The CPG Guys

The CPG Guys are joined in this special Halloween episode by Tim LeBel, Chief Halloween Officer and President of US Sales at Mars Wrigley,Follow Tim on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-lebel/ Follow Mars Wrigley on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mars/Follow Mars Wrigley online at: https://www.mars.com/Here's what we asked Tim: Tim, what does ‘Chief halloween officer’ mean to you?How does Mars Wrigley think about the role of Halloween in the annual plan? When does Halloween planning start?What shifts have you seen in consumer behavior around Halloween in the past few years? What trends are you seeing this year?How does Mars Wrigley segment its Halloween portfolio (e.g. “everyday” SKUs vs seasonal/limited edition)?  What is the innovation cadence for seasonal items?How do you balance scale vs novelty in Halloween SKUs? How much shelf “real estate” do you devote to your core candies vs seasonal or promotional items?How do you think about the “kid vs adult” consumer dynamic in Halloween candy buying?How do you see e-commerce / DTC / omnichannel evolving for Halloween candy? (E.g. subscription boxes, online-exclusive SKUs, direct-to-consumer offerings, grocery pickup, cross-channel promos.)How do you align with your retail customers (supermarkets, mass, drug, dollar stores, convenience) on Halloween strategies & what is your strategy for securing premium shelf and display space (endcaps, gondolas, checkout lanes) during Halloween?Can you walk us through the innovation pipeline for Halloween SKUs - From ideation to shelf, how long does it take, and how do you “test” new ideas?What role does marketing/ads/PR & retail media play in your Halloween programs?How about social media campaigns/influencers, partnerships, co-markets, influencer tie-ins, event activations.)Looking ahead: what do you see as the biggest opportunities and risks for Halloween candy over the next 5 years?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comRhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast. 

Each week, the CPG Guys will riff on the hottest topics in the world of omnichannel commerce. This week, Sri recaps his visit to Amazon Accelerate.CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comRhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast. 

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Dave Glick, SVP of Enterprise Business Services at Walmart.Follow Dave on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidglick1/Follow Walmart on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walmart/Follow Walmart online at: https://corporate.walmart.com/Here's what we asked Dave: What is your role at Walmart?As an early adopter of technology, how is business services being driven forward by AI?What is agentic AI to you and how Walmart is approaching it?What was the strategic reason for Walmart to develop a unified AI framework with four "super agents" instead of continuing to build standalone tools?Describe the practical, day-to-day functions of the new associate AI agent and how it improves associates lives.What is your strategy for leading a large organization through significant technological change and driving widespread adoption among associates?With large tech organizations at Walmart, how do you maintain alignment around strategy, culture, and being “people-led”?I know you’re leading some transformation around claims and disputes - I believe you are going to move mountains there. Shed light please.Why “stop being nice, start being kind” resonated so strongly with you—how does that translate to enterprise leadership? When you look ahead 12-18 years, how do you see Enterprise Business Services evolving—especially with AI?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comRhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast. 

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Harvey Ma, VP/GM of Sam's Club MAP, the club format's retail media division.Follow Harvey on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveyma8/Follow Sam's Club MAP on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sams-club-map/Follow Sam's Club MAP online at: https://map.samsclub.com/Here's what we asked Harvey: Based on the vision you shared, how are you seeking for MAP to evolve under your leadership?I mentioned that, earlier this year, you launched Scan & Go Ads. At that early stage there were some inventory limitations. Would you first share with our audience the details behind what Scan & Go Ads are and how they work and then give us an update on the inventory availability situation? Are there more enhancements coming?Speaking with brand advertisers, we know how important transparent closed-loop measurement is to their investment decisions. How is MAP standing out in its class in delivering to brands what they seek?We’ve heard about MAP’s Omni-Impact solution. What is it and why is should this be meaningful to brand advertisers?Continuing along with the theme of differentiated solutions, what is MAP offering around its Retail Experience Network and omnichannel experiences that are of note, particularly highlighting a case study?We often speak with your counterparts in Walmart at Connect in the US and abroad,notably Canada and Chile. They often speak about collaboration, leveraging shared capabilities, platforms, etc. How is MAP collaborating on solutions with other parts of the organization and how are you charting differentiated experiences because of your format?CES is coming up in a few short months. We hear you have more big plans in store for the 2026 event. What can you preview for our audience and how are you seeking to engage with brand advertisers at the event?You’re here for a few days at Groceryshop seeing what the future of the industry is CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comRhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast. 

Each week, the CPG Guys will riff on the hottest topics in the world of omnichannel commerce.CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comRhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast. 

