Bob D'Loren, CEO of Xcel Brands and co-founder of the innovative social commerce app ORME, dives into the transformative world of social commerce. He discusses the blending of shopping with entertainment, especially through TikTok-style content. The conversation highlights the challenges for traditional media adapting to this new landscape and the vital role of authentic influencer marketing. D'Loren also explores the uncertain future of platforms like TikTok, while noting the growing popularity of niche communities and the evolving relationship between influencers and their audiences.

In episode 475 of Total Retail Talks, Editor-in-Chief Joe Keenan interviews Kostas Georgakopoulos, chief technology officer and chief information security officer at Mondelēz International, one of the largest snack companies in the world offering iconic global and local brands in over 150 countries. Listen in as Georgakopoulos describes the Mondelēz organization and his role (1:40),…

In episode 474 of Total Retail Talks, Editor-in-Chief Joe Keenan interviews Brad Santanna, head of omnichannel marketing at The Hershey Company, an industry-leading snacks company, and Steve Triplett, senior vice president of advertising sales at Vibenomics, an in-store digital advertising provider. Listen in as Santanna and Triplett provide insight into the benefits of in-store advertising…

In episode 473 of Total Retail Talks, Editor-in-Chief Joe Keenan interviews Kevin Tulip, president of Primark U.S., the international value retail chain. Listen in as Tulip provides insight into his 22-year career journey with Primark (1:05), the brand's history and mission (3:05), and its continued expansion into the U.S. market (4:55). He discusses the European…

Kristen Darcy, Chief Marketing Officer at True Religion, dives into the brand's innovative holiday marketing strategies. She discusses the power of strategic partnerships with influencers and celebrities, revealing how these collaborations enhance sales and customer engagement. Kristen details the success of the 'Where Holiday Wishes Come True' campaign and the creation of Team True, an influencer network that boosts social media interactions. She also hints at exciting upcoming initiatives, including an expansion of the influencer program and a new spring campaign.

Stephen Bailey, the Chief Marketing Officer of John Fluevog Shoes, shares insights from his journey at a brand renowned for its unique footwear. He discusses the importance of personal service and adaptability in navigating inventory management during challenging times like the pandemic. Bailey emphasizes nurturing relationships with customers and employees as key to brand loyalty. He also highlights innovative marketing strategies, including unique holiday offerings, and the power of human connection amid emerging technologies.

On episode 470 of Total Retail Talks, Editor-in-Chief Joe Keenan interviews Heidi Hurst, head of product development and marketing at EVEREST, a new home organization and storage brand that elevates the potential of every room with stylish and customizable solutions. Listen in as Hurst describes the brand's product and its "beautility" vision to offer beauty…

In episode 468 of Total Retail Talks, Editor-in-Chief Joe Keenan interviews Gena Smith, chief human resources officer at LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, a leading luxury goods group, and Beatrice Goasglas, president of TAG Heuer Americas, a luxury timepiece brand. Listen in as Smith discusses why LVMH expanded its Métiers d’Excellence (ME) apprenticeship program in…

In episode 467 of Total Retail Talks, Editor-in-Chief Joe Keenan interviews Emily Erusha-Hilleque, senior vice president of private brand, and Sam Archibald, general merchandise manager of apparel at Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. and the style source for generations of customers. Listen in as Erusha-Hilleque and Archibald share why the retailer is…

In this bonus episode of Total Retail Talks, Total Retail's Kristina Stidham and Joe Keenan discuss the brand's recently released 2024 Retail Technology Report. Listen in to learn about this annual report, including how data is collected, key findings to emerge from this year’s survey of technology decision-makers from across the industry, and implications for…