losers this past holiday season? – What retailers, if any, were the big surprises looking back on 2022? – And who, despite all the January 2022 Covid-comp noise, looks to be surging out of the gate strong in January 2023? *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 15, 2023
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, SAP's SVP and Head of Solution & Innovation Experience Andre Bechtold joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss what it takes to open up a bona fide retail innovation lab. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 14, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Gap Inc. Opening Logistics Services For SMBs For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/09/fast-five-amazons-pregnant-pause-instacart-deploys-scan-and-go-gap-one-ups-american-eagle-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 14, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Belk Converting A Store To An Outlet Center For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/09/fast-five-amazons-pregnant-pause-instacart-deploys-scan-and-go-gap-one-ups-american-eagle-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 14, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Foodcellar Market First To Deploy Instacart Scan & Pay For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/09/fast-five-amazons-pregnant-pause-instacart-deploys-scan-and-go-gap-one-ups-american-eagle-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 13, 2023
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, Dematic Market Development Director, Kim Baudry, joins Chris and Anne to discuss the learning lessons from large sellers who invested in microfulfillment early on and what we should expect the big bets to be as retailers shift to new closer-to-consumer strategies that deliver across all channels. Chris and Anne go deep with Kim on: – Why it is more appropriate to use "close-to-consumer" fulfillment than microfulfillment – All the various approaches retailers can take to get closer to their consumers, with or without automation - The industry hurdles still standing in the way of the close-to-consumer movement - And, most importantly, how the retail industry will evolve and what changes we should expect to warehousing and store operations in the years ahead It is a conversation that is frank, blunt, and to the point -- just the way we like it at Omni Talk! *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 13, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Giant Eagle To Discontinuing Mailed Circulars For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/09/fast-five-amazons-pregnant-pause-instacart-deploys-scan-and-go-gap-one-ups-american-eagle-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 13, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Fresh Pausing US Store Openings For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/09/fast-five-amazons-pregnant-pause-instacart-deploys-scan-and-go-gap-one-ups-american-eagle-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 10, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne discussed: - What Amazon’s recently announced “pause” of its Amazon Fresh rollout really means. - The pros and cons of Giant Eagle’s move to discontinue mailing its weekly advertising circulars. - Instacart’s rather interesting choice of its first rollout partner, Foodcellar Market, for its new scan-and-pay technology. - Belk opening its first outlet store and how much technology investment should even be made within this growing off-price retail trend. - And closed with a look at whether Gap’s new partnership with UPS subsidiary, Ware2Go, is cool or just a 3PL horse of a different color. There’s all that, plus movie theater price discrimination, Adidas arm stripe tattoos, and whether the Cheesecake Factory is over or underrated. P.S. Don't forget to register for Shoptalk to take advantage of their new onsite Meetup networking opportunity: shoptalk.com/us/omnitalk P.P.S. Go to commercenext.com/conference and use VIP code “FAST FIVE” to register for your complimentary ticket to the Ecommerce Growth Show Conference TODAY. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 9, 2023
Live from Manifest The Future of Logistics Conference In Las Vegas, Omni Talk Retail's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton sit down with a man who is known now by one name, and that is Quiet Platform's President, Shekar. Shekar kicked off the Manifest conference as the keynote speaker and then joined Chris and Anne to explain the goals of Quiet Platforms, how they are different from a traditional 3PL, and the power that is possible if retailers become "Frenemys." Thanks to Harbor Lockers By Luxer One For making this content possible. You can find out more by going to https://harborlockers.com/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 9, 2023
Live from Manifest The Future of Logistics Conference In Las Vegas, Omni Talk Retail's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton sit down with Dollar Shave Club's Chief Supply Chain Officer Justin Brown to get his thoughts on the future of the retail, what needs to happen for retailers and brands to evolve, and all the cool tech he's checking out at Manifest to make that possible. Thanks to Harbor Lockers By Luxer One For making this content possible. You can find out more by going to https://harborlockers.com/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 9, 2023
Live from Manifest The Future of Logistics Conference In Las Vegas, Omni Talk Retail's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton sit down with Pepsico Labs GM Anna Farberov to find out what tech she and her team are looking for at Manifest, what they're up to in the "lab" and how tech companies and brands can get involved. Thanks to Harbor Lockers By Luxer One For making this content possible. You can find out more by going to https://harborlockers.com/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 9, 2023
Live from Manifest The Future of Logistics Conference In Las Vegas, Omni Talk Retail's Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton sit down with Luxer One and Harbor Lockers By Luxer One President Josh Middlebrooks to discuss a first-of-its-kind pilot in Sacramento where retailers and brands, large and small, can tap into Harbor Locker's public locker via API integration without the upfront capital investment. Find out more in this episode. Thanks to Harbor Lockers By Luxer One For making this content possible. You can find out more by going to https://harborlockers.com/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 9, 2023
Resilience is the hallmark of any great retailer. It is what separates those with staying power from the flash in the pans that garner so much unwarranted media attention. Smart and steady always wins the race. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Microsoft’s very own David Leibowitz and Ricardo Belmar joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga once again for the latest installment of Omni Talk’s Live Ask An Expert Series on LinkedIn to discuss the steps retailers can take right now to become more resilient in the year ahead. Chris, Anne, David, and Ricardo will go deep on: - Inventory and Pricing Optimization - Returns and Margin Management - Labor Allocation and Productivity - Sensor Data and Energy Efficiency - Marketing Analytics Optimization *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 7, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton, and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Lowe's Launching Project Unlock Using RFID To Combat Retail Theft For the full episode head here:https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/03/fast-five-video-prime-grocery-delivery-fees-project-unlock-the-radical-redesign-of-amazon-fresh/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 7, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton, and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Luring Marketplace Sellers With 90-Day Discounted Trial For the full episode head here:https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/03/fast-five-video-prime-grocery-delivery-fees-project-unlock-the-radical-redesign-of-amazon-fresh/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 7, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton, and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Sam's Club To Open 30 New Stores For the full episode head here:https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/03/fast-five-video-prime-grocery-delivery-fees-project-unlock-the-radical-redesign-of-amazon-fresh/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 6, 2023
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, Celebrus CEO Bill Bruno joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss identity resolution and how integral it is to real-time personalization. Chris and Anne go deep with Bill on: – What identity resolution is and why it matters - Known vs. unknown logins - Real-time personalization as opposed to the “if you bought this, then you might like this” approach - And how, regardless of whether a retailer knows one's identity, data science has advanced to such an extent that one's behavior is still pretty predictable Data, data, data -- there's a lot of noise out there surrounding that one word alone, and this podcast interview helps to clear it all up! *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 6, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton, and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Adding A Delivery Fee For Groceries For the full episode head here:https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/03/fast-five-video-prime-grocery-delivery-fees-project-unlock-the-radical-redesign-of-amazon-fresh/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 6, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Opening New Format Amazon Fresh Stores In London For the full episode head here:https://omnitalk.blog/2023/02/03/fast-five-video-prime-grocery-delivery-fees-project-unlock-the-radical-redesign-of-amazon-fresh/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 3, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne: - Found renewed optimism in Amazon Fresh’s newest stores in London - Debated whether Walmart will come out on the winning end of Amazon charging Prime customers for grocery orders - Lauded Sam’s Club for its history of innovation and store expansion plans - Discussed the pros and cons of Walmart’s new-seller savings for its marketplace vendors - And closed with a look at Lowe’s Project Unlock and why it is yet another important early stage use case for RFID with the customer at the heart of its design There’s all that, plus Costco atop apartment buildings as the seventh circle of hell, engagement dos and don’ts, and the origin story of “never look a gift horse in the mouth.” P.S. Don't forget to register for Shoptalk to take advantage of their new onsite Meetup networking opportunity: shoptalk.com/us/omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 31, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Shuttering Amazon Fresh Store In London For the full episode head here:https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/26/fast-five-video-5-drugs-walmart-business-if-an-amazon-fresh-closes-in-london-does-it-make-a-noise/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 31, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: TEMU Tops US Shopping App Downloads For the full episode head here:https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/26/fast-five-video-5-drugs-walmart-business-if-an-amazon-fresh-closes-in-london-does-it-make-a-noise/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 30, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Launching Discounted Bulk Buying Program For SMBs & Non-Profits For the full episode head here:https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/26/fast-five-video-5-drugs-walmart-business-if-an-amazon-fresh-closes-in-london-does-it-make-a-noise/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 30, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Dollar General Deploying Mobile Clinics In Parking Lots For the full episode head here:https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/26/fast-five-video-5-drugs-walmart-business-if-an-amazon-fresh-closes-in-london-does-it-make-a-noise/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 30, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: $5/Month Unlimited RX For Amazon Prime Members For the full episode head here:https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/26/fast-five-video-5-drugs-walmart-business-if-an-amazon-fresh-closes-in-london-does-it-make-a-noise/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 27, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne: - Exhibited tempered enthusiasm (if there is such a thing) over Amazon’s launch of RxPass which gives Prime members as many drugs as they need from a list of 50 generic medications for just $5 per month. - Compared and contrasted Dollar General’s mobile clinic approach with Rite Aid’s “pharmacy desert” pilot. - Disagreed over the potential financial impact of Walmart’s new Walmart Business initiative. - Discussed how we plan to keep a close eye on the new Chinese shopping app, Temu, from the makers of Pinduoduo, that is rocketing up the download charts. - And closed with an examination of what Amazon’s decision to close one of its London Amazon Fresh stores, after just 18 months, means for the future of Just Walk Out technology in grocery and for Amazon’s physical grocery store plans overall. There’s all that, plus heart-shaped goat milk soaps, rear seat warmers, and Anne’s honest admission of whether or not she has the McDonald’s app on her phone. P.S. Don't forget to register for Shoptalk to take advantage of their new onsite Meetup networking opportunity: shoptalk.com/us/omnitalk P.P.S. Go to omnitalk.rice.events to register for RICE23 Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 24, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group discuss: Trigo Opening Its First US Checkout-Free Store With Wakefern For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/19/fast-five-video-walmarts-salesforce-rent-the-runways-desperation-starbucks-dashed-to-your-door/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 24, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group discuss: Rent The Runway Opens Shop On Amazon For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/19/fast-five-video-walmarts-salesforce-rent-the-runways-desperation-starbucks-dashed-to-your-door/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 23, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group discuss: DoorDash Delivering Starbucks To Your Doorstep For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/19/fast-five-video-walmarts-salesforce-rent-the-runways-desperation-starbucks-dashed-to-your-door/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 23, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group discuss: Walmart Partnering With Salesforce to Expand Services For #retailers For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/19/fast-five-video-walmarts-salesforce-rent-the-runways-desperation-starbucks-dashed-to-your-door/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 20, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, A&M's Jonathan Sharp and Michael Prendergast stopped by and joined Anne and Chris to discuss: - Their mutual admiration for Walmart’s Salesforce partnership and how Walmart is positioning its technology services. - Starbucks going national with DoorDash and whether it signals the start of “the third place” being fully replaced by working from home. - Whether Rent The Runway selling on Amazon is shrewd or just plain desperate. - Trigo’s first U.S. store that debuted this week with Wakefern Food Corp.. - And closed with a “there’s more to the story than there appears” take on Portillo's decision to make all its drive-thrus cashless. There’s all that, plus Big New Yorkers, exchanging services for something other than money, and the grossest things they could realistically imagine finding in a box of Legos. P.S. Don't forget to register for Shoptalk to take advantage of their new onsite Meetup networking opportunity: shoptalk.com/us/omnitalk P.P.S. Go to terrapinn.com/homedeliveryworld to register for Home Delivery World TODAY. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 17, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Arizona Passes Sip N' Stroll Law For Shopping Centers For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/12/fast-five-video-instagram-cries-uncle-on-shopping-babies-r-us-is-reborn-amazon-extends-buy-with-prime/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 17, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Nestlé Taps Alibaba's Cainiao For It's First Smart DTC Fulfillment Center For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/12/fast-five-video-instagram-cries-uncle-on-shopping-babies-r-us-is-reborn-amazon-extends-buy-with-prime/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 17, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Babies R' Us Returns With American Dream Flagship For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/12/fast-five-video-instagram-cries-uncle-on-shopping-babies-r-us-is-reborn-amazon-extends-buy-with-prime/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Expands Buy With Prime To All Retailers For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/12/fast-five-video-instagram-cries-uncle-on-shopping-babies-r-us-is-reborn-amazon-extends-buy-with-prime/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Instagram Pulls Shopping Tab For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/12/fast-five-video-instagram-cries-uncle-on-shopping-babies-r-us-is-reborn-amazon-extends-buy-with-prime/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 13, 2023
In this week’s Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Trigo, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne: - Argued over whether Instagram removing its shop tab was a good idea - Praised Amazon for taking Buy With Prime to all retailers - Found much to like in the rebirth of Babies R Us and also had some fun predicting what could come next and with whom - Took notice of Nestlé building its first smart DTC warehouse with Alibaba - And closed with a look at the operational pros and cons of Arizona’s new “sip and stroll” law that lets mall shoppers shop with beer or wine in hand There’s all that, plus Colin Farrell’s filmography, Cheetos pretzels, and the Kohler smart toilet feature Anne would prefer over all others. P.S. Don't forget to register for Shoptalk to take advantage of their new onsite Meetup networking opportunity: shoptalk.com/us/omnitalk P.P.S. Go to https://commercenext.com/conference?utm_source=OmniTalk&utm_medium=podcast and use VIP code “FAST FIVE" to register for your complimentary ticket to the Ecommerce Growth Show Conference TODAY. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 12, 2023
Interactive and unified – those are the two words we would use to describe the evolution of retail customer service in 2023 and beyond. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Talkdesk’s Antonio Gonzalez, Senior Manager of Industries Research & Insights, joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to provide his expert opinion on how retailers and brands should approach this new interactive and unified world of retail customer service. Collectively the three of them go deep on: – Talkdesk’s latest research findings on customer service expectations – The new touchpoints retailers and brands will need to meet these ever-changing expectations, including the metaverse and AR/VR – How to overcome staffing barriers and how to enable brand ambassadors and influencers to help with customer service and support – And, perhaps most importantly, how to unify and “integrate” data across retailers’ and brands’ many disparate systems And there's even some 50 First Date references thrown in for good measure! Finally, be sure to checkout the research study Antonio mentions here: https://www.talkdesk.com/resources/reports/the-future-of-retail-customer-service-interactive-and-unified/ *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 9, 2023
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, Shopreme Chief Customer Officer Nico Müller joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss what it takes to make a scan-and-go checkout system really work. With all the noise surrounding Wegmans' announcement last year, Chris and Anne wanted to learn what makes scan-and-go so successful in Europe. Or said another way, what is the real recipe for success that everyone should follow? To that end, Chris and Anne get the skinny from Nico on: – Loss prevention tactics, particularly closed entry and exit points - Easy mobile signup - Localized rollouts vs. one store pilots - Mobile-only payment options - And the importance of hands-free shopping for larger grocery trips There's a lot of noise out there surrounding scan-and-go shopping, and this podcast interview helps to clear it all up! *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 9, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Schnuck Markets Expands FlexForce For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/05/fast-five-video-amazon-zombie-stores-doordash-package-pickup-something-super-duper/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 9, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Fresh's "Zombie" Stores For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/05/fast-five-video-amazon-zombie-stores-doordash-package-pickup-something-super-duper/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 7, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Meet Super Duper: MFC And Grocer For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/05/fast-five-video-amazon-zombie-stores-doordash-package-pickup-something-super-duper/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 7, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: DoorDash Adds Package Pickup For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/05/fast-five-video-amazon-zombie-stores-doordash-package-pickup-something-super-duper/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 7, 2023
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: American Eagle And JLL Partner To Provide Frenemy Warehousing For Retailers For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2023/01/05/fast-five-video-amazon-zombie-stores-doordash-package-pickup-something-super-duper/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 6, 2023
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Firework, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne discussed: - The growing number of “zombie” Amazon Fresh stores lying dormant throughout the country. - Schnucks expanding its flexforce employment initiative to more stores and why it is an important initiative on which to keep an eye. - American Eagle taking its frenemy network approach directly to malls by way of a new warehouse leasing partnership with JLL. - DoorDash making another smart move, while Instacart struggles with its own identity, as it gets into return reverse logistics. - And closed with a spotlight on an interesting startup out of Israel, Super Duper, that asks the question, “If grocers are reticent to invest in microfulfillment tech, why not just become a microfulfillment-based grocer instead?” There’s all that, plus Fukubukuro lucky bags, the Nike Fit class Anne would most like to watch on Netflix, and both the disturbing and also the quite possibly pleasurable features of Kroger’s new smart apron. Music. by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 5, 2023
In our latest 5 Insightful Minutes, the A&M Consumer & Retail Group's David Schneidman discusses how CPGs need to look at revenue and margin management (i.e. RMM) amid the ever present challenges of inflation, increasing omnichannel complexity, labor shortages, and rising customer acquisition costs. To download the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group's full white paper on Revenue & Margin Management, head here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Revenue-and-Margin-Management-Alvarez-and-Marsal-Consumer-Retail-Group.pdf *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 29, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown award: Retail Technology Of The Year For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/22/fast-five-2022-annual-omni-talk-awards-show/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 29, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown award: Retail CEO Of The Year For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/22/fast-five-2022-annual-omni-talk-awards-show/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 28, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown award: Under-reported Headline Of The Year For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/22/fast-five-2022-annual-omni-talk-awards-show/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 28, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown award: Best Retail Partnership For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/22/fast-five-2022-annual-omni-talk-awards-show/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 28, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown award: 2023 Headline Predictions For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/22/fast-five-2022-annual-omni-talk-awards-show/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 27, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown award: Headline Of The Year For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/22/fast-five-2022-annual-omni-talk-awards-show/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 26, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown award: Overhyped Retail Tech Of The Year For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/22/fast-five-2022-annual-omni-talk-awards-show/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 26, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown award: Best Strategy from Struggling Retailer For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/22/fast-five-2022-annual-omni-talk-awards-show/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 26, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with guest hosts from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group David Ritter and David Brown award: Retailer Of The Year For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/22/fast-five-2022-annual-omni-talk-awards-show/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 23, 2022
In the last Omni Talk Retail Fast Five of 2022, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, A&M's David Ritter and David Brown joined Chris and Anne for this year's annual retail awards show. Together they handed out hardware across: - Retailer of the Year - CEO of the Year - Retail Technology of the Year - Most Overhyped Retail Technology of the Year - Headline of the Year - Headline that Deserved More Attention than It Received - Best New Retail Partnership of the Year - And Best Strategy Move of the Year from a Struggling Retailer There’s all that, plus they also end the show by predicting tomorrow’s 2023 headlines, today! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 20, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Nordstrom Rack Curbs Fulfill From Store For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/15/fast-five-sheins-marketplace-amazons-plans-to-kill-barcodes-amid-tiktok-envy-gone-awry/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 20, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Trials Visual Search For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/15/fast-five-sheins-marketplace-amazons-plans-to-kill-barcodes-amid-tiktok-envy-gone-awry/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 20, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Banishing Barcodes With MMID For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/15/fast-five-sheins-marketplace-amazons-plans-to-kill-barcodes-amid-tiktok-envy-gone-awry/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 19, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Takes On TikTok With "Inspire" For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/15/fast-five-sheins-marketplace-amazons-plans-to-kill-barcodes-amid-tiktok-envy-gone-awry/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 19, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Shein Explores Becoming A Marketplace For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/15/fast-five-sheins-marketplace-amazons-plans-to-kill-barcodes-amid-tiktok-envy-gone-awry/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 16, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne: - Lauded the brilliance of SHEIN reportedly planning to build its own marketplace. - Had serious doubts about the staying power of Amazon’s latest TikTok-inspired social commerce play, ironically dubbed, “Inspire.” - Found Nordstrom Rack’s plans to cut back on store-based fulfillment not the least bit surprising at all. - Applauded Walmart for putting its weight behind visual search, while still harshly criticizing its execution of it. - And, last but not least, pontificated about why in the world Amazon would want to kill the barcode – seriously, what did barcodes ever do to you, Amazon? Why all the angst? There’s all that, plus Gen Z luxuries, shorn McDreamies, and how Anne plans to “spice” up her life in 2023. Music. by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 14, 2022
In the latest Ask An Expert Series, Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton sit down with Firework's Head of Commerce and Partnerships Eva Wang to discuss how retailers can offer their customers best-in-class, in-video shopping all on their own digital channels. The three of them go deep on: – New, fully-native, instant checkout solutions for video commerce – TikTok’s in-app commerce pilot and how brands should think about video operations in and outside the walled gardens of social platforms – Reducing video production budgets while making content that increases customer engagement – Properly preparing your brand for live commerce For more information on Firework, head here: https://firework.com/ *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 14, 2022
Roy Horgan, SES-imagotag’s Group SEVP Strategy, Marketing & Communications, joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to discuss what retail stores will look like in the future as they become “smarter.” Collectively the four of them go deep on: – The increasing cost pressures that will drive the industry towards smart store adoption – The growing importance of electronic shelf labels (ESLs) in smart store of the future design – The degree of expansion expected over the next 5 years – And, most importantly, all the capabilities unlocked from a truly smart store when ESLs are combined with computer vision *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 13, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: McDonalds Pilots Mobile Focused Store For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/08/fast-five-video-amazon-licenses-walkout-tech-to-grocer-big-macs-on-conveyors-the-theft-scapegoat/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 13, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Houston Galleria Partners with DropIt For Package Pickup & Delivery For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/08/fast-five-video-amazon-licenses-walkout-tech-to-grocer-big-macs-on-conveyors-the-theft-scapegoat/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 13, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart CEO Says Theft Could Shut Down Some Walmart Stores For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/08/fast-five-video-amazon-licenses-walkout-tech-to-grocer-big-macs-on-conveyors-the-theft-scapegoat/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 12, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Macy's Pilots Fit:Match Tech In 10 Stores For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/08/fast-five-video-amazon-licenses-walkout-tech-to-grocer-big-macs-on-conveyors-the-theft-scapegoat/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 12, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Community Grocery In KC Licenses Amazon JWOT & One Palm Payment For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/08/fast-five-video-amazon-licenses-walkout-tech-to-grocer-big-macs-on-conveyors-the-theft-scapegoat/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 9, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne discuss: - The implications of a U.S. grocer licensing Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology for the first time. - Macy’s deployment of FIT:MATCH’s mobile fit technology for bra fitting in 10 of its high volume stores - Walmart CEO Doug McMillon’s ambiguous claim that mounting theft could force Walmart to raise prices and close stores. - An interesting new concierge service from Dropit that recently rolled out at The Galleria mall in Houston. - And, closed with a look at McDonald’s new pickup forward test store and what it means for how retailers should approach innovation. There’s all that, plus my pragmatic musings from Chris on artificial vs. live Christmas trees, AI rabbit holes, and Anne’s favorite word to put “Viva” in front of. Music. by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Claire's To Open Macy's Shop In Shops For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/01/fast-five-walmart-knocks-amazon-off-its-search-perch-target-rolls-out-starbucks-curbside-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Rite Aid's Small Format Pharmacy Pilot For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/01/fast-five-walmart-knocks-amazon-off-its-search-perch-target-rolls-out-starbucks-curbside-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon's New AWS Suite Of Offerings For Retailers For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/01/fast-five-walmart-knocks-amazon-off-its-search-perch-target-rolls-out-starbucks-curbside-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 5, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Target Extends Starbucks Curbside Pickup To 250 Stores For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/01/fast-five-walmart-knocks-amazon-off-its-search-perch-target-rolls-out-starbucks-curbside-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 5, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Beats Amazon In Online Black Friday Deal Searches For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/12/01/fast-five-walmart-knocks-amazon-off-its-search-perch-target-rolls-out-starbucks-curbside-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 2, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne: - Questioned whether anything of note could be gleaned from reports that Walmart and others pushed Amazon to fourth place in Black Friday online searches. - Discussed whether the way Target has rolled out Starbucks curbside pickup is “Expect More, Pay Less” or really “Expect More, Pay More.” - Evaluated the likely reception of a slew of new AWS retail technology product launches. - Grew skeptical of Rite Aid’s ability to pull off a new small store concept in “pharmacy deserts.” - And closed with an all-time zinger from Anne about Macy’s new Claire’s shop-in-shops. There’s all that, plus champagne baths, drones going very awry in Australia, and the incredibly wise holograms of Sam Walton. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Sweetgreen Adds Robots To The Make Line For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/23/fast-five-the-costco-sams-hot-dog-war-best-buys-virtual-store-amazons-early-cyber-monday-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Intermix Brings Brands To The Outlet For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/23/fast-five-the-costco-sams-hot-dog-war-best-buys-virtual-store-amazons-early-cyber-monday-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 29, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Best Buy Launches Virtual Store For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/23/fast-five-the-costco-sams-hot-dog-war-best-buys-virtual-store-amazons-early-cyber-monday-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 28, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Sam's Club Challenges Costco's $1.50 Dog For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/23/fast-five-the-costco-sams-hot-dog-war-best-buys-virtual-store-amazons-early-cyber-monday-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 28, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Moves Up Cyber Monday Deals For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/23/fast-five-the-costco-sams-hot-dog-war-best-buys-virtual-store-amazons-early-cyber-monday-2/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 23, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne amazingly lauded every headline, including: - Sam’s Club’s decision to cut the price of its hot dog and soda combo to an FU Costco price of $1.38. - Amazon’s decision to pull its Cyber Monday deals forward to start on Saturday. - Best Buy’s ingenious idea of a virtual store to complement its in-store service experience. - Shop Premium Outlet’s virtual mall concept that provides a new digital outlet shopping experience towards which we think more and more brands will gravitate. - And closed with a discussion on whether or not Anne and I would have any problems with a robot at Sweetgreen making our salads (short answer: not in the slightest). There’s all that, plus Kentucky Fried English Pubs, Anne’s favorite high school Adidas wear, and our early rating of how good we think the new 80 for Brady movie will be. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts Jonathan Sharp and Billy Christensen discuss: Nike Launches Digital Marketplace .Swoosh For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/17/fast-five-video-target-takes-a-tumble-gap-sells-on-amazon-nike-just-does-it-again/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts Jonathan Sharp and Billy Christensen discuss: TikTok Pilots In-App Commerce In The US For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/17/fast-five-video-target-takes-a-tumble-gap-sells-on-amazon-nike-just-does-it-again/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts Jonathan Sharp and Billy Christensen discuss: Victoria's Secret Offering FitTech With Verifyt For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/17/fast-five-video-target-takes-a-tumble-gap-sells-on-amazon-nike-just-does-it-again/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 22, 2022
