Retail

Fashion, Identity, and Digital Life Collide: Why Brands Must Listen, Collaborate, and Co-Create With the Next Generation of Youth

youth

As the lines blur between fashion, identity, and digital life, brands are racing to understand how today’s youth are reshaping culture and commerce. Pacsun’s new Youth Report 2025, produced in partnership with GlobalData, offers one of the most detailed portraits yet of Gen Z and Gen Alpha—two generations united by self-expression but divided by…

Read More

Latest

2025 Retail Refined
Consumer Brand Growth Formula: Value Proposition, Platform Strategy, and Wellness Integration

Building consumer brands today requires more than clever marketing; it demands brand trust. Consumers want proof that products work, delivered at prices that feel accessible. That shift has raised the bar for founders, especially as 86% of consumers say authenticity influences which brands they support—with Gen Z placing even greater emphasis on it. Credibility…

Read More
2025 Retail Refined
Scaling A Heritage Brand: Bringing a Local Lens to Growth Strategy

Retail is evolving at a lightning pace, with consumer expectations higher and more informed than ever before. Deloitte research shows that 80 percent of consumers prefer brands that offer personalized experiences, with those customers spending up to 50 percent more. For heritage retailers, this shift presents both opportunity and challenge: how do you honor local…

Read More
2025 Retail Refined
A Look at the Rise of Commerce Media Networks: How Nift Helps Brands Own How Their Message Shows Up

As traditional digital advertising struggles to retain consumer trust, brands are exploring new, more authentic ways to connect with shoppers. Platforms like commerce media networks, which weave together commerce, content, and data, are emerging as powerful tools in this shift. Research from MG2 Advisory reveals that only about 37% of consumers feel brands genuinely…

Read More
2025 Retail Refined
Bringing Hospitality to Retail as an Authentic Community Anchor: 15 Minutes with Coach’s Giovanni Zaccariello

Luxury retail is no longer confined to storefronts and seasonal campaigns. Brands are bringing hospitality to retail, building deeper emotional connections, and extending their presence beyond the product. Coach, among other heritage labels, is experimenting with cafés, branded bars, and immersive spaces that offer more than a transaction—they offer belonging. According to MG2 Advisory,…

Read More
2025 Retail Refined
How LEGO Puts Play to Work Across Retail Experiences: Breaking Down the Formula with PJ du Toit

As in-store experiences become key to brand loyalty, LEGO is doubling down on its core brand essence of play, using it as both a design philosophy and a strategic lever. The company is transforming its physical spaces into destinations that spark imagination, encourage interaction, and strengthen emotional connections with shoppers of all ages. With…

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2025 Retail Refined
Building Loyalty Through Generational Evolutions: Inside the Mind of American Eagle CMO Craig Brommers

As Gen Z cements its role as the cultural vanguard and Gen Alpha begins to assert its voice, brands face mounting pressure to not only keep pace but to actively shape youth identity. With social commerce booming and physical retail undergoing reinvention, staying relevant means delivering experiences as dynamic as the customers themselves. One…

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Latest

workforce
How McDonald’s and Skilltrade Are Transforming Workforce Education for America’s Frontline Employees
October 9, 2025

Work is changing fast. Automation and artificial intelligence aren’t just reshaping how we work—they’re redefining who gets access to opportunity in the first place. With frontline workers making up a significant share of the American workforce—and one in eight Americans having worked at McDonald’s—the discussion about education, skills, and upward mobility feels more urgent than…

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Career
How to Build a Purpose-Driven Career in the Age of AI and Acceleration
October 9, 2025

In a world reshaped by AI, global connectivity, and relentless technological advancement, the pace of disruption has never been greater. Careers are being reinvented as industries transform, and individuals everywhere are being challenged to find meaning, adaptability, and creativity in their professional paths. According to Deloitte’s 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey, 86% of…

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youth
Fashion, Identity, and Digital Life Collide: Why Brands Must Listen, Collaborate, and Co-Create With the Next Generation of Youth
October 8, 2025

As the lines blur between fashion, identity, and digital life, brands are racing to understand how today’s youth are reshaping culture and commerce. Pacsun’s new Youth Report 2025, produced in partnership with GlobalData, offers one of the most detailed portraits yet of Gen Z and Gen Alpha—two generations united by self-expression but divided by…

Read More
talent
Grow Your Own Talent: How McDonald’s and Skilltrade Are Building a Culture of Lifelong Learning
October 7, 2025

