Retail Doctor Group - Consumer and Retail Transformation Experts

Episode 50 of The Future of Retail podcast marks a milestone conversation on the forces reshaping retail demand, labour, footfall, and customer confidence toward 2040. In this episode, Retail Doctor Group Chair & Founder Brian Walker examines the blue collar outlook for retail with futurist Howard Saunders, looking at how AI, ageing populations, declining footfalls, and changing work patterns will affect retail strategy over the next decade and beyond. The discussion centres on a major economic shift: as AI makes knowledge more accessible, the value of some white-collar work may compress, while practical skills, trades, infrastructure work, and physical execution gain relative strength. Key Insights: Knowledge work is losing scarcity as AI expands access to information.  The blue collar outlook changes how retailers should read future demand.  Declining footfalls will place greater pressure on store network decisions.  Demographics will reshape who buys, where they live, and how they spend.  Trust, ingredient scrutiny, and customer scepticism will influence retail value.  This shift changes more than employment forecasts. It changes who has spending power, where confidence sits, and how retailers need to think about demand. For retailers, this has direct implications for range, location strategy, service models, labour planning, and long-term investment. This episode sees Brian and Howard picking up a conversation started 4 years ago, giving retail leaders a sharper view of the customer economy taking shape now, and definitively shows why 2040 planning needs to begin now. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗽𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝗻 - our website | https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcast-library/ - YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFeN-zQblVw    Contact the expert team at Retail Doctor Group for a complimentary 15-minute consult and 3 key insights about your business today. ☎ +61 2 9460 2882 ✉ [email protected] 🌐 https://retaildoctor.com.au/   👉 Join the conversation Have a comment on the content? We'd love your feedback!   👉 Invite a Friend Feel free to share, send via DM, or repost to your network for added commentary.    👉 Download our Latest Whitepaper Now https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-white-paper/   👉 Read the Blog https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-blog/   👉 Learn More About RDG https://www.linkedin.com/company/retail-doctor-group/about/   👉 Join RDG's Exclusive CEO Community https://retaildoctor.com.au/ceo-breakfasts/   👉 Subscribe to RDG's Newsletter  https://retaildoctor.com.au/newsletter/   👉 Download Brian Walker's Speaker Pack Now  https://retaildoctor.com.au/speaker/   👉 Listen to RDG's Podcasts https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcast-library/

We're delighted to present a thought-leadership session where Brian Walker, Chair & Founder of Retail Doctor Group, speaks with business futurist Morris Misel on the future of retail, the rise of agentic commerce, and how personalisation is redefining customer value in the lead up to 2030. At the centre of the conversation is Misel's concept of Humand, a shift in retail toward human-led demand executed through machine capability. The discussion explores how customers increasingly expect routine purchasing to be handled on their behalf, while still demanding relevance, value, and solutions tailored more precisely to individual needs. This reframes retail not as a channel decision, but as a system designed to reduce effort while increasing personal fit. Walker and Misel also examine the growing role of agentic commerce in removing friction, the changing importance of traditional brand structures, and the opportunity for retailers to deliver more tailored, artisan-like value at scale through technology. The conversation highlights how poor execution and wasted time in retail environments are no longer tolerated when more efficient alternatives exist, raising the bar for service, fulfilment, and relevance. Key Takeaways Humand commerce is emerging: Retail is evolving toward a model where human intent is fulfilled through machine-enabled execution. Friction is becoming unacceptable: Customers increasingly expect routine purchasing to be automated, reducing time and effort. Personalisation is overtaking generic value: Competitive advantage may shift toward specificity, relevance, and fulfilment rather than broad brand recall alone. Agentic commerce will reshape purchasing: Intelligent systems may search, decide, and transact on behalf of customers. Retail must justify time spent: Poor execution weakens the role of physical retail when faster, more accurate alternatives exist. Technology enables a return to precision: Scalable personalisation may allow retailers to deliver more tailored, high-value experiences similar to historic artisan models.   Contact the expert team at Retail Doctor Group for a complimentary 15-minute consult and 3 key insights about your business today. ☎ +61 2 9460 2882 ✉ [email protected] 🌐 https://retaildoctor.com.au/   👉 Join the conversation Have a comment on the content? We'd love your feedback! 👉 Invite a Friend Feel free to share, send via DM, or repost to your network for added commentary. 👉 Download our Latest Whitepaper Now https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-white-paper/ 👉 Read the Blog https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-blog/ 👉 Learn More About RDG https://www.linkedin.com/company/retail-doctor-group/about/ 👉 Join RDG's Exclusive CEO Community https://retaildoctor.com.au/ceo-breakfasts/ 👉 Subscribe to RDG's Newsletter https://retaildoctor.com.au/newsletter/ 👉 Download Brian Walker's Speaker Pack Now https://retaildoctor.com.au/speaker/ 👉 Listen to RDG's Podcasts https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcast-library/