In our latest 5 Insightful Minutes, the A&M Consumer & Retail Group's Hemant Kalbag shares what strategies retailers should be putting into practice as they head into what could be a very rough Holiday season. To download the full Holiday Retailer Survival Guide, head here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insight/winter-is-coming-holiday-survival-of-the-fittest/ *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 21, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts Jonathan Sharp and Billy Christensen discuss: GAP Moves Sales To Amazon For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/17/fast-five-video-target-takes-a-tumble-gap-sells-on-amazon-nike-just-does-it-again/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 21, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga along with special guest hosts Jonathan Sharp and Billy Christensen discuss: Target's New Large-Format Stores For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/17/fast-five-video-target-takes-a-tumble-gap-sells-on-amazon-nike-just-does-it-again/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 18, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, A&MCRG's Jonathan Sharp and Billy Christensen stopped by to discuss: - Target's new larger format store and what it means in the long-run amid its lackluster earnings report this week. - Gap crying, "Uncle," as it decides to open its own shop on Amazon. - TikTok piloting in-app commerce and whether they will be any more successful at it than Instagram (Anne seems to think so). - Nike's launch of its new marketplace for digital goods, .Swoosh. - And finished off with a discussion about Victoria's Secret's new partnership with Verifyt and if it signals a new era for fit tech or just more customer frustration. There's all that, plus dragon masks at British sporting events, hypercolor t-shirts, and everyone's favorite Turkey Day treat that Anne would gladly take a pass on -- gravy, mmm mmm good! And don’t forget to use our discount code to register for Manifest too: Manife.st/Omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 18, 2022
2023 is right around the corner, so who better than Microsoft to tell us on what retail technology trends they would place their bets in the upcoming year! In the latest Ask An Expert Series Microsoft’s very own David Leibowitz and Ricardo Belmar join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga once again for Microsoft’s annual appearance on the Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to discuss the latest tech trends impacting retail. Last year Microsoft predicted the following tech trends would be big in 2022: - Low code/no code - AI - Hybrid work tools - Retail media networks - And the metaverse Which of these trends, if any, will make the list again for 2023? You will just have to listen to find out. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 15, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Includes In-store Digital Ads Within Its Retail Media Network For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/10/fast-five-can-michelle-gass-do-for-levis-what-she-did-for-kohls-lets-hope-not/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 15, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Luxer One’s New Harbor Public Smart Locker System Expanding Nationwide For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/10/fast-five-can-michelle-gass-do-for-levis-what-she-did-for-kohls-lets-hope-not/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 15, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Etsy Adds Visual Search For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/10/fast-five-can-michelle-gass-do-for-levis-what-she-did-for-kohls-lets-hope-not/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 14, 2022
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, ToolsGroup CEO Inna Kuznetzova joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss how retailers can better align their inventory forecasting and allocation in record time. Together the three of them discuss: – Why inventory planning and allocation can be thought of much like a "Waze Map" or similarly designed system that leverages machine learning to provide real-time updates and insights - How easy it is to implement improvements to planning and allocation within retailers today - And how one large footwear and apparel retailer drastically improved its Black Friday performance in just six months. You can find out more about Inna and ToolsGroup here: https://www.toolsgroup.com/home Links to the case study mentioned in the podcast: - Customer Loyalty Report: https://www.toolsgroup.com/consumer-loyalty-report - Global Footwear Retailer Case Study: https://www.toolsgroup.com/footwear-case-study *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 14, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Partners With Planet Fitness For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/10/fast-five-can-michelle-gass-do-for-levis-what-she-did-for-kohls-lets-hope-not/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 14, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Levi's Hires Former Kohl's CEO Michelle Gass As CEO For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/10/fast-five-can-michelle-gass-do-for-levis-what-she-did-for-kohls-lets-hope-not/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 11, 2022
In this week's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, and recorded live from Lululemon at the Mall of America, Anne and Chris: - Ranted about Levi’s giving Kohl’s CEO Michelle Gass the keys to the denim kingdom despite what is an objectively dubious track record - Discussed Amazon’s new partnership with Planet Fitness - Got excited about Luxer One’s new Public Harbor smart locker system expanding nationwide - Lamented why we haven’t heard about more retailers going down the visual search path that Etsy announced this week - And praised Amazon (again) for including in-store digital advertising within its souped up computer vision-based retail media network There’s all that, plus hip athletic feats with dudes named Gideon, surprise and delights, and our favorite Lululemon gear of all-time. To use our discount code for Manifest, head here: www.Manife.st/Omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 8, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Abercrombie & Fitch Offers Pick-up At Walgreens, FedEx, and Office Depot For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/03/fast-five-video-walmart-aids-small-businesses-aldi-moves-on-from-instacart-amazon-makes-prime-hipper/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 8, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Fast Five Shorts | Starbucks And AmazonGO Employees Filing A Petition For Union Election For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/03/fast-five-video-walmart-aids-small-businesses-aldi-moves-on-from-instacart-amazon-makes-prime-hipper/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 7, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Extends Prime Benefits To Include 100 Million Songs From Amazon Music For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/03/fast-five-video-walmart-aids-small-businesses-aldi-moves-on-from-instacart-amazon-makes-prime-hipper/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 7, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Offering Short-term Leases In Its Stores To Small Businesses Via Popable For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/03/fast-five-video-walmart-aids-small-businesses-aldi-moves-on-from-instacart-amazon-makes-prime-hipper/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 7, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Aldi Moves Away From Instacart In Partnership With Spryker For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/11/03/fast-five-video-walmart-aids-small-businesses-aldi-moves-on-from-instacart-amazon-makes-prime-hipper/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 7, 2022
The Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group's John Clear gets hit with tough questions from Omni Talk Retail, as he shares the most important insights from his company's latest white paper on the pros and cons of Just Walk Out technology adoption in just five minutes! To read the full white paper, head here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insight/no-wallet-no-problem-how-just-walk-out-technology-is-shaping-the-future-of-retail/ *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 3, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne centered their sights on: - Aldi’s apparent move away from Instacart by way of its new e-commerce platform partnership with Spryker - Walmart offering short-term leases in its stores to small business via Popable - Amazon extending Prime benefits to include 100 million songs from Amazon Music - Abercrombie & Fitch giving frat guys everywhere the ability to pick up rugby sweaters at their nearest Walgreens - And closed with a look at what the union troubles at the Starbucks/Amazon Go combo store in NYC signal for the future of a format that once held so much promise There’s all that, plus Cozy Earth Apparel, Tay-Tay, and Anne’s favorite yacht rock song. And don't forget to use our discount code to register for Manifest too: Manife.st/Omnitalk Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 25, 2022
If the pandemic proved anything, it is that a mobile-first retail experience opens up a world of convenience for today’s consumer. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Alicia LeBeouf, Head of Industry for Retail & Grocery at Meta, joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to give her experienced perspective on how best to equip retailers and brands within this new digitally-led dynamic. Collectively the three of them go deep on: – What makes mobile such an important element of shopping, and particularly grocery shopping, today – The personalization tactics retailers and brands are using to great success – The keys to making mobile-based shopping experiences more “convenient” – And, of course, the next wave of mobile experiences on the horizon that will only surprise and delight customers even more! It is a conversation that is well-timed, coming off of Groceryshop and also one that will be a great capstone to the year as we begin to head into 2023. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 25, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga with special guests from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Patricia Hong and Chad Lusk discuss: Veeve’s “clip-on” Strategy & What It Means For The Future Of Smart Carts For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/20/fast-five-video-amazon-drops-a-black-friday-bomb-pg-ups-the-ante-deep-thoughts-on-kroger-albertsons/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 25, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga with special guests from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Patricia Hong and Chad Lusk discuss: Shein's Stroke Of Retail Resale Genius. For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/20/fast-five-video-amazon-drops-a-black-friday-bomb-pg-ups-the-ante-deep-thoughts-on-kroger-albertsons/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 25, 2022
The A&M Consumer & Retail Group's June DeFabio and Joanna Rangarajan join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to share their expert consultant opinions on what other retailers should takeaway from Zara's newest flagship store in Madrid. Together they discuss at length: - Zara's scan-pay-go system - Zara's use of RFID throughout the store, particularly in the design of the fitting rooms - Zara's parcel robot for easy package pickup - And more! Net/net, June and Joanna agree -- the Zara store is one store from which every retailer could learn some valuable lessons on where to allocate their budgets when it comes to driving in-store innovation. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 24, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga with special guests from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Patricia Hong and Chad Lusk discuss: The Magnitude Of Amazon & The NFL's Black Friday Football For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/20/fast-five-video-amazon-drops-a-black-friday-bomb-pg-ups-the-ante-deep-thoughts-on-kroger-albertsons/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 24, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga with special guests from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Patricia Hong and Chad Lusk discuss: Can Ice-T Help P&G Retain Customers? For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/20/fast-five-video-amazon-drops-a-black-friday-bomb-pg-ups-the-ante-deep-thoughts-on-kroger-albertsons/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 24, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga with special guests from the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group Patricia Hong and Chad Lusk discuss: What To Make Of The Kroger & Albertsons Merger For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/20/fast-five-video-amazon-drops-a-black-friday-bomb-pg-ups-the-ante-deep-thoughts-on-kroger-albertsons/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 21, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, A&M’s Chad Lusk and Patricia Hong joined Anne and Chris to debate: - What to make out of the Kroger/Albertsons merger - How hyperbolic we should get over Amazon's deal with the NFL to stream the first-ever Black Friday football game in 2023 - Whether Procter & Gamble will have success trying to push consumers back into its higher priced brands amid inflation - Why SHEIN's move into resale could be an intuitive stroke of genius - And closed with a look at veeve's “clip-on” strategy pivot and what it could mean for the future of smart carts There’s all that, plus adult Happy Meals, Pan Solo, and Patricia’s favorite Real Housewives cast member. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Amazon Ends Delivery Robot Pilot As The City Of Chicago Ramps Theirs Up For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/13/fast-five-video-walmart-picks-robots-over-people-goodwill-goes-digital-tiktok-does-warehousing/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Hollister Allows Teens To Send Online Carts To Their Parents To Click To Buy For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/13/fast-five-video-walmart-picks-robots-over-people-goodwill-goes-digital-tiktok-does-warehousing/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Goodwill Stands Up Ecommerce Resale Marketplace GoodwillFinds.com For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/13/fast-five-video-walmart-picks-robots-over-people-goodwill-goes-digital-tiktok-does-warehousing/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 17, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: TikTok Building Its Own E-comm Warehouses For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/13/fast-five-video-walmart-picks-robots-over-people-goodwill-goes-digital-tiktok-does-warehousing/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 17, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Acquires Alert Innovation, Opens Automated FC, & Lays Off 1,500 Employees For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/13/fast-five-video-walmart-picks-robots-over-people-goodwill-goes-digital-tiktok-does-warehousing/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 17, 2022
Signifyd's SVP of Operations and Corporate Development, Bennett, gets hit with the tough questions once again from Chris and Anne, as he shares his thoughts on what retailers can expect this upcoming holiday season. To access the Signifyd holiday report head here: https://www.signifyd.com/events/crimes-cocktails-holiday-ecommerce-2022/?utm_channel=Paid&utm_medium=content_syndication&utm_source=Red-Archer&utm_campaign=22Q4_AMER_FLD_WBR-Crime-and-Cocktails **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 14, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne: - Discussed Walmart’s bevy of robot-related news, from the purchase of Alert Innovation to its new next-generation fulfillment center in Atlanta, i.e. the very same warehouse, where it should also be noted, Walmart recently laid off almost 1,500 people. - Got even more heated than usual arguing over whether TikTok should be building its own e-commerce warehouses. - Applauded Goodwill for what appears to be a Herculean effort to stand up its own resale marketplace. - Had a ton of fun riffing on Hollister’s new payment system that allows teens to send their online carts directly to their parents for payment. - And closed with a look at why in the world the city of Chicago would be planning to roll out one-to-one autonomous delivery vehicles, when, in the very same week, Amazon announced its own plans to scuttle its Scout delivery robot. There’s all that, plus the Tom Brady and Gisele divorce rumors, what famous art we would wear on a t-shirt, and, if I were a superhero, what my superpower would be. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11, 2022
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, Volumental's Chief Marketing Officer Brent Hollowell returns to the show to discuss Chris and Anne's experience trying out Volumental's new foot scanner technology at the Fleet Feet store in Chicago. Together the three of them discuss: - The value of the foot scanning technology, both for the customer and the associate - Where Volumental plans to take the technology next - And, most importantly, why the idea of fit tech in a mass market shoe buying experience could end up being a retail marketer's dream! Music by hooksound.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11, 2022
In this week's #fastfive Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, discuss their thoughts on: Deliveroo launches first bricks-and-mortar store in partnership with Morrisons Catch their full analysis, and the entire #fastfive episode made possible by our sponsors: Microsoft, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff Technologies, Inc., Sezzle, and Silk here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/06/fast-five-walmart-one-ups-instacart-walgreens-goes-robotic-anne-wants-a-peloton-from-dicks/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11, 2022
In this week's #fastfive Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, discuss their thoughts on: Walgreens Turns to Prescription-Filling Robots to Free Up Pharmacists Catch their full analysis, and the entire #fastfive episode made possible by our sponsors: Microsoft, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff Technologies, Inc., Sezzle, and Silk here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/06/fast-five-walmart-one-ups-instacart-walgreens-goes-robotic-anne-wants-a-peloton-from-dicks/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 11, 2022
Fast Five Shorts | Schnucks Introduces Flexforce Employment Option In this week's #fastfive Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, discuss their thoughts on: Schnucks Introduces Flexforce Employment Option Catch their full analysis, and the entire #fastfive episode made possible by our sponsors: Microsoft, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff Technologies, Inc., Sezzle, and Silk here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/06/fast-five-walmart-one-ups-instacart-walgreens-goes-robotic-anne-wants-a-peloton-from-dicks/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 10, 2022
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, Silk's Chief Technology Officer Derek Swanson joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss why the idea of just taking your retail operation to the cloud is much easier said than done. Together the three of them discuss: - The general "three-tier" approach to cloud migrations - What data gravity is and why it is so important - Architecting for peak vs. architecting for the average - And, last but not least, how a virtualization layer approach can help to bring costs down and provide more flexibility in the long-run Music by hooksound.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 10, 2022
In this week's #fastfive Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, discuss their thoughts on: Asda Boosts Omnichannel With Walmart Store Assist Catch their full analysis, and the entire #fastfive episode made possible by our sponsors: Microsoft, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff Technologies, Inc., Sezzle, and Silk here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/06/fast-five-walmart-one-ups-instacart-walgreens-goes-robotic-anne-wants-a-peloton-from-dicks/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 10, 2022
In this week's #fastfive Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga, discuss their thoughts on:Peloton To Sell Bikes, Treads, And Gear At Dick's Sporting Goods Catch their full analysis, and the entire #fastfive episode made possible by our sponsors: Microsoft, Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff Technologies, Inc., Sezzle, and Silk here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/10/06/fast-five-walmart-one-ups-instacart-walgreens-goes-robotic-anne-wants-a-peloton-from-dicks/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 6, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne: - Expressed mutual joy (and sadness) over Peloton being sold at Dick’s Sporting Goods - Discussed Walmart selling its tech to Asda and what it bodes for the strength of Instacart’s new business model - Lauded Schnucks for once again setting the pace of grocery innovation with its new flexforce employment option - Praised and “yes, and-ed” Walgreens move into robotic fulfillment - And closed with a look at Deliveroo’s new physical store partnership with Morrisons There’s all that, plus hair transplants, NES Paperboy, and which type of Cheeto reigns supreme. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 5, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: IKEA And Tesco Team Up To Offer IKEA Deliveries In Tesco Parking Lots For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/09/29/fast-five-video-walmarts-curbside-overreach-sephoras-same-day-subscription-krogers-new-e-cart/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 5, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Trigo Announcing EasyStock Computer Vision Capabilities For Retailers For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/09/29/fast-five-video-walmarts-curbside-overreach-sephoras-same-day-subscription-krogers-new-e-cart/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 5, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Kroger Launching eCart Pilot With BrightDrop For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/09/29/fast-five-video-walmarts-curbside-overreach-sephoras-same-day-subscription-krogers-new-e-cart/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 4, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Sephora Launching Same Day Delivery Subscription For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/09/29/fast-five-video-walmarts-curbside-overreach-sephoras-same-day-subscription-krogers-new-e-cart/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 3, 2022
SES-imagotag's CEO North America Philippe Bottine joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss all the key ingredients that go into building a smart store and why the idea itself is so important to the future of retail. Together the three of them discuss: - Computer vision - Cloud and edge computing - Electronic Shelf Labels - And, last but not least, both the operational and environmental benefits of building a smart store the right way. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 30, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: Walmart Accepting Curbside Returns This Holiday For the full episode head here: https://omnitalk.blog/2022/09/29/fast-five-video-walmarts-curbside-overreach-sephoras-same-day-subscription-krogers-new-e-cart/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 29, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne go deep on: - Walmart’s (quite aggressive) plans to roll out curbside returns to all stores for the holidays - Sephora’s new $49 same-day delivery subscription and the bad news it bodes for Instacart - Kroger’s latest e-cart pilot with BrightDrop that leverages a moveable cart for self-service order pickup - Trigo’s new EasyStock platform which is a smart way for retailers to dip their toes into the coming computer vision world - And closed with a look at IKEA’s new partnership with Tesco that allows customers to pick up their IKEA goods within Tesco’s parking lots There’s all that, plus Trader Joe’s hoarding, the best food to fry in an air fryer, and where “No, I am your father” ranks in a list of all-time great movie quotes. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 29, 2022
Every retailer goes into the year thinking that their strategies are the right ones, so Omni Talk Retail has asked Placer.ai’s VP of Marketing Ethan Chernofsky to break down how the biggest retail strategy bets of the year look to be playing out for the next installment of their Ask An Expert Podcast Series. Kohl’s and Sephora? Amazon Fresh? Retail Media Networks? Which bets will they cover? And what will Placer.ai’s data say about them? You will just have to listen to find out. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 26, 2022
In this special OmniStars edition of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, brought to you in partnership with Quorso, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Dilip Kumar, Amazon's current VP of Amazon Web Services Applications and the former VP of Amazon Physical Retail and Technology, to discuss how Just Walk Out technology came to be and where it is going next. Together they discuss: - Dilip's lessons learned since the beginning of the Just Walk Out journey - His approach to physical vs. digital-only innovation - The origin story of the Amazon One palm payment system - And, most importantly, the shared belief across Amazon that no solution is ever final Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 26, 2022
In this special OmniStars edition of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, brought to you in partnership with Quorso, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Raghu Mahadevan, the Chief Digital Officer at 7-Eleven, to discuss how he and his team continue to set the bar for convenience store innovation. Together they discuss: - The purposefully broad scope of Raghu's role at 7-Eleven - How Raghu determines the right omnichannel priorities - The ongoing feedback loop with 7-Eleven stores - And, most importantly, where Raghu and 7-Eleven plan to take things next Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 23, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris and Anne: - Discuss the significance of Amazon’s record number of Prime sign ups during its - Thursday night NFL broadcast last week - Shower praise on Walmart for its new livestreaming efforts with Firework - Get right and steamy mad about Instacart’s Connected Stores platform hokum - Love Lowe’s decision to create digital twins of its stores with NVIDIA - And, mark this day down folks, also close with a second salute to Walmart for its plans to offer customer checking accounts There’s all that, plus witchy women, Anne singing Kanye, and the difference between “extra dirty” and “filthy.” Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18, 2022
Microsoft's Lisa Griego and Ricardo Belmar join Chris and Anne to kickoff Omni Talk Retail's special Groceryshop Spotlight Podcast Series and to highlight the key trends they see shaping grocery over the next year. Together they discuss: - Retail Media Networks - Data centricity - Pricing management - Frictionless checkout - Digital Shelf Optimization - And much more! Stay to the end, and you will even hear Lisa's sleeper pick for the biggest grocery tech trend of 2023! Brought to you in partnership with Microsoft This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18, 2022
In this special Groceryshop edition of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight series, Cooler Screens Chief Revenue Officer Lindell Bennett and Microsoft's Director of Industry Solutions for Retail and Consumer Packaged Goods Robin Laylin join Chris and Anne to discuss how every grocer's cooler and freezer doors can be turned into a bona fide weapon within one's retail media network. Together they discuss: - Digitizing a grocer's understanding of the physical store - How in-store digital media can be easily tied into one's retail media network - And how and why digital media on cooler and freezer doors can also be used to drive center store purchases Brought to you in partnership with Microsoft This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18, 2022
In this special Groceryshop edition of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight series, Flintfox's Chief Innovation & Marketing Officer Cath Brands and Microsoft's Director of Worldwide Retail and Consumer Goods Partner Strategy Sue McMahon join Chris and Anne to discuss the massive technological opportunity that exists for CPGs to scale their pricing execution and negotiations. Together they discuss: - Why inflation is driving a focus on cost control and profit maximization - How technology can improve bottom line profit by better tracking and affecting price levels across multiple retailers - And how companies like Coca-Cola are empowering their teams with in-the-moment understanding and autonomy during their negotiation processes with retailers Brought to you in partnership with Microsoft This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18, 2022
In this special Groceryshop edition of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight series, Blue Yonder's Senior Director of Solutions Strategy Erin Halka and Microsoft’s Director of Retail and Consumer Goods Paula Beckel join Chris and Anne to discuss the next generation order management capabilities required to succeed in this new era of omnichannel retailing. Together they discuss: - How inventory visibility is impacted across every level of a retail operation, from the warehouse to in store planograms to what is available on an e-commerce website - Why having accurate inventory upfront in the purchase journey, on every product detail page, is essential - And why a proper functioning cloud-based order management system is perhaps the most important foundational technology in which grocers should invest Brought to you in partnership with Microsoft This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18, 2022
In this special Groceryshop edition of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight series, Amperity's Head of Product Solutions Matt Hallett and Microsoft’s Sr. Director of Business Strategy for Worldwide Retail & Consumer Goods Mike Edmonds join Chris and Anne to discuss how technology can help to clean every grocer's messy consumer data and thereby bring even more power to one's retail media network. Together they discuss: - Why customer data is so messy to begin with - How clean data can improve your marketing ROI with your customers and CPG partners - And why a focus on clean data can help grocers to take an "eat what you cook" approach to measuring the impact of their retail media network initiatives Brought to you in partnership with Microsoft This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 16, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and and Silk, A&M’s David Ritter and Mohit Mohal joined Anne and Chris to discuss: - Starbucks’ efforts to load balance online orders at its stores. - The long-term impact of Nike’s new, more sustainable fabric, Forward. - Wegmans calling it quits on scan-and-go mobile shopping. - The value of Pier 1’s owner throwing Tuesday Morning a lifeline. - And closed with a saucy roundabout on Target’s new FAO Schwarz partnership. There’s all that, plus buying iPhones while intoxicated, Super Bowl halftime nostalgia, and asking Alexa for tips on how to get gum out of a kid's hair. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 15, 2022
Meta made big headlines back in April when it opened its first physical retail store. So Eduardo Cruz, Director Meta Store Global Operations, joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to give his insider perspective on what the Meta Store is really all about. Collectively the three of them go deep on: - The design and layout of the store - The overarching goal of the store itself - Consumer reception thus far - And, most importantly, his lessons learned since the Meta Store opened It is a conversation sure to break from retail convention. After all, they will be talking about showcasing the metaverse in the physical world. There’s a lot to wrap one’s head around in that statement alone! Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 14, 2022
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, 1010data's VP of Marketing Frank Riva gives Chris and Anne a sneak peek into their soon-to-be-released report on Instacart’s performance for the first half of 2022 and the data will blow your mind! You'll hear: Estimates of Instacart's total growth so far in 2022 How Instacart's share at big retailers like H-E-B, Sam's Club, and Costco has shifted What Instacart's relative basket size is compared to a direct e-commerce order from the aforementioned retailers And we are bringing it all to you right before Groceryshop, so you can let it sink in and help inform your opinions about where Instacart and third-party delivery are headed next! You can also pre-register to receive 1010data's Instacart report by clicking here: https://info.1010data.com/SEP2022-GAIAR-InstacartSpotlight.html?utm_source=omnitalk&utm_medium=outbound&utm_campaign=SEP2022-GAIAR-InstacartSpotlight.html Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 12, 2022
