The CPG Guys

Cristina Preston, Director of Digital Marketing at Schnuck Markets, delves into the evolving landscape of grocery digital marketing. She discusses the pivotal role of personalization while navigating data privacy concerns. Cristina highlights the importance of customer feedback in shaping strategies and the necessity for partnerships in reaching consumers effectively. She also touches on emerging trends like authenticity in social commerce and the need for businesses to foster a culture of continuous learning to adapt to changing consumer behaviors.

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Jeff Cohen, Tech Evangelist at Amazon Ads as we discuss the key themes discussed at the 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.Follow Jeff on LinkedIn at: http://linkedin.com/in/jeffreycohenFollow Amazon Ads Partners on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/amazon-ads-partners/Follow Amazon Ads Partners online at: https://advertising.amazon.com/partners/networkWe cover 5 key themes from the conference:Impact of AI on contentRetail Media NetworksInfluencer MarketingLearningNetworkingCPG 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/Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signupSubscribe to Mass Market Retailers here:https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signupDISCLAIMER: 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. 

Tanner Elton, Vice President of US Advertising Sales at Amazon, shares insights from his transformative journey in advertising. He discusses how innovation shapes leadership at Amazon and the importance of collaboration for creative growth. Tanner reveals evolving consumer behavior trends impacting advertising strategies, including new partnerships like Roku. He also highlights how Amazon is responding to industry challenges and the importance of customer feedback in crafting successful brand campaigns. This engaging conversation celebrates not just brand building but also the future of advertising in a digital world.

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Kevin Host, SVP of Pharmacy at Walmart. He is the current chair of NACDS (National association of chain drug stores) and we've had the pleasure of hearing him speak LIVE from Palm Beach at the NACDS annual this year. As a career pharma veteran he is well known for his partnership with center store and this episode revolves on his leadership and partnership with the store.Find Kevin Host on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-host-pharmd-1412453/Find Walmart on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walmartFind Walmart online at: https://www.walmart.com/Here's what we asked him : Kevin, your career is anchored on pharmacy over the years. Tell us how different it is to lead a pharmacy vs. merchandising a center store? What are drivers you look at?What is the connection between pharmacy and center store? What kinds of cross-collaboration exists among you and other Walmart leaders?Lets talk leadership - what are some principles you are guided by and how do you mentor others on your team?As Walmart leads the industry with omnichannel capabilities as a retailer, how have you shaped this for Rx home delivery?In your current role as NACDS chair what is expected of you and what leadership are you driving for them?How does Walmart pharmacy lead with data and stay ahead of other pharmacies in the competitive environment? What is your vision for the future?How is retail media impacting your team and work?What are latest consumer trends you are following these days ? What role does artificial intelligence play in the pharma journey?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/Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signupSubscribe to Mass Market Retailers here:https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signupDISCLAIMER: 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 Kathryn Mazza, CMO & President of Red Media at Hy-Vee, the midwest retailer. She leads the growth of the platform. Prior to, she was at Dick’s Sporting Goods. This was a conversation ranging from customer loyalty building, retail media, data measurement and of course 'back to basics' in store today.Find Kathryn Mazza on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-mazza-6523372a/Find Hy-Vee on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/company/hy-veeFind Hy-Vee online at : https://www.hy-vee.com/Here's what we asked her : What leadership lessons have you learned in your career that guide you today at Red Media? What inspired you to take on the leadership role at Red Media? What are some of the biggest challenges facing retail media today?Can you share insights on how Red Media integrates with Hy-Vee’s e-commerce and in-store experience?How does Red Media help CPG brands maximize their marketing ROI with metrics you share?How does Red Media leverage Hy-Vee’s first-party data to enhance advertising effectiveness? What role does personalization play in Red Media’s ad strategy?How does AI and machine learning impact Red Media’s advertising capabilities?What do you look for in best in class brand and agency partnerships?What is your vision for the future of Red Media over the next five years?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/Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signupSubscribe to Mass Market Retailers here:https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signupDISCLAIMER: 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. 

In this episode, the CPG Guys are joined by Lucas Barros, Head of Walmart Connect and Pamela Castro, Commercial Manager for Walmart Phronesis at Walmart Chile, the largest grocery retailer in Chile, operating under the "Lider" banner.Follow Lucas on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucas-barros-631955103/ Follow Pamela on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-castro-8447bb13/Follow Walmart Chile on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walmartchile/ Follow Walmart Chile online at: https://www.walmartchile.cl/ Lucas & Pamela answers these questions:Let’s start with some background on Walmart in Chile. Lucas, would you please share with us an overview of your retail operations.What is the state of omnichannel in Chile relative to the rest of Latin America and to North America? Any statistics on eCommerce penetration and mobile engagement would be great to hear.How long ago did Walmart Chile decide to formally enter the retail media space and would you walk us through the different ways that your suppliers can activate through your platform?Lucas, how is your team helping brands to activate through Walmart Connect? Do you offer them managed services, a self-serve platform or some combination of both?Pam, retail media success is highly dependent on the ability to personalize customer experiences. In comparison to its US counterpart, Walmart Chile has a very high transaction attribution rate to its customers. What is the story behind this?Pam, how do you make this customer data available to your suppliers to analyze behavior and help collaborate with the merchants at Walmart Chile?So how are brands effectively using Phronesis to inform their retail media strategy at Walmart Chile? Any case study you care to use as an example?Where are you focused on innovating the Walmart Connect and Walmart Phronesis offerings over the next few years?CPG Guys Website: http://cpgguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://fmcgguys,com ThinkBlue Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkbluesolutions/ Rhea Raj Website: http://rhearaj.com Katseye Website: https://www.katseye.world/Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signupSubscribe to Mass Market Retailers here:https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signupDISCLAIMER: 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. 

Mark Williamson, AVP of Retail Media at Costco, shares his insights on the evolving landscape of retail media. With a rich background from Sam’s Club and Ahold Delhaize USA, he discusses why retail media is essential for brands today, surpassing traditional advertising methods. Mark highlights Costco's unique offerings and how their transparent measurement strategies enhance brand performance. The conversation also delves into balancing advertising options, leveraging data for audience targeting, and the innovative growth management strategies driving success in retail.

Jeff Clark, VP of Product & Commercialization at Walmart Connect, shares insights from his extensive media background. He discusses the remarkable evolution of Walmart Connect from an incubator project to a full funnel media powerhouse. Jeff elaborates on the unique advantages Walmart’s shopper data offers, emphasizing how first-party data is used to enhance ROI for advertisers. He also touches on the integration of marketplace sellers and maintaining consistent messaging for omni-channel shopping, showcasing innovative new technologies in retail.

In this episode, the CPG Guys are joined by Joe Davis,  Managing Director of Tree Line Strategy Group which helps companies with strategic planning, customer development, digital commerce & sales strategy.Follow Joe on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-davis-co/ Follow Tree Line Strategy Group on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tree-line-strategy-group/ Follow Tree Line Strategy Group online at: https://www.treelinestrategygroup.com/ Joe answers these questions:Retail Media continues to grow in importance for both retailers seeking to develop profitable revenue streams and for brand advertisers seeking meaningful full funnel alternatives to linear television & print media. What’s your take on the level of challenge that is presented to CPG brands trying to navigate all of the retail media networks available to them?Should brands be focused on the big marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, Instacart etc. or do they need to develop negotiation strategies for all the places their products appear for sales and why?Brand advertisers find themselves in different types of situations in which they must negotiate retail media investments. What are these situations and what types of response do they necessitate? What are the essential questions brands need to ask the retailer before agreeing to anything?How should brand advertisers build their teams for effective negotiation?How do brands decide what they should be negotiating for in these discussions?:  What are the red flags of RMN negotiation and how can brand advertisers prepare for the rabbit holes that the retailer may be forcing you to go down? Beyond what you’ve shared, what should brand advertisers be looking to address in helping them deliver success in their retail media activation strategy?CPG Guys Website: http://cpgguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://fmcgguys,com ThinkBlue Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkbluesolutions/ Rhea Raj Website: http://rhearaj.com Katseye Website: https://www.katseye.world/Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signupSubscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signupDISCLAIMER: 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 Jack Shannon, Co-Founder & CEO of Recess, which helps brands drive velocity at retail with turnkey sampling partnerships that reach shoppers who frequent Target, Walmart, Kroger, and 6,000+ top retailers, and Mike Feldman, strategic advisor & former SVP Head of retail Media at VaynerMedia.Follow Jack on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonjack/Follow Mike on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-feldman-9962b230/Follow Recess on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/recess-inc-/Follow Recess online at: https://www.recess.is/Jack & Mike answer these questions:Mike, tell us a bit about your background and would love to hear from you about what macro trends you are seeing in the industry and how it relates to what you all are building with Recess.Tell us what led you to launch Recess, and how did the pandemic shape your model?How does Recess leverage data and analytics to match brands with events and venues effectively? And how do RMNs like Dollar General tie in?What does Recess actually do differently — and how does content and amplification factor into it?Can you talk about the value Recess delivers across the funnel?What trends are you seeing, and where does Recess go next?How does Recess plug into those relationships, especially when it comes to JBPs? How can brands unlock upper-funnel budget while still getting lower-funnel accountability?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.comFMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.comCPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.comSubscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signupSubscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signupDISCLAIMER: 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.