Juli Lassow - The Dating Game of Retail: How to Build Winning Supplier Partnerships.

Here are my top 3 takeaways from my conversation with Juli Lassow:

Don’t overlook the opportunity within retail:

There is significant potential in the brick-and-mortar retail sector. Julie, with her experience in mass retail, identifies opportunities in this industry. Physical stores remain relevant by allowing customers to interact with products, receive personalized assistance, and foster a sense of community. Forward-thinking retailers understand the importance of offering a unified shopping experience that caters to customer preferences.

Public speaking is a powerful skill:

Juli has leveraged the power of public speaking as a highly effective marketing tool, attributing her success to years of practice and continuous skill development. She emphasizes the importance of honing her craft through professional organizations like Heroic Public Speaking, which have helped her enhance both her content development and stage presence.

Rethink how you view supplier relationships:

Juli detailed how building supplier partnerships can be likened to dating, as it involves getting to know each other and establishing clear expectations . She approaches supplier partnerships using a framework similar to a consultant's matrix. This involves self-reflection on organizational strategies and priorities, sharing perspectives with partners, assessing existing partnerships, and envisioning a new future. Open communication, asking questions, and seeking feedback are essential for establishing effective communication. Regular reflection and evaluation ensure the plan stays on track and can be adjusted as needed.

Bonus takeaway: The importance of the circular economy:

The circular economy is crucial in the retail industry. Julie encountered this concept during her transition from Target to launching her own business. She coined the term "green guilt" to address the challenge of encouraging consumption while minimizing environmental impact. The circular economy provides a flexible framework for retailers and brands to understand priorities and implement strategic plans. It allows businesses to tailor their approach based on specific needs and the preferences of customers and clients. Retailers and brands have responded positively to this approach, recognizing the value of reducing waste and maximizing resource utilization.

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