In this special OmniStars edition of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, brought to you in partnership with Quorso, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Tractor Supply Company EVP and Chief Supply Chain Officer Colin Yankee to discuss how his company continues to deliver great omnichannel results and financial returns that far outpace its peers. Together they discuss: - How he defines omnichannel retailing - His lessons learned around supply chain coming out of the pandemic - How he envisions the future of supply chain forecasting - And how Tractor Supply thinks about every aspect of their operations, particularly down to the field level, as they continue to set an aggressive pace for innovation Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 12, 2022
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, Accelerate360's Chief Data Officer Liz Roche joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss the keys to differentiating content across a Retail Media Network. Together the three of them discuss: - How to unlock additional advertising inventory in one's Retail Media Network - A first-party data approach to content creation - And why "content authority" will always win out in the long-run Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 9, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Silk, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: - All their lessons learned from the many months of turmoil at Bed Bath & Beyond - The reports of Instagram moving away from social commerce - Disney+ going the other direction and getting into in-app commerce by the end of 2022 - The big push into resale events by Dick’s Sporting Goods - And Instacart’s utterly perplexing acquisition spree that saw it acquire two companies in the span of just six days. There’s all that, plus a new hairstyle for Anne, the one thing we wish Starbucks had but doesn’t, and the vagaries of marital scheduling coordination. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 8, 2022
In this latest episode of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, Cleveron Co-Founder Indrek Oolup returns to discuss with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga the ins and outs of installing a fully functional parcel robot for package pickup at one of Zara's busiest locations -- it's new flagship store in Madrid. Together the three of them discuss: - The skinny on the 402 robot (i.e. the official name of the robot) - What it took to coordinate the robot into the architectural design of the building - The early lessons from the implementation since Zara's flagship opening in April Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 7, 2022
Quorso CEO Julian Mills joins Chris and Anne to kickoff this year's OmniStars Spotlight Podcast Series. Together they discuss: - Why Quorso and Omni Talk Retail created the award - What inspires Julian and the team at Quorso in recognizing great omnichannel operations - And, perhaps most importantly, how the idea of asking our OmniStars to "pay it forward" in their podcast interviews came to be. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 6, 2022
In this special OmniStars of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, brought to you in partnership with Quorso, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Best Buy's EVP and Chief Customer Officer Allison Peterson to discuss what her role entails and how she aims to keep Best Buy on the cutting edge of omnichannel retailing. Together they discuss: - The premise behind the role of Chief Customer Officer - Digital vs. physical store innovation - The role of field and store leaders in helping Best Buy to transform Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 6, 2022
In this special OmniStars of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, brought to you in partnership with Quorso, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Walgreens VP of Digital Commerce and Omnichannel Stefanie Kruse to discuss what it takes to help a pharmacy retailer like Walgreens continue to meet rising consumer expectations around service. Together they discuss: - The rollout of nationwide 2 hr delivery from Walgreens - The unique omnichannel dynamics of pharmacy operations - The evolving nature of the store employee's day-to-day work within a Walgreens store Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 2, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss next generation warehouse fulfillment and automation with KNAPP VP Sales Consultancy, Bill Stenger. Together they discuss: - KNAPP's role in Walmart's new next generation fulfillment center plans - The market for centralized vs. decentralized automated warehousing solutions - The changing consumer preferences coming out of the pandemic and how they are shaping last mile innovation. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 1, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Groceryshop, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Shared mutual distaste for Walmart’s new rewards program for Walmart+ members - Were somewhat split on Bloomingdales second “Bloomie’s” store - Discussed what the Meta and Jio WhatsApp partnership in India could mean for the future of text commerce in the U.S. - Questioned what again seems like a desperate IPO-incented move by Instacart to get into big and bulky delivery - And closed with a look at Ulta’s new in-store merchandising strategy There’s all that, plus Lily Tomlin, Panera tuna, and Anne’s favorite pumpkin-shaped memories. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 26, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Groceryshop, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Did some massive Peloton pontification around their recent Amazon news - Looked long and hard at whether Apple is talking out of both sides of its mouth when it comes to advertising and privacy - Praised Gap for its own “frenemy” supplier platform approach - Discussed Walmart’s latest acquisition of gig delivery management platform, Delivery Drivers Inc. - And closed with some deep introspection around checkout-free retailing based on Tesco expanding its autonomous GetGo store concept. There’s all that, plus “fav” or “fave,” Lisa Frank Trapper Keepers, and where Anne stands on flat top sheets. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 25, 2022
Supply chain. Supply chain. Supply chain. The topic is certainly top of mind of late, but what about it is really on the minds of your average retail executive? So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Microsoft’s Director of Retail & Consumer Insights Paula Beckel and Blue Yonder’s Corporate VP of Global Retail Industry Strategies Shannon Wu-Lebron joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of the Omni Talk Retail Ask An Expert Series to answer that very question. Is it forecasting? Staffing? Inventory accuracy? Mounting online fraud? Heck, even supply chain’s role in the organization overall? It is a conversation that they promise will get to the heart of the real issues at play. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 19, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Groceryshop, A&M’s David Brown and Abhinav Chandra joined Anne and Chris to discuss: - Their big takeaways from this week’s earnings announcements - Whether Walmart executives were boasting way too much about their new - Paramount+ streaming partnership - The rumors of Ahold Delhaize acquiring Albertsons and its two private jets - Facebook partnering up with DoorDash for Marketplace deliveries - And closed with a debate on whether QuikTrip should be partnering with Amazon for its latest checkout-free store in Tulsa There’s all that, plus retail lobsters, Eminem freestyling, and their last Subway sandwich orders. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 16, 2022
Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Alviere CEO Yuval Brisker to understand why it is only a matter of time before embedded finance, i.e. the idea of retailers becoming their own banks, takes the retail industry by storm. Music by HookSounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 12, 2022
In today’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Groceryshop, Chris Walton and Mezzenga: - Question whether Walmart partnering with a streaming service will do anything to boost Walmart+ subscriptions (short answer: no) - Blast Kohl’s for the hubris it is showing in its new self-pickup rollout - Debate the merits of mall-based retailers using Amazon to fulfill same-day orders - Call for an immediate halt to Walmart’s new “General Store” initiative out of respect for all the people at Walmart that were just laid off - And close with a look at 7-Eleven’s reported acquisition of Skipcart There’s all that, plus Roomba Cheez-It AI, 3-D printed food, and something the Brits call, “Pound Town.” To redeem our discount to Manifest, click here: https://manife.st/continue-registration/?couponCode=MANIFEST_2023_PARTNER&refId=OmniTalk&utm_source=Omni+Talk&utm_medium=Manifest+Partner&utm_campaign=Register+Partner+ Music by hoooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 9, 2022
Omni Talk Retail, in partnership with Talkdesk, welcomed Chris McShane, the Senior Vice President of Customer Experience at Serta Simmons, and Amber Scott, the VP of Customer Experience at Serta Simmons, to provide their expert opinions on how to think about the future of customer service and loyalty. Collectively the four of them go deep on: – How changing consumer expectations around service have impacted retail and, particularly, the mattress industry. – What they each think are the key ingredients to great customer service in 2022 and beyond. – How they think about channel prioritization in the scope of providing great customer service. – Which technologies they would most prioritize within their organizations to improve their levels of customer service. – And, most importantly, close with a discussion of what they both envision the future of retail customer service to look like 10 to 15 years from now. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 2, 2022
Signifyd's SVP of Operations and Corporate Development, Bennett, gets hit with the tough questions from Omni Talk Retail, as he shares the most important insights from his company's newly released State of Commerce Report for 2022 in just five minutes! For more information on Signifyd, and to get the report, head here: https://www.signifyd.com/state-of-commerce-report-2022/?utm_channel=Paid&utm_medium=content_syndication&utm_source=Red-Archer&utm_campaign=WW_WEB_State-of-Commerce-Report-2022 Music by HookSounds.com **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 22, 2022
In today's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Groceryshop, A&M’s Hemant Kalbag and Jonathan Sharp joined Anne and Chris to discuss - All the stats and figures from Prime Day - Whether Macy’s taking Toys R Us to all stores will have any real long-term significance - Kroger’s plans to expand its Boost membership program nationwide - The big (some might say massive) revelation from a Google exec that 40% of young people are using social media apps over Google to search for restaurants - And closed with a thoughtful critique of the WSJ’s report that Amazon has been “considering” exiting its private label business There’s all that, plus male beauty routines, sporting event must-haves, and contaminated Skittles. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ To register for Groceryshop, head to www.groceryshop.com Plus, check out our Top 10 ranking in Feedspot’s 60 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 13, 2022
In today's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, Sezzle, and Groceryshop, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Praised Walmart for their purchase of 4,500 electric delivery vehicles from Canoo. - Examined all the reasons why Amazon is still investing in smart carts and is now planning to roll out the Dash Cart to Whole Foods. - Discussed why retailers, like Walmart and others, should and should not participate in Prime Day. - Gave Costco mad props for its June sales performance and its unbending will on hot dog pricing. - And closed with a deep look into what Gopuff's recent layoffs could tell us about the state of instant delivery. There’s all that, plus "deloading," college lacrosse smells, and Anne's favorite schmear. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ To register for Groceryshop, head to www.groceryshop.com Plus, check out our Top 10 ranking in Feedspot’s 60 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 13, 2022
Inflation is impacting retail business across the board, from gasoline to groceries, and historically the go-to solution has been to cut costs wherever you can, but perhaps there’s an alternative? In Omni Talk Retail’s latest Spotlight Series, Anne Mezzenga explores with Upside’s VP of Retail Tyler Renaghan how retailers should take this time as an opportunity to grow revenue, instead of cutting costs to battle inflationary pressures. In this interview Anne and Tyler discuss: - How retailers can shift their focus from large awareness campaigns to more personalized offers to bring in new customers. - The bottom-line benefits of creating loyalty programs that allow customers to directly deposit savings from shopping in stores into their bank accounts, requiring no funny money, games, or vouchers. - Leveraging technology partners who can operate on top of your existing ecosystem without requiring additional labor or additional POS or tech integrations. Tyler and Anne discuss all this and more, and it is a conversation sure to open your mind and leave you thinking about entirely new ways to approach your strategy amid inflationary pressures. For more information on Upside, head to https://www.upside.com/ Music By hooksounds.com **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 8, 2022
In today's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discussed: - The aftermath of Kohl’s proposed deal with the Franchise Group falling through - The curious case of what look like egregious share buybacks at Bed Bath & Beyond - TikTok reportedly getting out of livestream commerce in the U.S. and the U.K. - Ulta Beauty’s new pop-up inside of Allure’s SoHo store - And closed with a look at Amazon’s baller, no-risk move to invest in Grubhub There’s all that, plus Jello cake, ripstop pants, and kickboxing classes with Minka Kelly. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our Top 10 ranking in Feedspot’s 60 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 30, 2022
In today's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Took another victory lap on their long held position that Mark Tritton’s tenure at Bed Bath & Beyond would be short-lived. - Highlighted the importance of Trigo’s second autonomous grocery store implementation with Rewe in Berlin, which places it squarely in the lead as the “non-Amazon” option in the battle for checkout-free grocery retailing. - Lauded Amazon for rolling out a new analytics platform for CPGs that works off its own “Just Walk Out” technology. - Praised Gap for doing something every retailer should do – i.e. invest in lab stores. - And closed with a question about just how far up the leadership ladder Walmart’s FTC troubles over money transfers could go. There’s all that, plus muscle biopsies, fake tanning on a budget, and Anne’s new favorite alcoholic beverage that can only be described as a “Hot Mezz.” To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our Top 10 ranking in Feedspot’s 60 Top Retail Podcasts: https://blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 29, 2022
Cannes, one of the biggest events for marketers around the world, just held its annual festival doling out awards to the best and brightest in the industry and Omni Talk Retail is bringing you a full recap, minus the super yachts, of course. Omni Talk Retail asked Firework’s Chief Revenue Officer Jeff Lucas to provide a recap, and more importantly, his advice for retail marketers on making Cannes-worthy creative for the latest installment of our Live Ask An Expert Series on LinkedIn. Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga probed Jeff on: - Why retailers and brands should have Cannes on their radar - The top trends coming out of Cannes and how to put them into action in your organization - Why more-and-more awards are going to big impact initiatives with lesser investment and how livestreaming can help - Emerging platforms and entertainment commerce *Sponsored Content* It is a conversation sure to open your mind and leave you thinking about entirely new ways to produce content in an affordable and effective way. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 24, 2022
In today's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga had a blast: - Taking a victory lap on Amazon’s price positioning in Amazon Fresh stores. - Opening our minds to GNC's new food delivery service. - Lauding Simon, after slagging it last week, for something it is calling “Simon Search.” - Sounding alarm bells (that likely only our loyal Omni Talk fans will hear) on Amazon’s second Style store that is coming soon to Columbus, OH. - And closed with a right proper debate on how cool Walmart's partnership with Roku really is. There’s all that, plus favorite vacation drinks, the last time Anne took down a full box of Kraft Mac & Cheese, and the over/under on how many angry gun toting residents will actually shoot down Amazon's drones. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 16, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, A&M's Chad Lusk and Truett Horne join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to debate: - The significance of Walmart's new automated fulfillment centers - Target's recent earnings warning - Simon's new "National Outlet Shopping Day" - Sam's Club charging regular old Sam's Club members for curbside pickup - And Amazon trying to one-up Walmart with its own drone announcement this week There's all that, plus racy review reads, fancy airport bottled water, and tacos with Kevin Durant. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 6, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Talkdesk's VP Global Industry Strategy for Retail & Consumer Goods and fellow Top 100 Retail Influencer Shannon Flanagan. Together the three of them discuss: - The role of retailers to provide great product and great service - The dwindling use of the "secret shop" - Creating experiences that make your customers happy, when pre-purchase customer service is now just as important as post-purchase service - How navigating 10 screens to handle a customer service issue is absolutely untenable - And, why real-time cloud-based solutions that drive better customer service are now a bona fide weapon of brand differentiation Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 3, 2022
In today's Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton went deep on: - Dollar General’s self-checkout only pilot - Brookfield and Sephora’s new “curbcierge” service - UPS acquiring Delivery Solutions - Tortoise’s remote-controlled store on wheels at the Mall of America - And closed with a look at Old Navy’s decision to cut back on its more inclusive sizing strategy There’s all that, plus burrito tape, dining out in the Metaverse, and hurling sweet treats to defile priceless works of art. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 27, 2022
In today's take no prisoners Omni Talk Retail Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton: - Give their very early take on Amazon's new Amazon Style store. - Lambast Walmart from the high heavens for its drone announcement this week. - Laud Firework for its recent $150 million investment round, as it continues to push the boundaries and lead the way in livestream commerce. - Question whether Wayfair chose the right brand with which to debut its latest physical store concept. - And discuss whether the Nordstrom and Trunk Club marriage was doomed from the start. There's all that, plus pre-show fights, Pepsi in your pepperoni, and the pure testosterone that is Jon Hamm selling Yeti mugs. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 26, 2022
Livestreaming, and specifically Firework, was the #1 hot topic coming out of Shoptalk this year. So Omni Talk Retail invited Firework CEO and Co-Founder Vincent Yang back to provide his mid-year report on the state of livestreaming across retail for the latest installment of our Ask An Expert Series. Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga get Vincent’s thoughts on: - What changes he is seeing in retailers’ approaches to livestreaming - Whether retailers are heeding his past advice of streaming on their own platforms, shying away from overproduction, and leveraging their store associates for authenticity - Where he thinks the industry and Firework are headed next - And what he and his company plan to do with the $150 million dollars they just raised It is a conversation sure to blow your mind and leave you thinking about entirely new ways to localize your in-store and digital experiences around the communities they serve. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 24, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Video Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Signifyd’s CMO Indy Guha to learn all they can about the latest fiendish effort being used to defraud consumers, aka Account Takeover (or ATO, if you are in the know). Together they discuss: The rise of e-commerce and the increasing strain placed on fraud prevention What account takeover is and why it is so much more sinister than just using someone’s credit card number And why a networked approach may be the only way to solve the problem To access Signifyd’s pulse reports, head here: http://www.signifyd.com/ecommerce-pul... Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 20, 2022
In today's episode of the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, David Ritter and Michael Simoncic join Chris and Anne to discuss: What to make of Target and Walmart’s earnings this week How warm and fuzzy we should feel about Instacart’s IPO plans Whether Peloton planning to sell through third-party retailers for the first time ever makes strategic sense Why Zara’s move to charge U.K. customers for returns feels like a stick now but could be more of a carrot in the long-run And closed with a pragmatic take on Walmart’s effort to lure college graduates into stores with promises of $200K salaries. There’s all that, plus Mexican Pizzas, instant delivery at Disneyland, and ketchup secrets. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18, 2022
Amid the ever-increasing omnichannel nature of our retail experiences, it can be difficult to know how best to solve customer issues when they arise. It isn’t as simple as just having great person-to-person customer service anymore. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Talkdesk’s Genesis Miranda Longo, Head of Industry Marketing for Retail and Consumer Goods, and Antonio Gonzalez, Head of Industries Research & Insights, join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to provide their expert opinions on how to think about the future of customer service and loyalty. Collectively the four of them go deep on: – The main drivers of customer loyalty (the answers could surprise you) – How these drivers differ by generation – What these differences imply for our retail contact centers and their employees – And, most importantly, how to transform our contact centers from the cost centers they were in the past into bona fide revenue generating functions that drive long-term value It is a conversation sure to shed light on issues you didn’t even know existed and to challenge your thinking about best practices, and one that will leave you with a greater sense of urgency around investing in customer service, the right way. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 18, 2022
What devices in your store could be working harder for you? That is the question we posed to Scandit CTO and Co-Founder Christian Floerkemeier in our latest Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series Podcast. Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss with Christian: - How everything from an iPhone to a floor scrubber can become a smart data capturing device within a retail store - Tackling hiring and training challenges by capturing smart data on an employee's own or company provided mobile device - Removing mundane work from the employee's plate so they can focus on more important tasks - And dramatically improving inventory visibility and with improved ROI and customer satisfaction Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 16, 2022
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Retail Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Rafay's CEO Haseeb Budhani and HP's VP of Retail and Industry Solutions Cory McElroy to dive deep into the topic of what it takes to scale computer vision implementations across thousands of store locations. Together they discuss: - How computer vision has moved from a "science project" to a business necessity - In what areas retailers are most interested in applying computer vision - The issues that arise with implementations, particularly around finding the skilled people to do the work onsite - And why being able to manage Kubernetes from the cloud could help to solve many of the problems retailers could face For more information on Rafay, head here: https://rafay.co/ Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 11, 2022
In today's special Wednesday edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Discuss why IKEA's new store investment plans show just how smart of retailer IKEA is. - Laud Unilever for its bold move to deploy mobile ice cream stores with Robomart. - Grow skeptical of Adidas's all-in move with Foot Locker. - Debate whether Sweetgreen's new digital order pickup-only store is something more QSRs should try (and, newsflash, but Chris concedes the argument to Anne on this one). - And, close with an exploratory look at Starbucks and its digital future. There's all that, plus Kanye's latest video drop for Gap, what pairs best with Grey Poupon wine, and whether all jumpsuits should be beltless. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 6, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Had a split opinion on Publix's new nano-fulfillment partnership with Instacart. - Both extolled the virtues of the one-stop shop and H-E-B's newest store concept down in Texas. - Praised Verizon for going all-in on 24/7 pickup lockers. - Tipped our caps to Target for once again getting omnichannel retail tech right, as evidenced by their recent pilot of a robot that gives $8 manicures in-store. - And closed with a discussion of what Victoria's Secret selling on Amazon portends for the future and why Chris, specifically, thinks it is a pill that more mall-based retailers should just up and swallow. There's all that, plus the latest review read-a-loud, Anne's pining for 21 Jump Street, and Chris Walton's long obsession with frosted tips. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 29, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga had a ball discussing: - Amazon’s newest suburban store Amazon Go concept, replete with made-to-order food, and whether it could one day soon evolve into “the gas station of the future.” - A really interesting new store concept from online retailer MorningSave down in Texas that promises to meld the beauty of the online treasure hunt with in-store retailing. - Meta’s new “Meta store,” which is so meta, in and of itself, they couldn’t control themselves. - An idea coming out of American Eagle, called the “frenemy network,” which encourages apparel retailers to come together to share the costs of fulfillment. - And closed with a look at Buy with Prime and what it means for Amazon, consumers, and Shopify. There’s all that, plus hands-free beer buying, airline layovers in San Jose, and douches to rival Steff from Pretty in Pink. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Gave their hot take on Andrew Jassy’s first-ever letter to Amazon shareholders - Had mixed feelings on Lululemon’s new subscription program - Took a second to bash the Yankees as they discussed Caper Counter at Fenway Park - Exhibited a high degree of skepticism around the new Champs store concept - And closed with a look at Pensa’s new deployment with Lunds & Byerly’s and how it may be yet another example of why computer vision is the most important technology shaping the future of retail There’s all that, plus 6-CD changers, deep space probes, and the smell of Philadelphia Cream Cheese. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: https://blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 15, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, A&M’s Chad Lusk and Hemant Kalbag joined Anne as they debated: -An Earth Day Resale PR blitz from multiple retailers, including Target partnering up once again with ThredUP. -Zara’s new knockout high-tech, half-warehouse flagship store in Madrid finally enabling mobile self-checkout for apparel. - Meta giving creators the green light to sell virtual goods in the metaverse - Santa Monica Place offering small businesses single day to 12 month leases leveraging Macerich’s QuikSpace platform - And closed with a discussion about the most important uses for Wakefern’s Simbe Robotics Trial run There’s all that, plus our favorite J-Lo songs, coffee-making robots, and the Etsy product most worth joining the seller strike for. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 14, 2022
Part of what makes the concept of omnichannel retailing so great is the idea that retail is now perpetual, i.e. always on and available to consumers whenever and however they want it. But, by definition then, doing it right requires unprecedented levels of flexibility within our retail supply chains. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Purolator’s Senior Director of Retail, Laurie Weston, joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to explain how her company is thinking about and taking on this challenge. Collectively the three of them go deep on: – The varying ways Puralotor is attempting to increase package pickup and return accessibility, including concepts like partner access points, lockers, self-service kiosks, and mobile quick stop trucks – The growing case for pickup lockers in densely urban markets, along with why the time is right to begin testing them in rural markets, too. – How retailers should think about their own last-mile and return network designs – And, most importantly, Laurie’s anecdotes from 29 years on the job about why speed and convenience still trump all Chris, Anne, and Laurie discuss all this and more, and it is a conversation that is in-depth, fun, and one guaranteed to fill your last-mile knowledge cup to the brim! Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 14, 2022
To understand the future of commerce and words like the “metaverse,” it is important to place things in the proper context. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Meta’s VP of its Commerce Business, Emma Rodgers, joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to give her firsthand perspective on how she sees the future of retail shaping up. Collectively the three of them go deep on: – Why “portability” and “dimensionality” are key terms in understanding the future – What “discovery commerce” is and how it will evolve – How Meta envisions helping creators to succeed – Why livestream shopping has such an important place in the overall conversation – And also where the metaverse sits against this entire backdrop Chris, Anne, and Emma discuss all this and more, and it is a conversation sure to challenge convention, shift your context, and hopefully leave you inspired about where the future of omnichannel retailing is headed. After all, the metaverse is just another channel under the overall “omnichannel” umbrella. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 12, 2022
In the latest Women's Retail Collective Podcast Anne Mezzenga sits down with Meijer's Group Vice President, Marketing & Customer Strategy: Retail Media, E-Comm, Own Brand, Data Insights at Meijer Amanda Mcvay You read that title right. Amanda wears a lot of hats and in fact, after 10 years at the company, Meijer created this job just for her. Amanda has diverse experience in everything customer-centric; from buying to product development to gathering consumer insights that have resulted in some of Meijer's most successful marketing initiatives. Amanda shares how she's using her position at Meijer to further develop their storied history of being more than a dependable general merchandise retailer, but a long-standing pillar of the community, and how she plans to use that to keep them defensible against Amazon. Amanda shares her advice for other women working in the retail industry and you'll want to stay until the end to hear who headlines her very own concert. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 12, 2022
A&M's Jonathan Sharp gets hit with tough questions from Omni Talk Retail, as he shares the most important insights from the A&M Consumer & Retail Group's latest installment of their ongoing Consumer Sentiment Survey in just five minutes! To read the full survey, head here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insi... *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 11, 2022
Instacart dropped a big bomb recently, devaluing the company while, at the same time, announcing a new “platform” approach to their strategy going forward, and to say Anne and Chris are skeptical of the move, as many of you know, is an understatement. So we are pleased to bring you our latest in depth discussion with 1010data's Chief Product Officer Jonah Ellin about his company's just released comprehensive report surrounding Instacart. In this podcast interview, Chris, Anne, and Jonah discuss: - Instacart’s online market share and growth. - Which retailers make up the lion’s share of Instacart’s revenue. - What has been happening to Instacart's basket size and transaction counts over the past two years. - And, perhaps most importantly, which products the end consumer is using Instacart for the most. Give this podcast a listen and you are sure to come away with more questions than answers when it comes to the risks Instacart could face in the years ahead. To read the report for yourself, head here: https://10da.co/36Cqt3e Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 8, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five video, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discuss: - Target accepting food stamps online - Farfetch’s investment in Neiman Marcus - JOOR and something called “Automated Attribution” - Kroger giving the restaurant supply business a go down in Texas - And closed with a hot debate over Alexa giving advanced notification on deals There’s all that, plus Lizzo karaoke, how to screw up a burrito, and why we could never bring ourselves to call ourselves, the “Omnichannel Oracles.” To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 31, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris and Anne discuss: - Using BNPL at the gas station - Instacart’s downright laughable new strategic positioning - Red Wing Shoes smartly getting ahead of the fit tech curve - Adidas giving Nike a lesson in long-tail marketplace influencer commerce - And close with a “good on ya” to Kath McLay at Sam’s Club for suing BJ’s and protecting the hell out of her scan-and-go turf There’s all that, plus pre-pubescent childhood video game memories, P-Funks, and the vagaries of feed bagging Skittles. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 29, 2022
