The Retail Wrap-Up: Recent Episodes

RetailOasis

Retail is constantly moving and adapting as consumer behaviour changes. The Retail Wrap-Up Podcast is dedicated to just this. Join us as we interview some of the world's best retailers to understand how they are succeeding and then draw insights into the changing world of retail. RetailOasis is Australia's leading consumer facing retail consultancy, and a registered B-Corporation. Our mission is to co-create the future of sustainable retail, whilst using business to positively impact the environment and society. We aim to inspire every retailer to do better and be better.

Send us a text

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up – retail’s favourite podcast!

We’re thrilled to bring you our latest episode featuring Hayley Worley, the visionary Founder of Sheet Society, a brand that has transformed the bedding industry since its launch in 2017.

In this episode, Hayley opens up about her inspiring journey from a career in fashion to creating a business that goes beyond just bed sheets—it’s all about delivering a better night’s sleep. From offering mix-and-match bedding to becoming a certified B Corp in 2023, Sheet Society has become a go-to for those seeking stylish, sustainable, and customisable bedding options.

Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode:

Hayley’s Journey: Hear how Hayley’s experience in fashion, combined with a frustrating shopping experience, led her to create a bedding brand with a purpose. Learn how she fell out of love with fashion but channelled the skills she'd garnered into revolutionising the bedding space.
Sustainability with Purpose: Discover how Sheet Society’s commitment to sustainability has been ingrained in the brand from the start and how they recently became a certified B Corp, continuing to innovate while staying true to their core mission.
Balancing Motherhood and Business: Hayley shares candidly about the challenges and rewards of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, including how she’s built a team aligned with her vision that allows her to focus on both her growing family and business.
Freedom and Innovation: Learn about Sheet Society’s game-changing approach of offering mix-and-match products, empowering customers to create their perfect bedding combinations without compromise—resulting in thousands of SKUs and countless options for a better night’s sleep.

Thank you to Hayley for sharing her inspiring story with us! We know you’ll find this conversation full of insights and valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and leaders alike.

Tune in now to listen to the full episode!

To explore Sheet Society or connect with Hayley, check out these links:

Sheet Society's Website
Sheet Society on Instagram
Hayley Worley on LinkedIn
Sheet Society on LinkedIn

Learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or connect with our hosts:

Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you’d like to support our podcast, find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, and don’t forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts to be notified of new episodes.

We’d love to hear from you, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Thank you for being part of our community and for your ongoing support. We truly appreciate having you with us and can’t wait to dive into more retail insights together in our next episode!

Send us a text

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up – retail’s favourite podcast!

We’re excited to bring you our latest episode featuring Priscilla Hajiantoni, the Founder of Bangn Body, a brand that has taken the skincare world by storm since its inception in 2019.

In this episode, Priscilla opens up about her personal journey from struggling with acne to creating a multi-purpose cream that addresses skin health holistically. What started as a solution to her own skincare concerns has now become a global sensation, with Bangn Body known for its results-driven products and commitment to mental health awareness.

Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode:
- Priscilla’s Journey: Discover how Priscilla left behind a flourishing career in corporate finance and literally bet her house on creating Bangn Body, a brand that offers something truly different for women seeking a simpler, more effective skincare approach.
- Mental Health & Skin Health: Learn about the deep connection between mental health and skin health, and how Bangn Body is working to educate and support those under 30 with accessible skincare solutions.
- Global Expansion: Hear about Priscilla’s plans for global growth through Sephora and her belief that growth is not linear but requires staying true to core business values.
- Riding the Social Media Wave: Priscilla gives us an inside view of Bangn Body’s rise to fame through platforms like TikTok, sharing how the brand nurtured a sharing culture that has been key to its worldwide success.
- One-Woman Show: Get an honest look at what it takes to create a successful brand as a "one-man band." Priscilla shares the trials and tribulations of designing, developing, and manufacturing a product on her own, and how these experiences helped her grow as a person.

Priscilla’s insights are not only inspiring but provide a real look into the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into building a brand from the ground up.

Thank you to Priscilla for joining us! We’re sure you’ll find this conversation as engaging and enlightening as we did.

To explore Bangn Body or connect with Priscilla, check out these links:

Bangn Body's Website
Bangn Body on Instagram
Bangn Body on TikTok
Priscilla Hajiantoni on LinkedIn
Bangn Body on LinkedIn

Learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or connect with our hosts:

Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you’d like to support our podcast, find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, and don’t forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts to be notified of new episodes.

We’d love to hear from you, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Thank you for being part of our community and for your ongoing support. We truly appreciate having you with us and can’t wait to dive into more retail insights together in our next episode!

Send us a text

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up - retail’s favourite podcast!

We’re delighted to bring you our latest episode featuring the return of Elliot Midalia, the Co-CEO of BOODY, a brand known for its commitment to sustainability and creating high-quality everyday essentials.

In this episode, Elliot shares his fascinating journey from finance to apparel, where he now co-leads BOODY alongside Shaun Greenblo. Together, they’ve taken the reins from their fathers, who originally founded the company, and have been instrumental in driving BOODY’s success as it continues to make waves globally.

Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode:

Elliot’s Career Journey: From studying finance, through his time at Rocket Internet and Walmart in the US, to returning home to lead BOODY alongside Shaun.
Sustainability at BOODY: Discover how bamboo viscose is at the core of BOODY’s product range, aligning with their mission to offer softer, more sustainable alternatives to traditional fabrics.
Leadership Dynamics: Get an inside look at how Elliot and Shaun successfully share the role of CEO, balancing transparency and complementary skills.
Product Range Balance: Elliot discusses the challenges of expanding BOODY’s product line and their focus on avoiding trends in favour of timeless, year-round essentials.
Customer Understanding & Waste Minimisation: Learn about BOODY’s innovative approach to understanding customer needs and their ongoing efforts to minimise waste.
International Expansion: Hear about BOODY’s global ambitions and how they plan to “own the top drawer” of every consumer’s wardrobe.

Elliot’s experiences and insights are not only informative but also inspiring for anyone interested in sustainable fashion and effective leadership.

And as a special thank you, Elliot and the team at Boody are offering all new customers 15% off via their website www.boody.com.au using the code WELCOME15.

Thank you to Elliot for joining us! We hope you enjoy this engaging and insightful conversation as much as we did!

Tune in now to listen to the full episode

To explore BOODY or connect with Elliot, check out these links:

BOODY’s Website
BOODY on Instagram
Elliot Midalia on LinkedIn
BOODY on LinkedIn

Learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or connect with our hosts:

Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you’d like to support our podcast, find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, and don’t forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts to be notified of new episodes.

We’d love to hear from you, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Thank you for being part of our community and for your ongoing support. We truly appreciate having you with us and can’t wait to dive into more retail insights together in our next episode!

Send us a Text Message.

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up for 2024 - retail’s favourite podcast!

We are thrilled to bring you our latest podcast episode featuring the extraordinary Daniel Flynn, the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Thankyou. At just 19 years old, Daniel embarked on a mission to tackle extreme human poverty, starting with a simple yet powerful idea: bottled water with a purpose.

In this insightful episode, Daniel shares his remarkable journey of transforming Thankyou from a fledgling social enterprise into a globally recognised brand dedicated to making a positive impact on the world.

Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode:
- The Genesis of Thankyou: Daniel discusses how the idea of a bottled water business with a social mission was born and the challenges he faced in the early days.
- Quick Acceptance by Major Retailers: Learn about the incredible story of how Coles and Woolworths agreed to stock Thankyou products within hours of their meetings, marking one of the fastest new product launches in Australian history.
- Business Model Insights: Daniel delves into the unique social enterprise model of Thankyou and how it aims to create a lasting impact on extreme poverty.
- Sustainability Focus: Explore how Thankyou is pushing the boundaries in sustainability with initiatives like the Forever Bottles and what the future holds for the brand in terms of environmental responsibility.
- Inspiration and Future Plans: Daniel shares the brands that inspire him and the exciting new partnerships and projects on the horizon for Thankyou.
- Personal Reflections: Gain a deeper understanding of Daniel’s personal career progression and the lessons he has learned along the way.

