Masters of Scale

Rapid Response: Stay versatile, w/Lululemon Athletica CEO Calvin McDonald

Jan 26, 2023

Calvin McDonald, CEO of Lululemon Athletica and former head of Sephora, shares how his brand thrived amid retail turmoil. He discusses the importance of mid-term planning, innovative product development, and community engagement. Calvin emphasizes the power of listening to customers to enhance brand identity and drive success. He explores the role of agility in navigating economic challenges and reveals how a culture of collaboration fuels both resilience and sustainability in the company. Tune in for insights on leadership and adaptability!

24:26

Episode guests

Calvin McDonald

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

The Future of Retail Innovation: Needs vs. Wants

01:42

Intro

2min

Navigating Innovation and Agility in Retail

3min

Navigating Economic Challenges with Agility and Strategic Growth

5min

Transforming Lululemon: Leadership, Innovation, and Sustainability

6min

Overcoming Technical Challenges in Family Engagement Technology

1min

The Power of Experience in Leadership

14min

While many retail businesses have struggled to cope with a wave of disruptions — from pandemic to supply chains to inflation — Lululemon has continued to scale, even when retail sales elsewhere dipped. CEO Calvin McDonald shares how mid-term strategic planning, control over inventory, and a culture that climbs mountains together has fueled agility and versatility. When it comes to brand-building and community building, Calvin says, it’s critical to lean into listening, so you can amplify what makes your business truly distinctive.

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