Own it! The power and pitfalls of retail's shared ownership models

In this episode, Maya and Christine embark on an eye-opening journey into the world of shared capitalism in retail. They break down how industry giants like John Lewis, REI, Système U, and Walmart are reimagining what it means to own a piece of the retail action. From time-tested partnership models to innovative consumer cooperatives, discover the real impact these models are having on companies, employees, and customers alike. We explore:* How John Lewis’s employee partnership model creates a unique workplace culture, empowering staff to co-own and influence the business. * Why REI’s customer co-op bets big on community engagement and member voice, but still faces real economic tests. * How Walmart’s employee stock purchase plan opens doors to ownership, while highlighting the challenges of meaningful participation at scale. * What happens when idealism and business discipline collide, and why the answer isn’t always simple. Are these alternative ownership models shaping the future of retail for better or worse? Join us for a candid discussion that goes beyond theory, digging into the practical lessons and challenges from global case studies. Want the Full Story? 👉 Click here to read the full exclusive on shared capitalism in retail—packed with in-depth analysis, key data, and real-world examples! And don’t miss out! For more insights and updates, follow us on LinkedIn at the International Association of Department Stores , check out our Substack, visit our website at www.iads.org for additional resources, and learn more here! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit iads.substack.com/subscribe