The Modern Retail Podcast A look back at 2025, from tariffs to Target to Labubus
Dec 20, 2025
In this discussion, reporter Mitchell Parton shares insights on the retail landscape of 2025, covering the impact of tariffs that disrupted supply chains. He highlights the surge of private label brands and the unexpected popularity of viral products like Labubus, fueled by TikTok Shop's growth. Mitchell also explores how big-box retailers like Target and Walmart navigated challenges, along with the increasing influence of AI in retail operations. His expertise sheds light on a year filled with surprises and shifts in consumer behavior.
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Selective M&A Shapes CPG Landscape
- 2025 saw selective M&A with big buys in personal care and CPG rather than a flood of IPOs.
- Gabriela Barkho notes newer portfolio companies like Mammoth are using acquisitions to signal consumer demand.
Tariffs Upended Supply Chains
- Tariffs became the defining disruption of 2025 and forced major supply-chain shifts.
- Melissa Daniels says companies scrambled to diversify sourcing or bulk order to avoid sudden tariff costs.
Live Call Interrupted By Tariff Changes
- A founder described watching import rates change during a live call on "Liberation Day."
- Gabriela Barkho recalled the call where tariffs shifted while they were talking, creating panic.