Daniel’s journey is truly remarkable, and his commitment to creating positive change is both inspiring and motivating. We hope this conversation not only enlightens you about the incredible work being done by Thankyou but also inspires you to think about how you can make a difference in your own way.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Daniel for sharing his story + insights with us.

Tune in now to listen to this engaging and meaningful discussion. We’re sure you’ll find it as inspiring and insightful as we did.

To explore Thankyou or our guest further, try one of these links:
Thankyou Website
Thankyou on Instagram
Thankyou on Youtube
Daniel Flynn on LinkedIn
Thankyou on LinkedIn

You can learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or for information on our hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you'd like to support our podcast, you can find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, plus make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notification when we drop a new episode.

We’d love to hear from you, our loyal listeners, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis

Send us a Text Message.

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up for 2024 - retail’s favourite podcast!

We are thrilled to bring you our latest podcast episode featuring the incredible Jalda Azad, the General Manager of JAG! Tune in to hear about her extensive career in the retail industry, from Zalando in Germany to The Iconic and JAG in Australia. Jalda shares fascinating insights into the evolution and resurgence of JAG, a brand that's been making waves on social media and in the press.

In this episode, you’ll discover:
- The rich history and evolution of JAG
- Key differences between European and Australian retail markets
- The driving factors behind JAG’s exciting comeback
- Insights into JAG’s customer base and how it has changed over time
- The motivation behind opening JAG’s first standalone store in Noosa
- JAG’s sustainability initiatives and their impact on the fashion industry
- A glimpse into Jalda's life outside of JAG and the best advice she’s ever received
- What’s next for JAG and Jalda’s vision for the future

Don’t miss this engaging and insightful conversation with Jalda as we explore the journey of JAG and what’s on the horizon for this iconic brand.

P.S. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Drop us a message or leave a review to let us know what you think.

To explore JAG or our guest further, try one of these links:
JAG's Website
JAG on Instagram
Jalda Azad on LinkedIn
APG/JAG on LinkedIn

You can learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or for information on our hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you'd like to support our podcast, you know where to find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, plus make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notification when we drop a new episode.

We’d love to hear from you, our loyal listeners, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Once again, we appreciate your company, and we're excited to delve into more insights on retail in our next episode!

Send us a Text Message.

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up for 2024 - retail’s favourite podcast!

Today we’re thrilled to welcome Guy Nappa, the COO of OZ Hair and Beauty, to the podcast. OZ Hair & Beauty is a prominent Australian omnichannel retailer known for its extensive range of hair and beauty products, and exceptional service to its loyal customer base.

In our conversation, Guy delves into the origins of OZ Hair & Beauty, sharing the story of how the company came to be and the unique family dynamic behind the brand. He discusses the impact of the 2020 pandemic on the business, including the strategies they employed to adapt and thrive during that turbulent time. Guy also gives us an insider's look at the company's culture and values, explaining how they foster a positive and united environment.

We also explore the ways in which OZ Hair & Beauty work tirelessly to continuously improve their customer’s experience both in-store and online, as well as how they engage with and respond to customer feedback. Guy shares his thoughts on what sets OZ Hair & Beauty apart in the competitive beauty retail landscape, and reflects on his personal journey, offering invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Additionally, Guy discusses the brands that inspire him and the exciting developments on the horizon for OZ Hair & Beauty. This conversation is packed with insights and stories that highlight the passion and dedication behind one of Australia's leading retailers.

We hope you enjoy this engaging and insightful conversation!

To explore OZ Hair and Beauty or our guest further, try one of these links:
OZ Hair and Beauty Website
OZ Hair and Beauty on Instagram
Guy Nappa on LinkedIn
OZ Hair and Beauty on LinkedIn

You can learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or for information on our hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you'd like to support our podcast, you know where to find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, plus make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notification when we drop a new episode.

We’d love to hear from you, our loyal listeners, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Once again, we appreciate your company, and we're excited to delve into more insights on retail in our next episode!

Send us a Text Message.

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up for 2024 - retail’s favourite podcast!

Today we’re thrilled to welcome Carlos Furnari, the Founder & Creative Director of Unsanctioned Running to the podcast. Unsanctioned is a sustainable and ethical running apparel brand where the garments are consciously made from recycled & upcycled fabrics.

Carlos has quite the extensive history in the running space, which you’ll hear more about today, but it’s worthwhile noting that while you may not have heard of Unsanctioned, you will definitely be familiar with the reputable brands Carlos has within aka Nike, On Running, Adidas, Converse, Strava…the list goes on.

Carlos doesn’t shy away from big topics, he utilises the brand as a forum to openly discuss subjects like Greenwashing and Guilt Washing, and his brand proves that performance, function, and style can work concurrently all whilst being sustainable and responsible.

During our conversation today Carlos covers off how Unsanctioned came to be and his journey getting to where he is now, the challenges he faced and what he learnt starting his own business. He also discusses how important it is to practice what you preach in the world of sustainability and ethical practices. Carlos also gives us an insight into the brands he uses for inspiration and how he deals with Greenwashing.

We hope you enjoying this exciting and meaningful conversation!

To explore Unsanctioned Running or our guest further, try one of these links:
Unsanctioned Running Website
Learn More About Unsanctioned Running's Values
Unsanctioned on Instagram
Carlos Furnari on LinkedIn
Unsanctioned on LinkedIn

You can learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or for information on our hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Elisa Barnard

If you'd like to support our podcast, you know where to find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, plus make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notification when we drop a new episode.

We’d love to hear from you, our loyal listeners, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Once again, we appreciate your company, and we're excited to delve into more insights on retail in our next episode!

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up for 2024 - retail’s favourite podcast!

Today, we're thrilled to have Lauren Kennedy and Brooke Marks, the creative minds driving High End, joining us on the podcast. High End has rapidly evolved from its humble beginnings as a Facebook group in 2014, initially founded by Brooke Marks as a platform to sell her surplus Balenciaga heels. Now boasting nearly 110,000 members, High End has emerged as a premier peer-to-peer marketplace catering to fashion enthusiasts looking to buy and sell luxury items ranging from handbags and shoes to clothing and jewellery.

What sets High End apart is its fusion of cutting-edge AI technology coupled with their second-to-none industry knowledge and an unwavering commitment to ensuring the authenticity of designer products. With notable investors already on board, Lauren and Brooke are optimistic about positioning High End as Australia’s leading online destination for second-hand luxury goods.

Throughout our conversation, we'll delve into:
• Lauren and Brooke’s history, and what drove them to create High End
• The evolution of High End from its inception as a Facebook group to a leading AI-powered resale platform
• How customer feedback has shaped the development of the app and influenced their business strategy
• High End's pivotal role in the growing demand for second-hand luxury goods and its impact on sustainable consumerism
• Insights into their experiences with investors and the challenges they've faced while creating and scaling a start-up in the luxury resale industry
• And of course, their exciting plans for the future of High End

Join us as we uncover the fascinating journey of Lauren and Brooke, marked by innovation and a relentless drive to revolutionise the luxury resale landscape.

We hope you enjoy this episode!

To explore High End or our guests further, try one of these links:
High End Website
Download High End App
High End on Instagram
Lauren Kennedy on LinkedIn
Brooke Marks on LinkedIn
High End on LinkedIn

You can learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or for information on our hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you'd like to support our podcast, you know where to find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, plus make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notification when we drop a new episode.

