Olivia McFadin

In this new Wisdom With, I get a chance to garner valuable insights from James Jackson who leads strategic development efforts for the Category Management Association and his thoughts on better retailer and buyer engagement. 💡 Understand your Category Manager/Buyer ↗ Retailer Category Managers are charged with meeting P&L objectives and not YOUR specific brand goals. ↗ Each individual brand (and item) must clearly serve a purpose and contribute to achieving his/her objectives. ↗ Learn their how they like to receive information and tailor accordingly. Avoid off-the-shelf presentations that lack any customization for the specific customer in mind. Canned pitches have a low success rate. 💡 You Must Be Compelling ➡ Weave great insights and your product offering into a clear solution that helps address their specific category or business objectives. Compelling stories should have: 👉 A recognizable conflict (example: “50% of shoppers in this category are struggling to find an x product to relieve this symptom”) 💪 A “hero” (your brand) 👊 A believable and profitable resolution (example: “By solving the conflict, it would bring an incremental $1M in margin to the category”) 💡 Help Drive Execution ↗ Your Customer is buried with data, multiple projects, and is continuously putting out a fire. ↗ Your goal shouldn’t stop at getting distribution, it should be to STAY in distribution. 💡 Assist your Category by making effective implementation easy. ↗ Recommend the POG changes and do the work in advance ↗ Target a smart cluster of stores to launch for higher likelihood of success ↗ Create a strong promotional plan to drive immediate proof of performance ↗ Offer sales/broker support to get things rolling #wisdomwith #betterperformance #retail #merchandising #data #storytelling

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Great Bloomberg op-ed on why investing in retail store leaders is good for business. I love Andrea’s callout that big investments can raise eyebrows with analysts – like increasing our average Walmart store manager salary to $128,000/year with a new bonus program that gives store managers the potential to earn up to 200% of their base salary. But in the long run, she shows how these types of investments support retention, career growth, better run stores, strong stock value, and our ability to attract a broader range of customers.   Here are a couple of studies that stood out to me in Andrea’s piece: 💠 A 2012 study by Alex Edmans, Professor of Finance at the London Business School (then at Wharton School), found that firms on Fortune’s list of “100 Best Companies to Work for in America,” which have superior employee satisfaction scores on factors including pay and benefits, outperformed peers by 2.3-3.8% per year from 1984 through 2011. 💠 A follow-up study by Hamid Boustanifar, associate professor at the EDHEC Business School, and Young Dae Kang of the Bank of Korea found that the relationship still held: companies on the publication’s list earned an excess return of 2-2.7% per year through 2020, with particular outperformance during tough times.   At the end of the day, these investments also support the ability to build a pipeline of strong talent that stays and grows with a company. We want Walmart to be seen as an employer of choice and pay plays a big part in how we attract and retain talented people. #Compensation #TeamWalmart https://lnkd.in/gPVdAYG4

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According to a Progressive Grocer article that published this week “Majority of Shoppers Won't Buy Nonfood Items at Grocery Stores” Acosta SVP Shannon Hodock states “We believe grocery retailers have an exciting and expansive opportunity to capture and grow HBC and GM sales. "Strategically, retailers need to create a targeted 'get on the grocery list' campaign for their shoppers, incorporating a holistic omnichannel strategy and a customized marketing plan as they tackle the three key challenges to overcoming current perceptions and shopping habits." For these retailers looking to capitalize on “gateway” categories and seek growth and grow share of impulse sales than ECRM should be in your playbook. You can check out our GM/Non-Food solutions programming in link below. We have also seen a great uptick in new items within our RangeMe discovery platform within these categories. https://lnkd.in/eCuH9gVJ #nonfoods #generalmerchandise #impulse #seasonal #grocery