In this special Shoptalk edition of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series brought to you through the support of Meta, Anne Mezzenga sits down with DoorDash VP of Global Partnerships to dive deep into the DoorDash headlines the retail world has been buzzing about for the past year including: - The future of DashMart - Express Grocery Delivery with Albertsons Co. - DoorDash Returns Pickup - And an exciting, first-of-its-kind partnership for the delivery provider and a popular East Coast merchant. Anne and Shanna also discuss what merchants and customers can expect from DoorDash in the coming year and how DoorDash plans to continue to grow the business. You do not want to miss this pod from one of the fastest-moving and most innovative companies in the retail industry. For more information on DoorDash head to https://get.doordash.com/en-us For more information on our sponsor Meta head to: https://about.facebook.com/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 27, 2022
Lululemon dropped its new shoe line last week, and none of that would have been possible without the help and support of Volumental's proprietary fit data, gleaned from millions upon millions of scans of people's feet. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that one of the pioneers of fit technology in the shoe industry, Volumental's Chief Marketing Officer Brent Hollowell, joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for this special Shoptalk Edition of their ongoing Spotlight Series brought to you in partnership with Meta. Collectively the three of them discuss: – Why our feet are about so much more than just lengths and widths - How technology, when used correctly, can complement the in-store shoe try on process - And how better fit technology deployed across the industry can improve online conversion and solve one of retail's biggest problems, i.e. online returns It is a conversation designed to fit perfectly around Shoptalk this week (pun very much intended!) Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 27, 2022
Food waste, and particularly waste from fresh meats and vegetables, is a continued drag on grocers' bottom lines. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Afresh CEO Matt Schwartz joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for a special Shoptalk Edition of the their ongoing Spotlight Series brought to you in partnership with Meta to share how his company plans to help grocers solve this problem. Collectively the three of them discuss: – All the factors that can contribute to better demand forecasting at a localized level - How systematized processes can take the subjectivity out of ordering and arm store employees with even more knowledge and autonomy to their jobs better - And why solving grocery waste goes far beyond just having the best AI algorithms It is a conversation tailor made for a week when all of retail gathers in Vegas, for it checks all the boxes -- profit, tech, and most importantly, sustainability! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 27, 2022
There is probably no topic more on the mind of retailers than what do with online returns. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Narvar CEO Amit Sharma joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for a special Shoptalk Edition of their ongoing Spotlight Series brought to you in partnership with Meta. Collectively the three of them go deep on: – Why returns are now the "first-mile" of a new retail experience - What it takes to pick up returns directly from customers' homes - How a smooth returns process can greatly improve supply chain flexibility and improve overall inventory stock position - And how coordinated return hubs at places like malls make consumers' lives that much easier It is a conversation sure to generate buzz at Shoptalk because the answers Amit provides are just so damn intuitive! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 25, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five video, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris takes a break from 2022 Walton Family Spring Break to join Anne to discuss: - Kohl’s multiple acquisition offers, their potential buyers, and why two wrongs don’t make a right. - Pickup-only grocer Fresh Street doing grocery orders in 30 minutes with no fee and if it’s a model that will stick? - Amazon’s baller move opening their first net-zero carbon emission Fresh store in Seattle. - NVIDIA and Kroger promising to reinvent the grocery experience with AI and digital twins. - And close with Anne’s first-hand review of Lululemon’s new Blissfeel running shoe. There’s all that, plus a cameo from Chris’s childhood Darth Vader toy, and a discussion on why Anne’s greatest Applebees memories can still be realized at their new drive-thrus. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 18, 2022
In this week's Fast Five, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, A&M’s David Ritter and Michael Prendergast joined Chris and Anne as they debated: - All the news out of Starbucks this week, but most specifically its plans to roll out its community store concept to 1,000 locations by 2030. - Who made the bigger waves this week – DoorDash with its returns pilot or Uber hinting at becoming a retailer? -Whether Macy’s website overhaul means anything and if the company has the flexibility in its business model for its associates to become personal stylists. - The latest livestreaming data and major shifts in sales volume coming out of China. - And closed with a look at what Twitter Shops means for the future of social commerce. There’s all that, plus our favorite “chin-fluencer” celebrities, OnlyFans for Chefs, and why we love the idea of Darth Vader providing in-aisle voice assistance while we shop. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 17, 2022
Livestreaming is quite the hot topic now that everyone from Walmart to Amazon is doing it which means many of you have likely been asked by your bosses or your boss’s boss to livestream something as part of your 2022 content strategy. So to make sure you avoid the three mistakes so many people make when designing their livestreaming strategy, Omni Talk is pleased to announce that one of the foremost experts in the world of livestreaming and digital content creation, Firework’s Co-Founder and CEO Vincent Yang, joined Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series. Collectively the three of them go deep on: - The mistakes brands and retailers are making as they dive into the livestream space - The right way to approach the integration of content and commerce - The shifts retailers should be expecting in the conversion funnel as brands and customers start to adopt livestreaming and content commerce - And, the evolution of customer engagement with brands and how to adequately prepare for the future It is a conversation sure to be in-depth, fun, and, will leave you with a good starting point for that banger of a livestream strategy you’re about to design. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 14, 2022
Long have we talked about Visual AI as the most important technology that will shape retail over the next decade. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that ViSenze Chief Commercial Officer Brendan O'Shaughnessy joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Spotlight Series to share his knowledge on the most practical applications of Visual AI in the here and now: Collectively the three of them go deep on Visual AI's value and applicability: - Product recommendation engines - Online catalog enrichment - Visual search - In-store merchandising compliance - Assortment Planning It is a conversation that is a hallmark of what Chris and Anne do best -- i.e. one where they ask the questions most likely on the minds of retail executives to help make sense of what really matters most. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 11, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: - Amazon's shrewd move and likely "deke" to close 68 physical stores. - Lululemon finally getting into footwear. - Dollar General trying to become everyone's new local bank. - Walmart's extremely disappointing new fit technology it unveiled this past week. - And close with a look at why Ryan Cohen's letter to the Bed Bath & Beyond Board of Directors may be the coolest thing we have seen in a long time. There's all that, plus Blind Dutchmen, more Sesame Street references, and why ventriloquists don't have podcasts. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 11, 2022
Sure, the pandemic has “accelerated digital trends” throughout retail, but what the heck does that phrase really mean? While it is easy to say, it is quite another thing to know what to do about it. So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Microsoft’s very own Chris Dieringer, Ricardo Belmar, and Sue McMahon and Adobe’s Taylor Schreiner joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to set the record straight. Collectively the four of them go deep on: - Adobe’s data-driven perspective on the biggest changes coming out of the pandemic - Which changes are here to stay and their resulting impact on pricing, promotions, and media spend - The shift from pre-purchase to post-purchase customer engagement and what it means for returns management and loyalty programming - And, most importantly, the technology and tactics retailers can deploy to stay relevant with their consumers amid all the change. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 10, 2022
Buy Now, Pay Later is one of the hottest trends in retail right now, and, while most of the BNPL activity happens online, that is about to change . . . rapidly. Because BNPL is now set to take over physical retail stores, too. To help us understand how fast and just how easy it is to allow retail customers to pay in-store with BNPL, Sezzle’s very own Chris Bixby joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series. Collectively the three of them go deep on: - “Virtual card” solutions - Multi-use vs. single-use cards - BNPL as a form of affiliate marketing for in-store purchases - And, most importantly, just how easy it is to integrate BNPL into your bricks-and-mortar operations (newsflash: if you are already set up for Apple Pay, it is about as easy as it gets) It is a conversation that is in-depth, fun, and, one guaranteed to give you an honest to god, easy and practical way to drive conversion inside your stores. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 4, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: - All the new curbside drive up features Target is testing, including ordering Starbucks and taking returns. - Just how big of a leap forward Amazon putting its Just Walk Out technology into Whole Foods really is. - Why Foot Locker expressing concern over its dwindling Nike sales may just be a sign of more bad news to come. - How on earth Kroger entering another market virtually (without stores!!) received as little media coverage as it did this week. - And closed with our thoughts on DoorDash brazenly placing retailers on its marketplace without their knowledge. There's all that, plus Baby Banana Republic, Anne working herself into a lather, and our newest Omni Talk team member who is as Cozy As Fluff. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 18, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, A&M's David Brown and Chad Lusk join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga as they discuss: - Amazon’s gobsmacking first-ever reported ad revenue figures. - Another airport-based convenience retailer, this time a British one, WHSmith, licensing Amazon’s “Just Walk Out” tech in LaGuardia airport. How daft! - Macy’s latest in store partnership that, let’s just say, left us in a bloody twist. - DoorDash charging McDonald’s extra for making its delivery drivers just sit there faffing around while waiting too long for their orders - And 7-Eleven’s new partnership with GrubHub that left me, for one, absolutely flummoxed. There’s all that, plus our favorite handyman jobs around the house and “after-dark” teddy bears. Yes, you read that last sentence right. It is a real thing. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 11, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: - Why Domino's new marketing scheme to tip customers $3 for using order pickup is a big fat dud - Aldi's big U.S. store expansion plans - All the recent union troubles brewing at Starbucks - NYC bodegas striking back against the instant delivery companies - And why Simon's new mall ghost kitchen concept solves a very real pain for parents everywhere There's all that, plus Anne's true thoughts on Valentine's Day, the spice of dating life, and one big mea culpa from Chris on his utter inability to correctly abbreviate the state of Arkansas. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 10, 2022
IoT devices in retail increased drastically within recent years, especially as the desire for digital and touchless solutions reached peak demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. And, as a result, while retailers have accelerated their digital transformation deployments at a record pace, all too often we see retailers driving IT purchases faster than IT can keep up, leading to untalked about and unforeseen issues down the road. New Omni Talk Expert, Art Miller, Global Head of Retail IoT at Qualcomm, joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss what to do in the face of this situation and to ensure insecure technologies don’t open up security holes which could result in breaches, exposure of customer data and negatively impact your brand. Together they explore, through the lens of Electronic Shelf Labels (aka ESLs), how a comprehensive approach to integrated, end-to-end security can: - Lead to more cost effective solutions - Delight your customer - And, help you swiftly adapt to the ever changing needs of your customers All of which should help your CIOs and CTOs sleep better at night, knowing they can have the conversations they need to have with the rest of the C-Suite. Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 4, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: - Why Walmart's RFID push into home goods is already the front runner for the omnichannel retailing headline of 2022. - All the reasons to be skeptical about Walmart's new store design in Springdale, AR. - Albertsons' continued AI push, this time in its quest to reduce food waste in fresh produce with help from Afresh. - The pluses and minuses of Petco's new Lowe's shop-in-shop partnership. - And, why the WSJ missed out on relaying some key information in its article this week that questioned the profit position underlying the instant delivery trend. There's all that, plus a COVID update from Chris, Anne reminiscing about shipping her pants, drunk father-in-laws who lose their shoes at weddings, and more! To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 28, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss: - Who wore it better: Amazon Style or Amazon Go in the suburbs? - 7-Eleven's new 30 minutes or less subscription delivery program - Chris's utter distaste for the shareholder activists at Kohl's - Walmart's $400 million investment in vertical farming startup, Plenty - And, Instagram's early test of creator subscriptions There's all that, plus our favorite memories from the Manifest Conference in Las Vegas, an in person review of the new Savage X Fenty store, and Anne trying to recall the brand name of her DTC mattress that she was once hoodwinked into buying. To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 27, 2022
In our latest Omni Talk Spotlight Series Podcast live from the Manifest Conference in Las Vegas, brought to you in association with 1010data, we are pleased to bring you Delivery Solutions Co-Founders Manil Uppal and Arshaad Mirza. Arshaad and Manil sit down with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss what it feels like to be the pioneers of delivery orchestration software. Together, they: – Go into depth about what delivery orchestration means and how it works – Explain the importance of staying flexible in your fulfillment needs as the modern consumer is changing and the rise of instant delivery is at play – And how their track record of success across multiple category verticals and multiple countries sets them up as the one solution provider Anne and Chris believe every retailer needs to meet. Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 27, 2022
In our latest Omni Talk Spotlight Series Podcast live from the Manifest Conference in Las Vegas, brought to you in association with 1010data, we are pleased to bring you ECU Worldwide Chief Transformation Officer Philip Blumenthal. Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Philip to get his perspective on all things related to shipping products across an ocean. Together, they discuss: – How e-commerce is driving demand for less than container full shipments – Why there are some products consumers are willing to wait more than 2 days to receive – And why Factory-to-Consumer (aka FTC) commerce will only continue to grow in the years ahead Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 26, 2022
In our latest Omni Talk Spotlight Series Podcast live from the Manifest Conference in Las Vegas, brought to you in association with 1010data, we are pleased to bring you 1010data CEO Inna Kuznetsova. Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Inna to get her insightful and oftentimes hilarious take on why data collaboration holds they key to getting out in front of retail trends. Together, they discuss: – How better supplier and retailer data collaboration can ease supply chain bottlenecks – What categories of business continue to grow amid the pandemic – And why subscription businesses particularly found their niche over the last two years, especially on Amazon *Sponsored Content* Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 25, 2022
In our first podcast to kickoff the Manifest Conference, brought to you in association with 1010data, we are pleased to bring you Buyk CEO James Walker. Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with James to get his take on what to make of the ultra fast delivery trend. Together, they discuss: - The consumer psychology involved - The importance of private label - Vertical differentiation as the key to profitability - And, why delivery will soon be like turning on your faucet, i.e. something we do and almost take for granted that it is there. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 24, 2022
As part of their Spotlight AI Series from the NVIDIA and Lenovo NRF Innovation Lab, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sat down with Vistry.AI Founder and CEO, Atif Kureishy, to learn how his company is leveraging Ai to improve the overall operations and consumer experience in the QSR industry. In this podcast, Atif does an excellent job of relaying all the different ways QSRs can find benefits from AI, including: - Voice ordering automation at the drive thru - Kitchen production control - Ingredient forecasting to lower waste - And much more, including our shared discussion of what the future of a QSR parking lot looks like! *Sponsored Podcast* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 24, 2022
As part of their Spotlight AI Series from the NVIDIA and Lenovo NRF Innovation Lab, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sat down with Deep North VP of Retail Sales, Tracy Benaman, to learn how her company leverages computer vision AI to observe consumer and employee journeys in a much more objective way than standard consumer or employee surveying. In this podcast, Tracy does an excellent job of relaying all the different aspects of how both journeys can be better understood through computer vision, including: - Dwell times - Line wait times - Fitting room interactions - Backroom operations - And Chris's favorite -- how often the bathrooms should be cleaned! *Sponsored Podcast* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 21, 2022
In what had to be one of our favorite podcasts on AI from the NRF Innovation Lab, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sat down with Compass Digital Labs CTO, Scott Wu, to learn how his massive company, the Compass Group, is looking to bring computer-vision based checkout-free retail to food service and the many micro-markets it is opening at an astonishing clip. In this podcast, Scott does an excellent job of relaying all the puts and takes that come with computer vision deployments, including how to view: - New builds vs. retrofits - Cameras vs. sensor fusion - Operating on the edge vs. in the cloud - And much, much more! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 21, 2022
AI is helping retailers improve business agility in these unprecedented times. Using store analytics, retailers can understand consumer behavior and optimize processes for better shopping experiences and faster, contactless checkout in stores with improved ROI. But knowing where to start is always the big question. So we have brought together a senior retail asset protection executive and a system’s developer to talk about one use case, the deployment of AI in grocery self-checkout, that is already paying big dividends at one of the world’s most innovative grocery retailers. In our latest AI Spotlight podcast, Kroger's Director of Assets Protection, Tom Arigi, and Everseen's VP of Strategy and Growth Initiatives, Alex Siskos, sit down with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga live from the NRF Innovation Lab to discuss all that it took to rollout an improved AI-based self-checkout experience to roughly 1,700 Kroger stores at an astonishing pace. And, that last sentence alone should give you an idea of the level of success Kroger is already seeing with the initiative! *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 21, 2022
In the first of our special weeklong Spotlight Series highlighting AI in retail, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interviewed Anand Muralidaran of NVIDIA and Andi Huels of Lenovo live from the NRF Innovation Lab. Anand is NVIDIA's Head of Global Growth Strategy and AI Business Development for Retail, Consumer Goods, and QSR, and Andi is Lenovo's Head of AI for North America. In other words, they are both two absolute experts on the subject of how retailers are looking at AI in the coming years. Give this podcast a listen, and you will hear which companies Anand and Andi believe are the ones to watch coming out of NRF, where AI will have the biggest retail impact in 2022 (the answer just may surprise you), and why AI has, without a doubt, crossed the chasm from buzzword to an everyday fact of retail life going forward. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 21, 2022
How to fight online return fraud when all the players don't play by the same rules is a growing problem in retail. And nowhere was this more evident than this past holiday season when the overall rate of e-commerce returns increased and so, too, did the rate of online return fraud. Resident Omni Talk expert and retail commerce protection expert extraordinaire, Signifyd’s SVP of Operations and Corporate Development, Bennett, joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss this very topic and what to do about it. The short-answer -- it takes AI and machine learning to attack the problem in real-time because that is the only solution that will work when the rules of the game are always changing. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 21, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, David Ritter and Jonathan Sharp of A&M join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga as they discuss: - Walmart's porch delivery program. - Gopuff's overt move into private label. - Who made the bigger move in the checkout-free retail war this week: Aldi or Wakefern? - The relative value of voice-assisted ordering in QSR vs. retail. - And, closed with a discussion on the long-term viability of a new startup that just raised $25 million to help consumers, not Buy Now, but Save Money and Pay Later. There's all that, plus Anne and I mutually patting each other's backs for being named Top 100 retail influencers, edible utensils, and David Ritter's favorite Taco Bell vice. To redeem your $300 discount on the Manifest Conference, visit: manife.st/continue-registrati... To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: www.sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 17, 2022
In a special NRF edition of The Omni Talk Spotlight Series, sponsored by Cleveron, Firework, and Scandit, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Gopuff Co-CEO and Co-Founder Rafael Ilishayev. Gopuff started delivering a hundred or so products to college students back in 2013, today they're delivering over 4,000 SKUs in as little as 15-20 minutes to customers in many major cities in the US and around the world. In this interview, Raf shares Gopuff's bold expansion plans for 2022, releasing another round of their "Put Me On" program for local CPG's and businesses, and further developing their ad network and kitchen concepts. The instant delivery space is going to continue to heat up in the next year, and Gopuff with 75% share of the current instant delivery market in the US will be one you'll want to watch. For more information on Gopuff, head to: https://gopuff.com/go Thanks to Cleveron, Scandit, and Firework for making this episode possible. For more information on Cleveron head to https://cleveron.com/ For more information on Scandit head to https://www.scandit.com/ For more information on Firework head to https://firework.com/us/ **Sponsored Content** Music by Hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2022
In a special NRF edition of The Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Leap Co-founder and CEO Jared Golden to talk about how his company's proprietary platform helps retailers and brands take the "leap" in licensing the soup to nuts operations of their physical stores. From Mack Weldon to Ashley Stewart, Jared and his team at Leap are launching brands with one store or one hundred stores, offering a full menu of services from point-of-sale management, leasing, and staffing, to full retail tech operations. Leap has deployed nearly 50 stores with over 30 brands, and, in this interview, Jared explains their massive expansion plans in 2022 taking the data they are collecting across brands to build more benefits for retailers and customers. If Jared has his way, we shouldn't be surprised to see Leap take the idea to the Metaverse soon, too. For more information on Leap head to https://www.leapinc.com/ Thanks to Cleveron, Scandit, and Firework for making this episode possible. For more information on Cleveron head to https://cleveron.com/ For more information on Scandit head to https://www.scandit.com/ For more information on Firework head to https://firework.com/us/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2022
In a special NRF edition of The Omni Talk Spotlight Series, sponsored by Cleveron, Firework, and Scandit, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Takeoff CEO and Co-Founder Max Pedró. Takeoff has been making headlines of late, launching an automated microfulfillment center with Jewel-Osco in Chicago this past December. The center allows the grocer to pick, pack, and deliver online orders more efficiently, and do it in a way that expands their bottom line profit. Sound too good to be true? It's not. Find out how your store could be just one basketball-court-sized microfulfillment center away from thriving in the future of online grocery commerce. For more information on Takeoff, head to: https://www.takeoff.com/ Thanks to Cleveron, Scandit, and Firework for making this episode possible. For more information on Cleveron head to https://cleveron.com/ For more information on Scandit head to https://www.scandit.com/ For more information on Firework head to https://firework.com/us/ **Sponsored Content** Music by Hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 16, 2022
In a special NRF edition of The Omni Talk Spotlight Series, sponsored by Cleveron, Firework, and Scandit, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Firework President & Chief Business Officer Jason Holland. When many retailers come to the Firework team, it's because they're interested in replicating the on-site live streaming applications Firework's has created for companies like Albertsons and The Fresh Market, but what Anne and Chris discover in this interview is that's only just a part of an effective shoppable video content strategy. Jason explains how the team at Firework is laying the groundwork for the future of shoppable content right from your favorite retailers' own sites and apps, allowing seamless shopping and checkout experiences, while, at the same time, helping retailers to build a background of customer data that will help them continue to provide the richest, most highly engaging shopping experiences as consumers move into Web 3.0 and beyond. For more information on Firework, head to: https://firework.com/us/ Thanks to Cleveron, Scandit, and Firework for making this episode possible. For more information on Cleveron head to https://cleveron.com/ For more information on Scandit head to https://www.scandit.com/ For more information on Firework head to https://firework.com/us/ **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 14, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga hotly debate even more topics than normal, including: - Who had the cooler board appointee this week? Meta with DoorDash's CEO? Or Shopify with Instacart's? - Whether the Yeezy Gap and Balenciaga partnership will amount to a hill of beans. - If there is anything at all to read from a supposedly leaked Shopify patent on in-store traffic monitoring. - Why TikTok broadening its consumer reach by way of its new Atmosphere partnership is so important within the context of video commerce. - And, close with a pointed discussion about why autonomous delivery robots at the Cincinnati airport may be the wrong next step to solve a real consumer pain point. There's all that, plus my likely lone Arizona Cardinals playoff plug of the season, our salute to Bob Saget, and why I would like to get "sequentially stable" with Tom Brady. To redeem your $300 discount on the Manifest Conference, visit: manife.st/continue-registrati... To learn more about Microsoft, visit: www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/r…cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 13, 2022
Retail store employees are drowning in workload like never before with very few tools to help them survive. And, as a result, so much of their day is wasted on less impactful actions and convoluted processes that oftentimes get clouded and more confused by the actions of management from the top down. Omni Talk Expert Quorso CEO Julian Mills once again joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of the Omni Talk Ask an Expert Series to delve into one simple answer that may hold the key to solving the issue — making the District Manager's life simpler, easier, and more efficient. Together they discussed how Agile Store Management principles deployed at the District Manager level, specifically, can help to: - Simplify, speed up, and better engage store-level employees - The exact recipe for success (exception management, prioritization, planning, and the recording of workflows week-on-week) - And the 3 Stage Process to help you, the retailer, put everything into action as quickly as possible All of which results in a District Manager more equipped and more engaged to lead his or her team with powerful insights and data as the guide. For more information on Quorso, head to https://quorso.com/ Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 7, 2022
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Microsoft, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Takeoff, and Sezzle, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Discuss why moldy cheese isn't the only thing that smells in Walmart's in-home fridge delivery plans. (Minute: 3:33) - Talk about why Bed Bath & Beyond's rapidly declining registry business shouldn't be a surprise at all since it, too, is rooted in the same strategic flaw I recently wrote about in Forbes. (Minute: 9:14) - Shine light on a cool new startup, Leap, that is helping Pea in the Pod reopen stores. (Minute: 13:19) - Applaud DoorDash's decision to require every employee to complete one delivery per month and also examine if there are other retailers that could benefit from a similar approach. (Minute: 16:39) - And close with a look at the real reason why Albertsons' new AI salad bars are cool, and it has nothing to do with AI. (Minute: 22:16) There's all that, plus a salute to the folks in Superior, CO, Anne's favorite Topps trading card from the 1980s, and what I would do with $200,000 worth of stolen butter. To redeem your $300 discount on the Manifest Conference, visit: manife.st/continue-registrati... To learn more about Microsoft, visit: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/retail/microsoft-cloud-for-retail To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Sezzle, visit: https://sezzle.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 20, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Women's Retail Collective Podcast, Anne Mezzenga sits down with Fanatics Chief Strategic Retail Officer Gina De Caro Sprenger. Gina is like no other woman in retail we've interviewed. She wanted to work in this industry so badly, she applied (and was hired) for a job operating the elevator at a luxury department store at age 14! She definitely made her way to the top floor. From running the entire home business for Target to her current role leading the retail store efforts for every sports team franchise under the sun. Listen to Gina's entire career story and stay until the end to hear about how she became a member of the "Church Choir." Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 20, 2021
Yes, you read that right. Best Buy recently cut a hole in the front of one of its stores and installed lockers to enable a 24/7 pickup experience for their customers. And that's just the beginning. After trialing the new Best Buy lockers (in this video https://youtu.be/O7KLj7sUhIU), Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga had to find out how this revolutionary new retail experience came to be, so they got the locker company's President, Luxer One's very own Josh Middlebrooks, to join them for the latest edition of their Omni Talk Spotlight Series. In this episode, Josh, Chris, and Anne discuss how Best Buy and Luxer One went from wild idea to successful multi-store implementation, the overwhelming response from customers and Best Buy associates, and the role lockers like this might play in future store footprints. For more information about Luxer One head to https://www.luxerone.com/ To see a live demo of the pilot head here: https://youtu.be/O7KLj7sUhIU **Sponsored Content** Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 17, 2021
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Takeoff and the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, our good friends Kristin Kohler Burrows and David Ritter stop by to help Chris and Anne hand out this year’s Omni Talk 2021 Retail Awards! Categories up for grabs include: - Retailer of the Year - Retail CEO of the Year - Retail Technology of the Year - Most Overhyped Technology of the Year - Retail Headline of the Year - Best New Retail Partnership of the Year - And, much, much more! To redeem your $300 discount on the Manifest Conference, visit: https://manife.st/continue-registrati... To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: http://www.takeoff.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 16, 2021
When people hear the word “scanning,” some immediately think of a scanner in the checkout lane or a barcode reader in an app, but there are many use cases for scanning technology, especially as retailers gear up for the changes ahead in 2022. In our latest Spotlight Series Omni Talk's Anne Mezzenga sat down with Scandit VP of Product, CTO & Co-Founder Christian Floerkemeier to discuss how retailers can implement scanning tech to simplify store operations, like picking and packing online orders, to scanning ID's for compliant alcohol delivery. For more on Scandit, head to www.Scandit.com Music by hooksounds.com **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 13, 2021