We’d love to hear from you, our loyal listeners, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Once again, we appreciate your company, and we're excited to delve into more insights on retail in our next episode!

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up for 2024 - retail’s favourite podcast!

Today, we're excited to welcome Rob Rand, the Founder and CEO of Knobby, to the podcast. Rob's entrepreneurial journey from recognising a gap in the underwear market to founding Australia's first subscription based underwear brand is a tale of creativity, determination, and customer-centricity. Recently awarded 4th place in the 2024 Inside Retail Top 50 People in Ecommerce, Rob's achievements further highlight his impact in the industry.

Since its inception in 2011, Knobby has disrupted traditional shopping norms with its advanced subscription-based model, ensuring that each package is a surprise for your package. Rob's vision for Knobby emerged from a desire to revolutionise the underwear shopping experience, driven by a focus on comfort, creativity, convenience, and sustainability. Knobby offers men's, women's, and children's underwear made with recycled ocean-bound plastics called BottleBlend™ fabric. So far, they have saved a over 235,000 bottles from finding their way into our oceans, all while gaining more than 13,000 5-star reviews from their loyal customers - further proving just how awesome Knobby products are!

Throughout our conversation, Rob shares insights into:
• Knobby's unique approach to delivering comfort and style while reducing environmental impact
• His experience leading the charge in the subscription fashion industry and navigating challenges along the way
• Building a loyal community of Knobby enthusiasts and the brand's role in empowering individuals to be their most confident selves
• His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
• And finally, we explore Rob's plans for the future of Knobby, including global expansion, and product innovation

Come along as we explore Rob's voyage reinventing the underwear scene, one surprise package at a time.

We hope you enjoy this conversation!

To explore Knobby or our guest further, try one of these links:
Shop Knobby
Knobby on TikTok
Knobby on Instagram
Rob Rand on LinkedIn
Knobby on LinkedIn

You can learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or for information on our hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you'd like to support our podcast, you know where to find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, plus make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notification when we drop a new episode.

We’d love to hear from you, our loyal listeners, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Once again, we appreciate your company, and we're excited to delve into more insights on retail in our next episode!

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up for 2024 - retail’s favourite podcast!

Today, we're thrilled to welcome Briony Kennedy, the Founder and Creative Director (aka the visionary force) behind Adorn Cosmetics, to the podcast. Briony's transformative journey from modest beginnings to spearheading a sustainable beauty revolution is a story we can’t wait to share with you.

In an industry often criticised for its alack of sustainability and responsibility, Briony made a bold move by launching Adorn in 2010 with a focus on circular beauty refills and recycling initiatives. Her commitment to sustainability has remained steadfast, even in the face of industry norms. Briony's innovative approach has not only garnered attention but has also set a new standard for eco-conscious beauty brands.

Throughout our conversation, Briony shares the positive impact her brand is having on the planet and how the refillable process works for her customers. She also discusses what it's like leading the way for other brands looking to make changes in the sustainable space and how failures always offer valuable lessons to be learned. Additionally, she talks about how she created and grew her loyal customer base, her insights on addressing Gen Z customers, her advice for entrepreneurs like herself, and the importance of backing yourself. Finally, we explore her long-term goals, product launches, and aspirations for the future.

Join us as we delve into Briony's journey, filled with resilience, innovation, and a commitment to making the world a more beautiful—and sustainable—place, one product at a time.

We hope you enjoy this conversation!

To explore Adorn Cosmetics or our guest further, try one of these links:
Shop Adorn Cosmetics Here
Learn More About Adorn's Sustainability Mission Here
Adorn Cosmetics on LinkedIn
Adorn Cosmetics on Instagram
Briony Kennedy on LinkedIn

You can learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or for information on our hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you'd like to support our podcast, you know where to find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, plus make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notification when we drop a new episode.

We’d love to hear from you, our loyal listeners, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Once again, we appreciate your company, and we're excited to delve into more insights on retail in our next episode!

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up for 2024 - retail’s favourite podcast!

On today's episode, we're delighted to welcome Katia Santilli and Vera Yan, the Co-Founders of Australia's own activewear label, Nimble Activewear.

Having met in year 8 at school, Katia and Vera were inseparable – bonding over their love of R’n’B and aerobics, it’s no wonder that years later they went on to create a business centred around movement.
Despite pursuing vastly different career paths from one and other after school, and living in separate locations for some time, Vera and Katia eventually found themselves back in Sydney, where they birthed the idea of Nimble Activewear.

Inspired by their shared passion and intuition, they conceived the vision to create high-quality activewear that felt exceptional, which empowered individuals to feel stronger, happier, and healthier. Their activewear products have gone beyond being fashionable at the gym, successfully managing to prioritise sustainability and wellness…and their journey towards this point is simply inspirational.

During our conversation with Katia and Vera, we discuss…
- Their incredibly varied career progression and how they ended up in the world of activewear
- How COVID affected their business and how they managed these changes effectively
- How they work through setbacks as a team and utilise important feedback from their customers
- Why being sustainable is so important to the brand’s DNA and the launch of their Recycled Edit
- Which businesses or brands they draw inspiration from
- Their move to physical retail, their store network expansion, and where they’re hoping to land next

We hope you enjoy this conversation!

To explore Nimble Activewear further, try one of these links:
Shop Nimble Activewear Here
Learn More About Nimble's Sustainability Story
Nimble Activewear on LinkedIn
Nimble Activewear on Instagram
Nimble Activewear on TikTok
Vera on LinkedIn
Katia on LinkedIn

You can learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or for information on our hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you'd like to support our podcast, you know where to find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, plus make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notification when we drop a new episode.

We’d love to hear from you, our loyal listeners, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Once again, we appreciate your company, and we're excited to delve into more insights on retail in our next episode!

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up for 2024 - retail’s favourite podcast!

Today, we're thrilled to welcome Sasha Titchkosky, the Co-Founder of Koskela, an innovative and inspiring furniture & homewares brand synonymous with impeccable quality and a low environmental footprint, proudly made in Australia.

Koskela is making waves in the industry with its ambitious sustainability initiatives, aiming to achieve a fully circular business model by 2027, zero carbon emissions by 2035, and ensure that 90% of its manufactured products use recycled and recyclable materials by 2026. The motivation behind these objectives stems from a deep-rooted commitment to reducing environmental impact, particularly in the face of challenges posed by the furniture industry's waste problem.

Koskela's strategy involves designing out waste in their products, increasing their lifecycle, and implementing initiatives like the ReHome project, which allows customers to trade in old items for refurbishment and resale.

During our conversation with Sasha, we discuss…
- Her background, her interesting career progression, and what motivated her and her co-founder, Russel, to create Koskela
- The silver lining of a failed business partnership
- Why shopping Australian Made should be encourage and how important their partnership with First Nations artists is
- Her perspective on the cost of sustainability to a business and her advice to other entrepreneurs on this topic
- And finally, what’s in the pipeline for the Koskela for 2024

We trust you'll find this discussion engaging!

To explore Koskela further, try one of these links:
Koskela's Circularity Action Plan
ReHome Program
Koskela on Instagram
Shop Here
Sasha Titchkosky on LinkedIn
Koskela on LinkedIn

You can learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or for information on our hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you'd like to support our podcast, you know where to find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, plus make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notification when we drop a new episode.

We’d love to hear from you, our loyal listeners, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Once again, we appreciate your company, and we're excited to delve into more insights on retail in our next episode!

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up for 2024 - retail’s favourite podcast!
RetailOasis is extremely excited to bring you our 4th season and we can’t wait to introduce you to more inspiring, innovative, and fascinating guests from a plethora of retail brands.

You’re joined, as always, by retail strategist and enthusiast Maddy Kulmar, that's me, as well as my fellow colleague and strategist here at RetailOasis, Emma Easton.