We're excited to present a session where Brian Walker, CEO of Retail Doctor Group, engages in conversation with John Ball, the Managing Director of Google Customer Solutions AUNZ. This episode includes: How the current era is seen as a pivotal "technology revolution" that will transform industries and the workforce. Advancements in AI and machine learning are driving rapid changes, with a faster adoption curve compared to previous tech revolutions. The workforce will evolve, with some jobs changing or disappearing, while new roles emerge - adaptability and a willingness to learn will be crucial. Consumers are increasingly expecting personalised, seamless retail experiences powered by data, analytics and technology. Emerging technologies like 6G/7G networks, IoT, robotics and humanoids will continue to enhance the retail experience. Retailers, especially those with legacy systems, need to embrace change, partner with experts, and adapt to evolving customer needs to stay competitive. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of technology, humanity, and the retail industry's future!   Contact the expert team at Retail Doctor Group for a complimentary 15-minute consult and 3 key insights about your business today. ☎ +61 2 9460 2882 ✉ [email protected] 🌐 https://retaildoctor.com.au/   👉 Join the conversation Have a comment on the content? We'd love your feedback! 👉 Invite a Friend Feel free to share, send via DM, or repost to your network for added commentary. 👉 Download our Latest Whitepaper Now https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-white-paper/ 👉 Read the Blog https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-blog/ 👉 Learn More About RDG https://www.linkedin.com/company/retail-doctor-group/about/  

We're delighted to present a thought-leadership session where Brian Walker, Chair & Founder of Retail Doctor Group, talks to global retail influencer and author Steve Dennis about the bifurcation of retail, the speed of disruption, and what this means for modern retail leaders in the lead up to 2030. At the centre of the conversation is the bifurcation of retail, a structural shift where growth increasingly concentrates at two very different ends of the market. On one side sit large-scale retailers using logistics, technology, and ecosystem advantages to deliver price and convenience at scale. On the other are distinctive specialty and premium brands creating meaningful customer value through differentiation. Retailers caught between these positions face mounting pressure as the market polarises. Walker and Dennis also examine the increasing concentration of industry growth among a small number of dominant players, the emerging role of agentic AI in shaping purchasing behaviour, and the importance of building organisations capable of moving at the speed of disruption. Key Takeaways The bifurcation of retail is accelerating: Market success is increasingly concentrated among scale leaders and highly differentiated brands, leaving the undistinguished middle exposed. Retail power is consolidating: A small group of retailers is capturing a disproportionate share of industry growth. Competitive advantage now extends beyond merchandise: Technology capability, logistics networks, brand ecosystems, and customer experience increasingly determine market leadership. Agentic AI may influence how customers buy: Intelligent systems could guide product discovery and purchasing decisions, potentially inserting a new layer between customers and retailers. Retail strategy must move at the speed of disruption: Leaders need to understand how quickly change is occurring within their category and respond accordingly. Organisational agility is becoming a core capability: Retailers must experiment, adapt, and scale successful ideas more quickly as the market evolves.   Contact the expert team at Retail Doctor Group for a complimentary 15-minute consult and 3 key insights about your business today. ☎ +61 2 9460 2882 ✉ [email protected] 🌐 https://retaildoctor.com.au/   👉 Join the conversation Have a comment on the content? We'd love your feedback! 👉 Invite a Friend Feel free to share, send via DM, or repost to your network for added commentary. 👉 Download our Latest Whitepaper Now https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-white-paper/ 👉 Read the Blog https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-blog/ 👉 Learn More About RDG https://www.linkedin.com/company/retail-doctor-group/about/ 👉 Join RDG's Exclusive CEO Community https://retaildoctor.com.au/ceo-breakfasts/ 👉 Subscribe to RDG's Newsletter https://retaildoctor.com.au/newsletter/ 👉 Download Brian Walker's Speaker Pack Now https://retaildoctor.com.au/speaker/ 👉 Listen to RDG's Podcasts https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcast-library/

We're delighted to present a thought-provoking session where Brian Walker, Founder and CEO of Retail Doctor Group, chats with AI visionary Chad Lieberman to explore how the 4 pillars of AI in retail are fundamentally rewiring the DNA of search, consumer behaviour, language model learning, and retail commerce overall. Episode highlights include: Why the future isn't "retail without humans" but rather humans amplified by AI Chad's bold prediction: your iPhone will join cassette players in the technology graveyard as AI in retail combines with technology and robotics to create truly hands-free shopping experiences The strategic roadmap every retailer needs now - from table stakes implementations to the big bets that will separate winners from digital casualties in the race to implement AI in retail effectively How to navigate the tension between lightning-fast technological capability and the very human desire for authentic connection  About the 4 Pillars of AI in Retail  Pillar 1 - Awareness & Discovery: Why your website's search bar is about to become as obsolete as a fax machine Pillar 2 - Enhanced Experience: How multimodal agents transform traditional browsing into personalised conversations Pillar 3 - Autonomous Service: How customer service is transforming from frustrating phone trees to intelligent agents Pillar 4 - Future Innovation: The fascinating world of agent-to-agent commerce This isn't your typical "AI will change everything" conversation. Chad brings real-world implementation experience and a refreshingly honest perspective on what's hype versus what's happening right now in retail boardrooms. From generative engine optimisation to the ethics of autonomous commerce, we cover the full spectrum of retail's AI transformation - including the slightly eerie question of whether we're creating shopping experiences that are too good to be human.   𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗗𝗼𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟭𝟱-𝗺𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝟯 𝗸𝗲𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆. ☎ +61 2 9460 2882 ✉ [email protected] 🌐 https://retaildoctor.com.au/   👉 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Have a comment on the content? We'd love your feedback... Be sure to let us know in the comments below what you think!   👉 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗮 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱 Feel free to share, send via DM, or repost to your network for added commentary.    👉 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗡𝗼𝘄 https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-white-paper/   👉 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗴 https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-blog/   👉 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗥𝗗𝗚 https://www.linkedin.com/company/retail-doctor-group/about/   👉 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗘𝗢 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 https://retaildoctor.com.au/ceo-breakfasts/   👉 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 https://retaildoctor.com.au/newsletter/   👉 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗲𝗿'𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗻𝗼𝘄:  https://retaildoctor.com.au/speaker/   👉 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀 https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcast-library/ 

We're delighted to present a thought-provoking session where Brian Walker, founder and CEO of Retail Doctor Group, chats with retail veteran Paul Greenberg about the evolving landscape of retail in 2025. Episode highlights include: Paul's reflections on his non-linear career journey from psychological services to retail, and his current book project "Strings to Rope" Exploration of how retail has transformed from being physically dominated to a complex mosaic of offers, experiences and expectations Insights from Paul's extensive experience in non-executive roles, including as executive chair at Woolworths and as co-founder of Deal Direct Discussion about forward-thinking retailers and innovative business models reshaping the industry Analysis of how technology is influencing retail at unprecedented rates and what this means for the future Spanning industry insights from both Australia and global markets, this conversation offers invaluable perspective for retail leaders navigating the tension between operational efficiency and meaningful customer experiences. Drawing from Greenberg's 65 years of life experience and diverse career in retail, the discussion provides a balanced view of retail's technological future while acknowledging the fundamentally human nature of shopping experiences. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗗𝗼𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟭𝟱-𝗺𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝟯 𝗸𝗲𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆. ☎ +61 2 9460 2882 ✉ [email protected] 🌐 https://retaildoctor.com.au/   👉 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Have a comment on the content? We'd love your feedback... Be sure to let us know in the comments below what you think!   👉 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗮 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱 Feel free to share, send via DM, or repost to your network for added commentary.    👉 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗡𝗼𝘄 https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-white-paper/   👉 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗴 https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-blog/   👉 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗥𝗗𝗚 https://www.linkedin.com/company/retail-doctor-group/about/   👉 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗘𝗢 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 https://retaildoctor.com.au/ceo-breakfasts/   👉 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 https://retaildoctor.com.au/newsletter/   👉 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗲𝗿'𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗻𝗼𝘄:  https://retaildoctor.com.au/speaker/   👉 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀 https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcast-library/ 

We're delighted to present a thought-provoking session where Brian Walker, CEO of Retail Doctor Group, reconnects with Nikki Baird, VP Strategy and Product at Aptos, for their second illuminating conversation. Episode highlights include: Exploration of the physical store's critical role in creating emotional brand connections for pandemic-influenced younger consumers Honest discussion about the inventory pendulum swinging between physical and digital channels—and why retailers haven't found the right balance Fresh insights into the "store of the future" concept, including appointment-based shopping experiences and targeted inventory curation Practical considerations about labour challenges and addressing the global phenomenon of deteriorating customer behaviour Nikki's candid assessment of agentic AI at NRF 2025—separating genuine innovation from "shiny object syndrome" Provocative discussion about how consumer-controlled AI shopping bots might eventually commoditise retail brands Pragmatic evaluation of enterprise-level AI adoption and whether current enthusiasm justifies future cost implications The enduring truth that "consumers expect you to solve their loneliness problems" amid technological advancement Spanning Sydney to snow-covered Colorado, this conversation offers invaluable perspective for retail leaders navigating the tension between operational efficiency and meaningful customer experiences. Drawing from Baird's extensive career and frequent Forbes contributions, the discussion provides a balanced view of retail's technological future while acknowledging the fundamentally human nature of shopping experiences. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗗𝗼𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟭𝟱-𝗺𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝟯 𝗸𝗲𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆. ☎ +61 2 9460 2882 ✉ [email protected] 🌐 https://retaildoctor.com.au/   👉 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Have a comment on the content? We'd love your feedback... Be sure to let us know in the comments below what you think!   👉 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗮 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱 Feel free to share, send via DM, or repost to your network for added commentary.   👉 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗡𝗼𝘄 https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-white-paper/   👉 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗴 https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-blog/   👉 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗥𝗗𝗚 https://www.linkedin.com/company/retail-doctor-group/about/   👉 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗘𝗢 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 https://retaildoctor.com.au/ceo-breakfasts/   👉 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 https://retaildoctor.com.au/newsletter/   👉 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗲𝗿'𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗻𝗼𝘄: https://retaildoctor.com.au/speaker/   👉 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀 https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcast-library/  

We're excited to present a session where Brian Walker, CEO of Retail Doctor Group, engages in conversation with Martin Newman, renowned retail pioneer and customer champion. Episode 44 includes: Deep insights into the future of AI-driven personalisation and its potential to transform retail after 25 years of unfulfilled promises The fundamental shift in consumer power dynamics since the first online transaction in 1994 How legacy retailers can compete with digital-native businesses like Shein and Temu Predictions for retail in 2030, including driverless shopping experiences and robot retail assistants The critical importance of maintaining human connection in an increasingly automated retail landscape Fresh perspectives on building customer loyalty beyond traditional points programs How retailers can create meaningful relationships through personalised experiences, events, and targeted content Sneak preview of Newman's upcoming book "ROI Reimagined" and its framework for sustainable retail success Don't miss this fascinating discussion between two retail industry leaders as they explore the delicate balance between technological innovation and human-centric retail experiences. Drawing from Newman's four decades of experience - from pioneering e-commerce in 1997 to building a global retail consultancy - this conversation offers invaluable insights for anyone interested in the future of retail. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗗𝗼𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟭𝟱-𝗺𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝟯 𝗸𝗲𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆. ☎ +61 2 9460 2882 ✉ [email protected] 🌐 https://retaildoctor.com.au/   👉 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Have a comment on the content? We'd love your feedback... Be sure to let us know in the comments below what you think!   👉 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗮 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱 Feel free to share, send via DM, or repost to your network for added commentary.   👉 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗡𝗼𝘄 https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-white-paper/   👉 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗴 https://retaildoctor.com.au/rdg-blog/   👉 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗥𝗗𝗚 https://www.linkedin.com/company/retail-doctor-group/about/   👉 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗘𝗢 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 https://retaildoctor.com.au/ceo-breakfasts/   👉 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 https://retaildoctor.com.au/newsletter/   👉 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗲𝗿'𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗻𝗼𝘄: https://retaildoctor.com.au/speaker/   👉 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗗𝗚'𝘀 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀 https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcast-library/  

We're excited to present a session where Brian Walker, CEO of Retail Doctor Group, engages in conversation with Steve Sammartino of Macro3D. This episode includes: AI's evolution from isolated systems to interconnected neural networks The "dichotomy economy" split between luxury and budget retail The future of physical stores and human experiences Predictions for humanoid retail robots by 2030 Implications for workforce and taxation policies Don't miss this insightful discussion on how retailers can balance technological efficiency with meaningful human experiences in an increasingly automated world.

We're excited to present a session where Brian Walker, CEO of Retail Doctor Group, engages in conversation with Dr. Jason Pallant of RMIT University. This episode includes: Insights on the impact of AI and emerging technologies on retail and human interaction. The evolving role of physical retail spaces as community hubs and experiential centers. The importance of human connection and social experiences in an increasingly tech-driven retail landscape. Challenges and opportunities in personalization at scale versus niche, artisanal retail. The future of work in retail, with AI augmenting rather than replacing human expertise. The need for retailers to focus on solving customer problems and providing unique value propositions. The strategic importance of empowering frontline retail staff with technology and data. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the balance between technological advancement and human-centric retail experiences!

In this podcast, Judy, the CEO of Peter Alexander, explores how teamwork and customer feedback fuel innovation, underscoring the necessity for innovation to deliver commercial outcomes. She also delves into cultivating a corporate culture that embraces risk-taking and discusses the supportive role of technology in business development. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

We are excited to present a session where Brian Walker, CEO of Retail Doctor Group, engages in conversation with Howard Saunders, the retail futurist and speaker. This insightful discussion covers: The evolving landscape of artificial intelligence: distinguishing between the hype and the real future potential. A comprehensive analysis of dystopian versus utopian views on AI, and its broader implications for humanity and the retail sector. The enduring significance of human connection in an increasingly digital world, and how AI can enhance rather than replace these fundamental interactions. Insightful perspectives on the future of work, the creative possibilities unleashed by AI, and the transformation of consumer experiences in retail. We hope you enjoy this session!

We are excited to present a session where Brian Walker, CEO of Retail Doctor Group, engages in conversation with Marcella Larson, co-founder and CEO of Woven. This insightful discussion covers: The current state and future of AI in retail: separating hype from substance. Practical applications of AI for retailers and consumers, and how it can transform the shopping experience. The importance of data management and the role of AI in personalising customer interactions and driving sales. We hope you enjoy this session!

We are thrilled to present a new session where our CEO Brian Walker conversed with K D Adamson, renowned futurist and ecocentrist. In this session, we discussed: What does the future of AI look like? Should we be bothered by AI itself? How will organisations/CEOs future-proof themselves with AI? How will Chat GPT play an important role in the future for brands? Is there a future for bricks and mortar shops? We hope you enjoy this session!

We welcome our 2023 Inspirational Retail Leader finalist, Shane Lenton, Co-Founder and CEO of The Wishlist Company. Shane talks about how his first few work experiences and how they have shaped and inspired him throughout his career to be the great leader he is today. Enjoy this insightful conversation with our 2023 finalist. https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcasts/

We are delighted to bring you this session in which, Retail Doctor Group CEO Brian Walker is joined by Jaime Cairns, Chief Strategy Officer at Fluent Commerce. In this session we discuss: The nature of data in retail - How will retailers of the future cultivate data that is meaningful?  The future retail experience for customers  Time as a currency We hope you enjoy this session!

We welcome our 2023 Inspirational Retail Leader finalist, Feras Keram, Co-Founder and CEO of Pharmacy 4 Less. Feras talks about his greatest role model, his Father, who's great resilience has inspired him throughout his career to be the leader he is today. Feras also delves into where is best ideas come from. Enjoy this insightful conversation with our 2023 finalist. https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcasts/

We are delighted to bring you this session in which, Retail Doctor Group CEO Brian Walker is joined by Paco Underhill, Owner of Peckshee LLC, futurist, motivational speaker and author of multiple global bestselling books – including Why We Buy: The Science of Shopping published in 27 languages and used in design schools and MBA programs all over the world. In this session we discuss: Will physical stores cease to exist? What is the role of physical retail in our increasingly technological world? What makes airport retail so endearing? We hope you enjoy this session!

We are delighted to bring you this session in which, Retail Doctor Group CEO Brian Walker is joined by Marcella Larsen, Ex-Microsoft, Ex-Salesforce and founder of Woven Group, as they talk about everything AI.  In this session we discuss: - What does the future AI landscape look like? - How can AI assist retailers? - Why should CEOs bother about AI? - What is the link between AI and sustainability? We hope you enjoy this session!

We welcome our 2023 Inspirational Retail Leader finalist, Paula Maxwell, Head of Retail at Sleepy's. Paula delves into role models that have inspired her throughout her career to be the person she is today. But the thing that sets Paula apart from other retail leaders is her guiding principle - Always being curious, a mantra that Paula puts at the forefront to make a difference for both customers and employees. Enjoy this insightful conversation with our 2023 finalist. https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcasts/

We welcome our 2023 Inspirational Retail Leader winner, Margaret Porritt, Founder of Feathers Boutique. Margaret empowers women and has been doing so from the very start of her career. She has guided many young women in the fashion industry giving them confidence and sharing her knowledge and expertise in such a fickle industry - many of whom have gone out on their own and created successful fashion brands. We hope you enjoy this inspirational conversation with our 2023 winner.   https://retaildoctor.com.au/podcasts/

Join Retail Doctor Group's COO and Head of Insights, Anastasia Lloyd Wallis, as we explore the concept of customer loyalty through: Understanding just what loyalty means to customers, and How you can build that loyalty with your tribe.  We hope you enjoy this session!

We are delighted to bring you this session in which, Retail Doctor Group CEO Brian Walker is joined by Dr Catherine Ball, Associate Professor, author of Convergence and scientific futurist who is on a mission to demystify emerging tech.  In this session we discuss:         Should consumers question how much and how easily they hand over data/personal information on themselves to companies?         What does the future of AI look like?         Should we be bothered by AI itself?         How will organisations/CEOs future proof themselves with AI?         How will Chat GPT play an important role in the future for brands?         Is there a future for bricks and mortar shops? We hope you enjoy this session!

In this session RDG CEO, Brian Walker invites Business Futurist and Strategist Morris Misel to discuss the future retail landscape, with a focus on technology and its accessibility. What is the purpose of technology in retail? Is all retail governed by technology? Join us as we delve into what will happen in the future of retail. Listen more here!

In this session RDG CEO, Brian Walker continues his conversation with our guest Business Futurist and Innovation Expert Craig Rispin to discuss some of the levers of the Future of retail. Join us as we delve into technologies of the future, with further discussions on the omniverse. What do we expect to happen in future years to come in retail? Listen more here!

In this session RDG CEO, Brian Walker welcomes back our guest Business Futurist and Innovation Expert Craig Rispin as we discuss some of the levers of the Future of retail. Join us as we delve into technologies of the future, with a focus on AR, the metaverse and multichannel retailing. What do we expect to happen in 2030? What will be the new norm? How will it affect consumers and retailers? Listen more here!

In Episode 4, our COO and Head of Insights Anastasia Lloyd-Wallis discusses 8 consumer trends that were identified by RDG Insights Division at the start of 2022 and how they conducted research frequently to truly understand how consumers feel and what we can expect them to do in the next 6-12 months.  How has COVID affected consumer behaviour? What trends have we seen and what trends are we going to see moving forward?  We hope you enjoy this session and learn some useful insights!

How are consumers feeling about the year ahead? How will this affect their behaviours with retailers? Plan to grow. Listen to guest speaker Adrian Lemme​​​​​, Director, Retail and Gaming Research at Citi and Retail Doctor Group's CEO Brian Walker and COO Anastasia Lloyd-Wallis as we delve into the latest insights from RDG proprietary research into Consumer and Retailer Sentiments. 

In Episode 3, Anastasia invites Adam Renn from Aussie Broadband to customer behaviour in the past few months and what is bound to happen in the future. How has COVID-19 impacted the telco space? What are consumer expectations and how do you give customers what they want immediately? We hope you enjoy this session and learn some useful insights!

In this second episode, we welcome Damian Walton, President, and CEO of Florsheim APAC. We hope you enjoy the conversation.

Welcome to The Future of Consumers Podcast hosted by our COO Anastasia Lloyd-Wallis. In Episode 2, Anastasia invites Marketing Specialist Lesley Knight and CMO Joanna Robinson from Chatime Group to discuss how to build customer advocates and effectively go beyond the transaction, as well as consumer trends for the near future. Who are your customers and how can you best represent them? How do you reward loyalists? We hope you enjoy this session and learn some useful insights!

What will happen to the Future of Franchising? As we move towards a retail ecosystem for brands, we start to see centralised data and greater brand consolidation as well as customers shopping across multi channels. Join guest speakers: Richard Thame, CEO of Couriers Please, Anthony Grice, CEO of Clark Rubber, and Jake Bromwich, CEO and Managing Director of RAMS as we discuss the importance of Customer Experience and how retailers can effectively create a unique and enhanced experience for their customers.  

In this session RDG CEO, Brian Walker welcomes back our guest The Retail Futurist Howard Saunders as we discuss some of the levers of the Future of retail. Join us as we discuss the rapidly evolving consumer mindset, and as we encounter emerging concepts, metaverse development, as well as a robust discussion around what's at the heart for this drive for consumption, and how the screen in front of you has truly become your own universe.

The best retail brands are led by some of the most inspirational and visionary leaders. Alongside other aspects, our annual Australian Retail Innovators Awards celebrate innovative retail leaders across the country. This podcast series features insightful conversations between our CEO, Brian Walker and these leaders. In this first episode, we welcome John Papagiannis, Director of Leasing & Retail Solutions and Director of Development and Asset Management for New Zealand at Scentre Group. We hope you enjoy the conversation.

Welcome to the first episode of The Future of Consumer Podcast with our COO Anastasia Lloyd-Wallis. This month, Anastasia invites Mike Ainsworth from Barbeques Galore to discuss our current 'borderless' retail landscape and the importance of understanding how customers interact with brands. How do customers want to be treated? How do we connect with customers beyond a transaction? We hope you enjoy this session and learn some useful insights!

As technology continues to advance, major tech companies are heavily investing in devices and capabilities to open the metaverse to users worldwide. How will this then change the way consumers shop in the future and at which rate? Listen to the conversation between our CEO Brian Walker and Jason Greenwood, our frequent guest from Greenwood Consulting New Zealand on what the future of retail looks like with the growth of the metaverse.  

In this month's episode, we welcome Brian Solis, a global innovation evangelist from Salesforce, from the US to discuss the changes in the global retail sector, particularly shoppers' behaviours, that are accelerated by the pandemic. Brian Solis and our CEO Brian Walker will together explore emerging concepts such as "Shopping at the edge" and how retailers can apply new technology and insights to maximize engagement at all touchpoints on the customer journey. We hope you enjoy the session."

Welcome to this latest episode of the Future of Retail Podcast Series. In this episode, we welcome Kelly Slessor, CEO of ShopU, Ahbi Vohra, CEO of Okkular and Matthew Craig, Director of MindArc to join CEO Brian Walker in a conversation about Fluid Retail. When omnichannel becomes a hygiene factor for businesses and technology advances at a rate that we've never seen in history, how can retailers both differentiate and stay ahead of the curve? We look forward to answering these questions. 

Welcome to RDG's first hybrid event of 2022. In this CEO Networking Breakfast, CEO Brian Walker and COO Anastasia Lloyd-Wallis delivered the most updated consumer and retail trends that will make an impact in 2022 and beyond. We were also delighted to feature Ian Bailey - Managing Director of Kmart Australia in a discussion on his journey with Kmart, the secret behind their success and the sharing of valuable business fitness™ tips. We hope you enjoy the session. 

In this first episode of 2022, travel to the future of retail with our CEO Brian Walker and Frank Quix, CEO of Q&A Insights Consultancy from the Netherlands. Frank is also the chairman of the Ebeltoft group – a global alliance of retail consultancy of which Retail Doctor Group is an elected Australian member of. Join us as we discuss the future of brand and humanism in the retail world, how tech advancement is gradually shifting all aspects of retail from customer experience, supply chains to new retail models. Welcome back and we hope you enjoy the conversation!

In this session, join our CEO Brian Walker in his lively conversation with UK-based futurist and retail evolution champion Howard Saunders, who has continuously challenged the norms. Join us as we discuss the changing consumer mindset in today's rapidly evolving climate, and as we encounter emerging concepts such as the god of data and ego graphics.

Moving through a long period of lockdown, the retail stores have transformed significantly as a result of the changing shopping behaviours and advancement of technology.  Join our CEO, Brian Walker, and CEO of Echochamber, Matthew Brown in the UK as they discuss how physical retail evolves with critical implications for retail leaders in the post-pandemic world.

From the way they connect with brands to how they pre-research, consumers have come out of COVID-19 lockdowns with different shopping behaviours and expectations. Strategies that worked a few months ago may no longer entice to your target market. Join Retail Doctor Group CEO, Brian Walker, RDG COO & Head of Insights, Anastasia Lloyd-Wallis as we welcome our guest speakers: Amber Manning, CEO of Just Cuts, Mahassen Haddad, General Manager of Max Brenner and Stephen Younane, CEO of Retail Prodigy Group as we discuss the importance of Customer Experience and how retailers can apply the latest consumer insights to create relevant experience at all touchpoints.

Cloud services have become a major catalyst in building an efficient model for a modern retail business. In Australia, the number of retailers utilising cloud services in their operation has increased significantly over the past few years. As a retailer, it is high time you considered the use of the cloud for your business, and if you're already a user, it's time to maximise cloud usage to become the best retailer you can be. During this session, you will hear directly from: Carpet Court and National Pharmacies Group as well as retail and cloud services experts Retail Doctor Group and Oracle as they help you demystify the cloud.

Welcome to the latest edition of the future of retail podcast series. As we start to immerse ourselves in the digital stratosphere, we look to the use of technology to power how we engage with customers, a continuation our work in understanding what the future of consumer behaviour in retail will be like. In this session, join Brian Walker, CEO Retail Doctor Group, and special guest Jason Greenwood as we unpack the latest concept of the metaverse; what this is, what it means for you and how it can power the experience of your customers. We hope you enjoy this session.

In our latest State of the Nation episode, join Retail Doctor Group CEO, Brian Walker and Head of Insights, Anastasia Lloyd Wallis aas we discuss Building Efficient Retail. With guest speakers: Tom Leak, General Manager at Rebel Sport, and Marcus Bartlett, CFO of Munro Footwear Group we discuss how to build best in class retail focussing on the critical steps taken to create an efficient retail model from strategy to deployment.

Are you curious about what the future of retail might look like? In this episode, in collaboration with RetailBiz, our CEO, Brian Walker discusses his outlook on the current retail landscape and what consumer trends that he anticipates will come out of this period into the future.

Welcome to the latest instalment of the Retail Doctor Group State of the Nation Podcast series. In today's session, we are joined by special guests: Anthony Heraghty – CEO Super Retail Group Jeff Antcliff – Executive General Manager Commercial Services Vinnies VIC Julie Mathers – CEO/ Founder Flora & Fauna Dene Heath – CEO/ Founder LiTMUS Retail Group. Together with Retail Doctor Group CEO, Brian Walker, they dive into the topic of innovation in retail both in Australia and around the world to help you answer the critical questions; What is the role of innovation in retail? How can you build an innovative culture for your organisation? What are the best practice innovations from around the world?

Hi, and welcome to the latest instalment of the Future of Retail podcast series. In todays session, we are delightedto have Futurist and Innovation Expert – Craig Rispin join RDG CEO, Brian Walker in delivering some insightful connections for the world of tomorrow speaking on Robotics and Automation. Through such topics as the what the Democratising of AI and robotics really means for us, Facebooks push into the metaverse, and why in the world of today, we have to look at certain things in retail that can help us and enable us into the future. Craig Rispin is a Business Futurist and Innovation Expert his expertise is in emerging business, people and technology trends - and how companies can profit from them. For over 20 years, Craig has worked where the future has been created - with some of the most innovative companies in the world in the IT, consumer electronics, internet and broadcasting industries. If you're looking to improve your business fitness, or for more information, feel free to get in touch with the team via our website – www.retaildoctor.com.au, email us at [email protected] or connect with us on LinkedIn, facebook and Instagram.

Hi and welcome to Retail Doctor Group's State of the Nation podcast series. The recent surge in COVID-19 cases leading to lockdowns across different states in Australia has seen retailers struggling as the majority of the sector is now forced to close. In this CEO summit, we have invited Natalie Brennan (Muffin Break's General Manager), Carlos Antonius (Chatime's CEO), Joel Hummel (Director of Grenfell's Chartered Accountants), Simon Fonteyn (Group CEO of LeaseInfo) and Belinda McPhee (Director at Trak HR Consulting) to discuss the challenges faced by retailers during the current COVID lockdown, and how retailers can remain agile and effectively cope with the situation. We hope you enjoy the session!