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This is the new normal. With omni channel concept traditional store or supply chain facility/warehouse manager role has significantly evolved. Now from physical store replenishment, inventory and POS management, managers must also juggle with online order and inventory accordingly. Imaging these new leaders almost like franchisee business owners. Very strong ownership also create big challenges with larger workforce, a suite of process implementation and technology+data. Plus side in addition to higher compensation is the growth in skillset and overall leadership and process & business knowledge. Of course the compensation has changed and will continue as standard, small format or hyper scaled stores and supply chain facilities adopt omni channel distribution, delivery and POS concept. This is just the beginning!! #store #supplychain #management #leadership

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Looking for some visual merchandising tips? Here are some thoughts on the virtues of mass merchandising from the Specialty Shop Retailing blog. #independentretailers #shoplocal #visualmerchandising #retailing #smallbusiness

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Thank you RETHINK Retail for this feature. One of the questions I was asked: 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙮 𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙜? ⏺️ Product creation practices tied to over development and excessive physical sampling ⏺️ Merchandising and assortment planning strategies need to be reimagined = more supply does not equal more demand ⏺️ Inventory issues like excess inventory and eroded margins from markdowns ⏺️ Managing customer expectations on the instore and online experience ⏺️ Perfecting personalization, from design to marketing Interested in learning more? Check out the link below. ➡️ https://lnkd.in/edXg5aAf #retail #topretailexpert #RetailVoices #RetailVoicesbyNRF #RETHINKRetail #NRF2025

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This segment will continue to grow, it’s just a matter of convenience. The challenge is filling orders properly and substituting where applicable, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve used this service and the person filling the order just really didn’t care. Retailers need to pick the right technology and train the shoppers and then train the shoppers again and again. How do you provide great customer service in e-commerce, by making it personal for the customer.

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🚀 Big News Alert: Saks Buys Neiman Marcus with a Boost from Amazon! 🚀 Hey everyone! Just had to share this HUGE update in the luxury retail world. Saks Fifth Avenue’s parent company is dropping $2.65 billion to scoop up Neiman Marcus, and guess what? Amazon’s in on the action, bringing their tech and logistics game. 🛍️✨ Here’s the Tea: • Power Move: Merging two luxury legends to create a mega retail powerhouse. • Tech Boost: With Amazon on board, expect next-level tech integration for a seamless shopping experience, both online and offline. • Big Bucks: Financed by top-tier investors like Rhône Capital and the Abu Dhabi Investment Council, plus $1.15 billion in debt from Apollo Global Management. • Market Shakeup: The new combo will hit around $10 billion in annual sales, giving them major leverage with suppliers and streamlining costs. Why It’s a Big Deal: This merger shows how vital tech and partnerships are in today’s retail scene. It’s proof that luxury retail is evolving and adapting, even when times are tough. For investors, this move is a clear sign of confidence in the luxury sector’s future and the potential for new opportunities. Big things are coming, and I am excited to be part of this evolving industry. Stay tuned for more updates as we keep pushing the boundaries in luxury retail!

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I keep hearing about how “brick and mortar retail is in trouble.” The numbers tell a different story. This year alone, there are over 1,000 stores opening across the U.S., with brands like TJ Maxx, Dollar Tree Stores, Dollar General, and Warby Parker leading the charge. This is unprecedented growth. And it’s a testament to the evolving retail landscape. But there’s a catch. Overall, most retailers today operate fewer stores due to the high costs. The stores that are around now serve multiple roles, including integrating both online and offline shopping experiences. Whether starting in-store and shipping home or ordering online and picking up in-store, it's all about meeting the customer where they are. Despite having fewer and smaller stores, the stakes are higher than ever for retailers. When customers visit a store today, they are serious about their intent. They're there to learn, fix, exchange, or buy something specific. If you miss the opportunity to serve them properly, you lose that sale—and likely won't get a second chance. This is especially critical for specialty stores—hardware, home improvement, electronics, books—where customers come in with a clear purpose. Failing to engage and assist them effectively means losing them to a competitor. In a world where retail is both online and offline, ensuring that every in-store interaction is handled perfectly is essential. It's about making the most of each moment, because you might not get another chance.