In the latest Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Anne Mezzenga sits down with ciValue VP of Marketing Pearl Lieberman to talk about Retail Media Networks and why many retailers and brands already have all the data they need to get them started. In this episode, Pearl and Anne discuss: - How ciValue helps retailers deploy machine learning and AI to supply pertinent and organized data for brand partners - Why brands and retailers must prioritize the development of their data into Retail Media Networks and how to start. - How sharing customer data can help retailers remain defensible against increasingly popular DTC brand strategies. - Why the partnerships brands and retailers are forming now will help them prepare for the metaverse and other future retail marketing efforts. For more on ciValue, head to https://civalue.com/ Music by hooksounds.com **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 10, 2021
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Takeoff, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, and Attentive, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Examine Jewel-Osco's new microfulfillment partnership with Takeoff. - Question the activist pushing for a Kohl's e-commerce spinoff. - Put marketplaces square in our sights as one of the most overhyped tech trends of 2021, following Giant Food's plan to build one. - Discuss what DoorDash's announcement of instant delivery in NYC means for the last-mile delivery landscape. - And close with the rant to end all rants on why Wayfair will never succeed in opening up physical retail stores as long as Niraj Shah is at the helm. There's all that, plus what Anne would name her hedge fund, dames, and the great Amy's Kitchen debate -- i.e. frozen enchilada or frozen burrito? To redeem your $300 discount on the Manifest Conference, visit: https://manife.st/continue-registrati... To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Attentive, visit: www.attentivemobile.com/omnitalk Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 6, 2021
“Smash and Grab” robberies at several retailers stole the headlines during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but the real concern for retailers should be the significant increase in digital “smash and grabs” as fraud spikes with the growing number of “card not present” and online transactions. In the latest edition of The Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series, Signifyd SVP of Operations and Corporate Development Bennett joins Anne Mezzenga to discuss this and more, including Signifyd’s latest Pulse report outlining fraud data during Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2021. In this episode they cover: - How retailers should prepare for fraud during peak holiday traffic - New areas for fraud monitoring as store experiences get more high tech, from scan-and-go to contactless payments - In times of supply chain shortages, how retailers can make sure their limited number of products get into the hands of their best customers - The importance of investing in tech like machine learning to maintain security, speed, and customer satisfaction in as many transactions as possible For more information, head to Signifyd.com, and for access to their weekly reports, including the one discussed in this episode on Black Friday and Cyber Monday head to signifyd.com/pulse. Music by hooksounds.com **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 4, 2021
There is quite possibly no trend hotter right now than the Buy Now, Pay Later space. So Omni Talk invited Sezzle’s very own Paul Paradis to join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series. Collectively the three of them explore: - The history and origin of Buy Now, Pay Later - The categories and demographics that tend to use BNPL the most - How the BNPL adoption curve is shifting to in-store payments - And what we can expect during the holidays and going forward into next year Pretty soon BNPL providers will be on the tips of everyone’s tongues just like Visa and Mastercard, and this interview will give you a good sense of just how fast that is likely to happen! Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 3, 2021
In this week’s Fast Five podcast, sponsored by Takeoff, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, and Attentive, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: – Discuss what to make, if anything, of the retail sales results from the past week. – Laud Macy’s for its Thanksgiving Day parade NFT play. – Temper our expectations surrounding the new Toys R Us store that is opening soon at the American Dream shopping mall. – Curiously explore the intersection of online warehouse club shopping and grocery shopping through the lens of Boxed’s latest acquisition. – And close by offering our take on the slew of smash and grab robberies besieging retail right now. There’s all that, plus a cool new video demonstration of how to shop multiple retailers online at the Mall of America all in one cart, a shameless Urban Rooster Shop plug, and a debate over the sexiest toy store mascot of all-time! To watch the MOA demo,, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iE2Z8... To visit Urban Rooster Shop, visit: https://urbanroostershop.com/ To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Attentive, visit: www.attentivemobile.com/omnitalk Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 25, 2021
In this week’s Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, and Attentive, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Discuss the dangers of Sainsbury opening a checkout-free store in London that leverages Amazon's "Just Walk Out" technology. - Extol the many virtues of a combo Amazon Go and Starbucks store. - Are happy and somewhat skeptical of the news that Target plans to close permanently on Thanksgiving. - Throw patio umbrella shade at Best Buy for acquiring Yardbird. - And, finish with a look at whether Kroger offering Google maps pickup at 2,000 stores across the country is cool or just PR sizzle. There's all that, plus how not to pick a lock, vacuuming in VR, and a salute to the A-Team's Howling Mad Murdock, Dwight Schultz. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Attentive, visit: www.attentivemobile.com/omnitalk Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 23, 2021
A&M's Jonathan Sharp gets hit with tough questions as he shares the most important insights from the A&M Consumer & Retail Group's Fall 2021 Consumer Sentiment Survey in just five minutes! To read the full survey, head here: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/ConsumerSentiment-WriteUp_For-Publication_15Oct2021.pdf *Sponsored content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 19, 2021
In this week’s Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, and Attentive, Chad Lusk and Abhinav Chandra of the A&M Consumer & Retail Group join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to talk: - Casper going private. - The rise of retail media networks through the lens of Albertsons. - Instacart's, what some may call, "desperate," new shopping features. - Instant Turkish delivery startup Getir launching in Chicago. - And a deal from Chase and GoPuff that seems almost too Crazy Larry to believe is real but it actually is! There's all that, plus Chad's favorite Harry Styles song, the great Christmas tree debate, and our favorite Kmart memories from our childhood. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Attentive, visit: www.attentivemobile.com/omnitalk Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 18, 2021
Omnichannel retailing during the pandemic has placed one hell of a premium on inventory accuracy in stores and throughout the supply chain. But so much of the legacy store level and DC level infrastructure is not equipped to give us the data and level of accuracy that we need to meet these new demands. Kris Barton of Avery Dennison and Umesh Umesh Cooduvalli of Detego join Chris Walton for the latest installment of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series to discuss why RFID may just be the answer. Together they explore how RFID can: - Greatly improve store level inventory accuracy - Improve your performance on buy online, pickup in store - Reduce the amount of split shipments out of your stores - And give you a leg up on the future More and more stores are becoming like mini-warehouses, so the premium on inventory accuracy will soon be at an all-time high (if it isn't already). *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 17, 2021
2022 is right around the corner, so who better than Microsoft to tell us all on what retail technology trends they would place their bets in the upcoming year! So Omni Talk is pleased to announce that Microsoft’s very own Chris Dieringer and Ricardo Belmar have joined Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest installment of their Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series. Collectively the four of them will explore things like: - Cloud Commerce - Automation - Computer Vision - And who knows? They may even just touch on the metaverse, too. It is sure to be a highlight heading into next year! Music by hooksounds.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 13, 2021
In this week’s Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, and Attentive, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Explore Amazon's Venmo partnership. - Praise Sobeys' new "flex store" concept. - Debate YouTube's ability to win in livestream commerce. - Have a blast talking Burberry's interactive deer NFTs for Singles' Day. - And, close with a look at why Nike teaming up on loyalty with DSG shows why Nike is still one of the best retailers around. To redeem your $300 discount on the Manifest Conference, visit: manife.st/continue-registratio…RTNER&refId=OmniTalk To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Attentive, visit: www.attentivemobile.com/omnitalk Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 12, 2021
In this week’s Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, and Attentive, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Explore what Amazon taking Venmo means for the future. - Praise Sobeys for its new "flex store" concept. - Debate YouTube's right to win in livestream commerce. - Have a blast talking Burberry's interactive deer NFTs (yes, you read that right) for Singles' Day. - And, close with a look at why Nike teaming up on loyalty with Dick's Sporting Goods shows why Nike is still one of the best omnichannel retailers around. There's all that, plus how we like our pretzels, Adele's new single, and both of us calling Jeff Bezos's alpha male flex pose to keep Leonardo DiCaprio away from his girlfriend what it is -- an HGH induced mid-life crisis. Be careful out there, – Chris, Anne, and the Omni Talk team To redeem your $300 discount on the Manifest Conference, visit: https://manife.st/continue-registration/?couponCode=MANIFEST_PARTNER&refId=OmniTalk To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Attentive, visit: www.attentivemobile.com/omnitalk Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 5, 2021
In this week’s Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, and Attentive, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Question the strategic rationale behind the Kroger and Bed Bath & Beyond partnership that was announced this week. - Explain why Amazon Fresh gaining share in California and Illinois could be a canary in the coal mine that the grocery industry should be watching closely. - Highlight Ubers Eats getting into "Babies and Kids" delivery. - Discuss all the ramifications of Grabango going live with its checkout-free solutions in six stores in Tucson, AZ. - And close with a look at Nike trademarking virtual goods and what it means for brands as they grapple with the coming apocalypse metaverse. There's all that, plus my favorite NES game of all time, what Anne would wear to a team's meeting in the metaverse, and a shout to everyone's favorite American town, Conshohocken, PA. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Attentive, visit: www.attentivemobile.com/omnitalk Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 29, 2021
This week’s Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, and Attentive, David Ritter and David Brown of the A&M Consumer & Retail Group join Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to talk: - Target's new same-day fulfillment features, with cool names like, "Backup," "Forget Something," and "Shopping Partner." - Amazon's new "Local Selling" program that lets customers order products for pickup from local sellers. - Trigo's second open-to-the-public checkout-free store in Germany with the REWE Group. - Poshmark's recently announced, "Brand Closet," that lets big brands sell directly to Poshmark's user base. - And, close with a unanimous look at why it probably made sense for PayPal to pull back on its plans to acquire Pinterest. There's all that, plus Liz Taylor references, Anne needing a cigarette mid-show, and everyone's favorite gift this holiday season -- sand. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Attentive, visit: www.attentivemobile.com/omnitalk Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 21, 2021
This week’s Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, and Attentive, was chock full of 10 out of 10 headlines. Every story this week was big, some might even say, HUGE. We have the first-ever retrofitted checkout-free store, a nonsensical +$300 million acquisition, a big scan-and-go test, an ultra fast move into NYC, and a subscription program that one major retailer continues to just piss down its leg. In this week's Fast Five Podcast, Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton: - Herald Tesco's new checkout-free store with Trigo in London as a landmark event in the history of in-store retailing. - Question Instacart's dumb smart cart acquisition of Caper (see what we did there?). - Fawn all over GoPuff and its move into New York City. - Shower love on Best Buy for its latest scan-and-go and 24/7 curbside pickup locker tests. - And end it all by giving Walmart a jolly good and right proper slagging for how it continues to make Walmart+ the most unimaginative subscription program in the history of retail. There's all that, plus my favorite wine pairing with cheese made from goat's milk, Anne's aversion to Macy's Santa Clauses, and one big camelback. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Attentive, visit: www.attentivemobile.com/omnitalk To register for the Manifest conference, visit: www.manife.st Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 18, 2021
"How do you sell snowflakes?" - Andy Reuben CEO of Trove In this case, snowflakes = resale product, and to figure out the answer to that question we had to call in an expert in the circular economy and resale. In the latest Ask An Expert series, Omni Talk's Anne Mezzenga is joined by resale expert and VP of Brand Success at Recurate Cynthia Power. Cynthia started her retail resale career at Eileen Fisher running their "Renew" program, one of the first upcycling and resale programs in the business. In this episode, Cynthia talks about the variety of approaches brands and retailers are exploring as they add resale to their platforms and the reasons why they've been moved to do so -- from seeking sustainability to more successful customer acquisition. Anne and Cynthia conclude the episode by discussing the latest resale headlines, from Resale-As-A-Service to resale storefronts and the advantages and disadvantages of each. For more information on Recurate or to get in contact with Cynthia, head to Recurate.com. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 15, 2021
This week's Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, and Attentive, was a cornucopia of headline delights, a veritable hodgepodge of topics on everything from outright lunacy to some downright shrewd moves from one of the nation's biggest mall operators. In this week's podcast, Anne and I work ourselves into a lather discussing: - The rationale behind the irrational claim by one Mr. Scott Ostfeld that Macy's e-commerce business is worth $14 billion . . . on its own! - Simon Property Group's new partnership with Klarna. - Facebook's latest move into physical retailing. - Kroger entering the Northeast. - And close with a look at a new drive-thru grocery startup, Opie, that could be setup to fail before it even starts. There's all that, plus Stranger Things between Walmart and Netflix, contactless smoothies, and what food we'd least like to have made for us by a robot. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Attentive, visit: www.attentivemobile.com/omnitalk Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 14, 2021
Your store teams shouldn't be spending time on anything that isn't driving sales or reducing costs. But too much of their day is wasted on less impactful actions and convoluted processes, which oftentimes results in them feeling even more overwhelmed and inefficient. Omni Talk Expert Quorso CEO Julian Mills once again joins Chris Walton for the latest installment of the Omni Talk Ask an Expert Series to delve deep into why agile store management in theory and practice could be the answer. Together they will explore how Agile Store Management helps make every minute in your stores count by: - Simplifying processes (automating data analysis, digitally tracking actions, streamlining store visits, and consolidating tech interfaces) - Prioritizing intelligently (managers doing the most impactful and important things first - through a combination of tasks and data-driven/smart alerts) - Adapting locally (to meet specific conditions on the ground) - Sharing lessons learned (across the frontline and front-to-center to scale successes) - Motivating employees (with visible impact and recognition to boost engagement and maintain momentum) Or, as Chris and Julian like to call it -- SPASM The result is rapid improvements in Sales, Waste, Shrink, CSAT, and most importantly many more happy and engaged employees who now feel like they have a life raft to save them from drowning. Chris and Julian will discuss all this and more in this latest episode of the Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series -- "Store Teams Drowning? Agile Store Ops Is The Easy Way To Save Them." *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 8, 2021
Jesse Michael, Managing Director at Adeptmind, returns to the Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series with Mall of America's VP Marketing Grant Buntje to discuss all that it takes to make the Mall of America shoppable online. When Omni Talk last spoke with Jesse, we learned about Adeptmind's first foray into making a mall shoppable online based on their work with Centennial's MainPlace mall, where together Centennial and Adeptmind made nearly 2.0 million skus available for online delivery and pickup. Flash forward a mere 4 months later, Adeptmind has now brought these same capabilities to life at the symbol of American mall-based retailing, the Mall of America. In this podcast, Jesse and Grant discuss with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga what it took to bring the effort to fruition, their lessons learned, and where they plan to take the concept next just in time for the holidays. Everyone is talking about making malls shoppable online right now and there is a lot of smoke and mirrors out there about how to get it done -- this interview gives it to you straight from two people who are out there living it and making it happen on a massive scale. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 8, 2021
In today's Fast Five Video, sponsored by Takeoff, the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, and Attentive, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Question the real motives behind Target's holiday price adjustment promise. - Love, love, love (that's three "love's" if you are keeping score at home) Amazon's new gift-giving feature. - Discuss how astute Gopuff's plans to open up live retail stores might be. - Place quite a bit of importance on Aldi Nord's announcement of a 4,300 square foot checkout-free grocery store with Trigo. - And close with a discussion of an absolutely stellar new feature from Instacart that allows people to shop for meal kits from Sunbasket without needing a Sunbasket subscription. Cancel Christmas! There's all that, plus I actually admit that Marc Lore's latest startup sounds cool, and Anne extols the virtues of creamy over chunky peanut butter. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Attentive, visit: www.attentivemobile.com/omnitalk Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 1, 2021
In this week's Omni Talk Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff and the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Do the math on what a $10 delivery fee at Whole Foods means annually (the number will blow your mind). - Study the idea of "instant delivery" through the lens of The Giant Company's new 30 minutes or less partnership with Instacart. - Praise Hy-Vee for expanding its in-store robotics test. - Question the execution and strategy behind HomeGoods' new e-commerce site. - And close with as open-minded of a debate as possible about Stitch Fix's plans to reinvent shopping for clothes online. There's all that, plus Anne names the celebrity chef she would most like to preheat her oven, while Chris discusses whether swinging is allowed in the Walton household. To register for Manifest, use this link: https://manife.st/continue-registrati... To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 24, 2021
In today's Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff and the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Recap their biggest lessons learned from Groceryshop through the lens of the explosion of recent announcements from DoorDash, Shipt, and Instacart this week. - Laud Amazon for continuing to rollout its Palm One payment system. - Question the authenticity of Walmart's move to label 2,000 items as healthy and sustainable. - Get put on the spot by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group about Chick-fil-A's new Little Blue Menu virtual kitchen. - And, close with a lively and spirited debate, as only Anne and Chris can, over the report of virtual fitting rooms coming to Amazon's recently announced department stores. There's all that, plus Chris's grocery bagging tips, Anne's most nostalgic Claire's purchase from her childhood, and our favorite 7-Eleven memory from Groceryshop. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 20, 2021
In this special Groceryshop edition of our Omni Talk Spotlight Series, sponsored by Cleveron and UntieNots, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down to chat with FRONTdoor CEO and Co-Founder Dan Bourgault. When Chris and Anne first heard the news of what Dan and FRONTdoor collective have been working on, they immediately said to each other, "We have to get Dan on our podcast." Dan and his team have created what they are calling the "first micro-last mile delivery network" with the capacity to cover 90% of residences and businesses in the US and Canada. And the idea makes a ton of intuitive sense. There our hundreds of drivers out there delivering for Amazon and FedEx every day, so why not bring them together and forge better strength and bargaining power in numbers? This podcast is yet again another example of how Chris and Anne stay on the cutting edge of the change in retail that will soon impact how everyone shops. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 20, 2021
In this special Groceryshop edition of our Omni Talk Spotlight Series, sponsored by Cleveron and UntieNots, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Shipt Chief Business Officer Rina Hurst about Shipt's new partnership with Visa that gives free Shipt memberships to Visa card holders. In addition, Rina also shares Shipt's three ring strategy for expansion: - Ring 1 -- local and beloved grocers - Ring 2 -- general merchandisers - Ring 3 -- specialty retailers And also touches on Shipt's new preferred shopper program. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 19, 2021
In this special Groceryshop edition of our Omni Talk Spotlight Series, sponsored by Cleveron and UntieNots, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down to chat with one of Omni Talk's favorite guests, the always mellifluous Indy Guha, the CMO at Signifyd. Indy, as he always does, gives Chris and Anne a crash course in the growing importance of fraud prevention and revenue generation in grocery. For example, did you know that with the explosive growth in curbside pickup and contactless scan-and-go implementations, the time to detect fraud is quickly moving to zero? And that retailers are liable for all of it? In the days of e-commerce, manual processes could be used to validate orders as retailers waited for goods to ship from their warehouses, but now with curbside pickup and scan-and-go those same processes no longer work because the customer wants validation of their purchases instantaneously. Retailers have no choice but to adopt AI solutions to solve this problem. Give this video a watch and you will quickly understand why grocers will likely soon be moving fraud detection to the top of their IT roadmaps. **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 19, 2021
In this special Groceryshop edition of our Omni Talk Spotlight Series, sponsored by Cleveron and UntieNots, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down to chat with Cooler Screens Founder and CEO Arsen Avakian. Cooler screens, as its name implies, is one of the cooler companies around. It specializes in helping retailers amplify their in-store touch points by getting the right message in front of the right customers at the right time, and in a brand safe way. Starting with digital cooler screen doors, with companies like Walgreens, their solution helps to digitize the physical shopping world and provides the same metrics to retailers that one would find in e-commerce. Everything on Cooler Screens' displays can change to the specific customer shopping in-aisle -- e.g. the products on display, the promotional messaging, and even the marketing team's creative expressions. And based on Cooler Screens recent success, they now even have plans to expand into other categories, like beauty. Cooler Screens is an intuitive concept at its core, and listen to this podcast and you will hear a careful examination from Chris and Anne of why it is finding so much quick success. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 16, 2021
In today's Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff and the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, A&M's David Ritter and Kristin Kohler Burrows join Chris and Anne to debate: - What Amazon's latest moves to increase wages and offer free college tuition for its employees signal for the rest of the retail industry. - The recent layoffs at Casper and whether they are a canary in the coal mine for other DTC brands or simply an isolated event. - Amazon mega-roller-upper Thrasio's recent $100 million spending spree and what it could mean for the CPG industry. - Peloton's overt move into private label apparel. - And, close with a discussion on buyers' clubs through the examination lens of Beauty Pie, a buyers' club in the health and wellness space that just raised $100 million. There's all that plus taco subscription runs to the border and what we think is also likely fake news from Deutsche bank on the size of the Walmart+ subscription base. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 16, 2021
It’s been a trend throughout the pandemic, but BOPIS, Click-and-Collect, whatever you’d like to call it, is here to stay. It’s time to get a solid solution, and unfortunately, it’s not as simple as setting up lockers inside or outside your store. In this podcast, Anne Mezzenga and Cleveron Co-Founder Indrek Oolup dive deep into the complete strategy required to set your enterprise or SME retail operation up for success. Omni Talk Fast Five fans will recall the news of Cleveron’s robotic fulfillment kiosk pilot with Jewel-Osco which Anne and Indrek also cover in this interview. Indrek shares the successes and opportunities they’ve seen so far from that effort, and how that’s played into the development of future Cleveron products, including a new product Indrek announces exclusively to Omni Talk listeners in this podcast. To learn more about Cleveron, head to Cleveron.com **Sponsored Content** Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 16, 2021
Quit sending all your customers all the same promotions, and while you’re at it, make it fun! In this live recording of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton sit down with UntieNots co-founders, Zyed Jamoussi and Cédric Chéreau to talk about how they’re utilizing AI and gamification to make loyalty programs better for retailers, and more importantly, for their customers. The UntieNots team has deployed their loyalty and promotion platform with retailers throughout Europe, tackling the challenges that can come with personalization and privacy and in this podcast, they share with the audience how they’re applying that knowledge in their move into the North American market. Cédric and Zyed explain why the key to a successful loyalty program is not grouped promotions, but instead in tapping AI within their platform to create highly personalized offers that have netted their customers over $35M in discounts in just a few short years. For more on UntieNots, head to https://untienots.com/en/home **Sponsored Content** Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 9, 2021
In today's Fast Five Podcast, sponsored by Takeoff and the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Chris and Anne: - Debate the significance and many angles to consider in the momentous announcement by Amazon to put its Just Walk Out Technology into two new Whole Foods stores. - Discuss Kroger's continued storeless expansion in Florida. - Question Walmart's newly announced partnership with Instacart to deliver groceries to New York City. - Argue the merits of the "shop-in-shop" trend by turning the microscope on Hy-Vee's move into fitness equipment. - And, close with a discussion of what the retirement of Target CIO, Mike McNamara, means for Target and retail overall. There's all that, plus Kanye's velvet blankets and Anne's favorite bush. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot’s 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 9, 2021
There have been a lot of shifts happening as a result of the pandemic: people have new shopping behaviors, they’re discovering product differently, engaging with retailers in new places, on new channels, and in new ways that are requiring brands and retailers to evolve their thinking around talking to their customers. Omni Talk has heard you! We know your marketing teams are just coming up for air after the height of the pandemic, and now the rules are changing even more quickly than customers' habits. So, we brought in an expert on the topic, Lisa Collings SVP of Client Development of Epsilon Digital Media to talk to us about how retailers and brands can get better at putting their focus on this changing customer. To learn more about Epsilon head to Epsilon.com **Sponsored Content** Music by Hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 3, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Praise Amazon for its Affirm partnership and once again setting the table years ahead of everyone else in regards to mass market BNPL adoption. - Iterate and explore what Ikea's new buyback and resale program could one day mean for the Pennsylvania town of Conshohocken and Americans everywhere. - Discuss why Allbirds' IPO smell afowl. Whoops, we mean afoul. - Point out how the new Mercatus and Instacart relationship could ultimately lead to some pricing confusion for consumers. - And close by examining a company, Leap, who plans to open up 250 stores for DTC brands by 2022. There's all that, plus Chris compares himself to Robocop and Anne's shares her favorite thing to do with duct tape on a summer's day in Minnesota. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot's 45 Top Retail Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 2, 2021
In the latest Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Signifyd SVP of Operations and Client Development, Bennett, in a conversation you may need to hear for yourself to believe. Bennett shares with the audience the growing types of fraud retailers are faced with as customers demand delivery or order pickup within minutes, contactless payment options, and online returns. As fraudsters evolve their strategies, retailers large and small need to tap technology to help them stay ahead of the scammers and to guarantee customer satisfaction so that real orders are going through. Bennett unpacks how companies like Signifyd can help retailers prepare a fraud prevention solution in time for the holidays when retailers see an increase in fraud, but, more importantly, when real orders from their best and even new customers increase significantly as well. There's so much more to this story than we could fit into one interview, so be sure to download the Signifyd 2021 State of Fraud Report at: https://omnitalk.blog/signifyd-state-of-fraud-report-2021/ To get in contact with Signifyd, and Bennett, head to Signifyd.com **Sponsored Content** Music by HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 26, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton rejoins Anne Mezzenga on the show after a long medical absence to discuss: – Amazon's move into department stores. – The insanity that is Macy's new Toys R Us partnership. – All the sizzle without the steak in Walmart's new GoLocal delivery service concept. – The positive and potentially negative repercussions of Shipt's new preferred shopper innovation. – And why Warby Parker just may not be the city on the hill of omnichannel retailing that so many people have made them out to be for the past decade. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ Plus, check out our ranking in Feedspot's 45 Top Retail Podcasts: https://blog.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 25, 2021
In this Omni Talk Special Report Anne Mezzenga and Shlomo Chopp Managing Partner of Case Equity Partners & Founder of RetailOS, dive into a conversation about the state of malls and retail real estate and why the current model has the potential to see a fate similar to Ryan Gosling's falling Jenga tower in the Big Short. Shlomo takes Anne and the audience on a journey behind the scenes to break down why, when so many malls are struggling, there's little appetite for REITs, Landlords, and mall operators to invest capital or resources in innovation. Shlomo explains how the industry needs to change in order to prevent the Jenga tower of retail real estate from falling, the risks and rewards involved for those trying to restore the tower's foundation, and why his team at RetailOS is determined to prove the viability of these new concepts. For more information on RetailOS and Shlomo Chopp, head here: https://www.retailos.com/ To sign up for the Re-Tales group head to: https://www.re-tales.io/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 24, 2021