The world of work is changing faster than ever. Automation is reshaping jobs, new technologies are rewriting what “qualified” means, and a new generation of workers is redefining what they expect from employers. From fast food to healthcare, companies are realizing they can’t just hire talent — they have to build it. They’re starting to…

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Latest Articles

American Eagle
2025 Retail Refined
Building Loyalty Through Generational Evolutions: Inside the Mind of American Eagle CMO Craig Brommers
May 15, 2025

As Gen Z cements its role as the cultural vanguard and Gen Alpha begins to assert its voice, brands face mounting pressure to not only keep pace but to actively shape youth identity. With social commerce booming and physical retail undergoing reinvention, staying relevant means delivering experiences as dynamic as the customers themselves. One…

Read More
Madewell’s Data Driven Evolution for Today’s Consumer

In the ever-evolving world of retail, success hinges on understanding the modern consumer’s priorities: personalized shopping, timeless quality, and seamless experiences. Madewell, a denim-first brand, has leaned into these trends by redefining its in-store shopping and product strategies. With the rise of digital integration and customer-driven design, the stakes have never been higher for…

Read More
Hammer Down at Shoptalk Chicago: Making Deliveries Faster, Cheaper & More Sustainable for Greater Retail Success

As the retail industry prepares for the holiday season, supply chain challenges and innovations are at the forefront of every retailer’s mind. With consumer expectations shaped by giants like Amazon, businesses are scrambling to deliver faster, more efficiently, and more sustainably. At Shoptalk Chicago, supply chain leaders gathered to discuss how logistics are evolving…

Read More
Leading With Curiosity, Creating a Playbook of Store Experiences with Victoria’s Secret & Co.

The retail landscape is rapidly evolving, and brands are redefining their approach to in-store experiences to remain competitive. Victoria’s Secret & Co. is at the forefront of this change, focusing on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment through its ‘Store of the Future’ initiative. This episode explores how Victoria’s Secret is leading with curiosity…

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Netflix House
Articles
Netflix House: Can Streamers Turn Their IPs into Successful Experiential Retail?
August 8, 2024

With the entertainment industry constantly evolving, Netflix is taking a bold step by merging the digital and physical worlds through the introduction of Netflix House, a new experiential retail venture. Set to open in 2025 in Texas and Pennsylvania, Netflix House aims to immerse fans in their favorite shows and movies with interactive experiences,…

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The Rise of Regenerative Agriculture and Strategies for Generating Capital with Steward CEO Dan Miller

As the global conversation around sustainable food systems intensifies, regenerative agriculture has emerged as a transformative approach to farming that prioritizes ecosystem health, soil vitality, and nutritional quality. This episode of Retail Refined explores why regenerative agriculture is capturing the attention of consumers, policymakers, and investors alike. With nearly 90 regenerative farms funded and…

Read More
Why U.S. Fashion Retailers Can’t Afford to Miss Online Sizing Technology

As fashion retailers strive to enhance the digital shopping experience, they face significant challenges in implementing consumer-centric digital technologies. Overcoming these challenges requires innovative strategies and technologies that address customer needs and improve the overall shopping journey. One such innovation is Makip’s FaceChange, an advanced online sizing technology. Challenges in Implementing Consumer-Centric Digital Technologies…

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Enhancing Retailers’ Personalization with Gamification

In the ever-evolving retail landscape, staying ahead means embracing innovative strategies. This clip from a recent edition of Experts Talk explores the dual power of personalization and gamification in transforming customer experiences. Retailers today are harnessing the magic of personalization, tailoring experiences to individual preferences, and boosting customer satisfaction. Simultaneously, gamification injects fun and engagement…

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Merging Traditional Craftsmanship with Modern Entrepreneurship
Articles
Culture and Craftsmanship with Sabah Founder Mickey Ashmore
May 28, 2024

In an age where mass production dominates, the art of craftsmanship and its profound impact on culture and community is increasingly rare. This rarity has brought craftsmanship into the spotlight, as consumers and creators alike seek authenticity in a digital world. At the heart of this movement is Sabah, a brand that has successfully…

Read More
Retail Marketing Gamification is the Battleground for Customer Loyalty and Attention. How Do Retailers Win?