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Walmart has removed degree requirements from most of our jobs, with over 75% of our U.S. roles now not requiring a degree.    We are collaborating with The Burning Glass Institute and other leading companies in the Skills-First Workforce Initiative, such as Bank of America, Blackstone, Johnson & Johnson, Microsoft, PepsiCo and Verizon. Our skills-first approach aims to open up career opportunities, meet employer talent needs and strengthen the economy. The framework will be open source and available to all U.S. employers by September 2025.    Our initial focus is on the nine most prevalent job roles across various sectors, which collectively account for over 11 million American jobs. By creating a shared language, or taxonomy, for assessing and valuing skills, we can promote the widespread adoption of this hiring approach.    Read more here: 

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Ashley Buchanan's leadership at Michaels Stores has been transformative, setting the stage for his new role at Kohl's (which will not be an easy gig). At Michaels, Buchanan tackled critical issues by enhancing the company's e-commerce capabilities and streamlining its product offerings. Under his guidance, Michaels expanded its online assortment to 1.5 million items, catering not only to hobbyists but also to professional crafters. He launched MakerPlace by Michaels, an innovative online marketplace akin to Etsy, allowing creators to sell their crafts directly through the platform. This strategic pivot not only broadened Michaels' customer base but also positioned the company as a one-stop shop for arts and crafts enthusiasts. As Buchanan steps into his role at Kohl's, he brings with him a wealth of experience in digital transformation and merchandising strategy. His success at Michaels in improving operational efficiencies and enhancing customer engagement will be crucial for Kohl's, which has struggled with declining sales and increased competition. By leveraging his expertise in e-commerce and customer-centric strategies, Buchanan has the potential to revitalize Kohl's retail experience and drive growth. Could his focus on innovation and adapting to market trends help Kohl's regain its footing in the competitive retail landscape? How will his strategies impact the store-within-stores concepts? #AshleyBuchanan #RetailTransformation #KohlsFuture #EcommerceInnovation #LeadershipInRetail

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“We saw an opportunity in the market to really lean into the #GenZ customer with incredible style at an extraordinary price point that only someone like Walmart can bring given our scale.” Good move by Walmart as part of their larger revamp of #apparel. But product is only one piece of the equation. For #NoBoundaries to compete head-to-head against Abercrombie & Fitch Co., AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC., or any of the other brands targeting Gen-Z, it will take a more holistic effort across #stores, #digital, and #marketing (content and medium) to create real #brand momentum. https://lnkd.in/eudxA2bF

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Walmart’s new research on the state of adaptive retail points to a new era of retail where customers expect to be advised and guided throughout their shopping journeys. Shoppers want retailers to be ready for them – ready with hyper-specific recommendations, ready to adapt offerings to match needs, ready to deliver.    The systems and platforms the Global Technology Platform team builds are essential for enabling many of these dynamic experiences, from our clouds which power everything across our ecosystem, to platforms like Element that enable teams across Walmart Global Tech to leverage the data they need to innovate faster.   Check out the report to understand the trends shaping the future of retail and how retailers can adapt to meet customer needs.   https://lnkd.in/g_GXHywS   #walmart, #walmartglobaltech

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Are you stuck in the cycle of “I have to get this done”? It’s time for a mindset shift! Explore the power of bright-side thinking and learn how to reframe your approach from “have to” to “want to”—a simple change that transforms attitude, reduces stress, and brings more joy to your daily work. Ready to make the switch? #BrightSideThinking #MindsetShift #LeadershipDevelopment #RetailLeadership #SelfImprovement #PositiveMindset #Reframe

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Do you have some go-to time management tips that have become habit-forming? Check out my latest article in Inc. Magazine for a few tried-and-true ways to continue improving how you mindfully use your time.   #TheUPSStore #SmallBusiness #TimeManagement https://lnkd.in/gUpd4cp5