In the latest Women's Retail Collective Podcast brought to you by Parcel Pending by Quadient, host Anne Mezzenga sits down with Forrester VP and Principal Analyst Sucharita Kodali. This is a special one, in particular, because the retail industry may have lost one of their most valuable analysts and experts to Hollywood director, Judd Apatow. Sucharita explains her very unique career journey and the full details of that story in this podcast. They also cover important pointers from Sucharita on how the industry should be analyzing the PR sizzle in today's constant retail technology headlines, what the industry should be paying attention to that they aren't, and of course, Sucharita's all-star concert lineup. Thanks to Parcel Pending for their support of this and all the Women's Retail Collective Content. Music courtesy of HookSounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 20, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Takeoff and the A&M Consumer & Retail Group Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts Mohit Mohal and Hemant Kalbag of the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group discuss: -Target’s and Walmart’s banner Q2 earnings and what, if anything stands in their way. -If Allbirds has all the right stuff to become a competitive and successful player in the activewear space, or if this pre-IPO move will have them wishing they stuck to the soft and sweat-wicking shoes that they’re good at. -Giant Eagle becoming the first grocery chain to accept Venmo and Paypal payments in stores and how they might be grooming customers for more GetGo cashier-less experiences beyond the convenience store. -If Instagram’s move into ads will get a "like "or a "swipe" from consumers and how brands have to carefully think about their approach to this shiny penny of social commerce. -Ikea’s new scan-and-go concept store in Shanghai and while Hemant and Anne are ready to visit tomorrow, why Mohit may not be joining them just yet. The crew wraps up the pod debating how much they’d be willing to pay (and how long they’d wait) for 7-Eleven alcohol delivery, the retailer that should be next to test Taco Bell’s 4 lane drive-thru, and who they’re trusting with their IT services: Walmart or Best Buy. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: http://www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: http://www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 6, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Takeoff and the A&M Consumer & Retail Group Anne Mezzenga and guest host James Cook Americas Director of Retail Research for JLL and host of the podcast Where We Buy discuss: -Kroger and Kitchen United’s ghost kitchen partnership allowing picky families everywhere to each order a different restaurant meal and the week’s fill-in groceries in one trip. -No more waiting In lines for click and collect pickup or, more importantly, to make returns for Marks & Spencer customers and how long it’s going to take US retailers to adopt the tech. -Whether Wolverine will have better luck than most of the footwear companies before them acquiring apparel brand Sweaty Betty and if athleisure will stay hot when we return to work. -Square’s Afterpay acquisition and the best bets for how BNPL providers can try to differentiate themselves in the growing roster of players. -The “influencer” vs. “creator” debate and what it’ll mean when brands shift their TV budgets to the EMCEE e-comm stores of Tik-Tok stars. While on the topic, Anne and James also discuss the brand James is best suited to be an influencer/creator for, the number of beers James is likely to get from a Corona-distributing vending machine that only accepts orders using the perfect Spanish dialect, and the side hustle they plan to start outside the Harry Potter experience in New York. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: http://www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: http://www.takeoff.com/ You can find James Cook's podcast Where We Buy here: https://wherewebuy.show/ and YouTube Channel for Everything We Know About Retail here: Everythingweknow.show This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 3, 2021
In the latest Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series Anne Mezzenga sits down with Lowes Foods E-commerce VP Chad Petersen to hear about the strategy they're putting together for the next year in grocery. Lowes Foods is no stranger to online grocery ordering, they've been doing it since 1997, but as Chad explains, like many regional grocery chains, they are experimenting with the right mix of resource allocation for in-store pickup vs. delivery and owned vs third party services for picking, packing, and last-mile. Chad breaks down the successes and opportunities they've had throughout the pandemic, especially as they welcome customers back to the store experience they're so well known for. (The entire staff does a chicken dance each time hot, fresh, chicken comes out to the deli seen here: https://youtu.be/KwpFHxJTnIo) They close with Chad's advice for other grocers as they approach the "shiny pennies" of grocery innovation and the daily headlines from new players offering delivery in minutes to full fulfillment. You can find out more about Chad and Lowes Foods at https://www.lowesfoods.com/contact This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 30, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Takeoff and the A&M Consumer & Retail Group Anne Mezzenga and guest host Najla Kayyem of Pacific Retail Capital Partners discuss: -Twitter, better late than never, finally enabling shopping in-app and exposing a large and diverse audience to the concept of social commerce. -Shopify widely sharing the increased revenues merchants using Shop Pay, their BNPL feature, have seen but keeping the word on merchant processing fees for this service closer to the faux fur vest. -StockX adding the booming business of beauty to the drop, partnering with Revlon and Megan Thee Stallion for a limited make-up release and the untapped potential in the beauty resale market. -Requirements for the best “Urbanurbs” the hottest new thing in real estate development and the developer, Mark Toro, who plans to buy up every dead mall and office park in the Sunbelt to create more of them. -Netflix opening its first physical store and the flywheel created when established direct-to-consumer brands and content creators become merchants. Anne and Najla also confess their love for discontinued Bath & Body Works scents, play “real hard seltzer name or not,” find out what product would be forever stored in Najla’s blockchain of purchases should Amazon pull the trigger on crypto, and finally they debate which is the more ridiculous NFT: Charmin Non-Fungible Toilet Paper or Pringles Digital Flavored CryptoCrisp. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: http://www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: http://www.takeoff.com/ You can follow Najla Kayyem EVP of Pacific Retail Capital Partners on Instagram and LinkedIn at @najlakayyem This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 23, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, and Takeoff Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts David Ritter and Kristin Kohler Burrows of the A&M Consumer & Retail Group discuss: -Uber announcing partnerships with both Albertsons and Costco sending the Fast Five team into a debate about what this means for the grocery delivery ecosystem and grocers moving away from Instacart -Foxtrot’s ambitious expansion plans and some ideas on how they should consider differentiating themselves in their new markets, from deploying checkout-free tech to going all-in on Momofuku-led concepts. -The nuance in the stream of recent cashier-less checkout headlines, including the latest two stores from AiFi at Morrisons and Loop Neighborhood Stores, and what retailers should be considering when exploring these initiatives. -thredUP’s Resale-As-A-Service (RAAS) 360 commerce platform debuting with Madewell this week and A&M’s expert advice for retailers trying to figure out their own resale strategy. -Bite Ninja blowing up Anne’s LinkedIn DM’s and also revolutionizing the QSR labor industry with a platform that allows gig workers to take orders remotely at the drive-thru. The team also talked about Ulta opening in Target, increasing its one-stop-shop allure, and resulting in a poll of the most random collection of products the team has purchased in one trip to a big box store. Hint: It includes 50 lbs of crawfish, chocolate chips, and reading glasses. All that plus the Olympic squads Dave and Kristin wish they could join in Tokyo this week. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail Kristin can be reached at: kburrows@alvarezandmarsal.com David can be reached at: dritter@alvarezandmarsal.com To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 20, 2021
Sunny Jiang started at then startup EyeBuyDirect right out of university as a financial controller. Like many of her coworkers at the online eyewear retailer, she has remained with the company almost 15 years later. Unlike many of her coworkers, after many successes, she made her way from finance controller to leading the entire company as CEO and President in 2017. Sunny attributes her success leading EyeBuyDirect and the over three million customers they serve to her dedication to leading by example, and it’s clear after listening to the story of her climb to CEO that she’s done a tremendous job of that. In this podcast, Anne Mezzenga and Sunny Jiang discuss Sunny’s future plans for EyeBuyDirect as she takes the brand into new geographies and expands their online presence of white label and designer brands into a marketplace of 3rd party brands to meet the evolving needs of their customers. Long-time listeners know you’ll have to stay to the end to find out who attends Sunny’s very own concert and this one has some new names you’ll definitely want to add to your playlist after listening. Thanks to Parcel Pending for making this podcast series possible. You can find out more about Parcel Pending at ParcelPending.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 16, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, and Takeoff Anne Mezzenga and guest host Forrester VP and Principal Analyst Sucharita Kodali discuss: -Instacart’s powerhouse move, bringing over yet another Facebook Exec, Fidji Simo, to be the company’s CEO and what this indicates for the direction company may be headed in. -Why Sam’s Club adding Scan & Ship is so much more than a new app feature and may open them up to an entirely new consumer. -Apple’s new Apple Pay Later platform unlocking interest-free installment payments for all Apple Pay users and how it could take BNPL mainstream. -7-Eleven’s rollout of mobile checkout to 3,000 stores and Sucharita’s suggestions for retailers when dealing with Big Tech in rolling out these initiatives. -Asos opening up Nordstrom to the international market with their new co-owned brands and future partnership. Anne and Sucharita also talk about everything else they’d rather eat before trying Kraft Mac & Cheese Ice Cream, a Sucharita-inspired line of sneakers for Porsche, and what they’d be wearing to an after-party at “Disco Kroger” had it not shut down this past week. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ You can follow Sucharita Kodali here: https://twitter.com/smulpuru This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 9, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, and Takeoff Anne Mezzenga and returning guest host Steve Dennis: -Dive into Dollar General’s big announcements they’re getting into healthcare and expanding fresh produce to 10,000+ stores including many in USDA-deemed food deserts. -Tap Steve’s luxury retail experience for his analysis on Bloomingdale’s new off-mall concept, Bloomie’s. -Discuss Brookfield’s and Simon Property Group’s investments in hospitality company C3 which will replace mall food courts with C3's ghost kitchens this year. -Talk John Lewis moving from retailer to real estate mogul with plans to build 10,000 rental homes on their property and above Waitrose Supermarkets -Gush over Glossier’s new $80M investment and plans for global store expansion Steve and Anne wrap up the podcast agreeing on which retailer has the most to gain from selling product live on Love Island and disagreeing on who would win should an epic space battle occur between Branson and Bezos in the coming weeks. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Steve and his Remarkable Retail book and podcast head to https://stevenpdennis.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 29, 2021
In this Omni Talk Ask An Expert Interview, Anne Mezzenga sits down with Yair Holtzer VP of Business Development at Trigo to talk about Artificial Intelligence Computer Vision (AICV). The AICV space is heating up with retailers across the globe piloting checkout-free retail stores of all sizes and in this interview, Anne gets Yair’s expert opinion on how retailers can best approach scaling this technology. Trigo has learned this strategy first hand over the course of the last three years as one of the early AICV companies on the scene conducting live pilots with Tesco, and now Rewe Group out of Germany. Yair elegantly explains why Trigo chose to launch with their European partners, what they’ve learned as they increase store size and add unique item types like self-dispensing beverages, tobacco, and alcohol, and how it’s prepared them as they start to take on the US market in the coming months. For more information on Trigo, head to trigo.tech **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 25, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, Takeoff, and BrightSign, Anne Mezzenga and returning guest host Oliver Banks: -Recap rather muted Prime Day results, how the event compares to Singles Day, and what Amazon can do to keep their holiday hopping. -Laud Nordstrom and Indochino for making one of the smartest partnership moves to bring GenZ and Millennials back to the department store. -Geek out over the expansion of Alibaba’s Store X concept and wonder if Costco will take the hint and get on the in-store tech train. -Contemplate the potential suitors (including Amazon) for Morrisons Supermarkets in the UK and what it could mean for Amazon Fresh UK domination. -Get their 92-year-old grandmothers on board with Marks & Spencer’s new on-demand video experts. They also cover important topics like which 80’s and 90’s product most deserves a reboot and whether Will Smith, one of the backers of the new Target DTC brand, Jinx, skews more rapper or actor. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about BrightSign, visit: www.brightsign.biz To join Anne Mezzenga and Oliver Banks at the Retail Transformation Live event, sign up here: https://retailtransformation.live/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 21, 2021
"You know great omnichannel retailing when you don’t see it." Omni Talk’s Chris Walton is joined by Sam’s Club Chief Technology Officer Vinod Bidarkoppa in this special edition of the Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series to share how his team has triumphed during this pandemic year, consistently putting out best-in-class examples of true omnichannel retailing. Vinod was brought on to the Walmart team to lead a “$65 billion dollar startup” also known as Sam’s Club, and in just under two years, has led the warehouse club as they continue to build the “Product” of the Sam’s Club experience. The strategy, as Vinod explains, is not in some kiosk or mobile app, but rather in the utilization of technology that the customer doesn’t even see like optimizing legacy OMS and POS so that you have a single view of your customer and can, in turn, provide a seamless shopping experience for them. Vinod shares what they’ve learned from programs like Sam’s Club Concierge, Scan-and-Go, and Sam’s Club Now and how they're applying that to the fulfillment side of the businesses as they take on their newest Innovation Fulfillment Center project in Paris, California. All this, plus what still lies ahead for Sam's Club this year and we guarantee you’ll want to stay until the end to find out what he has to say. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 18, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, Takeoff, and BrightSign, Anne Mezzenga and guest hosts David Ritter and Mohit Mohal of the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer & Retail Group: -Debate, that’s right, I said debate, the significance of Amazon opening a full-size Amazon Fresh autonomous grocery store. -Discuss the required execution necessary for Lowes Foods office locker delivery to be as successful as Anne wants it to be. -Determine just how much a container ship costs and the strategies expert retail consultants would put into place if they were Home Depot. -Decide if there’s enough traffic to Express, J.Crew, and Urban Outfitters websites to make third-party sellers and customers stay. -Dig Brookfield's move to bring 1,000 gaming rooms to their malls in an attempt to drive more traffic. We also discover how Anne's days working the sweet corn stand relate to Home Depot's supply chain issues and end with unanimous agreement on the greatest Eminem song of all time. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about BrightSign, visit: www.brightsign.biz This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 14, 2021
Sepideh Burkett knew at an early age that she was ready to take on big things. At 17, she left her family in Dubai with a one-way ticket to the US to start work on her engineering degree. After being "beaten into submission" by calculus, those plans changed and she followed in the family's footsteps and decided to make the pivot to pharmacy school. Now, you're probably thinking, this is a retail podcast, right? Yes. That's what makes Sepideh's story so unique. After years of running the pharmacy and health and wellness business for Walmart, Sepideh took the leap into full-on store operations for the retail giant where she saw many years of success which she attributes to her start in pharmacy thinking of those she served as patients, not just customers. Now Sepideh is at The GIANT Company where she's the Division VP leading stores teams as they get up and out of a challenging pandemic year and on to serving customers with all they've learned in the last 12+ months. Sepideh's story is an inspiring one, especially her final advice for young women entering the retail industry. This podcast is sponsored by Parcel Pending. For more information visit ParcelPending.com Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 11, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, Takeoff, and BrightSign, Anne Mezzenga and guest host Carl Boutet: -Discuss their admiration for Walmart’s newest plan to plus up Walmart+ with free prescriptions for members. -Talk GNC making ultra Ulta moves setting up shop in 4,000+ Walmart stores and on Walmart.com. Remember to scan-and-go that protein, bro! -Discover Carl Boutet’s love of bin shopping for beans, now available at Quicklotz. -Loathe Instagram forcing them to call influencers “creators” and review new plans to pay creators for the goods they review on Reels. -Point out all that’s still ahead for retailers who just figured out how to do online fulfillment in a pandemic as it relates to the Roblox and PacSun partnership. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about BrightSign, visit: www.brightsign.biz To get your own copy of The Great Acceleration. The Race to Retail Resilience. By Carl Boutet, visit: https://payhip.com/b/VgdP This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 9, 2021
Did you know 58% of consumers never return after making an initial purchase? And that is because loyalty is fast and fleeting, especially in today’s complex and competitive eCommerce environment. Only focusing on a consumer's linear path-to-purchase risks losing sight of all the activity that happens after a purchase is made. The best predictors of what a consumer may do next lie within his or her online activity, not just from search to purchase but also in what happens beyond the purchase as well. In this live recording of our Ask An Expert interview, Omni Talk’s Chris Walton sat down with 1010data’s Vice President of Marketing Frank Riva to understand just how significantly the digital consumer decision journey has changed and why the traditional “path-to-purchase” approach needs to extend beyond the phrase itself and instead address a more complete journey across an entire interconnected and complex system. For the Infinity Loop Visual, head here: https://1010data.com/insights-platform/market-intelligence/retail-brand-intelligence/ecommerce-suite/ If you like what you learn in this interview (and with Prime Day just days away) be sure to check out 1010data’s Prime Day Primer here: https://bit.ly/3iyWHjd Everything you need to know in one report. For more information about 1010data, head to 1010data.com. **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 3, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, Takeoff, and BrightSign, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga: - Discuss what the new Walmart and Gap partnership means for a brand they both love so much (and would come out of retirement for). - Explain why there is so much more nuance to the long-term discussion about Instacart than what the pundits are relaying with all their pithy comments on social media. - Debate whether Sheetz taking Bitcoin is a smart experiment. - Both get resale exasperation talking Etsy and its new Depop acquisition. - And, finally, drop it like the hot they never were, talking about Instagram's new feature that lets you shop exclusive product drops from multiple brands all at once. There's all that, plus they argue invisible art, frightened turtles, and the sorest part of their overworked Crossfit bodies, while turning it up to 11 just for loyal listener Lee Sherwood-Esmond. Because we know she is listening. Thank you to her and to all of you for making Omni Talk a continued success and a reflection of our personalities. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about BrightSign, visit: www.brightsign.biz This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 1, 2021
As NetElixir CEO and Founder Udayan Bose says, Chief Marketing Officers and e-commerce marketing teams have been running on a treadmill at 10 mph since the pandemic began. And, now just when they don't need another wrench thrown into things, iOS updates have eliminated third-party cookies, turning up the heat and forcing them to come up with new ways to attract customers. In fact, according to a NetElixir study, 80% of the brands and retailers they surveyed were so busy trying to stay on top of day-to-day work that they haven’t even started to think about how to restructure their campaigns for the cookie-less world. In this podcast, Anne Mezzenga and Udayan Bose discuss how NetElixir is helping brands and retailers develop solid first-party data collection strategies that leverage NetElixir's proprietary platform. Bose shares how the NetElixir platform takes a different approach, using machine learning to identify, with 65% confidence, customers who will return to your site 2-3 times after their first purchase, and how to create a digital marketing strategy to reach them from the start. Head to NetElixir.com for more information, and if you’re a brand or retailer in that 80% and in need of some fast help, you won’t want to miss NetElixir's FREE Connect The Dots conference on June 10, 2021. Sign up here: https://www.netelixir.com/events/connecting-the-dots-driving-change-through-innovation/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=omnitalk&utm_content=ctd&utm_campaign=CTD_06_2021 *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 28, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, Takeoff, and Manhattan Associates, A&M's Kristin Kohler Burrows and Chad Lusk stop by to discuss all the week's top retail news with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga. Together they debate: - The likely impacts of Amazon's MGM acquisition. - The first-ever antitrust suit brought against Amazon and why it feels like the Attorney General of Washington, D.C. may have a case. - 10 minute delivery and the new startup, Gorillas, coming to NYC. - Kroger taking Ocado to new heights and where it doesn't have stores in Florida - And, why in the world Wilson Sporting Goods thinks it should open up physical stores. There's all that, plus lake beer, James Bond casting, and one of the toughest put you on the spot questions for first-timer Chad in the history of the show! To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To read Chris Walton's write up of this week's Manhattan Momentum Connect Conference, click here: https://omnitalk.blog/2021/05/27/momentum-connect-21-why-theres-theres-no-difference-between-purgatory-and-hell-when-talking-cloud-commerce/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 26, 2021
A few years ago, Adam Siegel came to Omni Talk and said he was leaving his position at RILA to found a startup he believed could revolutionize resale by giving brands a new way for their existing customers to resell the products they had previously purchased from them online and in an intuitive way. Intrigued by the simplicity of the idea as Adam described it, Anne and Chris asked that Adam keep in touch, and lo and behold almost two years later that startup, Recurate, has just secured $3.25 million to bring Adam's concept to life. In this podcast, Anne Mezzenga and Chris Walton interview Adam about Recurate, how it enables peer-to-peer resale on brands' own e-commerce sites, and how it plans to help brands form longer-lasting relationships with their customers all the way through discovery, purchase, resale, and repurchase. If you are a brand or retailer contemplating getting into resale, listening to this podcast could be the best move you make all year. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 24, 2021
In the latest Omni Talk Ask An Expert Series interview, Chris Walton speaks with Quorso Founder and CEO Julian Mills about the latest trends in agile store management theory and practice. Agile store management, first introduced to the Omni Talk audience back in the summer of 2020, is the idea that retail operations, particularly at the store level, can be managed similar to how software is created, i.e. with a quick, iterative mindset that is all about coordinated testing and learning to deliver the most meaningful results. Quorso and Julian are leading experts in the field when it comes to adapting this concept to retail, and, in this interview, Chris explores with Julian what the practice of applying this methodology means on the ground for those running retail stores. Together they discuss: - Where the idea of "agile" comes from (minute 3:45) - The right blend of analytics and UX to make it all happen (10:00) - What companies are ready for culturally (13:55) - Why running stores is also an incredibly localized business (20:00) - Why in-stocks may not be a retailer's biggest problem (24:00) - And how small long-tail changes, just like in e-commerce, can add up to huge impacts over time (26:00) Chris also enjoyed the conversation so much that we also plan to have Julian back again in the late summer to talk even more about the next phases of what this trend could look like. Stay tuned! To learn more about Quorso's Agile Store Labs Report, head here: https://quorso.com/agile-stores-lab-report-retails-agile-in-action/ *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 21, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, Takeoff, and Manhattan Associates, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga debate: - Target's billion dollar plus move into alcohol delivery and what CEO Brian Cornell likely wears to the gym twice a day. - Amazon Go Grocery's rebranding to Amazon Fresh and what it heralds for the future (hint: it's more than you think). - Google and Shopify's new partnership and whether it will amount to a hill of beans. - The rumors that the RealReal is planning to create its own private label line. - And we close with a discussion about retail startup CAMP's latest innovation that lets 3 year-olds shop online for toys with their 1% parents' money. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Manhattan Associates Momentum Connect Conference, visit: https://www.manh.com/en-gb/events/momentum?utm_campaign=21-01-global-all-multiproducts-paidmedia-Influencer&utm_content=Momentum&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=click-through&utm_term=INFLUENCER21 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 19, 2021
In 2020, Adeptmind made headlines with plans to make Centennial Mall properties fully shoppable online, and just last month this plan became a reality. Consumers can now shop over 2.0 million skus across a bevy of retailers at Centennial’s MainPlace mall for both delivery and pickup. That's 2.0 million plus skus online, from a mall, for delivery and pickup -- a massive milestone and achievement in mall-based retailing. We first spotlighted Adeptmind in a podcast interview last year, and now Chris Walton brings Adeptmind Managing Director, Jesse Michael, back for a second time as part of our Ask An Expert interview series to talk about how Jesse and Adeptmind have made it all happen. Together Chris and Jesse discuss all the do's and don'ts around making malls shoppable online, including POS and OMS integrations, handling returns, and, of course, coordinating fast delivery. Everyone is talking about making malls shoppable online right now, and there is a ton of smoke and mirrors out there about how to get it all done. This interview gives it to you straight. To see MainPlace mall in action, head here: https://shopnow.shopmainplacemall.com/ *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 14, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, Takeoff, and Manhattan Associates, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga talk: – The reportedly leaked memo that confirms our long held suspicions surrounding Walmart's tenuous hold on its grocery market share in the face of third-party marketplaces and Amazon. – Why in the hell it is that eBay suddenly seems cool again. – The long legs of Dick's Sporting Goods new off-price concept. – Tanger Outlets and its Fillogic partnership and why, even though the concept is cool, it could be the wrong starting point. – And Circle K's new $5.99 per month coffee subscription that Anne somehow loves despite being Death Valley low on the same idea from Panera last year. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Manhattan Associates Momentum Connect Conference, visit: https://www.manh.com/en-gb/events/momentum?utm_campaign=21-01-global-all-multiproducts-paidmedia-Influencer&utm_content=Momentum&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=click-through&utm_term=INFLUENCER21 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 8, 2021
If you’ve ever considered a career in management consulting or had a question about the consulting industry, this interview is a must-listen. Anne Mezzenga sits down with Patrica Hong, a 20-year management consultant veteran and Partner at the Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group. Patricia got into consulting thinking she’d get some early career experience and the opportunity to move to the US to get her MBA and then move onto other career opportunities. Little did she know, several years later, that she would leave consulting, come back, and still be doing it today. Patricia provides her insights on the skills it takes to succeed as a consultant and how to accept situations when you find you don’t have all the answers, like, for example, when helping a company manage their business through a pandemic. Patricia even closes the conversation sharing the number one thing on which, consultant or not, no one should ever compromise. Sponsored by Parcel Pending by Quadient (parcelpending.com) Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 8, 2021
Anne Mezzenga is joined by CEO and President of Athleta, Mary Beth Laughton. Since Mary Beth became CEO of Athleta, Athleta has become a billion-dollar brand, rolled out inclusive sizing chain-wide, and made several pivots to provide a full omnichannel experience for their customers as they worked and worked out from home during the pandemic. Mary Beth’s career in retail started early on at the Tasty Freeze in Chicago, where she went above and beyond at an early age, asking to re-configure menu boards and craft an even more perfect cone. Her ambition and success continued through her professional career, which saw her hold positions at McKinsey, launch the DTC side of Nike’s business, run e-commerce for Sephora, and finally in her current role leading the team at Athleta. Through it all, Mary Beth says her key to success is being proactive in her career, and she shares some tips on how to do that along with advice on making personal and professional career decisions, creating best in class omnichannel retail experiences, and how to prepare yourself and your teams for the next generation of retail. Sponsored by Parcel Pending by Quadient (parcelpending.com) Music by hooksounds.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
May 7, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, Takeoff, and Manhattan Associates, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga head to the Kellogg School of Management to talk: – This year's list of the Top 10 Online Retailers and what it tells us about the future of retail. – Walmart's "ladder theory" defense against a $15 minimum wage. – The Macy's kerfuffle over its scan-and-go mobile app and what it says about Jeff Gennette's leadership and technology overall within retail experience design. – Who stands to win and who stands to lose from Instacart's brilliant move to become the online SNAP redemption clearinghouse for a bevy of new grocers. – And what SoFi's new cryptocurrency rewards program says about loyalty, asset transferability, and today's youth. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Manhattan Associates Momentum Connect Conference, visit: https://www.manh-momentum.com/event/2900e153-e818-4d29-8aa7-08ece92093ad/summary This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 30, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, Takeoff, and Manhattan Associates, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga talk: – Walmart removing its in-store pickup towers and how the announcement, despite the headlines, is about way more than robotics. – Gopuff nabbing a 20 year Amazon veteran to head up operations after its latest $1 billion financing round. – The hilarious Amazon vs. Walmart battle over cool sounding in-home delivery PR. For the record, Amazon wins hands down, and I make no bones about it, calling in-home fridge delivery one of the worst ideas Walmart has had in the past five years. – Instagram's new marketplace to connect creators and brands. – And why a new Harry Potter store in NYC highlights everything that is right about physical retail, even though it really has nothing to do with retail. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ To learn more about Manhattan Associates Momentum Connect Conference, visit: https://www.manh-momentum.com/event/2900e153-e818-4d29-8aa7-08ece92093ad/summary This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 23, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern go back to the 1990s and talk: – Lululemon getting into resale (and some of the watch outs it should consider) – Why Amazon's new hair salons are about way more than hair - What Taco Bell's digital-only store in NYC means for our ever-growing fear of a WALL-E future - AiFi's new camera-only checkout free implementation with Choice Market - And why Amazon's new home delivery installation program is way cooler than anyone probably thinks on first blush. Plus, it is Emma the Intern's last show so we send her off in style with pictures of Chris and Anne from 1998 and put her through her own "How Gen X are You?" quiz. This week's episode is a whole lot of Abercrombie & Fitch, frosted tips, and a little Savage Garden thrown in for good measure. Truly, madly, deeply it is. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 15, 2021