As self-proclaimed snackaholics, we're thrilled to have Daniel Kitay, the Founder of Funday Sweets joining us today.

Daniel's journey in the retail and confectionery industry is nothing short of inspiring. From his humble beginnings, he carved a path into the world of sweets, driven by a passion for innovation and a keen eye for spotting market gaps.

In the midst of the pandemic, Daniel founded Funday, a natural lolly brand offering a sugar-free alternative to consumers, despite the challenging times. Fast forward to 2024, and Funday's exponential growth landed them in 5000 stores - a testament to Daniel's entrepreneurial acumen and the brand's undeniable appeal.

During our conversation with Daniel, we discuss…
-His background, how he ended up in the confectionery industry and what drew him in
-His motivation for creating Funday Sweets and how he got his foot in the door
-The challenges of starting a business during the pandemic and how informative customer feedback is to the Funday business
-Finding The silver lining in a mistake and turning it into a tasty win
-And lastly, we take a look into what’s next for Funday in 2024 and beyond!

We hope you enjoy this conversation!

To explore Funday further, try one of these links:
Funday Natural Sweets
Daniel Kitay on LinkedIn
Funday on LinkedIn
Funday on Instagram

You can learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or for information on our hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you'd like to support our podcast, you know where to find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, plus make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notification when we drop a new episode.

We’d love to hear from you, our loyal listeners, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Once again, we appreciate your company, and we're excited to delve into more insights on retail in our next episode – bye for now!

Hello and welcome back to the Retail Wrap-Up for 2024 - retail’s favourite podcast!
RetailOasis is extremely excited to bring you our 4th season and we can’t wait to introduce you to more inspiring, innovative, and fascinating guests from a plethora of retail brands.

You’re joined, as always, by retail strategist and enthusiast Maddy Kulmar, that's me, as well as my fellow colleague and strategist here at RetailOasis, Emma Easton.

In this episode, we fulfil a long-time wish-list item as we sit down with Olivia Carr, the dynamic Founder of Shhh Silk and author of Self Made. Olivia's journey is one of resilience and triumph, as she shares her experiences navigating the retail industry and creating a successful brand from the ground up.

Throughout our discussion, Olivia opens up about her failures, the lessons learned, and the silver linings that emerged. We delve into the inspiration behind her book, Self Made, and the impact she hopes it will have on readers.

From celebrity endorsements (Kim Kardashian / Khloe Kardashian) to her overseas brand expansion, Olivia provides insights into building relationships and growing a business. She also shares advice, discusses her inspirations, and offers a glimpse into the future of Shhh Silk.

Tune in to discover Olivia Carr's inspiring story and the bright future ahead for Shhh Silk.

You can get your hands on Olivia's newly released book, Self Made, here:
https://www.oliviacarr.com.au/products/self-made

Or to explore Shhh Silk further, try one of these links:
Shhh Silk Website
Olivia Carr on LinkedIn
Shhh Silk on LinkedIn
Olivia Carr on Instagram
Shhh Silk on Instagram

You can learn more about the RetailOasis Team here or for information on our hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

If you'd like to support our podcast, you know where to find us on Instagram @retailoasis or on LinkedIn, plus make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notification when we drop a new episode.

We’d love to hear from you, our loyal listeners, by way of a review, or you can drop us a guest suggestion via one of our social media channels or email us at retailwrapup@retailoasis.com

Once again, we appreciate your company, and we're excited to delve into more insights on retail in our next episode – bye for now!

Welcome back to the last episode of the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' for Season 3. We're extremely proud to have been the podcast for retailers since 2020!

Joining us today is the dynamic duo behind one of Australia's most innovative and eco-conscious footwear brands, Jess and Stef Dadon, the Co-Founders and Co-CEO’s of TWOOBS.

In 2016, when using the word "vegan" in fashion wasn’t mainstream, these two sisters decided it was time for a change. They created a brand that's not just about shoes but a whole new kind of fashion philosophy. They consciously combined their focus on sustainability and ethics to create a fashionable, yet comfortable shoe.

In today's episode, we unravel their incredible journey, exploring how they turned a damaged stock shipment into a marketing boon, how they navigate the challenges of sustainability in the fashion industry, and what exciting things have they in the pipeline for the remainder of 2023 and 2024.

We'll also dive into their exciting collaborations, including a recent one with First Nations artist Glenda McCulloch, where they seamlessly blend Indigenous art with their shoe designs, creating not just fashion but art for your feet.

And as if that's not enough, we discuss their commitment to giving back, from supporting local kindergartens to inspiring other women to start their own businesses.

So, if you're curious about how two sisters managed to create a brand that's challenging the world of fashion and sustainability, you're in for a real treat. Jess and Stef are here to share their insights, experiences, and a whole lot of inspiration.

Stay tuned as we journey through the world of TWOOBS and uncover the secrets to their remarkable success. Without further ado, let's get started with Jess and Stef, the Co-Founders and Co-CEO's of TWOOBS!

A HUGE thank you to Stef & Jess for joining us, we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on TWOOBS or our guests today, please see the episode links below.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Retail Wrap-Up podcast to receive insightful fortnightly episodes that delve into the stories, strategies, and visions shaping the retail industry. Click here to subscribe.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
TWOOBS Website
Stef Dadon on LinkedIn
Jess Dadon on LinkedIn
TWOOBS on LinkedIn
TWOOBS on Facebook
TWOOBS on Instagram
TWOOBS on TikTok

To learn more about your podcast hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

Welcome back to the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' - the podcast for retailers.

Joining us today is Nadia Lotter, the CEO of Aje Athletica – an offshoot of Aje, focussing on the fusion of both activewear and loungewear. It's the brainchild of co-founders Adrian Norris and Edwina Forest, and since its inception in 2021, the brand has rapidly expanded with 16 retail locations and a global online presence, shipping to over 70 countries.

A just 38, Nadia has worked across an incredibly successful array of retail businesses; on both the agency side and eventually moving to client side in 2014 joining one of Australia’s most iconic brands, Sass & Bide. Since then, she has worked hard to advance her career, cementing herself as a leader in the retail space.

In today's episode, we're diving deep into the world of retail with Nadia. We'll be discussing:
- How Aje Athletica is redefining activewear, blending style and performance with sustainability in mind
- How the brand is adapting to the trend of activewear becoming lifestyle wear while maintaining a focus on functionality and style
- Understanding the customer goes beyond demographics; it's about connecting on a deeper level to serve their unique needs
- Extraordinary in-store experiences are vital in the era of online shopping dominance
- How sustainability is integrated into Aje Athletica's DNA, aligning with their values and customer base
- Nadia's impressive career journey and how these experiences have offered insights into the retail industry's evolution
- Aje Athletica's future plans promise exciting developments and innovations
- And what effect current events and societal shifts have on product collections and colour choices and Aje Athletica

A HUGE thank you to Nadia for joining us, we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on Aje Athletica or our guest today, please see the episode links below.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Retail Wrap-Up podcast to receive insightful fortnightly episodes that delve into the stories, strategies, and visions shaping the retail industry. Click here to subscribe.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Aje Athletica Website
Nadia Lotter on LinkedIn
Aje Athletica on LinkedIn
Aje Athletica on Instagram

To learn more about your podcast hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Steve Kulmar

Welcome back to the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' - the podcast for retailers.

We're excited to bring you another inspiring episode of The Retail Wrap-Up podcast. In this edition, we're diving into the dynamic world of retail entrepreneurship with two remarkable individuals who've truly left their mark on the industry.

Meet Mary Ralph Lawson and Kennedy Crinchlow, the Co-Founders of the LA-based direct-to-consumer lifestyle brand, Daily Drills. Their journey is nothing short of incredible, starting with a shared vision and a mere $10,000 investment each. Fast forward to today, and Daily Drills is rewriting the rules of the fashion game, setting trends, and leaving competitors in the dust.

