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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

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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2024 Retail Refined

Transforming Ear Piercings into a Tailored Journey: How Studs is Redefining the Industry with 'Earscaping'

Melissa Gonzalez - May 14, 2024

In todays 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 missionredefining the piercing industry.

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2024 Retail Refined

A New York Pop-Up Experience Where “Motion is Magic”: Kizik's Innovative Approach to Footwear and Retail Expansion Takes the Stage

Melissa Gonzalez - May 1, 2024

As the concept of "Motion is Magic" takes center stage in Kiziks national brand expansion, the footwear industry witnesses a seamless blend of digital and physical retail innovations. This strategic approach, is set against a backdrop of increasing consumer demand for experiential marketing, engages customers uniquely and memorably and establishes a deeper connection with the brand.

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2024 Retail Refined

A Look Into MG2’s Sustainability Impact Report

Melissa Gonzalez - April 22, 2024

When businesses invest in building strategies around a sustainability impact report, its a win-win for the environment, the company, and the community the business serves.The architecture and design industries face renewed pressure to innovate sustainably in an era marked by rapid environmental shifts and an escalating climate crisis.

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2024 Retail Refined

American Freight's Open-Box Approach Sets a New Standard in Retail Where Quality and Affordability Go Hand-in-Hand

Melissa Gonzalez - April 9, 2024

As consumers increasingly seek out sustainable and value-driven shopping options, American Freight stands out with its distinctive approach to the retail market. By capitalizing on the trend towards open-box purchases and the demand for high-quality products at lower prices, this retailer is leading the charge.

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