NielsenIQ recently unveiled its new Omnishopper solution to enhance the industry’s understanding of omnishopping consumer behavior across the U.S. marketplace. In the latest edition of their Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss the launch with Liz Buchanan and Natalie Williams of NielsenIQ and learn how the new Omnishopper solution works, what it does, and why it enhances the overall insights retailers and CPGs can glean from how today's shopper is actually shopping. For NielsenIQ, the solution also marks the first stage of a multi-pronged product release, focused on bringing accurate omni-intelligence to the global stage. And, for retailers and CPGs, it just may also mark one of the biggest changes in the "history of category management," which is not a statement to take lightly, either. Retail is changing fast and how we talk about performance across the channels and by market just may be the most central question of all going forward. This interview is another Omni Talk exclusive you won't want to miss! *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 9, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern, along with special guest hosts Kristin Kohler Burrows and David Ritter: – Discuss what Harry's $155 million investment round means for its future and the future of CPGs. – Exchange barbs about Best Buy's new subscription program, Best Buy Beta. – Grade Starbucks' new reusable cup pilot on a scale only Starbucks drinkers will love. – Highlight why Nordstrom's market strategy would be even cooler if Macy's and Kohl's started drinking from the same Kool-Aid. – And anxiously and unanimously await the day when rumored Amazon discount electronics and home goods stores are actually a reality. There’s all that and more in this week’s episode, including our favorite Arquette, the Pointer Sisters, and how many HBS grads its takes to record a podcast. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 5, 2021
In the latest Omni Talk Live Production -- You Can't Spell Autonomous Shopping Without AI -- Chris Walton goes deep on the subject of AI and autonomous shopping with executives from NVIDIA, Dell Technologies, and AWM Smart Shelf who know their stuff as well as anyone. Azita Matin (NVIDIA's VP & GM, AI for Retail & CPG), Trey McMillian (Dell Technology's GM for Retail), and Kevin Howard (AWM Smart Shelf CEO) all join Chris for a lively and frank discussion on what we can all expect in the world of autonomous shopping over the next few years. Together they discuss and predict: - That key retailers will be rolling out more autonomous shopping pilots in the next 6 to 12 months (8:25) - Why autonomous shopping is a "natural evolution of human nature" (11:00) - How AI frees up employees time for value added tasks (14:44) - The nuances between autonomous shopping and autonomous operations (15:50) - The importance of GPUs in autonomous shopping (28:50) - Why the path to autonomous shopping doesn't have to be linear -- i.e. self-checkout machines, scan-and-go, smart carts, then fully autonomous (35:42) - The insanity of retailers trying to go this alone with their own home grown solutions (40:18) - And, that fully autonomous shopping could be the norm within 3 years (45:16) Yes, you heard that last point here first -- 3 years! That is the timeline by which three AI executives all believe that we can expect the major retail players in the world to deploy fully autonomous shopping at scale. Sign us up! We are all in! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Apr 2, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern: – Take sides on the landlord vs. retailer sales calculation debate – Discuss how far is too far in Nike's distribution pullback efforts – Forecast out the impact on retail workers of increased demand for warehousing space – Fantasize about other Restoration Hardware-like retail and hospitality mashups – And, go in some of the strangest directions imaginable talking about whether Tinder commerce could become a big thing There's all that and more in this week's episode, including Charles in Charge references, Quorso mugs, and the sultry sounds of posh acronyms. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 26, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern talk: – Albertsons rolling out more microfulfillment centers – Fabletics' store expansion plans and its unique position in the athleisure market – Dollar General's new Popshelf concept and some mind blowing statistics from Nielsen that might make you think the concept is going to be quite successful – Amazon's new NFL deal, its push to sell products on Amazon Music, and how social commerce now seems like a small scale and pedestrian idea – And, what's cooler about 7-Eleven's new concept store -- that it has a drive-thru or that it also serves frozen margaritas? Will leave the last one for you to decide. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 24, 2021
For the latest episode of Omni Talk’s new Ask An Expert Interview Series for 2021, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Kristin Kohler Burrows and David Ritter of the A&M Consumer and Retail Group. David and Kristin love retail, have great backgrounds as both operators and consultants (Kristin in shoes and David in the Army), and both share our Omni Talk passion for great debate as a path to the right answers. Every week they put us on the spot with tough questions about the future of retail in our weekly Omni Talk Fast Five podcast. In this episode, Chris and Anne turn the tables on them and put them to test and ask them to share their thoughts as experts on the future of retail and what matters most, right now. Together the four of them discuss: – The issues facing various categories of retail – Inventory management and assortment planning, especially in grocery – Digital marketplace partnerships and the impact on in-store experiences – The move to microfulfillment and overall grocery profitability -- CPG's going direct-to-consumer (and the lessons they can take from the footwear industry) -- Anne's favorite topic du jour, revenge spending, and jumping feet first into the latest seasonal trends -- And, the two trends to which retailers should be paying more attention but are not (sustainability and China) Listen to this podcast, and one thing will stand out — Kristin and David have pretty sound thoughts around how to work smarter and not harder as retailers. And, for those keeping score at home, their combined Millennial score was about a 33 to 35. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 20, 2021
“Be Mission Driven.” That's the theme of this podcast. Chris Rupp’s mission is to use technology to make life more convenient for people, and you’ll hear all about how she achieves that goal in this latest episode of the Women's Retail Collective podcast with Anne Mezzenga. You may know Chris from her time leading the development of Amazon Prime or her current role as the Chief Digital and Customer Officer of Albertsons Companies, but did you know that she is also responsible for tractors having cupholders? True story. Give this podcast a listen, and you will get the full rundown of Chris’s career. From her early days as an associate buyer, manually writing orders for coordinated pantsuits at L.S. Ayers Department Store, to running all of hardlines for Amazon on Day 2 of her job there, to her latest success launching a pilot of cutting edge pickup kiosks for Albertsons. Special thanks to Parcel Pending by Quadient for their support of this episode of the Women's Retail Collective Podcast Series. To learn more about Parcel Pending by Quadient, visit www.ParcelPending.com. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 19, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern discuss: – Amazon's plan to rollout Amazon Fresh to 28 more stores, while also testing "Just Walk Out" tech at full scale – Walmart's curbside sampling program and all the amazing ways to think about the value it creates – The decision by Adidas to cut back wholesale distribution, open bigger stores, and push its business to 50% DTC – Whether Walmart hiring Brandon Maxwell as its new creative director for its upscale fashion lines matters one iota – And, why Amazon's nationwide rollout of Amazon Care could signal tough times ahead for Walmart's physical healthcare strategy Plus, Anne introduces Chris to the wonderful world of OB-GYN product placement, while Chris tries to set new marks for Omni Talk alliteration. This week's episode is as sharp, sidesplitting, and speedy as ever! To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 12, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern talk: – Walmart's brilliant one-stop strategy move to roll out ghost kitchens in Canada – Costco's appallingly slow rollout of curbside pickup – Bed Bath & Beyond's risky private label strategy – The long-term implications of Drest, the new fashion styling game – And, why Disney's decision to close down stores is a shrewd omnichannel move To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 8, 2021
In the latest Groceryshop edition of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series, sponsored by 1010data, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Wes Schroll, Founder and CEO Fetch Rewards. "Adulting," as Wes puts it, and living on his own during college, Wes couldn't understand why retailers and brands asked consumers to jump through so many hoops to earn loyalty rewards. So, he set out to do something about it. For his final business school assignment in his Sophomore year at the University of Wisconsin, Wes created what has now become Fetch Rewards. Soon after, he began pitching his business plan in startup competitions throughout the country and ultimately earned $185K in seed money. Today, Fetch is now rumored to be worth almost $1.5 billion. Free to consumers, Fetch Rewards app users take a photo of their receipts and then earn Fetch Rewards points from over 450 brands and retailers participating in the platform. On average, Fetch Rewards' 7 million active users scan over 20 receipts per month! Users get rewarded for shopping, and brands generate more loyalty for their products. It's a win-win or 1 + 1 = 3 situation all around, and it also gives brands and retailers a tremendous longitudinal view into the shopping habits of their customers both online and in store. Wes and Fetch Rewards are even able to see how digital incentives impact store purchasing behavior. No panel data required. The whole concept is about intuitive as it gets, and all the more reason to stop what you are doing, give the podcast a listen, and see what you may have been missing. Chris even downloaded the app right in the middle of the interview. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 8, 2021
In the latest Groceryshop edition of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series, sponsored by 1010data, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Caper CEO Lindon Gao hot off his company's new smart cart pilot implementation with Kroger (see video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=burdDUj6f6w). Much has been said over the great smart cart debate of 2021, with Chris at one time even calling it the dashboard GPS of the retail industry, but is he now warming up to the idea? Maybe. Just maybe . . . at least in the right use cases. Together with Lindon, Chris and Anne pressure test what they know and don't know about the concept, like: - How the shopping cart is one of the few controlled environments within a grocery store - How carts, small trolleys, or even countertop devices may be much more palatable for small mom and pop operations to digest than cameras in ceilings or sensors in shelves - And, also how a myriad of operational use cases could still spring from the whole idea, like monitoring shelf inventory, regardless of whether consumers end up using smart carts to shop or not. Chris still may not be ready to put the cart before the horse (i.e. full computer vision AI), but one thing will be abundantly clear after listening to this interview -- the smart cart is going to be a central figure in the checkout-free revolution debate for years to come. After all, Kroger is kind of a big deal. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 7, 2021
In the latest Groceryshop edition of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series, sponsored by 1010data, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Eric Tribe, Chief Marketplace Officer Flashfood. Did you know 30-40% of all food ends up in a landfill? That is the origin story behind Flashfood, the fast growing startup whose technology helps to solve the problems of food waste and of getting affordable food to people who need it the most. Eric discusses with Chris and Anne how the Flashfood app works as a marketplace for discounted grocery store items that may soon go out of date and would otherwise be thrown away. When users open the Flashfood app, they can see the soon-to-be-discarded food available at their local grocery stores, buy the food through the app, and then go to the store to pick it up. And the app works with local grocers without requiring any integrations to their POS and OMS systems as well! Yes, Chris really had a hard time believing that one too, but it is true. It's also why Meijer rolled out the concept to 250 stores in just 4 weeks. Give this podcast a listen and you will be wishing, as Anne does, that this app was available in your local market, not just for you but because it feels like the right thing for all grocers to do. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 7, 2021
In the latest Groceryshop edition of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series, sponsored by 1010data, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Tim Rowland, CEO of Badger Technologies, and Peter Veloz, CEO UltraViolet Devices Inc. (or UVDI for short). Coming off the success of its robotics implementations with Stop & Shop, the Giant Company, and Woodman's last year, Tim and Badger Technologies have now set their sights on developing robots that can also disinfect store shelves and products in response to COVID-19. Together with UVDI, Badger's robots will soon be able to disinfect grocery stores with UVC light wave technology, a practice that has long been used in our nation's hospitals. So, now, instead of grocery store employees having to clean aisle after aisle and risk their own health and safety, robots may soon be able to take on this task for them. Overall, it is yet another case of a win-win application for robotics in retail or, as Peter likes to say, one that exemplifies the four D's of where robotics will have their earliest successes -- i.e. eliminating the dirty, dull, dangerous, and difficult jobs that no one ever wants to do. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 5, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern talk: – Target's murky yet still enviable competitive position heading into 2021 – One of the all-time biggest exec gaffes in history at Nike – Amazon Go coming to London – Albertsons actually going away from owned online deliveries in favor of third-parties – And, a fun story about a robot named Smiley that sells candy while you shop. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Mar 2, 2021
In the latest episode of Omni Talk’s Ask An Expert Interview Series for 2021, Chris Walton interviews Jonah Ellin, Chief Product Officer at 1010data. There is no question that 2020 was a transformative year for grocery. Consumer behavior changed, and retailers changed in response, but which of these changes are here to stay is still an important and outstanding question. So, with all that said, Chris went right to the data and asked Jonah to share his company's latest report on the state of the grocery industry for 2021. Together Chris and Jonah discuss: - The raw growth in online grocery across 2020 - The lingering power of Instacart even after stay-at-home orders have ceased - The new normal level of curbside pickup across retailers, especially the warehouse clubs - And, why the old ways of looking at grocery performance, e.g. market share and sales over LY, may no longer be enough to understand where the puck is headed next. Give this podcast a listen and one thing will become 100% clear -- curbside pickup and Instacart aren't going away anytime soon, if at all. We have reached a new normal, and the grocery winners and losers will be determined by those who embrace this new world as opposed to those who continue to cling to operating models of the past. To read the full 2021 State of Grocery Report in full, head to Omni Talk: https://omnitalk.blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2021_1010Data_StateofGrocery_Report_Final.pdf *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 26, 2021
"Take The Leap" is the theme of this podcast, and no one has done that better than Kelly Kowal, Chief Platform Officer at Farfetch. Kelly didn't casually enter into a retail career, she dove into one. With courage and a "can-do" attitude, she began a journey in e-commerce running digital marketing at eBags.com. At the time, e-commerce was new to Kelly, so when she didn't know the acronyms people were using in the weekly status meetings, she showed up to the office at 5 AM before anyone else arrived, did her research, and figured it out. This persistence and determination took her to London and to her current role as Chief Platform Officer of Farfetch. In this podcast, Kelly shares her career story and how she and her team professionally and personally weathered the pandemic, all while refining and expanding the offerings Farfetch plans to bring to market in the coming year. You won't want to miss this interview, and be sure to stay until the end when Anne and Kelly plan their next retail conference concert escapades. Thanks to our sponsor, Parcel Pending. For more information about Parcel pending, visit ParcelPending.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 26, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern talk: – The absolute explosion in online grocery, particularly curbside pickup and third-party delivery – What to make of the rumor that Instacart is investigating warehouse automation (hint: it is not as nefarious as many people would want you to believe) – TikTok's new seller marketplace – Why Walmart's new BigCommerce partnership sounds cool but is really a big snore – And, just how ludicrous Kohl's activist investors sound when you look under the covers There's all that and more in this week's episode, including Brits pretending to be Brits in Farrelly Brothers' movies. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 19, 2021
In the latest episode of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Indy Guha, Chief Marketing Officer at Signifyd, joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss the topic of fraud prevention and how to think about it not as a cost reduction activity but as a revenue generating opportunity. Together, Chris, Anne, and Indy go deep on all the ways fraud can impact the consumer shopping experience across the entire purchase funnel, from e-commerce transactions to even the final proof point in the buy online, pickup in-store process. The podcast is another great example of how network effects across data capture can make life simpler and easier for retailers, with big and quick upside. There's of course savings from manual processing costs and better fraud detection overall, but most importantly the data can also lead to better precision in understanding which digital orders are actually revenue retailers should want to earn. Of all the interviews Chris and Anne have completed over the last few years, this one is quite possibly the easiest, fastest, and most impactful win (it only takes weeks to implement!) at which every retailer should take a look right now. Plus, the anecdote of how fraudsters use Zillow data to game the system will blow your mind. To learn more about unlocking more revenue by streamlining the payments and risk management process, visit www.signifyd.com *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 19, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern discuss: – The latest statistics on and the now burning platform that is Walmart+ – Victoria's Secret getting back into swimwear – Poshmark getting into the pets business – Amazon's acquisition of Selz – And, P&G's off-the-wall plans to open Old Spice barbershops (seriously, WTF?) It's another podcast for the ages and one chock-full of 80's references, including Remington Steele, Cagney & Lacey, with even a little Evan and Seth from Superbad and a debate on the appropriate swimwear for Generation X sprinkled in for good measure. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 13, 2021
For the latest episode of Omni Talk’s new Ask An Expert Interview Series for 2021, Chris Walton interviews Kevin Swanwick, Vice President Store Solutions at Manhattan Associates. The correlative relationship between service and margin is a fundamental axiom in business, and yet retail companies often overlook this relationship in evaluating what technologies are right for them. The flashiest answers may not be the best answers and could depend on whether your business is designed to move many units at low margin or designed for high touch service with lower turn and a higher product margin per unit sold. In this episode, Chris and Kevin explore this topic in depth and through the lens of point-of-sale technology to shine a light on all the different nuances involved in technology decision-making. Together Chris and Kevin discuss: - What it means to be an order-centric retailer vs. a customer-centric retailer (and what it implies for technology) - Why cloud commerce is essential for both setups - Which retail experiences are more suited for self-service scan-and-go style checkout versus others - And, which cloud commerce system is the most integral piece of a retailer's omnichannel engine Listen to this podcast, and one thing will stand out -- the future of in-store retail experiences will look very different from one retailer to another. No one size will fit all. Rather, the right answers will depend on who you are as a brand and how your business model actually works. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 12, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern discuss: -- Instacart's ever-growing dominance across 25,000+ stores across America -- Target coyly and quietly building out its own same-day marketplace with brands that neither Amazon nor Walmart may carry -- Walmart hitting another snag on its quest for TikTok -- Walgreens and Uber's new partnership on free rides for vaccinations -- And, what in the world Kohl's may be thinking with its new Eddie Bauer partnership. Flannels, cords, and fleece. We have it all in this week's show, including growing CEO adoration for Emma the Intern and Anne's utter inability to make her own Mount Rushmore of crushes without it getting tawdry. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: https://www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 4, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by A&M Consumer & Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern discuss: – Asos purchasing TopShop – Imagr's new checkout-free implementation in Japan and the ongoing debate on smart carts – The latest last-mile developments from Instacart and Uber – Lego making its own version of Tik Tok for kids – And, Jeff Bezos leaving Amazon and his legacies that will endure All that, plus Chris shares his latest Ginsburg update and extols the unassailable virtues of Tom Brady, while Anne and Chris also sing Natalie Imbruglia's one-hit wonder for Emma the Intern who has no idea what they are doing. Let's just say, this week's episode is all good and all bad at the same time. To view the video of the Imagr installation, click here: https://omnitalk.blog/2021/02/01/spotlight-series-live-demo-of-imagrs-new-checkout-free-installation-in-japan/ To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.linkedin.com/in/david-ritter/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 2, 2021
In the latest episode of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Marshall Kay and JP Kamel, or as those in the know call them, the RFID Sherpas. RFID is a topic that is rightly back en vogue of late as retailers race to meet the rapidly changing needs of the consumer amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Together in this podcast, Chris, Anne, and the Sherpas discuss all the ways RFID can unlock value across retail, including how it can deliver ROI through better inventory accuracy, less shrink, and overall enhanced omnichannel experiences. Plus, together with Omni Talk, Marshall and JP also developed a new quiz on the subject, called RFIQ. You can take it here and put your knowledge to the test: https://omnitalk.blog/rfid-sherpas/ Go on, everyone's doing it. What's your RFIQ? This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Feb 1, 2021
In the latest episode of Omni Talk’s new Ask An Expert Interview Series for 2021, Chris Walton interviews Ross Sabolcik, VP & GM Industrial & Commercial IoT Products at Silicon Labs. The episode marks what is the first interview in a multi-episode arc, in which Chris and Silicon Labs will delve deep into the smart retail technologies that will change physical retail experiences the most in 2021. Chris and Ross begin their discussion high level and then discuss five key areas on which their upcoming collaboration will concentrate: – Asset tracking - Electronic shelf labels (one of Chris's favorite tech picks for the year) - Edge security - Loss prevention tag innovation as a key to unlocking new apparel shopping experiences - And, overall interoperability design The interview is a springboard for much more to come, as Chris does what he does best with Ross -- i.e. speak the language and ask the questions on the minds of retail executives, from the perspective of a real retailer, to understand what matters most and to set the table for Omni Talk's fans this coming year. And, should you want even more on the subject, be sure also to check out two recent white papers on which Chris and Ross also collaborated: 5 Smart Retail Trends by Ross Sabolcik -- https://www.silabs.com/solutions/smart-industry/retail/retail-trends What ‘Smart Retail’ Really Means by Chris Walton - https://www.silabs.com/solutions/smart-retail-what-it-really-means This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 29, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern: – Laud Walgreens' new CEO choice, Roz Brewer – Explore the deep meaning behind Walmart's large-scale push this week into microfulfillment – Discuss what Godiva's store closings say about the state of "experiential" retail – Highlight Centennial reaching Phase II of its plan to make malls shoppable online with one consistent checkout experience – And, get put on the spot and asked whether Nike's new concept store in Oregon, Nike Live, is anything to write home about All that, plus Anne scaredy-cats Amazon Fresh potentially coming to Minneapolis, while Chris and Emma couldn't be more excited. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.linkedin.com/in/david-ritter/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 25, 2021
Kristin started her retail career in the Macy's training program and in no time at all, began heading up the handbags and hosiery department. Now, Kristin is CEO at JOOR and is taking that company all the way to the top as they reinvent the traditions, events, and systems retailers, brands, and designers have leaned on to run their businesses. Join Anne Mezzenga as she gleans advice from Kristin's experience as a VP for the XO Group (The Knot, The Bump, etc.), where she helped to launch many sites we all know so well, and her time building the first registry experiences for Linens-N-Things. Kristin is one to watch and you'll quickly understand why in this episode. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 22, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern discuss: - Costco reversing course on its curbside pickup plans - Why Kroger's new "KroGO" smart cart may not be a smart move at all - The tell that will forever indicate if Macy's new small store concept is actually cool or just a further profit drain waiting to happen - Walmart forming a more perfect union with Western Union - And, why Marc Lore's plans to build a "city of the future" will most likely end up looking like Tombstone, AZ All that, plus Anne regales the crew with her tales of working out to Peloton instructors without actual Peloton equipment. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: www.linkedin.com/in/david-ritter/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 15, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern talk: - Amazon getting ranked as America's preferred grocer - Lululemon's latest efforts to compete with Nike - The pros and cons of Walmart's new Fintech play - Toys R Us . . . uh, sorry, we mean Hudson deciding to license Amazon's 'Just Walk Out' technology for airports - And, why Walmart's latest play to save money on last-mile delivery is one of the 'cooler' ideas around All that, plus Chris frets over getting his first dog this weekend. To learn more about the A&M Consumer & Retail Group, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-ritter/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 12, 2021
For the latest episode of Omni Talk’s new Ask An Expert Interview Series for 2021, Chris Walton interviews Chris Shaw, Sr. Director Product Marketing and Analyst Relations at Manhattan Associates. Chris Walton has long believed that cloud-based order management systems are one of the fundamental three legs of the omnichannel retailing stool, so this week Chris goes right to one of the most credible sources around to learn all he can about how these systems have evolved where they might be going next. Together in this podcast, Chris and Chris discuss: - How order management technology implementations have moved from being solely cost minimizing decisions to revenue maximizing ones. - How order delivery timing and speed are now critical factors way up in the consumer purchase funnel. - And, how the pandemic has pushed retailers to process and make decisions about inventory faster than ever before. Listen to this podcast, and one thing will become quite clear -- you will come away with a firsthand understanding of why correlated front-end and back-end technology design and real-time data processing, on everything from home delivery to order pickup, will likely become the make or break technology decision for almost every retailer out there over the next two years. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 11, 2021
For the inaugural episode of Omni Talk's new Ask An Expert Series for 2021, Chris Walton interviews Azita Martin, NVIDIA GM Artificial Intelligence for Retail & CPG In this new series, Chris leverages his long retail experience to dig deep into the issues that are top of mind for today's retail executives, one of which is AI, and where it matters. Chris delves into Azita's long background in retail technology to understand where she, from her position as an expert, is seeing AI move the fastest and also have the most immediate impact on retailer's bottom lines. Together Chris and Azita discuss everything from supply chain and e-commerce to the always moving target of the "intelligent store." Give this podcast a listen and you will come away knowing exactly where and how retail may change in the next few years in regards to AI and also where retail CEOs are likely going to invest their money quite soon. *Interview conducted in partnership with NVIDIA* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 8, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern talk: - Now former CEO Jill Soltau's ouster at JCP - Macy's new chief merchant hire - The degree of excitement we should feel around Afterpay's holiday results - Amazon's decision to call it quits on its partnership with Berkshire Hathaway and JPMorgan - And, we close with a new game we call "Do We Care If They Go Away," where we ask whether it matters if 15 retailers, as cited by USA Today of being at risk for going bankrupt, end up sticking around. All that, plus Anne gets her feng shui on in Florida, while I relive childhood memories about the French Open. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 5, 2021
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Skipify CEO and Founder, Ryth Martin. At a time when e-commerce is growing as fast as ever and when automated email communication is becoming an ever more important conversion tool, Ryth Martin and Skipify are breaking new ground in terms of how email can be used as an actual commerce platform. Fresh off a recently announced partnership with Google, Ryth explains just how important of a channel email is now within the conversion funnel and where the platform could be going next for shopping and for the millions of users who interact with email as a standard tool within their daily routines. For those interested in staying on the cutting edge of how retail is changing, Chris and Anne's conversation with Ryth is one of Omni Talk's most mind-blowing interviews yet! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jan 5, 2021
In the latest Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview one of their favorite people in retail technology, Kristin Savilia, CEO JOOR. Chris and Anne discuss with Kristin how she and her company are moving the buying and planning experience from countless spreadsheets, in person showroom events, and endless sampling to simple, real-time digital interactions that make buying easier. Nowhere was JOOR revolutionary work more evident than during this year's Fashion Week, when JOOR launched their new JOOR Passport platform to power 17 fashion events for various brands across the world and that over 136,000 retailers also attended. Chris and Anne first learned of JOOR from grassroots evangelists who couldn't stop singing the praises of how well the JOOR system works for apparel buying, so they went right to Kristin and just had to have her on the show! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 24, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern hand out their annual retail awards for 2020. Awards up for grabs include: - Retailer of the Year - CEO of the Year - Headline of the Year - Worst Retailer of the Year - Technology of the Year - And, more! Plus, they reveal their top "Ah-ha!" from the year along with what movie 2020 reminds them of the most in their last Fast Five of the year. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 18, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Anne, Emma the Intern, and I talk: - Walmart's new legion of TikTokers - Bed Bath & Beyond's sale of Cost Plus World Market - DoorDash's IPO - Robomart and "store hailing" - Amazon's new custom T-shirt program (there's also a demo of it on LinkedIn from Anne that you have to check out) - And, slap chops. Yes, slap chops, and even some pocket hoses. All that, plus we ask Emma where she ranks in the great American intern debate of all time. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 11, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Anne, Emma the Intern, and I talk: – Walmart smartly (and finally) shutting down its doomed from the start Store No 8 VR experiment – Social commerce, by way of WhatsApp Shopping – Stripe and Shopify linking up for banking – The opening of Amazon's 5th Fresh grocery store in Illinois (which is getting to be a pretty common occurrence in the Fast Five) – The death of the IKEA catalog – And, breaking the sound barrier. Yes, who doesn't need a little Chuck Yeager, especially this week? All that, plus we ask Emma the Intern how she is coping with her newfound celebrity status. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 8, 2020