In this episode, you'll discover:

1. The Power of Customer Loyalty: Learn how Mary Ralph and Kennedy have forged an unbreakable bond with their audience, turning Daily Drills into more than just a brand—it's a movement.

2. Strategies for Rapid Growth: Uncover the secrets behind Daily Drills' rapid success, with insights into the strategies that propelled them to an impressive projected revenue of US$8 million this year.

3. Customer Feedback as a Compass: Gain insight into how customer feedback has played a pivotal role in shaping Daily Drills' products and overall brand experience.

So, whether you're a seasoned retail aficionado or just starting to explore the world of fashion entrepreneurship, this episode promises to deliver insights, inspiration, and a glimpse into the magic that's turning Daily Drills into a household name.

Thank you for being a valued part of The Retail Wrap-Up community. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did creating it. Stay inspired!

A HUGE thank you to Kennedy & Mary Ralph for joining us, we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on Daily Drills or our guests today, please see the episode links below.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Retail Wrap-Up podcast to receive insightful fortnightly episodes that delve into the stories, strategies, and visions shaping the retail industry. Click here to subscribe.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Daily Drills Website
Kennedy Crinchlow on LinkedIn
Mary Ralph Lawson on LinkedIn
Daily Drills on LinkedIn
Daily Drills on Instagram
Daily Drills on TikTok

To learn more about your podcast hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

Welcome back to the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' - the podcast for retailers.

Joining us today is Dani Pearce, the remarkable Founder & CEO of Merry People, aka the creators of the worlds best Ankle Gumboot with over 13,000 5 star reviews! These guys are redefining the world of retail with a unique blend of style, sustainability, and adventure.

In this episode we chat to Dani about...

🌟 Embracing Unpredictability: We explore Dani's journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, driven by a need for stylish and reliable boots, even in Melbourne's ever-changing weather.

🌟 The Power of Creativity: We hear about how a few sketches and a leap of faith led to the birth of Merry People, a brand that celebrates creativity and determination.

🌟 Sustainability Commitment: We dive into Merry People's dedication to sustainability, from using recycled materials to ethical production practices.

🌟 Values-Driven Brand: We uncover how Merry People's core values of happiness, kindness, authenticity, and adventure shape every aspect of their business.

Remember to hit that "Subscribe" button to never miss an inspiring episode. You won't want to miss Dani's insights and the remarkable journey behind Merry People.

A HUGE thank you to Dani for joining us, we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on Merry People or our guest today, please see the episode links below.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Retail Wrap-Up podcast to receive insightful fortnightly episodes that delve into the stories, strategies, and visions shaping the retail industry. Click here to subscribe.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Merry People Website
Dani Pearce on LinkedIn
Merry People on LinkedIn
Merry People on Instagram
Merry People on Facebook

To learn more about your podcast hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

Welcome back to the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' - the podcast for retailers.

Joining us today is a true retail innovator, Melissa Drennan, the incoming CEO of ReleaseIt. From her early days at Debenhams to her impactful roles at David Jones, THE ICONIC, Catch of the Day, and now at the helm of ReleaseIt, Mel's journey through the retail landscape has been nothing short of inspiring.

In this episode, we dive into how Mel's experiences across different sectors have shaped her unique perspective on the ever-evolving retail industry. From business transformation in large retail businesses to sustainability-driven missions, Mel has seen it all and today we’re lucky enough to hear her insights. We'll also be exploring the exciting world of Green Friday, a movement that's reshaping the way we approach sales events with a focus on sustainability and conscious shopping.

Plus, Mel has a BIG announcement for us, and we’ll get a sneak peek into how this big announcement aligns with ReleaseIt's mission and what it means for the future of re-commerce.

Key Takeaways:
1. How diverse retail experiences shape a unique perspective on industry changes.
2. The transformative power of the sustainability-focused Green Friday movement.
3. Strategies for building meaningful partnerships that align with sustainability goals.
4. The future of re-commerce and circular economy through ReleaseIt's vision.

A HUGE thank you to Melissa for joining us, we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on ReleaseIt, Green Friday, Kindershare or our guest today, please see the episode links below.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Retail Wrap-Up podcast to receive insightful fortnightly episodes that delve into the stories, strategies, and visions shaping the retail industry. Click here to subscribe.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
ReleaseIt
Green Friday
Kindershare
Melissa Drennan on LinkedIn
ReleaseIt on LinkedIn
ReleaseIt on Instagram

To learn more about your podcast hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Emma Easton

Welcome back to the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' - the podcast for retailers.

Coming up on today’s show we have an absolute powerhouse duo joining us, the Co-Founders of HoMie, Marcus Crook and Nick Pearce.

HoMie isn't just your run-of-the-mill retail brand, these guys are fighting to break down stereotypes and empower young people affected by homelessness or hardship.

It all started back in 2015 with a little Facebook page called "Homelessness of Melbourne." But Marcus and Nick wanted to do more than just post stories. They wanted to make a real impact, to give a voice to those who needed it most, and create a fashion revolution while they were at it.

Fast forward to today, and HoMie has exploded onto the scene. From a humble pop-up store in Melbourne Central to their flagship location on Brunswick Street, these guys are redefining what it means to be fashion-forward. It's not just about looking good; it's about making a statement – a brilliant mix of purpose and creativity.

But HoMie doesn't stop at killer fashion. Through the creation of their VIP Days and HoMie Pathway Alliance Program, they're all about arming young people with the skills, confidence, and experiences they need to take on the world.

Sitting down with Marcus and Nick was an absolute blast. These guys are the real deal—visionaries, trailblazers, and just a sprinkle of mischief thrown in for good measure. We dug deep into their journey, their dreams, and, of course, had a few laughs along the way.

So, buckle up, turn up the volume, and get ready to be blown away by the brilliance that is HoMie, as we dive into the minds of Marcus Crook and Nick Pearce.

A HUGE thank you to Nick and Marcus for joining us, we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on HoMie or our guests today, please see the episode links below.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
HoMie
Marcus Crook on LinkedIn
Nick Pearce on LinkedIn
HoMie on LinkedIn
HoMie on Instagram
HoMie on YouTube
HoMie on Facebook

To learn more about your podcast hosts, please see the links below:
Maddy Kulmar
Steve Kulmar

Welcome back to the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' - the podcast for retailers.

Coming up on today’s show we’re thrilled to have a special guest who is making waves in the world of sustainability and retail. Joining us is none other than Lottie Dalziel, the extraordinary Founder, owner, and creator of Banish – a revolutionary marketplace that takes eco-friendly products, education, and recycling to a whole new level.

Lottie is not your average entrepreneur. She didn't just dip her toe into the sustainability pond – she cannonballed right in! With a passion for reducing waste and being kinder to our planet, Lottie embarked on a journey that led her to create Banish, a one-stop destination for all things eco-friendly.

At Banish, Lottie has built more than just a marketplace. It's a vibrant hub of education, inspiration, and of course, some seriously cool products. But here's the kicker – it's not just about selling stuff. Lottie has made it her mission to empower Australians with trusted information, guiding them through the labyrinth of sustainable choices and helping them navigate the sometimes-perplexing world of waste reduction.

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Lottie to uncover the secrets behind Banish's success and dive into the mind of a retail revolutionary. We talked about everything; from the hilarious encounters she's had with sceptics of sustainable living to the surprising items people have sent to her recycling facility.

But it's not all laughs and anecdotes. Lottie's insights into running a sustainable business and her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs are worth their weight in gold (and recycled plastic, of course). She reveals the challenges she faced along the way and how she transformed them into opportunities to make a real impact on people's lives.

So, grab your reusable coffee cup, sit back, and get ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Lottie Dalziel and Banish!

