We’ve entered an age when words like “hand-crafted,” “artisanal” and “passionate” are turning consumer heads the way “low price” once did. In response, ubiquitous beer brands are producing small-batch IPAs and major recording artists are… Read More
Back in the 1950s with McCarthyism barely in the rearview, my parents always warned me never to sign anything for fear I would be a branded a Communist agitator. I was 6 at the time.… Read More
In the developed world, retailing remains under siege. As we know, a steady flow of new Internet competitors vie for consumer dollars, frequently undercutting prices of the brick-and-mortar stores. Meanwhile, amidst a sea of sameness… Read More
On June 4, 2015, The Robin Report and FGI co-hosted a retail symposium focusing on new approaches and technologies that are changing the way retailing is done. The panel moderated by long time industry icon,… Read More
First it was Nikes replacing ballet flats. Then it was Birkenstocks replacing Nikes. Then Patagonia and Tevas became a thing. Then George Clooney’s fiancé was wearing mom jeans. Baseball caps, sports jerseys, mall chic, Jerry… Read More
Multilevel/Pyramid Marketing Schemes Lure Unsuspecting Consumers through FTC Loophole Don’t look now, but dozens of companies, starting with Amway back in 1979, and more recently Herbalife, the supplements company being challenged as operating a pyramid… Read More
What’s happening in the tumultuous youth market? The way youth retailers are faring reflects the typically fickle trend-sensitive nature of this market. Based on recent earnings reports, I think Aeropostale could derail this year. While… Read More
Consumer behaviorists are mulling a new question: Will they swipe, tap, Tweet or text? Whichever they choose, consumers, particularly the much sought after Millennials, are looking for new ways to pay. We’re approaching a tipping… Read More
If I were a Sony executive I’d be more concerned about getting punched out by Angelina Jolie for making snide email comments than offending North Korea’s fearless leader, Kim Jong-un. She looks tougher. Of course,… Read More
If the only effort you make with those you love were once a year, you’d likely be left alone at Christmas. So why do brands and retailers show the love disproportionately at Christmas and then… Read More