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🍊 Supply chain friends, join me Monday on the Blueberry 🫐 stage at Groceryshop 2024 for the track keynote, "Building Flexible and Efficient Supply Chains". This discussion features industry leaders who are reshaping the future of supply chain management:  🫐Nitin Murali, VP, Supply Chain Excellence, Gallo   🫐Bret Celmer, COO, The Rounds    We will discuss insights on creating agile and responsive supply chains that can meet the demands of today’s dynamic market. This session will provide valuable perspectives on leveraging technology and innovation for enhanced efficiency.   📅 7th Oct, 2024  📍Location: 🫐 Blueberry Stage at #Groceryshop2024   Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best in the business!   #SupplyChain #Innovation #RetailExcellence #Capgemini

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Implementing personal accountability transforms leadership. Learn practical steps from The Oz Principle and QBQ! to foster a proactive and accountable culture in your team. Learn to ask empowering questions that drive better results. You, too, can begin building your own personal accountability system. #Leadership #PersonalAccountability #RetailManagement #EffectiveLeadership #TeamCulture #ProfessionalDevelopment

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Aloha Friday! 🤙🏼 Here are some interesting stories from the world of retail for Friday, July 26: 👨🏻‍💻 Following the announcement that Saks' parent HBC will look to acquire Neiman Marcus for $2.65 billion, Saks has confirmed a shakeup of its operations that will entail an undisclosed number of layoffs. 🍋 The potential mega-merger between Kroger and Albertsons is on hold while lawsuits play out in state and federal court. On Thursday, the two companies agreed to a temporary injunction in Colorado. 🚜 Tractor Supply Company stock erased early losses to trade flat Thursday after the retailer posted weaker-than-expected second-quarter sales and narrowed guidance to lower the top of its profit and sales ranges. 👟 Upbeat results from the HOKA and UGG brands prompted Deckers to boost its full-year profit outlook. It now expects $29.75 to $30.65 in earnings per share for the full fiscal year. 🍾 Luxury giant LVMH – the company behind Dior, Tiffany & Co., and a number of champagne labels – reported a 15% decline in Champagne sales in the first half of the year compared to the same period the year prior. 📕 As back-to-school shopping kicks off, Walmart is selling thousands of back-to-school items for less than $10, the retail giant announced. That includes pens, backpacks and lunchboxes, the retailer said. 🌯 Chipotle Mexican Grill customers were right in their complaints about skimpy portion sizes. CEO Brian Niccol disclosed that a company investigation found that 1 in 10 of its restaurants were too meager with their servings. 🏬 Wilshire Rodeo Plaza sits at one end of Rodeo Drive and its new owners are betting big the address on Beverly Hills’ iconic street will lure luxury retailers, The new owners paid more than $208 million for the property. 🦅 American Eagle Outfitters Inc. has launched a “Live Your Life” back-to-school campaign, targeting Gen Z through a mix of co-creation, omnichannel strategies and surprise activations for back-to-school. 🥤 Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. reported quarterly earnings and revenue that met analysts’ expectations on Thursday as higher prices fueled its US soda sales. Net sales rose 3.5% to $3.92 billion. 🍗 Restaurant patrons who order chicken wings marketed as boneless can't expect them to actually be boneless, according to a Thursday ruling from the Ohio Supreme Court. 🍔 Wahlburgers has major beef with a California barbecue company — and it’s taking it to the courts. It accused Backyard BBQ Village and its operator of infringing on its trademarks and unlawfully posing as Wahlburgers. 📈 Consumer confidence increased in June, with consumers feeling more positive about the job market, their household finances and their spending comfort levels. 💰 The US economy grew by 2.8% in the second quarter. A faster than expected pace as consumers continued to open their wallets despite ongoing inflation and high interest rates. #retail #retailnews #economy #DailyRetailNews

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