A HUGE thank you to Lottie for joining us, we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on Banish, BRAD or our guest today, please see the show notes for this episode.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Banish
BRAD Recycling Impact Report for 22/23
More about BRAD
Lottie Dalziel on LinkedIn
Banish on LinkedIn
Banish on Instagram
Banish on YouTube
Banish on Pinterest
Banish on TikTok

Welcome back to the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' - the podcast for retailers. Coming up on today’s episode we are joined by Tim Snape, the Marketing Director at Heaps Normal. Heaps Normal is the non-alcoholic beer company revolutionising the Australian drinking culture.

With a team that includes a designer, a brewer, a pro surfer, and a ginger, Heaps Normal embarked on their journey in 2018, on a mission to create a flavourful, non-alcoholic beer that doesn't compromise on taste or experience.

They've worked tirelessly to perfect their brews, using a unique recipe, brewing method, and non-traditional yeast. Their efforts have paid off, as their alcohol-free beers pass the ultimate test: the pub test. Brewers, chefs, sommeliers, and pub regulars have all praised their exceptional flavour.

But Heaps Normal is more than just a beer brand. They recently achieved B Corp certification, highlighting their commitment to social and environmental performance. Additionally, they're part of 1% for the Planet, channelling a portion of their sales towards environmental initiatives.

So, get ready to be inspired as we delve into this conversation with Tim Snape, the Marketing Director at Heaps Normal. We'll explore Heaps Normal's journey, their innovative approach to brewing, their recent B Corp certification, and their commitment to providing a better drinking experience for all.

A HUGE thank you to Tim for joining us, we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on Heaps Normal or our guest today, please see the show notes for this episode.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Heaps Normal
Tim Snape on LinkedIn
Heaps Normal on LinkedIn
Heaps Normal on Instagram
Heaps Normal on YouTube
Heaps Normal on TikTok

Welcome back to the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' - the podcast for retailers. Coming up on today’s episode we are joined by Hannah Daykin and Annabel Humphrey, the Founders of Pursuit The Label, a London-born sustainable swimwear brand that beautifully combines fashion and purpose.

Hannah and Annabel launched Pursuit The Label after recognising the lack of sustainable yet fashionable swimwear options in the market. Their mission to inject sustainability into fashion led them to create each swimsuit using ECONYL®, a yarn made from regenerated fishing nets and consumer waste from both land and sea. It's a brand that not only embraces style but also takes a strong stance against marine pollution.

Throughout our conversation, we'll delve into the remarkable journey of Pursuit The Label and how the company has evolved since its inception. We'll hear about their biggest "pinch me" moments, from being featured in Vogue and Sports Illustrated to seeing influential celebrities donning their swimwear.

One of the key aspects of Pursuit The Label's success lies in their commitment to sustainability. We'll learn more about the innovative fibre, ECONYL®, that forms the foundation of their swimwear range and how they ensure it maintains its luxury quality while being eco-friendly. Additionally, we'll discuss the misconception that sustainable fashion is expensive and explore how Pursuit The Label addresses this view.

The founders' decision to design and produce the collection in London showcases their dedication to quality and craftsmanship. We'll explore the reasons behind this choice, uncovering both the benefits and downsides of being UK-made.

Reflecting on their early days in 2017, Hannah and Annabel will share valuable insights into what they would have done differently and offer advice to aspiring entrepreneurs who are building their own start-ups. We'll also discover how Pursuit The Label incorporates their empowering and confidence-driven brand identity into their product designs and marketing strategies.

And finally, we'll take a visionary leap into the future of retail. With our guests' unique perspective, we'll explore what lies ahead in the next 5 to 10 years and how Pursuit The Label envisions the retail landscape evolving.

Before we dive into this inspiring conversation, we have a special offer for our listeners. Hannah and Annabel would love to extend a discount exclusively for Retail Wrap Up listeners. Simply enter the code "wrapupinpursuit15" at checkout for a fantastic 15% off any product! Check the show notes for the episode for information or to get the code.

A HUGE thank you to Annabel & Hannah for joining us, we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on Pursuit The Label or our guests today, please see the show notes for this episode.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Pursuit The Label
Hannah Daykin on LinkedIn
Annabel Humphrey on LinkedIn
Pursuit The Label on LinkedIn
Pursuit The Label on Instagram
Pursuit The Label on Pinterest

Discount Code: Enter the code wrapupinpursuit15 at checkout for 15% off any product

Welcome back to the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' - the podcast for retailers. Coming up on today’s episode we are joined by Jane Thompson, the founder of Blue Spinach - Australia's premium reseller of international luxury brand handbags, accessories, shoes, jewellery and clothing for women and men. Founded in 1996 by Jane and Mark Thompson, Blue Spinach has established itself as the epitome of luxury resale, delighting fashion enthusiasts across the nation.

What sets Blue Spinach apart is their unwavering commitment to excellence. Each item undergoes a meticulous authentication process, ensuring the highest quality and authenticity. With their comprehensive "white glove" service, Blue Spinach delivers a truly remarkable shopping experience, whether you visit their appointment-only showroom or explore their curated collection online.

But that's not all. Blue Spinach has recently forged a ground-breaking partnership with David Jones, one of Australia's most esteemed retailers. Together, they have launched a designer resale platform, allowing customers to discover coveted luxury pieces and embrace a circular fashion model. This collaboration not only extends the lifespan of high-quality designer items but also promotes sustainability in the fashion industry.

In this episode, we have the incredible opportunity to gain insights from the founder of Blue Spinach. We'll uncover the brand's fascinating journey, their philosophy centred around timeless style, and their unwavering dedication to sustainability and ethical practices. Join us as we unravel the secrets of luxury resale and explore the exciting future of this thriving business.

A HUGE thank you to Jane for joining us + we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on Blue Spinach or our guest today, please see the show notes for this episode.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Blue Spinach
Jane Thompson on LinkedIn
Blue Spinach on LinkedIn
Blue Spinach on Instagram
Blue Spinach on Facebook

Welcome back to the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' - the podcast for retailers. Coming up on today’s episode we are joined by Ariana Ferwerda and Kiley McKinnon, the visionary co-founders of Halfdays, an inclusive outdoor apparel brand for women. Halfdays is on a mission to make the outdoors more approachable, inclusive, and fun, and recently launch their brand into the Australian and New Zealand markets.

Picture this—a perfect blend of technical gear and flattering fit, stylish, and functional outdoor apparel made from recycled and responsibly sourced materials. That's what Halfdays brings to the table. Whether you're conquering a mountain trail or enjoying après-ski, Halfdays has you covered with their trailblazing designs that seamlessly merge fashion and function.

What sets Halfdays apart is not only their commitment to creating high-quality gear but also their dedication to inclusivity and sustainability. Ariana and Kiley are not just co-founders; they are athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who understand the importance of gear that empowers and embraces all women. In fact, Kiley was on the US Olympic Team for Freestyle Aerials, so if there’s anyone who truly understand the importance of getting this gear right, it’s her! Their passion for outdoor sports, coupled with their own experiences in the industry, led them to create a brand that fills a gap and makes outdoor adventures more accessible for everyone.

In this episode, we delve into the story behind Halfdays and explore how Ariana and Kiley's vision is reshaping the global outdoor apparel market. We discuss their journey from launching in the US to expanding into new markets, the challenges they've faced, and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by the incredible story of Halfdays and the remarkable journey of Ariana and Kiley as we dive into the world of outdoor fashion, innovation, sustainability, and the power of inclusivity.

A HUGE thank you to Ariana & Kiley for joining us + we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on Halfdays or our guest today, please see the show notes below for this episode.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Halfdays
Ariana Ferwerda on LinkedIn
Kiley McKinnon on LinkedIn
Halfdays on LinkedIn
Halfdays on TikTok
Halfdays on Instagram
Halfdays on Facebook

Welcome back to the RetailOasis 'Retail Wrap-Up Podcast' - the podcast for retailers.