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Rick Swinkels, CEO of TCC, which creates high participation, high engagement loyalty campaigns and platforms that influence, recognise and reward shopper behaviour in-store and online.Daniel Torres Dwyer of The FMCG Guys co-hosts the episode.This episode is sponsored by TCC Global.Follow Rick on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickswinkelsFollow TCC Global on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tcc_2/Follow TCC online at: https://www.tccglobal.com/CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comRhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast. 

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Robin Kendric Triplett, VP of Integrated Marketing Exereinces at The Coca-Cola Company.Follow Robin on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinktriplett/ Follow Coca-Cola on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-coca-cola-company/Follow Coca-Cola online at: https://www.coca-colacompany.com/Here's what we asked her : What does the title “Integrated Marketing Experiences” mean at Coca‑Cola? Which disciplines report into your organization? Can you walk us through your general approach to crafting integrated campaigns that spans media, commerce, multicultural, and creative touchpoints?How do you align integrated marketing efforts with evolving consumer behavior, especially in the digital/shopping space?What role does data play in shaping your integrated marketing efforts and what are important data sources to do this?How does Coca‑Cola integrate commerce experiences with digital and social activations—especially in grocery and retail shopper settings?Can you share an example of a particularly innovative or cross-functional project your team led recently and what made it successful?Here we now sit in a world of closed-loop measurement. How do you connect integrated marketing experiences to measurable business outcomes—such as sales lift, brand equity, CLTV, NTB or perception shifts?Which emerging trend—be it AI, immersive media, retail media, or something else—are you most excited about for integrated marketing?You were honored as one of Ad Age’s 40 Under 40 in 2022—what do you feel helped you reach this recognition?You’ve completed all six World Marathon Majors and aim for all seven continents—how has long-distance running influenced your leadership style or strategic thinking? CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comRhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast. 

Each week, the CPG Guys will riff on the hottest topics in the world of omnichannel commerce.CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comRhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast. 

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Zach Dennett, VP Merchandising for Consumer Health and Wellness, and Supplemental Benefits at CVS Pharmacy, the Front-Of-Store Retail Business Unit of CVS Health. Follow Zach on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharydennett/ Follow CVS Health online at: http://cvshealth.comFollow CVS Health on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cvshealth/Zach answers these questions:Since stepping into your current role in March 2024, what has been your primary focus within Consumer Health & Wellness front of store merchandising at CVS Health?CVS emphasizes seamless omnichannel experiences. What are key milestones in merging in-store and digital merchandising? With around 60 million digitally engaged customers, what are the biggest learnings about how digital influences in-store purchases in your category?What qualities do you look for in emerging brands seeking merchandising partnerships with CVS Health?CVS stores have shoppers coming for Rx, for OTC and even primary healthcare needs. How do you work with the other business owners within CVS Health to ensure your shoppers get the care that they need and how do brands play a role in this process?Could you share how your merchandisers interact with CVS Media Exchange to ensure that brands connect with your consumers in the path to purchase?What role does behavioral insights via loyalty data (e.g., ExtraCare insights) play in determining your merchandising strategies? In other statements, you’ve noted younger generations trust influencers over experts. How does this affect product merchandising strategy? How do you see CVS’s merchandising role evolving over the next 3–5 years amid innovations like “instant commerce”?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comRhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast. 

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Fintan Gillespie, Global Director - Ad Partnerships Group at Snap Inc., a technology company that contributes to human progress by empowering people to express themselves, live in the moment, learn about the world, and have fun together. Follow Fintan on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintangillespie/Follow Snap for Business online at: http://forbusiness.snapchat.com/cpgguysFollow Snap Business Blog at: https://forbusiness.snapchat.com/blogFollow Snap on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/snapchat-for-business/postsThis episode is sponsored by Snap, Inc.Fintan answers these questions:Fintan, let’s start with your journey. What brought you into the world of media and partnerships, and what does your current role at Snap entail as Head of Independent Agencies & Global Ad Partnerships?You lead  global ad partnerships. How do these partnerships shape Snap’s GTM strategy in the broader media ecosystem?Independent agencies are often more agile and innovation-driven than holding company giants. How are you seeing them lean into platforms like Snap to drive differentiated value for their CPG clients?What advice would you give to agencies looking to leverage Snap effectively within omnichannel media strategies?Proving ROI remains critical for agencies and brands. How is Snap helping advertisers measure real business outcomes, especially sales lift and conversion?Looking ahead to 2026, what’s your boldest prediction for the intersection of agencies, partnerships, and platforms like Snap in the world of commerce mediaFintan, you’ve seen the media landscape from multiple vantage points. What leadership lesson or guiding principle has helped you most in building trust and value in partnerships?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comCPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.comRhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.comLara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.