Retail marketing is undergoing a transformation driven by the experience economy, pushing brands to innovate with engaging and interactive customer experiences. Gamification is at the forefront of this movement, offering a dynamic way to enhance customer loyalty and drive revenue. As brands explore unique loyalty programs, immersive on-site marketing, and in-store pop-up experiences, the question…

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Sustainable Trucking Solutions for Small Businesses: Increasing Profitability and Efficiency with Adam Wingfield

The trucking industry is at a pivotal moment, facing significant changes and challenges from regulatory shifts to technological innovations. As one of the backbones of the global economy, the importance of efficient and sustainable trucking solutions cannot be overstated. With the industry grappling with issues like driver shortages, regulatory compliance, and the implementation of…

Read More
Transforming Ear Piercings into a Tailored Journey: How Studs is Redefining the Industry with ‘Earscaping’

In today’s dynamic retail landscape, where personalization and self-expression lead consumer trends, Studs is redefining the ear piercing industry by transforming ear piercings into a tailored journey. The company blends aesthetics with comfort, introducing innovative store designs and a diverse earring assortment that underscores its mission—redefining the piercing industry. Amidst a surge in demand…

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Latest Retail Podcasts

youth
2025 Retail Refined
Fashion, Identity, and Digital Life Collide: Why Brands Must Listen, Collaborate, and Co-Create With the Next Generation of Youth
October 8, 2025

As the lines blur between fashion, identity, and digital life, brands are racing to understand how today’s youth are reshaping culture and commerce. Pacsun’s new Youth Report 2025, produced in partnership with GlobalData, offers one of the most detailed portraits yet of Gen Z and Gen Alpha—two generations united by self-expression but divided by…

Read More
Consumer Brand Growth Formula: Value Proposition, Platform Strategy, and Wellness Integration

Building consumer brands today requires more than clever marketing; it demands brand trust. Consumers want proof that products work, delivered at prices that feel accessible. That shift has raised the bar for founders, especially as 86% of consumers say authenticity influences which brands they support—with Gen Z placing even greater emphasis on it. Credibility…

Read More
Scaling A Heritage Brand: Bringing a Local Lens to Growth Strategy

Retail is evolving at a lightning pace, with consumer expectations higher and more informed than ever before. Deloitte research shows that 80 percent of consumers prefer brands that offer personalized experiences, with those customers spending up to 50 percent more. For heritage retailers, this shift presents both opportunity and challenge: how do you honor local…

Read More
A Look at the Rise of Commerce Media Networks: How Nift Helps Brands Own How Their Message Shows Up

As traditional digital advertising struggles to retain consumer trust, brands are exploring new, more authentic ways to connect with shoppers. Platforms like commerce media networks, which weave together commerce, content, and data, are emerging as powerful tools in this shift. Research from MG2 Advisory reveals that only about 37% of consumers feel brands genuinely…

Read More
bringing hospitality to retail
2025 Retail Refined
Bringing Hospitality to Retail as an Authentic Community Anchor: 15 Minutes with Coach’s Giovanni Zaccariello
June 11, 2025

Luxury retail is no longer confined to storefronts and seasonal campaigns. Brands are bringing hospitality to retail, building deeper emotional connections, and extending their presence beyond the product. Coach, among other heritage labels, is experimenting with cafés, branded bars, and immersive spaces that offer more than a transaction—they offer belonging. According to MG2 Advisory,…

Read More
True Religion Sets the Bar for Legacy Brands Seeking Cultural Relevance and Authentic Connections

A striking 86% of consumers now prioritize authenticity when choosing which brands to support, emphasizing the value of transparency, authentic connections, and relevance in today’s market. True Religion, remains true to its roots in culture, sports, and music, through authentic partnerships and a modern approach to style. Leading this transformation, Chief Marketing Officer Kristen…

Read More
Urban Outfitters is Shaping the Future of Retail with Gen Z and Gen Alpha in Mind

The retail landscape is rapidly evolving, and Urban Outfitters is stepping up to meet the challenges of reaching both Gen Z and the emerging Gen Alpha. Gen Z, a generation coming of age amid social and technological shifts, is the first to begin their adult lives in a post-pandemic world. They crave individuality but…

Read More
Milani Cosmetics Redefines Beauty Standards with a Commitment to Inclusivity, Innovation, and Cross-Generational Appeal

As beauty consumers become increasingly vocal about diversity and inclusivity, brands are being pushed to evolve beyond the traditional definitions of beauty. According to a recent report by Beauty Packaging, 63% of American consumers feel inspired by brands that showcase diversity in their advertising, and 73% agree that the beauty industry still plays on…

Read More
AI retail experience
DisruptED
AI Retail Experience Revolutionizes Shopping with Personalized Recommendations, Multilingual Support, and Anti-Counterfeiting Technology
September 17, 2024

AI is revolutionizing nearly every aspect of our lives, and retail is no exception. Traditional commerce, once dominated by in-store interactions, has shifted toward e-commerce, yet the online experience often lacks the nuanced guidance of a knowledgeable salesperson. With advancements in Generative AI (Gen AI), this gap is closing, transforming the retail experience through…

Read More
The Rise of Regenerative Agriculture and Strategies for Generating Capital with Steward CEO Dan Miller

As the global conversation around sustainable food systems intensifies, regenerative agriculture has emerged as a transformative approach to farming that prioritizes ecosystem health, soil vitality, and nutritional quality. This episode of Retail Refined explores why regenerative agriculture is capturing the attention of consumers, policymakers, and investors alike. With nearly 90 regenerative farms funded and…

Read More
Culture and Craftsmanship with Sabah Founder Mickey Ashmore

In an age where mass production dominates, the art of craftsmanship and its profound impact on culture and community is increasingly rare. This rarity has brought craftsmanship into the spotlight, as consumers and creators alike seek authenticity in a digital world. At the heart of this movement is Sabah, a brand that has successfully…

Read More
Sustainable Trucking Solutions for Small Businesses: Increasing Profitability and Efficiency with Adam Wingfield

The trucking industry is at a pivotal moment, facing significant changes and challenges from regulatory shifts to technological innovations. As one of the backbones of the global economy, the importance of efficient and sustainable trucking solutions cannot be overstated. With the industry grappling with issues like driver shortages, regulatory compliance, and the implementation of…

Read More

Latest Videos Retail

Sports Retailing with Matt Powell
Retail
Sports Retailing with Matt Powell
October 28, 2024

On this latest episode of What Just Happened? with Christine Russo, industry veteran Matt Powell joins to discuss the shifting dynamics of the sports retail landscape and the evolving role of direct-to-consumer (DTC) strategies. Powell, who spent over two decades studying the sports retail sector and recently founded Spur Wink River, brings a unique lens…

Read More
The Rise and Rise of Retail Media Networks

Retail media networks (RMNs) are transforming the advertising landscape by enabling retailers to leverage their first-party data to directly connect with consumers. In a recent episode of What Just Happened on MarketScale, host Christine Russo spoke with Brian Gleason, CRO & President of Retail Media at Criteo, and Kristi Argyilan, VP of Retail Media at…

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Balancing Customer Desires and Retailer Needs in Personalizing Shopping Experiences

In the contemporary retail landscape, a crucial dynamic exists between what customers desire and what retailers need to achieve. The core of this dynamic revolves around personalizing the shopping experience, enabling customers to find what they need quickly and efficiently. This personalization, however, hinges on the availability of customer data, presenting a significant challenge: the…

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Staying Competitive in Retail: Future Success Tied to Adoption of Innovative Tech

In the rapidly evolving retail industry, a wide array of innovative tech is reshaping the landscape, marking a significant transformation in both the shopping experience and the operational aspects of businesses. This video from Datascan, explores a range of innovative technologies transforming the retail industry. It delves into the use of RFID for efficient…

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innovation in sustainability
Controltek
Closing the Loop: Our Sustainable Commitment to Circular Economy
December 6, 2023

This video focuses on EcoLOK4, a groundbreaking product by CONTROLTEK that exemplifies innovation in sustainability. It highlights the process of transforming landfill waste into new deposit bags, with 90% of each bag’s material being repurposed trash. This initiative not only reduces waste but also closes the sustainability loop, demonstrating CONTROLTEK’s commitment to environmentally friendly…

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CONTROLTEK’s Design Thinking Workshop with Rite Aid

The video showcases a dynamic workshop titled “CONTROLTEK Method of Design Thinking at Rite Aid,” highlighting the collaborative and innovative efforts between CONTROLTEK and Rite Aid teams. It features scenes of brainstorming, prototype development, and group discussions, emphasizing CONTROLTEK’s customer-centric approach to problem-solving and innovation in retail solutions. The workshop demonstrates how cross-functional teams…

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CONTROLTEK Design Thinking Workshop for Burlington Stores

The video captures highlights from the CONTROLTEK Design Thinking Workshop specifically tailored for Burlington Stores. It shows interactive sessions, engaging group activities, and innovative brainstorming, emphasizing CONTROLTEK’s commitment to developing customized retail solutions in collaboration with the Burlington Stores team.

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Enhancing Customer Value Through Innovation: The CONTROLTEK and Davis Bancorp Partnership

The collaboration between Davis Bancorp and CONTROLTEK is a shining example of how shared values and commitment can significantly enhance customer interests. This partnership is rooted in a strong foundation of similarities, with both entities being family-owned businesses that prioritize their people, property, and client service quality. CONTROLTEK’s approach is notably innovative and forward-looking….

Read More
Other Retail Articles
What is Unreasonable Hospitality in EV Environments?
May 8, 2025

As electric vehicle adoption surges—projected to make up over half of all new car sales in the U.S. by 2030—the expectations around where and how we charge are rapidly evolving. Charging stations are no longer just utility hubs; they are becoming lifestyle touchpoints. Today’s EV drivers seek more than speed and convenience—they want frictionless technology,…

Read More
A Look into Anthropologie’s AnthroMagic: The ‘What, So What, Now What’ Approach with CMO Elizabeth Preis
February 18, 2025

Anthropologie has long been a destination for customers seeking unique fashion, home decor, and lifestyle products. But what makes the brand stand out isn’t just its product offerings—it’s the magic woven into every store visit, online interaction, and shopping experience. With retail evolving at an unprecedented pace, brands must find ways to merge data-driven…

Read More
Madewell’s Data Driven Evolution for Today’s Consumer
December 19, 2024

In the ever-evolving world of retail, success hinges on understanding the modern consumer’s priorities: personalized shopping, timeless quality, and seamless experiences. Madewell, a denim-first brand, has leaned into these trends by redefining its in-store shopping and product strategies. With the rise of digital integration and customer-driven design, the stakes have never been higher for…

Read More
Hammer Down at Shoptalk Chicago: Making Deliveries Faster, Cheaper & More Sustainable for Greater Retail Success
November 25, 2024

As the retail industry prepares for the holiday season, supply chain challenges and innovations are at the forefront of every retailer’s mind. With consumer expectations shaped by giants like Amazon, businesses are scrambling to deliver faster, more efficiently, and more sustainably. At Shoptalk Chicago, supply chain leaders gathered to discuss how logistics are evolving…

Read More
True Religion Sets the Bar for Legacy Brands Seeking Cultural Relevance and Authentic Connections
November 1, 2024

A striking 86% of consumers now prioritize authenticity when choosing which brands to support, emphasizing the value of transparency, authentic connections, and relevance in today’s market. True Religion, remains true to its roots in culture, sports, and music, through authentic partnerships and a modern approach to style. Leading this transformation, Chief Marketing Officer Kristen…

Read More
Sports Retailing with Matt Powell
October 28, 2024

On this latest episode of What Just Happened? with Christine Russo, industry veteran Matt Powell joins to discuss the shifting dynamics of the sports retail landscape and the evolving role of direct-to-consumer (DTC) strategies. Powell, who spent over two decades studying the sports retail sector and recently founded Spur Wink River, brings a unique lens…

Read More
Urban Outfitters is Shaping the Future of Retail with Gen Z and Gen Alpha in Mind
October 15, 2024

The retail landscape is rapidly evolving, and Urban Outfitters is stepping up to meet the challenges of reaching both Gen Z and the emerging Gen Alpha. Gen Z, a generation coming of age amid social and technological shifts, is the first to begin their adult lives in a post-pandemic world. They crave individuality but…

Read More
Milani Cosmetics Redefines Beauty Standards with a Commitment to Inclusivity, Innovation, and Cross-Generational Appeal
September 25, 2024

As beauty consumers become increasingly vocal about diversity and inclusivity, brands are being pushed to evolve beyond the traditional definitions of beauty. According to a recent report by Beauty Packaging, 63% of American consumers feel inspired by brands that showcase diversity in their advertising, and 73% agree that the beauty industry still plays on…

Read More
AI Retail Experience Revolutionizes Shopping with Personalized Recommendations, Multilingual Support, and Anti-Counterfeiting Technology
September 17, 2024

AI is revolutionizing nearly every aspect of our lives, and retail is no exception. Traditional commerce, once dominated by in-store interactions, has shifted toward e-commerce, yet the online experience often lacks the nuanced guidance of a knowledgeable salesperson. With advancements in Generative AI (Gen AI), this gap is closing, transforming the retail experience through…

Read More