The CPG Guys

The CPGGUYS Sri Rajagopalan & Peter VS Bond muse the month that passed by. February means CAGNY - the annual Wall St analyst conference (Consumer Analyst Group of NY). Here, we got to meet several of the financial analysts and were able to discuss and learn what 2025 holds for us in the CPG industry.Find Sri Rajagopalan on Linkedin here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/sri-rajagopalan-09a0062/Find Peter VS Bond on Linkedin here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/pvsbond/Find the CPGGUYS on Linkedin here : https://www.linkedin.com/company/56451211/Find the CPGGUYS online here : https://www.cpgguys.com/Topics we cover in this episode  :1. Volume declines in the industry2. Headcount reductions - should we expect it3. Private label in Retail Media4. Org design post ECom CoE structures5. M&A… is the tide coming?6. Walmart Connect introduces Display Advertising API7. Leadership Talent at CPGs & retailers8. Changes at Kroger & Albertsons9. Global food production & tariffs10. Our upcoming conference whereaboutsApply to join the Cornell retail media program https://ecornell.cornell.edu/certificates/marketing/retail-media-strategy/?utm_source=cpg+guys&utm_medium=multi-channel_campaign&utm_campaign=mktgstrat_Retail+Media+Strategy+-+CPG+GuysCPG 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. 

In this episode, the CPG guys speak with Carrie Sander, Chief Customer Officer at Kellanova, formerly the snacks division of The Kellogg Company.Find Carrie on LinkedIn at: http://linkedin.com/in/carrie-sander-b634b04Find Kellanova on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kellanova/Find Kellanova online at: https://www.kellanova.com/us/en/home.htmlCarrie answers these questions:You’ve spent almost the entirety of your professional career with the same company. What were some of the specific experiences that you felt prepared you for your current remit as Chief Customer Officer?Would you share with our audience what you love most about the CCO role and what you find to be some of the major challenges in today’s omnichannel world, post-pandemic?Let’s talk “customer-first.” What are the core objectives in a customer-first approach. How do you keep your customers at the center of all your key decisions?Joint Business Planning is a key component of how CPG Brands go to market with important retail customers. What are the elements of a successful JBP process that you would like to call out and how are we as an industry doing at incorporating elements of loyalty & retail media into the process?Virtually all of your strategic retail customers have launched retail media platforms in the last few years. With the exception of Amazon and Walmart, these are still largely managed at the trade level. What still needs to be true before any of the “other” RMNs can make it into the strategic investment plan for national brands? Is it scale, is it full funnel capabilities, is it measurement? What?How does Kellanova lead with insights & innovation and tell stories that influence growth?What are the relevant industry trends that you are focused on building skills against for you and your team?What are your thoughts on the industry looking out 1-3 years?Apply to join the Cornell retail media program https://ecornell.cornell.edu/certificates/marketing/retail-media-strategy/?utm_source=cpg+guys&utm_medium=multi-channel_campaign&utm_campaign=mktgstrat_Retail+Media+Strategy+-+CPG+GuysCPG 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. 

Diana Marshall, the Chief Experience Officer and EVP at Sam's Club, shares her journey from merchandising at Walmart to leading member experience initiatives. She discusses the importance of transforming retail media strategies for enhanced consumer engagement. Marshall emphasizes adapting to member feedback and using data-driven insights for targeted advertising. She also highlights the vital role of mentorship in leadership and the need for continual learning in the face of evolving tech trends. Innovations like the MAP program and 'Scan and Go' are showcased as game-changers in customer experience.

The CPG Guys interview RBC Capital Markets' Managing Director Nik Modi at the 2025 Consumer Analyst Group of New York conference in Orlando FL.Follow Nik Modi on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nik-modi-675926/Follow RBC Capital Markets on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rbc-capital-markets/Follow RBC Capital online at: https://www.rbccm.com/en/Nik’s thoughts heading into CAGNY: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YiOhWzZWjMiBSkfd_JB3HXWcEeCjj7IV/view?usp=drivesdkWe Ask Nik about these topics:Volume Growth projections universally flat…what’s up?Price Points & Inflation…how can revenue grow?Private Label no one is talking about it?Omnichannel - is the trend over?Retail Media not mentioned?Assortment mix - is innovation pipeline driving inefficient y of profitability?Everyone talks M&A…where is the organic growth?Focus on EBITA growth without volume growth…are layoffs imminent?GLP-1What is geopolitical uncertainty causing brands to do?To learn more about CAGNY, click here: https://consumeranalystgroupny.com/To access all of the CAGNY presentations, click here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/10E493RGHHjB3nwV7-Ga-t-RPCdLm719R?usp=drive_linkLA fire relief : https://www.directrelief.org/ (always research before giving)Apply to join the Cornell retail media program https://ecornell.cornell.edu/certificates/marketing/retail-media-strategy/?utm_source=cpg+guys&utm_medium=multi-channel_campaign&utm_campaign=mktgstrat_Retail+Media+Strategy+-+CPG+GuysCPG 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. 

In this episode, the CPG Guys analyze the 2025 Consumer Analyst Group of New York (CAGNY) conference.To learn more about CAGNY, click here: https://consumeranalystgroupny.com/To access all of the CAGNY presentations, click here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/10E493RGHHjB3nwV7-Ga-t-RPCdLm719R?usp=drive_linkLA fire relief : https://www.directrelief.org/ (always research before giving)Apply to join the Cornell retail media program https://ecornell.cornell.edu/certificates/marketing/retail-media-strategy/?utm_source=cpg+guys&utm_medium=multi-channel_campaign&utm_campaign=mktgstrat_Retail+Media+Strategy+-+CPG+GuysCPG 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. 

This special episode of The CPGGUYS features four guests - the WINNERS of our 2024 Omnichannel awards - 'The OMNIES'. The Omnies recognizes a select few every year that have dedicated a career to evolving from brick & mortar to being truly omnichannel and championing it in the industry. Our four winners this past year have done exactly that. Our sincere CONGRATS to Doug Jossem from Walmart Connect, Tonya Douglas from Giant Foods (part of the ADUSA family), Cely Moreno from PepsiCo and Cara Pratt from Kroger precision marketing/84.51. Find Doug Jossem on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-jossem-2595574/Find Tonya Douglas on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonya-douglas-15889bb/Find Cely Moreno on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/cely99/Find Cara Pratt on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/cara-pratt-2429614/Here's what we asked each of them about leadership :1.) You've demonstrated a lifetime of leadership - what principles are you anchored on that have served you well?2.) How did you embrace omnichannel leadership and how do you keep up with learning given all the changes in our industry?3.) What is your advice to others in this space, and how do you advocate working with digital leaders on this very leadership?4.) Tell our audience about brand & retail leadership - what can the industry expect from you in 2025?LA fire relief : https://www.directrelief.org/ (always research before giving)Apply to join the Cornell retail media program https://ecornell.cornell.edu/certificates/marketing/retail-media-strategy/?utm_source=cpg+guys&utm_medium=multi-channel_campaign&utm_campaign=mktgstrat_Retail+Media+Strategy+-+CPG+GuysCPG 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. 

The CPGGUYS are joined in this episode by the CEO of Nature's Bakery - Steve Gardiner. He has previously held roles in commercial leadership at Henkel and PepsiCo. We personally love the portfolio and the Fig bars are our favorite. As such, this was both a fun and informative discussion. Find Steve on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-gardiner-6092b11/Find Nature's bakery on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/company/nature-s-bakery/Find Nature's bakery online at : https://naturesbakery.com/Here's what we asked him : Let’s get to know you. Take us through your career developing at PepsiCo, then leading sales at Henkel and Nature’s bakery to leading it. What leadership principles have you anchored your career on?Take us through the portfolio of the company and your innovation approach. What’s new for 2025? How are you looking at Omnichannel holistically and coaching your teams on building 360 plans?You are up against stiff larger competitors with deep media pockets - how do you match up here and become the challenger that is fast growing?Take us through talent development. What do you look for in your leaders and how have you structured for long term growth?You’ve shared it before, what are the 5 things required to create a successful food brand? What challenges are you currently facing in the market? How are you adjusting your strategy in response?What advice would you give to leaders or CEOs of emerging brands?LA fire relief : https://www.directrelief.org/ (always research before giving)Apply to join the Cornell retail media program https://ecornell.cornell.edu/certificates/marketing/retail-media-strategy/?utm_source=cpg+guys&utm_medium=multi-channel_campaign&utm_campaign=mktgstrat_Retail+Media+Strategy+-+CPG+GuysCPG 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. 

This is a special episode from our partner podcast - The FMCG Guys. They recently had Christian Stammkoetter, who is Danone’s President AMEA (Asia Middle East Africa) and Member of the Executive Committee. He joins Efrain and Daniel to speak about how, in the course of his career, has worked on multi-billion mergers, moved geographies, led teams, grown as a leader and developed a reliable routine to manage frequent long-haul travel.Find Christian Stamkoetter on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-stammkoetter/Find Danone on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/company/danone/Find Danone online at : https://www.danone.com/Here's what they discussed:His career beginnings in FMCG and running a start-upBeing Impact-driven and putting people at the heard of the businessWhat’s important when integrating large businessesThe new world of hybrid working and how to lead these organizationsHis current role leading a wide, diverse geographyCreating Global Talent PipelinesLA fire relief : https://www.directrelief.org/ (always research before giving)Apply to join the Cornell retail media program https://ecornell.cornell.edu/certificates/marketing/retail-media-strategy/?utm_source=cpg+guys&utm_medium=multi-channel_campaign&utm_campaign=mktgstrat_Retail+Media+Strategy+-+CPG+GuysCPG 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. 

In this episode, the CPG Guys review all of the television ads that played in Super Bowl 59, February 9, 2025.This episode is sponsored by Recess - 'helps CPG brands connect with their key retail shoppers, delivering experiential sampling in high-impact locations like gyms, colleges and community events to drive trial and conversion. Now integrated into retail media leading to measurable in-store sales.'LA fire relief : https://www.directrelief.org/ (always research before giving)Apply to join the Cornell retail media program https://ecornell.cornell.edu/certificates/marketing/retail-media-strategy/?utm_source=cpg+guys&utm_medium=multi-channel_campaign&utm_campaign=mktgstrat_Retail+Media+Strategy+-+CPG+GuysCPG 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. 

PVSB himself is the guest in this episode as the tables are turned and he is interviewed by Lucas Barros, Head of Walmart Connect Chile.This episode was recorded in December 2024 at the Walmart Chile Accelerate Suppliers Summit.Find Lucas Barros on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucas-barros-631955103/Find Walmart Connect Chile on Linkedin here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walmart-connect/Find Walmart Connect Chile online here: https://walmartconnect.cl/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.