Coming up on today’s episode we are joined by special guest Jason Daniel, the CEO and Founder of LSKD, who has been making BIG waves in the world of sportswear and activewear.

LSKD, is an Australian-owned and operated company, that has been capturing the hearts of fitness enthusiasts and street-style aficionados alike with their high-quality, functional sportswear that carries a unique street aesthetic. But it's not just about the clothes; LSKD is on a mission to inspire its customers to "chase the vibe" through sports, fitness, and adventure.

During this episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of LSKD's brand evolution. From its beginnings as Loose Kid Industries, catering to BMX and motocross enthusiasts, to becoming a leading activewear brand, Jason Daniel has steered LSKD through a truly impressive transformation.

As we chat with Jason, we also discuss the importance of influencers in the LSKD brand and their focus on building a strong customer base. We uncover their strategies for customer awareness, retention, and how they're actively expanding their brick-and-mortar presence. Additionally, we delve into LSKD's commitment to sustainability through their Project Earth program, and we also get a glimpse into the exciting future that awaits LSKD.

Get ready for an episode filled with insights, inspiration, and the passion that drives the success of LSKD. Whether you're a retailer, a sportswear enthusiast, or simply intrigued by the retail industry, this episode is sure to captivate you.

A HUGE thank you to Jason for joining us + we hope you enjoy this conversation!

For more information on LSKD or our guest today, please see the show notes below for this episode.

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
LSKD
Jason Daniel on LSKD
LSKD on LinkedIn
LSKD on TikTok
LSKD on YouTube
LSKD on Instagram
LSKD on Facebook

Coming up on today’s episode, we sit down with James Bartle, the Founder and CEO of Outland Denim, a sustainable denim company based in Australia and a registered B Corporation. Outland Denim has gained international recognition for its commitment to creating premium denim products while also making a positive social and environmental impact. James and his team have developed a business model that provides employment and training opportunities for women who have been rescued from human trafficking, while also prioritizing ethical and sustainable practices throughout their supply chain.

Since its founding in 2011, Outland Denim has earned a reputation for its uncompromising standards, which include using only organic and non-toxic materials, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for its employees, and reducing its environmental footprint through initiatives such as water conservation and renewable energy use. The company has also been recognized as a B Corporation, a certification that recognizes businesses that prioritize social and environmental impact alongside profits.

In this episode, James shares his insights on everything from the challenges of implementing sustainable and ethical practices in the fashion industry, to the impact of Outland Denim's business model on local communities. We also discuss initiatives and projects currently in the works for Outland, and the future of sustainable fashion. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast, a sustainability advocate, or simply interested in the future of retail, this episode is not to be missed.

A HUGE thank you to James for joining us + we hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Outland Denim
James Bartle on LinkedIn
Outland Denim on LinkedIn
Outland Denim on YouTube
Outland Denim on Instagram
Outland Denim on Facebook

Coming up on today’s episode we have a very special guest with us, Chloe De Winter, the Co-Founder of Nala , a progressive and inclusive underwear brand based out of Australia.

You’ve probably heard about Nala off the back of their recent protest after being censored across all social media platforms – in retaliation, they sent a giant inflatable breast down Melbourne’s Yarra River to challenge the "double standards" around the censorship of certain bodies on the internet.

In this episode, we dive deep into the inspiration behind starting Nala Underwear and what sets it apart from other brands in the market. We also discuss how Nala approaches sustainability, ethical manufacturing practices, and inclusivity in the fashion industry. Chloe shares her insights on the challenges and opportunities of operating a business in the Australian market, as well as the design process and how Nala Underwear uses social media and other digital marketing strategies to engage with customers. Chloe also let us in on the brands future plans and collaborations, plus her advice to other retail brands who are hesitant to take a stand on important social and political issues, and why it's crucial for brands to use their platform for advocacy and activism.

So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this insightful conversation with Chloe De Winter from Nala Underwear.

A HUGE thank you to Chloe de Winter for joining us + we hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Nala
Chloe de Winter on LinkedIn
Nala on LinkedIn
Nala on TikTok
Nala on Instagram

Welcome to our latest podcast episode where we have a very special guest joining us today, Zoltan Csaki, the Co-Founder of Citizen Wolf, an Australia made-to-measure fashion brand with a bold purpose to "un-f*ck the fashion industry."

Founded in 2015, Citizen Wolf is known for its innovative approach to clothing customisation, creating high-quality garments that are made to fit each customer's unique measurements, while also prioritising sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices. Using their custom fit technology called Magic Fit, Citizen Wolf has revolutionised the way we think about sizing and fit in fashion.

It's no secret that the fashion industry is a major contributor to environmental damage. Did you know that 30 billion garments end up in landfill every 12 months? Citizen Wolf is on a mission to change that. As a 100% circular brand, they are committed to closing the loop on textile waste and reducing their impact on the planet.

As a proud B Corporation, Citizen Wolf is committed to using business as a force for good, and has been recognised for its efforts to reduce waste and improve supply chain transparency. Zoltan is a serial entrepreneur and a sustainability advocate who has an impressive background in the fashion industry. In today's episode, we will be discussing with Zoltan his journey in building Citizen Wolf, the challenges he faced, and the future of sustainable fashion. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this insightful conversation with Zoltan Csaki.

A HUGE thank you to Zoltan Csaki for joining us + we hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Citizen Wolf
Zoltan Csaki on LinkedIn
Citizen Wolf on LinkedIn
Citizen Wolf on Instagram

Today we are joined by Neil O’Sullivan, the Co-Founder and CEO of Nimbus Co - Australia's first national infrared sauna studio and wellness centre, who specialise in preventative health and wellbeing.

So far, Neil and his co-founder (and wife!) Su, have opened 4 studios across New South Vales and Victoria, with plans for further expansion in the works…and why wouldn’t you when the health and wellness market, which was already valued at more than 4.3 trillion U.S. dollars back in 2020, is set to continue to increase to almost seven trillion U.S. dollars by 2025, with Millennial’s prioritising their health and wellness more than any other generation.

It’s interesting to note that in a recent report conducted by the Global Wellness Institute, measuring and comparing the wellness economies of 150 nations, Australia came in 10th in the world with a total spend of US$84 billion, moving up to the number six position in the wellness spend per capita stakes, forking out an average of $5,239 Australian per year on wellness services.

During our conversation with Neil we discuss the personal motivation behind the creation of Nimbus Co and the struggles of starting a business, the impact of covid and how they managed to stay afloat, the growing trend of #SelfCare and how education plays such a fundamental role. We also talk about the opening of their latest studio here in Manly and the importance of understand the community, plus, their plans for the future.

A HUGE thank you to Neil O'Sullivan for joining us + we hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Nimbus Co
Neil O'Sullivan on LinkedIn
Nimbus Co on LinkedIn
Nimbus Co on Instagram
Guided Meditations from Nimbus Co via Soundcloud

Coming up on today’s show we’re joined by Zhoe Low, the Global General Manager of July – the insanely popular travel luggage and accessories company, which was founded in Melbourne in 2018.

July was co-founded by Athan Didaskalou and Richard Li, with the intention of competing with the likes of Samsonite and Rimowa. Both had successful business history behind them, Athan having founded cult favourite Thieves Coffee, and Richard was the Co-Founder of online furniture company, BROSA. But in November of 2019, they decided to bring Zhoe onboard to manage all of July’s marketing, just months before the world of travel was shattered.

During our conversation with Zhoe today we discuss how she and the July team got through the pandemic and what they did with their down time, we also talk about the brands international expansion and how the customer differs so greatly across the globe.

Zhoe also talks to us about what sets July apart from its competitors, what’s in the pipeline for this incredibly agile business and what she believes the future of retail might look like.

For more information on July or our guest today, please see the show notes below for this episode.

