Navigating Change: A CFO’s Perspective on Retail’s Next Chapter | #35 Alison Smith

From inflation and interest rates to AI and the future ofbrick-and-mortar shopping, the retail world is shifting fast. In this episode of Bealls Legacy, Matt sits down with Allison Smith, CFO of Bealls Inc., to explore the challenges and opportunities facing both consumers and retailers today. They discuss:·       Why inflation and interest rate decisions matter to every household·       The growing divide between consumer debt and corporate cash reserves·       How Bealls navigated hurricanes, tariffs, and storms while celebrating its 110thanniversary·       The role of AI in shaping the shopping experience of tomorrow·       Why cash reserves and agility are key to surviving uncertain times·       The importance of culture, compassion, and leadership in times of change As technology disrupts industries and consumers demand more value, what will retail look like in the years ahead—and how can companies prepare to thrive? 👉 Do you think AI will transform shoppingforever, or will brick-and-mortar always have a place? Share your thoughts in the comments! Interested in a Career at Bealls? –https://www.beallsinc.com/beallsinc/careers Follow Bealls Legacy on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bealls-legacy/ Episode Timeline:00:00 - Introductions01:00 - CFO at Bealls09:52 - How has 2025 been?13:18 - What is Bealls doing right?14:19 - Journey as a CFO16:04 - What’s changed your perspective?17:45 - Practicing the Practices20:08 - What does the future hold?26:06 - What else is out there?32:48 – Closing  #BeallsLegacy #BeallsInc #RetailFuture #AIandRetail#InflationImpact #ConsumerTrends #RetailLeadership #BusinessStrategy#ArtificialIntelligence #RetailEconomy #CompanyCulture #CFOInsights