Accelerating Change

The global pandemic accelerated so many changes that were already in the works. Many shifts that would typically take place in three years evolved within three weeks. If there was a crack pre-pandemic, it cratered over the past seven months. Simultaneously, there have been some positive outcomes from this enforced pause. The Robin Report takes a look at some of the changes that are reframing and resetting the retail industry through the lens of retail experts, and thought leaders. We explore a range of changing strategies about people, profits and the planet.

People + Purpose

Originally aired December 3, 4:30-5:30 EST

Purpose-driven business practices have become even more embedded in forward-thinking organizations. We explore how social justice, aesthetics and purpose impact all stakeholders and have become a new pillar of the retail industry. Robin Lewis is in conversation with William Lauder to discuss how being a responsible leader can build a business, create customer loyalty and ensure employee growth.

Planet + Responsibility

Originally aired November 19, 12:30-1:30 EST

Sustainable business models have now become table stakes for the retail industry. Coupled with consumer demand and environmental imperatives, mindful resource management, circular commerce and a dedication to sustainability are embedded into the principles and practices of forward-thinking brands. Equally critical is transparency and an ethos of doing good by doing well.

Moderator: Matt Laukaitis, Executive Vice President and Global General Manager of SAP’s Consumer Industries, SAP

Panel: Dr. Jesse Daystar, Chief Sustainability Officer, Cotton Incorporated  |  Jasmine Glasheen, Next-Gen Trends Analyst  |  Hanna Hallin, Global Sustainability Manager, Treadler (H&M)  |  Ann Cantrell, Owner, Annie’s Blue Ribbon General Store, Associate Professor, FIT

Profits + Consumer Trends

Originally aired November 11, 12:30-1:30 EST

Consumers will redefine the retail experience, as they accelerate retailers’ response to new behaviors, demands and needs. Robin Lewis is in conversation with Dave Kimbell to deconstruct how Ulta has retooled its business models to manage the trifecta of a global health crisis, economic disruption and civil unrest. They also outline plans for a challenging Holiday season.

Dave Kimbell, President, Ulta  |  Robin Lewis, CEO, The Robin Report

People + Emerging Experience,

Originally aired October 29, 12:30 – 1:30 EDT

We are entering the third wave of the digital economy that will be more connected and automated. Retail, voice and visual will make us more networked systemically and operationally. What innovations are shaping the future of retail? How will experience matter post-pandemic? And how will it bridge online and off?

Moderator: Robin Lewis, CEO, The Robin Report

Panel: Stacey Shulman, Chief Innovation Officer, Intel  |  Pauline Brown, Author, Aesthetic Intelligence