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Melissa Gonzalez

Top Retail Voice, Influencer, and Lead Retail Contributor

Industry-recognized influencer, leader, and storyteller in Retail. Lead Retail Industry Contributor at MarketScale. Principal at MG2 Design. Host of "Retail Refined" Podcast. As a global brand and retail experience disruptor, Melissa possess strong proficiency in consumer insights, experiential design, retail technology integration, and brand innovation. During her career, she have created powerful visual narratives through physical spaces, imprinting complex concepts and ideas to consumers in genuine, tactile, and persuasive manners. She have also served as a consumer engagement trendsetter, “pop-up” industry pioneer, and entrepreneur. Melissa founded and launched a consumer experiential design firm that achieved a successful exit, driving initial client wins, monetization, and exponential revenue growth.


"Melissa brings both her industry knowledge and an approachable and educational point of view to her interviewing skills. With an authentic style, she facilitates an engaging dialogue, one where listeners can walk away from with tangible insights and thought provokers!"

-Jeffrey Roseman, Vice Chairman of Retail at Newmark


"What sets Melissa apart is her ability to cut through the noise and provide actionable insights. Whether you’re a store owner looking to revamp your space or a tech enthusiast curious about the next big thing in retail, you’ll find tangible ideas to build on. From seasoned designers to pioneering tech gurus - ensuring that listeners are always engaged with diverse and forward-thinking perspectives. Retail Refined doesn’t just skim the surface; it dives deep into topics that matter. If staying ahead of the retail curve is important to you, start here."

-Nate Frazier, Chief Operating Officer of GNC

Shopware - Top 20 eCommerce Podcast 2023
NYBJ - Top 10 NYC Executive To Watch In 2023 2023
Path to Purchase - Woman of Excellence 2023
WWD - Top 25 Most Inspirational Woman Leader 2022
LinkedIn - Top 10 Must-Know Retail Writer 2018
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pod Podcast Hosting & Public Speaking

Recent Posts

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2024 Retail Refined

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

Melissa Gonzalez - 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.

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2024 Retail Refined

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

Melissa Gonzalez - 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.

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2024 Retail Refined

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

Melissa Gonzalez - 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 insecurities.

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2024 Retail Refined

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

Melissa Gonzalez - August 29, 2024

The retail landscape is rapidly evolving, and brands are redefining their approach to in-store experiences to remain competitive. Victoria's Secret & Co.

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2024 Retail Refined

A New Era of Retail is the Rise and Integration of Social Commerce

Melissa Gonzalez - July 9, 2024

As the retail landscape changes, the convergence of live streaming, social media, and e-commerce is revolutionizing how consumers interact with brands. This shift, propelled by advancements in technology and changing consumer behaviors, has led to innovative business models that are reshaping the industry.

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2024 Retail Refined

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

Melissa Gonzalez - June 18, 2024

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.

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