Ace Hardware Chief Marketing Officer Kim Lefko and Anne Mezzenga sit down to talk about Kim's career in retail in the latest edition of the Omni Talk exclusive, Women's Retail Collective podcast series. Kim was uniquely positioned for her current role, having most of her experience, prior to Ace, on the other side of the table, selling into retailers for companies like Graco, Black & Decker, DeWalt, and Weber grills. Kim shares how she and her team rolled out curbside pickup - overnight - at 4,500 independent stores during a pandemic and to demand, the likes of which they'd never seen, along with what it's like to lead marketing efforts that cater to each of Ace's 4,500 individual retailers and their communities. The interview concludes with Kim's advice for staying interested and challenged in your retail career, and, of course, her perfect concert lineup. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Dec 4, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern talk: – How Sephora just gave Kohl's a She's All That-style makeover – Why Black Friday and Cyber Monday felt like a tree falling in the woods – Another in a long list of smart moves by Best Buy over the last six months – The opening of Amazon's 4th Fresh grocery store - A cool new startup called HungryPanda - And, Minnesota-adjacent states. Yes, we spread some love to Iowa, Minnesota, and the Dakotas because Urban Rooster is heading there next! All that plus we pay homage to the late Tony Hsieh in this week’s edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 20, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern talk: – Target and Walmart's wild sales results – TJX reversing course on e-commerce – Instagram updating its home page for shopping – Instacart inking a head scratching deal with Best Buy – Simon malls new return bars – And, roosters. Yes, roosters. Urban ones to be exact. All that and more in this week’s happy and optimistic edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five! To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 13, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern talk: – Target's new partnership with Ulta – Alibaba and Singles Day – J.C. Penney's court approved sale – Autonomous delivery – Molson Coors' new direct-to-consumer play, Revl – And, Laurence Olivier Yes, Laurence Olivier. All that and more in this week’s extra special safe edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five! To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 12, 2020
Any brand considering business in China should watch this interview -- it is a perfect illustration of how to work smarter and not harder. Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga of Omni Talk interview Tony Shan, Head of Tmall Global -- Americas about his company's Overseas Fulfillment Program. Tmall, for those unfamiliar, is Alibaba's B2C marketplace in China. Thousands of brands sell products to the huge Chinese market every single day on Tmall. We at Omni Talk have long been supporters of American companies selling products to the Chinese market via Tmall and outlined for Forbes in 2018 six reasons why it is something every brand should consider. You can read the article here: https://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherwalton/2018/08/16/kroger-decision-to-launch-brands-with-alibaba-is-pure-genius/?sh=708536a72a23 This interview highlights a new reason, reason #7 -- Tmall's new Overseas Fulfillment Program. It is easy, simple for brands to use, and is about as low risk of an opportunity with a huge sales upside as one will ever find. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 12, 2020
Karyn Schoenbart joins Anne Mezzenga to discuss her career, both as CEO of NPD Group and as author of the book MOM.B.A. This podcast is full of great advice, as Karyn shares some incredible lessons learned, including how a lateral move can actually propel your career forward, how to fight imposter syndrome, and how you can never go wrong asking someone "What can I do for you?" This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 9, 2020
Omni Talk's Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga recently combined forces with special guest, James Cook, Director of Retail Research for JLL Americas to provide a breakdown of retail and real estate heading into the holidays. Together they discussed the retail and real estate trends James and his team have been researching, what they anticipate to continue as we enter the holiday shopping season, and finish it off with a hypothesis from James on the future of retail as we head into 2021. For more information on James Cook's podcast, Where We Buy, go to wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://wherewebuy.show/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 6, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern try to take their minds off all the election craziness by turning their attention to the great debates in the world of retail this past week. Together they discuss: – Walmart's new lab stores – The interesting juxtaposition between Wayfair's recent success and Pier 1's relaunch – Alibaba's rumored investment in Farfetch – Postmates and its new retail platform – Nestle's $950 million acquisition of Freshly and whether meal kits are here to stay – And, Tom Brady Yes, Tom Brady. All that and more in this week’s election hangover episode of the Omni Talk Fast Five! To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Nov 4, 2020
One of Omni Talk's all-time favorite guests, David Sobie, CEO Happy Returns, returns to the Omni Talk Spotlight Series to update Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga on a couple of major announcements from his company over the last few weeks -- specifically, the recently announced partnerships with FedEx and Inmar Intelligence. Through the new partnership with FedEx, Happy Returns will grow its network of return bars substantially with FedEx. Online shoppers will be able to make returns at more than 2,000 FedEx stores across the country, and that also includes more than 340 locations currently sitting inside of Walmart stores! In addition, the Happy Returns and Inmar Intelligence partnership will also build upon the FedEx relationship because it too will allow shoppers and retailers to use a branded returns portal to initiate returns, with the option for customers to return items, box-free and label-free, to one of Happy Returns’ now 2,600+ Returns Bars around the country. The process will facilitate an immediate refund or exchange for consumers and will also provide a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution for e-commerce returns, as returned inventory is shipped to returns facilities in reusable containers instead of individual packages, all using Inmar's many years of experience and data disposition intelligence along the way. Anne and Chris have had their eye on David and Happy Returns since early 2016 and, for all intents and purposes, not even a pandemic can slow them down! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 30, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Oliver Banks joins Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern to discuss British TV and cinema and all the week's top retail news. Together they talk: - Social commerce and Shopify's new partnership with TikTok - Free one-hour pickup at Whole Foods - Happy Returns' brilliant strategy move with FedEx - Amazon paying people for their data - Robots at Sam's Club - And, Mary Poppins Yes, Mary Poppins. All that and more in this week's transatlantic episode with guest host Ollie Banks! To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 26, 2020
You have probably never thought about accounting as a secret weapon, but it is. In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with BlackLine Chief Transformation Officer Tammy Coley to discuss how thinking differently about one's accounting systems and processes can make a big difference in both strategy and operational efficiency. As the pandemic has shown, rudimentary spreadsheets and outdated processes that rely on cubicle proximity to work are no longer enough. Accounting, just like everything else, needs to move to the cloud, so that people can work from anywhere and, most importantly, any unnecessary risk can be removed from the equation. There is just too much at stake. As Chris Walton's HBS professor used to say, "Accounting equals truth plus measurement error and bias." Technology has advanced for too much to let the last two variables continue to hold companies back. There are simpler, easier ways to manage the back office, so that executives can be freed up to focus on what matters most -- the art of management and strategy during these trying times. To learn more about BlackLine, visit: https://www.blackline.com/industries/retail/?utm_source=omnitalk&utm_medium=3rd-party-other&utm_campaign=na-audio-2020-10-retail-podcast *Sponsored Podcast* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 20, 2020
In our latest episode of the Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss all things retail and IoT with Stacey Shulman, VP Internet of Things Group & GM Health and Life Sciences and Emerging Technology. Stacey's background is fascinating. Her career in retail started at Walmart, she next started selling technology to retailers, and then became the CIO at American Apparel and an executive for Levi's. Now embarking on her almost fourth year at Intel, we ask Stacey how she leads, how she separates good innovation from bad, what "smart retail" really means, and also what excites her most about the future -- hint, it could be figuring out the technology behind scaleable, repeatable retail experiences, aka retail theater. Scaling experiences, i.e. replicating the "why" in why come to a physical store sounds easy, but it is not. Take it from us. Stacey and her team at Intel are helping the industry to figure it all out. Plus, we put Stacey through How Millennial are You? and even add a bonus question -- Star Wars or Star Trek? *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 16, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern have quite the catharsis surrounding Prime Day and all the week's top retail headlines. This week they discuss: - How Amazon Prime Day left them wanting more - Why Walmart splitting up Black Friday into 3 separate events could signal tough times ahead - Dollar General's new upmarket Popshelf concept that Chris loves and Anne and Emma the Intern are split on - The company formerly known as Standard Cognition's new checkout-free convenience store on a Houston college campus (it's only 350 sf -- we checked) - Gamestop's new Microsoft partnership - GoPuff's huge $380 million investment round - And, William H. Macy Yes, William H. Macy. All that and more, plus Chris, of course, pays tribute to two female titans of early 1980s television. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 12, 2020
Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Inna Kuznetsova, CEO 1010 data about the value of data in creating long-term collaborative partnerships across retailers and suppliers. A company rooted in the financial sector after 9/11, 1010data has a long history of providing actionable data and insights across wide streams of expertise. Companies like Sam's Club and Dollar General, along with many other retailers and CPGs, look to 1010data, especially during COVID-19, to help them predict where to move in the market. In this podcast, Chris and Anne discuss with Inna: - The importance of a strong omnichannel data foundation across online and offline operations - The danger of using "averages" in the wrong places - Why impulse purchase behavior may not always be triggered by what you think - And, just how easy and financially rewarding it can be for retailers and suppliers to come together with the right tools and processes, all aligned around data sharing Plus, Inna is an absolute blast with a ton of personality. She will have you laughing with fun anecdotes about retail the whole way through. *Sponsored Podcast* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 12, 2020
Anne Mezzenga sits down with The Vitamin Shoppe CEO Sharon Leite for a special edition of the Women's Retail Collective Podcast from the Retail Innovation Conference. Sharon started her retail career in college as an associate at Express, spent time at L Brands, GAP, Disney, Pier 1, and now leads teams running almost 800 stores at The Vitamin Shoppe. Anne and Sharon review the rubric Sharon uses to help make major career decisions, her advice for those in retail careers, and the innovation her team at The Vitamin Shoppe has fast-tracked to take on the challenges of the last few months. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 9, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern go full on Generation Z with a little Baby Boomer sprinkled in at the end. This week they talk: - Venmo's new credit card - Gucci and the RealReal's new partnership - Instagram shopping through Reels video - Cooler Screens' $80 million investment round - Walmart selling medicare insurance plans - And, Matt Damon. Yes, Matt Damon. All that and more, plus Chris reveals his five-year-old TV crush - the answer will surprise you! To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 6, 2020
Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Jesse Michael, Managing Director Adeptmind, to discuss all things malls and e-commerce in the latest edition of their ever popular Omni Talk Spotlight Series. Adeptmind made huge waves recently with their announcement and partnership with Centennial Malls to create a new Shop Now! program, whereby Centennial Mall shoppers can shop their malls like they would shop Amazon, i.e. as digital marketplaces comprised of all their tenants. Jesse shares with Chris and Anne how Adeptmind came to be (not surprisingly, it was rooted in product search), how his company and Centennial are thinking about Shop Now! in stages of development, and how, if all goes as planned, not only will Shop Now! be a new way for malls to conduct commerce but could also be a new way to support local businesses and to create a never before seen world of connected commerce in which anyone, not just the big guys, can play. Chris and Anne have long espoused the value of a digital commerce front end for malls. Many said they were crazy, and now Adeptmind and Centennial Malls are making it happen. Stay tuned! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 2, 2020
In the latest Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga sit down with Justin Corbell, VP Business Development Scandit, to discuss the future of scan-and-go checkout-free retail and the future of in-store operations. Scandit recently raised $80 million in its latest funding round and is a company that nearly all retailers and CPG companies should have on their watch lists. In this podcast, you will learn: - Why not all barcode scanning is created equal (both for employees and customers) - How to think about the dynamics of a scan-and-go implementation - Why scan-and-go generally means less contact, bigger baskets, and happier customers - And, where and how augmented reality actually makes real sense for retailers. Another must listen amid this crazy pandemic! To learn more about Scandit, visit: https://www.scandit.com/ *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Oct 2, 2020
There were almost too many headlines for this week's Omni Talk Fast Five! Prime Day is official, Walmart and Levi's have new store designs, and Poshmark is going public -- but none of these stories even made it into the top five. No, in this week's episode, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern instead turn their attention to how studies are showing that 11% of Americans may have already signed up for Walmart+, how Alibaba is taking a page from Costco and Sam's Club's book, how in the world Instacart keeps signing up retailers like Sephora and Bed Bath & Beyond, why Kroger is now downsizing its latest Ocado implementation, and also why paying with their palms at Amazon Go is something all three of them desperately want to do. All in all, as Chris's grandpa used to say, this week's episode is a real humdinger. And, its Emma the Intern's birthday! To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 30, 2020
When it comes to the evolution of the mall, Jill Renslow has seen it all. Jill has spent 23 years at Mall of America leading the national institution through many transformations and partnerships to continue to make it a one-of-a-kind shopping and entertainment destination. In this podcast, Jill shares with Anne Mezzenga a few of her most remarkable experiences along her journey, including how she and her team are tackling mall operations during a pandemic. They discuss what's going to bring people to malls in the future and how Jill has sought out partnerships with everyone from Nickelodeon to neighborhood shop-in-shops to ensure Mall of America visitors have something new and delightful to capture their imaginations each and every time they visit. Jill also shares what's still left on her career bucket list and, of course, her A+ lineup for her own concert as well. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 29, 2020
Chris Walton interviews Sam's Club Chief Product Officer Eddie Garcia about Sam's Club's new Scan & Go at the pump functionality, along with all the other innovations Sam's Club has introduced over the past six months, like concierge shopping for seniors, curbside pickup, and shipping from store. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 28, 2020
Shoptalk CEO Anil Aggarwal sits down with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to talk innovation and retail in their latest Omni Talk Spotlight Series episode. Chris and Anne go deep with Anil on the origin of Shoptalk, the state of the retail industry, and what to expect from Shoptalk's next marquee event, Shoptalk Meetup, this October. Be sure to stick around for the last 20 minutes of the episode, too. Anil gives a master class on innovation and disruption theory. He discusses everything from the importance of always putting product first to looking to a blank slate future and working backwards, all while sometimes having to make some really tough decisions. The episode is a firsthand account from someone who eats what he cooks and isn't afraid to walk out on the limb of innovation and to disrupt himself. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 25, 2020
In this week's Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern discuss more feel good stories in one week than they can ever remember. They talk Mall of America dedicating retail space to local Minneapolis businesses disrupted by the pandemic and the social unrest following the killing of George Floyd, the first-ever Jeff Bezos Academy preschool for students from low income families, Walmart's Plus Up marketing campaign, GOAT's latest $100 million Series E funding round, and the mall operator Centennial's brilliant move to create an online marketplace for all its tenants this upcoming October. It is an episode guaranteed to leave you feeling warm and fuzzy and maybe even a little nostalgic for 80's movies featuring animatronic ducks. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: https://www.fastsensor.com/retail-promo To learn more about Takeoff, visit: https://www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 19, 2020
In her latest Women's Retail Collective Podcast, Anne Mezzenga interviews Alison Hahn about her career and the lessons she has learned from working at some of the biggest specialty retailers in the world, like Sephora and Gap. Alison shares her career story that began in the training program at Bamberger's (which would become Macy's New Jersey)and that eventually led to her current role at Sephora leading merchandising decisions for one of the largest beauty brands in the world. Anne and Alison also cover the impact the pandemic has had on the beauty industry and how Sephora has pivoted its strategies in response. Alison also shares some great advice for those early in their merchandising and retail careers. "This job is a lot of balancing art and science, but a huge part of it is instinct," she tell us. There are so many lessons to be learned in this one, including Alison's recipe for a perfect summer concert. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 18, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern break down Apple's big fitness subscription news, Sam's Club's Scan & Go at the pump, Amazon suburban warehouses and its new luxury play, and poke a little much needed fun at made up retail holidays and all the PR hype around the newest one -- 10/10. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: https://www.fastsensor.com/ To learn more about Takeoff, visit: https://www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 15, 2020
Julian Mills, CEO of Quorso, sits down with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga for the latest edition of their Omni Talk Spotlight Series, the series that highlights the people, the companies, and the technologies changing the future of retail. Quorso first caught Omni Talk's attention a few months ago, right when the pandemic hit. As former store-level and HQ-level retail executives, Chris and Anne have always wondered if there were better ways for both sides of a retail organization to connect and to optimize performance around clearer priorities, and COVID-19 has only brought that question to the forefront even more. While many decisions in retail get made by the loudest voices in the room or just trickle down from the top, they could and should, especially during a crisis, come from all directions and be prioritized around what matters most, iteratively, over time. In reality, as Julian elucidates, retail management, especially at the store level, should be no different from agile software development. It is just that retailers have never had the tools to help them run a store in this manner before. Julian shares how Quorso's weekly performance platform works, how it prioritizes decisions, and how it helps leaders drive accountability and personal attachment through real-time metrics monitoring and feedback down through every level of an organization. This just may be the most important retail technology podcast of the entire pandemic or at least one that will get you thinking differently. For, without leadership, accountability, and shared goals, not even the best of the best technology matters. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 12, 2020
In their latest Omni Talk Spotlight Series interview, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga chat with FIT:MATCH Founder and CEO Haniff Brown. Haniff shares his unique background and inspiration for FIT:MATCH, a startup that is making waves in the virtual try-on space. With implementations already in the books at a number of Brookfield Properties' sites, Haniff and his team are attempting to change the way consumers shop for clothes. Walk into any one of their virtual fitting rooms and within moments consumers can expect to have a detailed view of their fit and body type as well as understand what products are right for them across a myriad of apparel retailers. This podcast will challenge your thinking about everything from online personalization to what the roles and looks of physical stores and fitting rooms may actually be in the future. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 11, 2020
In the latest edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Carl Boutet (aka Canada Carl) stops by to chat all the week's retail news with Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern. The gang talks: - How Amazon & Kohl's finally get a room and consummate their love for each other even more with a reported grocery partnership (sorry, Aldi) - The sale of JCP and how it is reminiscent of a scene from Monty Python and the Holy Grail (you know, the one where the knight just won't die) - Instacart eventually removing the "c" - An urban Ikea in the heart of San Francisco - How Walmart is digging in the wrong place with its drone announcement - And, of course, shepherds Yes, shepherds. All that and more in this week's Fast Five! To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 8, 2020
Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Jordan Fisher, CEO of Standard Cognition, about the future of checkout-free retail. AI Computer vision-based checkout-free retail is all the rage right now, and Standard Cognition, with over $80 million in VC funding to date, is right at the center of that conversation, and especially in light of its recent announced plans with Circle K. Chris and Anne discuss the origin of the company, where the technology is now and where it is going, and why deciding whether or not to retrofit physical store footprints is one of the key questions that will determine future retailer adoption. They also put Jordan right on the hot seat (which Jordan handles with aplomb) when they ask him the question on every retail insider's mind -- "What was the deal with all those marketing claims of 3,000 Standard Cognition stores in Japan in time for 2020 Olympics?" Jordan explains how that rumor came to be and why the next few months will be a put up or shut up moment for him and his company, as he looks for, as you will see, a big exit for his investors down the road. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 4, 2020
In this week's Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, big news shakes the retail industry. Grabango, in partnership with Giant Eagle, opens a checkout-free and fully retrofitted GetGo convenience store in Pittsburgh. Walmart finally announces a date for its new subscription program, Walmart+. Amazon's first full-scale grocery store, Amazon Fresh, debuts to the public. Mall of America goes livestreaming with Popshop Live. And, Macy's tries to sell Wall Street on the idea that the world needs smaller, suburban Macy's stores. Newsflash -- it doesn't. Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern discuss all this and more, including Charlie Sheen, in this week's episode. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sep 1, 2020
Anne Mezzenga sits down with Shelley Huff, EVP Direct-to-Consumer Serta/Simmons and CEO Tuft & Needle as part of her ongoing Women's Retail Collective Podcast Series. Shelley's career is unique in that it mirrors how shopping has evolved from her first retail job as a mall department store associate to her current role as CEO of one of the largest DTC categories in retail at Tuft & Needle. Shelley also shares several stories with Anne, including how she worked up the ranks from folding jeans in a Walmart store (wait until you hear what she found in a stack of jeans one day!)to leading several business units within Walmart's e-commerce division. This episode is full of great advice. Shelley talks about developing your own personal board of directors, how to handle failure and mistakes, and then closes by giving Anne her own personal Shelley-palooza concert lineup. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 28, 2020
In this week's Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, let's just say we are glad we are not in the department store industry. In the span of the past week, Nike is rumored to be cutting off many big time wholesale partners and Facebook launched Shops. Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern talk all that plus Best Buy turning 250 stores into fulfillment hubs, Zappos opening a New York store, and Taco Bell building a drive thru line just for order pickup. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 25, 2020
Walmart's Tennille Webb joins Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga to discuss how she worked with Mamava to make Walmart the first retailer to roll out lactation pods in over 100 U.S. stores. A journey that began with Tennille seeing Mamava pods within an airport ended with her cold calling Mamava herself and then working with the powers that be at Walmart to convince them to overhaul their capital remodel program and to replace Walmart's existing mother's rooms with more efficient, movable, and cost-effective pods, so that all Walmart customers and associates could continue to have more safe and clean places to feed their babies. The Mamava pods are flexible lactation space solutions linked into a smart platform that empowers easy wayfinding, autonomous access for moms. Moms can open them with Mamava’s free app — and when finished, return to shopping. To learn more, visit https://www.mamava.com/ To see Tennille featured on Good Morning America as well, click https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/wellness/story/employee-walmart-expand-breastfeeding-stations-stores-country-72500430 To learn more about Walmart's rollout of the pods, visit https://corporate.walmart.com/newsroom/2020/08/25/walmart-first-retailer-to-install-mamava-lactation-suites *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 21, 2020
In this week's edition of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern discuss what to make of all the earnings announcements this week (including Target, Walmart, Kohl's, and more), Simon's acquisition of Lucky Brand, Payless making a comeback, Standard Cognition and Circle K, and what Chris thinks is a weak excuse from Amazon on its liability surrounding defective products on its third-party marketplace. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 18, 2020
With COVID-19 now ever present, knowing where and in what parts of a store social distancing is working or not working, by way of real-time data, is more important than ever. Kalon Welch, FastSensor EVP Business Development, sits down with Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga of Omni Talk to discuss the ever-trending topic of workspace journey measurement through anonymous radio frequency tracking to make better decisions during these difficult times and how active distance alert monitoring (aka ADAM) could be one of the most important tools for retailers to deploy in their stores, in their warehouses, or even as they are unloading trucks to protect all involved. As Kalon says, "That which gets measured, gets done," and social distancing is pretty darn important to get done. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: https://www.fastsensor.com/retail *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 14, 2020
In the latest episode of the Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern take on all the detractors pooh-poohing the rumors of Amazon placing warehouses in Simon mall properties, discuss Wayfair's first-ever profit, and then geek out at the massive transformative grocery and convenience headlines surrounding Walmart and Instacart, Coty and GoPuff, and Kroger creating its own third-party marketplace. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: www.fastsensor.com/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 11, 2020
In the latest edition of our Omni Talk Spotlight Series, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga interview Sara Batchelder, VP of Retail and QSR for Numerator. Chris, Anne, and Sara discuss Numerator's unique panel data across both online and offline shoppers and then delve into some of the insights Numerator is already seeing around things like Click-&-Collect, the online acceleration in grocery, and the early promotional spending trends across various Back-to-School categories. For example, did you know apparel promotional spend is down 60% vs. the year prior? We sure as heck didn't. *Sponsored Content* This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Aug 7, 2020
In this week's Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by FastSensor and Takeoff, Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss all the week's top retail news, including DoorDash's new DashMart online store, CVS inking a deal with PayPal and Venmo, the rumors that Aldi is getting into the checkout-free technology game, 7-Eleven buying Speedway, and Walmart's new omnichannel advertising platform that Chris and Anne just can't agree on. To learn more about FastSensor, visit: https://www.fastsensor.com/retail To learn more about Takeoff, visit: https://www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 31, 2020
In this week's Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern discuss Amazon meeting with startups to then reportedly launch competing products, Sycamore Partners' plan to merge Belk and JC Penney, Neiman Marcus calling it quits at Hudson Yards, all of retail closing down stores for Thanksgiving, and Rite Aid having no good reason on earth for deploying facial recognition technology for the last eight years. To learn more about Takeoff, visit: https://www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 24, 2020
In this week's Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma the Intern discuss the explosive growth in Panera's coffee subscription program, Walmart joining forces with Yahoo (yes, you read that right), LL Bean's decision to broaden its distribution, Domino's new 'fortressing' strategy, and Amazon and Google both getting full up into livestream commerce this week. To learn more about Takeoff, visit: https://www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 17, 2020
In this week's Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma Irwin the Intern are joined by guest host Ken Pilot to break down all the week's top headlines in retail. This week they talk Amazon's new Dash Smart Shopping Cart, Klarna's Gen-Z shopping event, Apple asking store employees to help customers from home, and Walmart and Amazon now duking it out in the healthcare space. To learn more about Takeoff, visit: https://www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 15, 2020
Omni Talk's Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga turn their podcast spotlight once again on Syte, the intriguing visual AI startup out of Israel. After having Syte founder, Lihi Pinto Fryman, on the show in 2018, this time Chris and Anne sit down with Syte VP of Marketing Gal Fontyn to discuss how the company has evolved, the successes it has had, and how the concept of visual search is now moving into the arena of creating even deeper visual experiences within retail, the likes of which could make visual AI the single most important technology to understand within retail today. **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 10, 2020
In this week's Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma Irwin the Intern welcome guest host Ethan Chernofsky of Placer.ai to talk all the latest news in retail, including Walmart+, Amazon Prime Day moving to October, Harrod's getting into the outlet business, Instagram's new Shop tab, and Venmo launching new tools for small businesses. To learn more about Takeoff, visit: https://www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 8, 2020
Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga turn their Omni Talk Spotlight on Kate Reidel of Parcel Pending to discuss the evolving landscape of Buy Online, Pickup in store and how locker pickup could soon change the definitions and the availability of the service for retailers everywhere. **Sponsored Content** This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 8, 2020
Omni Talk's Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga discuss Shopify's latest move in the online payment space, Shopify Balance, and where the company also plans to go next. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jul 3, 2020
In this week's Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma Irwin the Intern love Lululemon's acquisition of Mirror, unanimously applaud Brookfield's Fit:Match experiment, are not quite sure what to make of Walgreens' new small format tests, rave about Nike building smaller store footprints, and compare the Gap/Kanye deal to a big bet at the poker table. To learn more about Takeoff, visit: https://www.takeoff.com/ To read Chris's latest piece on the overhype of VR, visit: https://www.therobinreport.com/sex-china-and-covid-19/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 26, 2020
In this week's Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma Irwin the Intern discuss the sweeping changes in the world of social commerce by way of Snapchat and Instagram, how Tanger Factory Outlets is taking off-price digital, while TJX continues to sit on the digital sidelines, and why 7-Eleven's announcement this week about paying at the pump with your voice could be an easily foreseeable future for how we all pay for gas. To learn more about Takeoff, visit: https://www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Jun 19, 2020
In this week's Omni Talk Fast Five, sponsored by Takeoff, Chris Walton, Anne Mezzenga, and Emma Irwin the Intern discuss Walmart's new partnership with Shopify, Staples using Instacart, a cool startup called Branch, Dick's Sporting Goods' new store formats, and Chris goes on a rant for the ages about how slow apparel retailers have been to adopt technology in the wake of Walmart also announcing its new self-checkout store test this week. You can learn more about Takeoff by clicking here: https://www.takeoff.com/ This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy