Retail
The world is in an era where sustainability and responsible retail business practices are increasingly crucial. For the latest episode of “What Just Happened,” host Christine Russo further explored the hows and whys of this pressing issue by interviewing Cara Smyth, Global Senior Managing Director for ESG and Responsible Retail at Accenture, and Chair […]
Latest
2023
By Navigating Sustainability and Responsible Retail, Businesses Can Reach Better Ethical and Profit Achievements
The world is in an era where sustainability and responsible retail business practices are increasingly crucial. For the latest episode of “What Just Happened,” host Christine Russo further explored the hows and whys of this pressing issue by interviewing Cara Smyth, Global Senior Managing Director for ESG and Responsible Retail at Accenture, and Chair […]
2023 Retail Refined
GNC’s Omni-Channel Evolution From Brick and Mortar to Commerce Hub
The transformation from a traditional brick-and-mortar store to an integrated commerce hub is crucial in the fast-evolving retail landscape. GNC’s omni-channel evolution epitomizes this shift, blending in-person and digital experiences to meet the contemporary consumer’s demands. But what does this mean for the future of retail? “Retail Refined,” hosted by Melissa Gonzalez, welcomes Nate […]
2023
Some Shifts in the Retail Supply Chain are Temporary, While Other Changes are Here to Stay
The current landscape of the retail supply chain has been in turmoil in recent years, with unexpected and disruptive challenges like the Suez and Panama Canal incidents, alongside the ongoing digitization struggles. Now, this volatile environment turns up critical questions about the resilience and adaptability of supply chains given unanticipated disruptions. With the retail […]
Articles
Forever 21 Benefits From its Shein Strategic Partnership, But Shein Gets the Bigger Slice. Here’s Why.
In the retail fashion industry, strategic partnerships are key, especially in the fast fashion sector. A recent alliance between Shein, an emerging e-fashion giant, and Forever 21, a well-established brand, exemplifies this trend. This strategic partnership represents a significant shift in the global fashion industry. Shein, which began as a modest Chinese apparel merchant, […]
Articles
Forever 21 & Shein Might Pull in Profits, But Their Business Models Are Incompatible in the Long-Term
The recent partnership between Forever 21 & Shein, a key event in retail fashion strategy, marks a pivotal moment in the industry, merging the traditional brick-and-mortar approach of Forever 21 with Shein’s fast-paced online retail model. This collaboration offers consumers an unprecedented blend of in-store experience and online variety, but it also raises significant questions […]
Articles
The Forever 21 & Shein Partnership Makes Strategic Sense. It’s Still an Environmental Blight on the Retail Fashion Supply Chain.
The recent collaboration between Forever 21 and Shein marks a significant juncture in retail fashion, merging Forever 21’s established retail presence with Shein’s innovative direct-to-consumer model. This partnership, however, raises serious concerns about sustainable development and the environmental impact of fast fashion, known for its high carbon emissions and contribution to environmental degradation. The […]
Latest
Fostering Entrepreneurial Mindset for Career Success with SkillPointe
Adopting an entrepreneurial mindset is increasingly essential in today’s diverse professional world. This approach, emphasizing resilience and innovation, is applicable in various careers, encouraging individuals to see opportunities in challenges and to think beyond conventional methods. SkillPointe recognizes the importance of aligning this entrepreneurial spirit with career aspirations. The organization assists individuals in transforming […]
Closing the Skills Gap with Earn and Learn Programs: A New Era in Workforce Training
Faced with a significant workforce training gap, America is seeing a rise in innovative solutions, notably the earn and learn programs. These initiatives are pivotal in addressing the disconnect between available jobs and the skills of the workforce, particularly benefiting those without a four-year college degree. SkillPointe emerges as a key player in this […]
Body Slams and Branding: Breaking Down the Similarities Between Wrestling and B2B
In this episode of Pro AV Today, host Ben Thomas brings together Chris Neto, Jimmy Vaughan, and Dan Vollmayer for a discussion on the parallels between professional wrestling and the world of B2B. This unusual combination reveals significant insights into personal branding and content strategy. Chris Neto, a self-proclaimed wrestling fanboy, discusses how wrestling’s narrative-driven […]
Latest Articles

2023
Some Shifts in the Retail Supply Chain are Temporary, While Other Changes are Here to Stay
The current landscape of the retail supply chain has been in turmoil in recent years, with unexpected and disruptive challenges like the Suez and Panama Canal incidents, alongside the ongoing digitization struggles. Now, this volatile environment turns up critical questions about the resilience and adaptability of supply chains given unanticipated disruptions. With the retail […]
Forever 21 Benefits From its Shein Strategic Partnership, But Shein Gets the Bigger Slice. Here’s Why.
In the retail fashion industry, strategic partnerships are key, especially in the fast fashion sector. A recent alliance between Shein, an emerging e-fashion giant, and Forever 21, a well-established brand, exemplifies this trend. This strategic partnership represents a significant shift in the global fashion industry. Shein, which began as a modest Chinese apparel merchant, […]
Forever 21 & Shein Might Pull in Profits, But Their Business Models Are Incompatible in the Long-Term
The recent partnership between Forever 21 & Shein, a key event in retail fashion strategy, marks a pivotal moment in the industry, merging the traditional brick-and-mortar approach of Forever 21 with Shein’s fast-paced online retail model. This collaboration offers consumers an unprecedented blend of in-store experience and online variety, but it also raises significant questions […]
The Forever 21 & Shein Partnership Makes Strategic Sense. It’s Still an Environmental Blight on the Retail Fashion Supply Chain.
The recent collaboration between Forever 21 and Shein marks a significant juncture in retail fashion, merging Forever 21’s established retail presence with Shein’s innovative direct-to-consumer model. This partnership, however, raises serious concerns about sustainable development and the environmental impact of fast fashion, known for its high carbon emissions and contribution to environmental degradation. The […]

Articles
The Forever 21 & Shein Partnership Makes Strategic Sense. It’s Still an Environmental Blight on the Retail Fashion Supply Chain.
The recent collaboration between Forever 21 and Shein marks a significant juncture in retail fashion, merging Forever 21’s established retail presence with Shein’s innovative direct-to-consumer model. This partnership, however, raises serious concerns about sustainable development and the environmental impact of fast fashion, known for its high carbon emissions and contribution to environmental degradation. The […]
Retailers Should Reduce Their SKUs for a Healthier Supply Chain. Here’s Why.
In the current retail and consumer packaged goods (CPG) landscape, the industry faces significant challenges in maintaining a healthier supply chain. A 2023 Consumer Survey by O9 Solutions underscores this, revealing that over half of consumers have encountered product shortages, leading to a shift towards price-based purchasing over brand loyalty and reduced shopping due […]
AI and Analytics are the Key to Supply Chain Resilience in B2B
In the ever-evolving realm of B2B commerce, a recent survey by o9 Solutions casts a revealing light on the fragility of supply chains in the face of global disruptions. With over half of consumers experiencing supply chain issues in the past year, leading to significant shifts in purchasing behaviors, B2B companies in the middle […]
Are Supply Chain Disruptions Impacting Consumer Behavior? Inflation Could be the Bigger Culprit.
A recent survey by o9 Solutions reveals significant shifts in consumer behavior due to supply chain disruptions, with over half reporting direct impacts on purchasing habits. Amidst rising costs, many are halting purchases or seeking more cost-effective alternatives, signaling a critical moment for industries to reassess and innovate their supply chain strategies. In the […]

Articles
Are Supply Chain Disruptions Impacting Consumer Behavior? Inflation Could be the Bigger Culprit.
A recent survey by o9 Solutions reveals significant shifts in consumer behavior due to supply chain disruptions, with over half reporting direct impacts on purchasing habits. Amidst rising costs, many are halting purchases or seeking more cost-effective alternatives, signaling a critical moment for industries to reassess and innovate their supply chain strategies. In the […]
The Price of Fashion: Decoding Retail Policies Amidst Rising Supply Chain Costs
Recently, fast fashion retailer H&M backtracked on a decision to charge its UK customers a small return fee on online purchases returned to its brick-and-mortar outlets. But the price of fashion is high, and recent trends like ‘try-and-return’ purchases have prompted several clothing brands to change their return policies. So, how do underlying supply […]
Retail Innovation Takes Center Stage at Coach Under Giovanni Zaccariello’s Leadership
In an era where digitalization and sustainability are reshaping the retail landscape, Giovanni Zaccariello, SVP of Global Visual Experience at Coach, offers a fresh perspective on retail innovation. With the post-pandemic world demanding more engaging and responsible brand experiences, Coach’s strategy stands out. A recent study by McKinsey highlights the increasing importance of digital […]
From Brick-and-Mortar to WEB3: The Future of Retail in a Digital-First World
In an era where retail is rapidly transforming, understanding the nuances of technology, strategy, and innovation has never been more critical. The retail industry is at a crossroads, grappling with the integration of digital and physical experiences, and the stakes are high. This backdrop sets the stage for a compelling discussion on the future of […]
Latest Podcasts

2023 Retail Refined
GNC’s Omni-Channel Evolution From Brick and Mortar to Commerce Hub
The transformation from a traditional brick-and-mortar store to an integrated commerce hub is crucial in the fast-evolving retail landscape. GNC’s omni-channel evolution epitomizes this shift, blending in-person and digital experiences to meet the contemporary consumer’s demands. But what does this mean for the future of retail? “Retail Refined,” hosted by Melissa Gonzalez, welcomes Nate […]
Some Shifts in the Retail Supply Chain are Temporary, While Other Changes are Here to Stay
The current landscape of the retail supply chain has been in turmoil in recent years, with unexpected and disruptive challenges like the Suez and Panama Canal incidents, alongside the ongoing digitization struggles. Now, this volatile environment turns up critical questions about the resilience and adaptability of supply chains given unanticipated disruptions. With the retail […]
Retail Innovation Takes Center Stage at Coach Under Giovanni Zaccariello’s Leadership
In an era where digitalization and sustainability are reshaping the retail landscape, Giovanni Zaccariello, SVP of Global Visual Experience at Coach, offers a fresh perspective on retail innovation. With the post-pandemic world demanding more engaging and responsible brand experiences, Coach’s strategy stands out. A recent study by McKinsey highlights the increasing importance of digital […]
From Brick-and-Mortar to WEB3: The Future of Retail in a Digital-First World
In an era where retail is rapidly transforming, understanding the nuances of technology, strategy, and innovation has never been more critical. The retail industry is at a crossroads, grappling with the integration of digital and physical experiences, and the stakes are high. This backdrop sets the stage for a compelling discussion on the future of […]

2023
From Brick-and-Mortar to WEB3: The Future of Retail in a Digital-First World
In an era where retail is rapidly transforming, understanding the nuances of technology, strategy, and innovation has never been more critical. The retail industry is at a crossroads, grappling with the integration of digital and physical experiences, and the stakes are high. This backdrop sets the stage for a compelling discussion on the future of […]
Amid Concerns Over Organised Retail Theft, Retailers Must Turn to Tech to Safeguard Stores and Enhance Customer Experience
Target it set to close nine stores in cities including New York, Seattle, and San Francisco by October 21, amid concerns over theft and safety. In response to the growing concern of organized retail theft, Texas has established the Organized Retail Theft Task Force, with Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar appointing ten members from various sectors, […]
The Recent Forever 21-Shein Collaboration Tests Consumers’ Sustainability Commitments
Shein has acquired a significant stake in Forever 21’s operator, SPARC Group, paving the way for potential Shein mini-shops within Forever 21 stores. The Forever 21-Shein collaboration melds Shein’s modern online fast fashion dominance with Forever 21’s longstanding influence on American shopping trends. How can the merging of two fast-fashion giants impact the industry and […]
AI Technology is Revolutionizing Retail By Increasing Inventory Visibility
AI technology is reinventing traditional retail landscapes all over the world, and the need for innovation in inventory management is pivotal. Retailers are at a crossroads, facing the imperative need to synchronize online and offline inventories and enhance the customer shopping experience. However, a key player, Spacee, is driving this transformation by leveraging […]

Articles
AI Technology is Revolutionizing Retail By Increasing Inventory Visibility
AI technology is reinventing traditional retail landscapes all over the world, and the need for innovation in inventory management is pivotal. Retailers are at a crossroads, facing the imperative need to synchronize online and offline inventories and enhance the customer shopping experience. However, a key player, Spacee, is driving this transformation by leveraging […]
The Power of Consumer Insights: Enhance Performance and Customer Loyalty with Data
In the latest episode of Retail Refined, conducted at the Retail Influencer CEO Forum 2023, host Melissa Gonzalez explores the transformative power of consumer insights with guest Elizabeth Oates, VP of Consumer Insights at Ulta Beauty. They discuss how data-driven insights can enhance performance, foster customer loyalty, and shape the beauty industry’s future. Oates […]
Adapting to a Constantly Changing Market: Leadership and Impact with Warby Parker’s Co-Founder
During the recent 2023 Retail Influencer CEO Forum, Retail Refined’s Melissa Gonzalez sat down with Neil Blumenthal, co-CEO and co-Founder of Warby Parker, to discuss the brand’s journey and its innovative approach to leadership in the eyewear industry. Blumenthal highlighted Warby Parker’s commitment to providing affordable eyewear while also making a positive impact with […]
Retail Legend, Arnie Cohen Discusses the Resurgence of Catalogs
In the latest episode of What Just Happened, host Christine Russo sits down with retail legend Arnie Cohen, CEO of J. Peterman Company, to discuss the surprising resurgence of catalogs in the digital age. Cohen delves into the tactile experience catalogs offer, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the integration of cart.com […]
Latest Videos

Retail
Retail’s Digital Workforce: How Workjam Is Scaling Customer Satisfaction Through Employee Engagement

NRF 2023
How Retailers are Staying Ahead: The Evolution of Personalized Signage
Retailers Need to Enhance Omnichannel Consumer Experience to Benefit
According to the National Retail Federation, almost 200 million consumers were shopping over Thanksgiving weekend. The NRF reports that “the total number of shoppers grew by nearly 17 million from 2021 and is the highest figure since NRF first started tracking this data in 2017”, this growth being in large part to the record-breaking […]
Will the Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend Revenue Continue Through the Rest of the Holiday Season?
This year, retailers kicked off the holiday season early with deals beginning prior to Thanksgiving weekend. The encouragement from retailer sales to have consumers begin their holiday shopping early, has made some impact with this year breaking record revenue over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. The Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales prove positive in predicting […]

Retail
Will the Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend Revenue Continue Through the Rest of the Holiday Season?
This year, retailers kicked off the holiday season early with deals beginning prior to Thanksgiving weekend. The encouragement from retailer sales to have consumers begin their holiday shopping early, has made some impact with this year breaking record revenue over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. The Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales prove positive in predicting […]
Low Consumer Confidence Leads to Record Black Friday Sales? What Gives?
For some, record sales this last Black Friday may come as a bit of a shock. According to Commercial Observer, in the lead up to Black Friday, “consumers are feeling much more hesitant, and the retail landscape is looking trickier” thanks to inflation impacting consumer confidence. How much is consumer confidence actually impacting discretionary […]
Point of Scale: Monday Monolog
Happy Monday everyone! Last week was a crazy week in retail where a lot of typically big news got missed and/or glossed over with the midterm elections dominating most newsfeeds. Two big stories that really stuck out to me: The NRF released its annual Holiday Spending Forecast and the implications of Amazon’s historic dip in […]
Adidas Cuts Ties With Ye, Absorbing €250 Million Profit Hit
(Bloomberg) — Adidas AG will absorb a hit to earnings of up to €250 million ($247 million) this year to end its partnership with Ye following a rash of offensive behavior from the rapper and designer. The German sports company said it’s cutting ties with Ye, formerly Kanye West, with immediate effect, confirming an earlier […]
By Navigating Sustainability and Responsible Retail, Businesses Can Reach Better Ethical and Profit Achievements
The world is in an era where sustainability and responsible retail business practices are increasingly crucial. For the latest episode of “What Just Happened,” host Christine Russo further explored the hows and whys of this pressing issue by interviewing Cara Smyth, Global Senior Managing Director for ESG and Responsible Retail at Accenture, and Chair […]
GNC’s Omni-Channel Evolution From Brick and Mortar to Commerce Hub
The transformation from a traditional brick-and-mortar store to an integrated commerce hub is crucial in the fast-evolving retail landscape. GNC’s omni-channel evolution epitomizes this shift, blending in-person and digital experiences to meet the contemporary consumer’s demands. But what does this mean for the future of retail? “Retail Refined,” hosted by Melissa Gonzalez, welcomes Nate […]
Some Shifts in the Retail Supply Chain are Temporary, While Other Changes are Here to Stay
The current landscape of the retail supply chain has been in turmoil in recent years, with unexpected and disruptive challenges like the Suez and Panama Canal incidents, alongside the ongoing digitization struggles. Now, this volatile environment turns up critical questions about the resilience and adaptability of supply chains given unanticipated disruptions. With the retail […]
Forever 21 Benefits From its Shein Strategic Partnership, But Shein Gets the Bigger Slice. Here’s Why.
In the retail fashion industry, strategic partnerships are key, especially in the fast fashion sector. A recent alliance between Shein, an emerging e-fashion giant, and Forever 21, a well-established brand, exemplifies this trend. This strategic partnership represents a significant shift in the global fashion industry. Shein, which began as a modest Chinese apparel merchant, […]
Forever 21 & Shein Might Pull in Profits, But Their Business Models Are Incompatible in the Long-Term
The recent partnership between Forever 21 & Shein, a key event in retail fashion strategy, marks a pivotal moment in the industry, merging the traditional brick-and-mortar approach of Forever 21 with Shein’s fast-paced online retail model. This collaboration offers consumers an unprecedented blend of in-store experience and online variety, but it also raises significant questions […]
The Forever 21 & Shein Partnership Makes Strategic Sense. It’s Still an Environmental Blight on the Retail Fashion Supply Chain.
The recent collaboration between Forever 21 and Shein marks a significant juncture in retail fashion, merging Forever 21’s established retail presence with Shein’s innovative direct-to-consumer model. This partnership, however, raises serious concerns about sustainable development and the environmental impact of fast fashion, known for its high carbon emissions and contribution to environmental degradation. The […]
Retailers Should Reduce Their SKUs for a Healthier Supply Chain. Here’s Why.
In the current retail and consumer packaged goods (CPG) landscape, the industry faces significant challenges in maintaining a healthier supply chain. A 2023 Consumer Survey by O9 Solutions underscores this, revealing that over half of consumers have encountered product shortages, leading to a shift towards price-based purchasing over brand loyalty and reduced shopping due […]
AI and Analytics are the Key to Supply Chain Resilience in B2B
In the ever-evolving realm of B2B commerce, a recent survey by o9 Solutions casts a revealing light on the fragility of supply chains in the face of global disruptions. With over half of consumers experiencing supply chain issues in the past year, leading to significant shifts in purchasing behaviors, B2B companies in the middle […]
Are Supply Chain Disruptions Impacting Consumer Behavior? Inflation Could be the Bigger Culprit.
A recent survey by o9 Solutions reveals significant shifts in consumer behavior due to supply chain disruptions, with over half reporting direct impacts on purchasing habits. Amidst rising costs, many are halting purchases or seeking more cost-effective alternatives, signaling a critical moment for industries to reassess and innovate their supply chain strategies. In the […]