Thank you to Zhoe Low for joining us, we hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
July
Zhoe Low (LinkedIn)
July (LinkedIn)
July (Instagram)
July (TikTok)
July (Pinterest)
July (Facebook)

Welcome to your bonus episode of the Retail Wrap-Up Podcast where we bring you the live audio recording from Retail’s 9th Annual BIG Breakfast.

With 200+ retailers in the room and 100+ online, we heard presentations from:

• Erica Berchtold, the CEO of THE ICONIC, who spoke about the future of pureplay retail + the trends and insights for 2023 and beyond;

• Trent Rigby, the Co-Director of RetailOasis, who discussed the next evolution of in-store retail + resale or preowned as a strategy to increase in-store foot traffic;

• Hannon Comazzetto, the CEO & Founder of AirRobe, who spoke to the incredibly profitable opportunity in the resale category in retail;

• Claudia Rossi, the Insights Director of Afterpay, who spoke about the changes in retail due to macros trends in the market;

• Paul Greenberg, the Godfather of online retail, and Chair of NORA, who discussed the key trends from the NRF's Big Show in NYC this past January;

• And, finally, Steve Kulmar, the CEO & Founder of RetailOasis, who compared the left vs right brain in retail + Gen Z's expectations for the future of retail.

To download your copy of the presentations from the event or to find our more about our upcoming sustainability focussed event, the BIG Dinner, please see the show notes below for the episode.

We look forward to bringing you more retail trends & insights from successful retailers in 2024 at Retail's 10th Annual BIG Breakfast!

We hope you enjoy this recording!

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Presentations
BIG Dinner - Register your interest by emailing enquire@retailoasis.com
Erica Berchtold (LinkedIn)
Trent Rigby (LinkedIn)
Hannon Comazzetto (LinkedIn)
Claudia Rossi (LinkedIn)
Paul Greenberg (LinkedIn)
Steve Kulmar (LinkedIn)
RetailOasis (Website)
RetailOasis (LinkedIn)

Today we are joined by Julie Mathers, the CEO at Snuggle Hunny, the Founder of Flora & Fauna and the Founder of Green + Kind…just to name a few of her roles! She is also a keen adviser to retailers and sits on retail aligned boards.

Julie is clearly passionate about retail, having worked in the industry for 30+ years, but where she finds true purpose is in building better businesses and making good choices - not just for the businesses she’s a part of, but also for the planet.

During our conversation today we discuss Julie’s latest role at Snuggle Hunny and how this opportunity came about, the big decision to move on from Flora & Fauna and what triggered the move, and her advice to women juggling their career with growing a family and how she managed to do this successfully with her team.

We also talk about the importance of sustainability and purpose beyond making money, and why customers expect this. Julie also talks about utilising the B Corp assessment to test how your business could join the community of simply start their sustainability journey, how she learnt about becoming a certified B Corp and her advice to anyone thinking of joining the movement.

And lastly, Julie talks about her recent trip to NYC, what trends she’s seeing playing out in retail and what the future of retail could look like in 5-10 years.

For more information on Snuggle Hunny or our guest today, please see the show notes below for this episode.

Thank you to Julie Mathers for joining us, we hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Snuggle Hunny
Julie Mathers (LinkedIn)
Snuggle Hunny (LinkedIn)
Snuggle Hunny (Instagram)
Julie Mathers (Instagram)
Snuggle Hunny (YouTube)
Snuggle Hunny (Pinterest)
Snuggle Hunny (Facebook)
B Corporation: B Impact Assessment

Today we are joined by Kirsten Kore and Costa Koulis, the Co-Founders and Co-CEO’s of Designerex. What started as an exercise in trust on Facebook, has now turned into the world’s largest peer-to-peer Designer Dress Sharing Platform.

The business began in 2015 and now boast over 80,000 designer dress listings, with more 7,000 active lenders, and over 1,000 fashion brands available.

During our conversation with Kirsten and Costa, we discuss the creation of the business, its evolution since conception, the mutually beneficial partnership created by Designerex and the seller or renter, who their core customer is, how 2020 played out and how they’ve bounced back, and what the future holds for this incredibly successful business.

We hope you enjoy this conversation…

One little reminder, if you haven’t already got your free ticket to our 9th Annual BIG Breakfast retailer event, please click here. The hybrid event is taking place both online and in person at Sydney’s MCA on Wednesday the 1st of March at 7am for a 7:30am start.

For more information on Designerex or our guests today, please see the show notes below for this episode.

Thank you to our guests, Kirsten Kore & Costa Koulis, for joining us!

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Designerex
Kirsten Kore (LinkedIn)
Costa Koulis (LinkedIn)
Designerex (LinkedIn)
Designerex (Instagram)
Designerex (TikTok)
Designerex (Facebook)

In today’s episode we talk to Mike Smith, the Founder of Zero Co.

Zero Co, are, in essence the ‘milk man’ meets cleaning supplies. They exist to reduce single-use plastic by selling refillable “forever bottles” that customers order online. After being delivered to your door, customers simply empty the contents of the refillable pouches into the dispensers and send back the pouches, for free, to be re-used…putting an end to single use plastic once and for all!

During our conversation Mike lets us in on the story behind his business, how he came up with the idea and the motivation that got things started. He also talks about the “milk man concept” and what effect “The War on Waste” had on his decision to start Zero Co. Mike also tells us about Zero Co’s successful Kickstarter campaign and how this process went down. We also talk about the creation of Zero Co’s beautiful packaging and how they utilise plastic puled from the ocean. Mike discusses 2020, the affect the pandemic had on his business launching and how many active users he currently has. And finally, we hear what’s in the pipeline for Zero Co and his advice to entrepreneurs putting their life savings into an idea, just like he did.

For more information on Zero Co or our guest today, please see the show notes for this episode. Thank you to our guest, Mike Smith, for joining us.

**This is our final episode for season 2 of the Retail Wrap-Up Podcast for 2021 and boy, do we have big plans for 2022! (Including some personal plans as Maddy, the host of our podcast, heads off on maternity leave!)

We’d like to take this moment to thank each and every guest who has been on an episode this season – the knowledge and advice you have passed onto our listeners, and indeed, the RetailOasis Team, is truly invaluable. And on the back of what has definitely been a challenging year, we wish everyone success during this upcoming holiday season and beyond into 2022 – May you all have your best foot forward as we enter the New Year!**

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Zero Co
Mike Smith (LinkedIn)
Zero Co (LinkedIn)
Zero Co (Instagram)
Zero Co (Twitter)
Zero Co (Facebook)
Zero Co (Youtube)

In today’s episode we talk to Abigail Forsyth, the Co-Founder and Managing Director of KeepCup.

KeepCup are the pioneers of the international reusable coffee cup movement, who over their 13 years in their existence have become a household name and barrister approved in over 75 countries around the world. The business, started by siblings, Abigail and Jamie, was created with a simple idea in mind: keep the cup and use it again. Their idea solved the growing problem of single use packaging and the volume of waste entering the environment – and quite frankly, they couldn’t believe this gap in market hadn’t already been filled.

During our conversation with Abigail she lets us in the motivation behind the brand’s creation and success, as well as how she and her brother pushed forward with their idea even after being turned down by manufacturers and designers in the creation phase. Abigail also talks to us about being the pioneers of durable and reusable products and how they deal with competitors and counterfeit products giving the reusable movement a bad name. We, of course, discuss the struggles and changes in 2020 and 2021, as well as the affect customers working from home has had on the business’s bottom line. Abigail also announces KeepCup’s latest product to launch, the KeepCup Helix and how this product still sits nicely within their product offering and ethos. And lastly, Abigail gives her advice to anyone looking to launch a brand, product or concept, and what’s in the pipeline for KeepCup.

For more information on KeepCup or our guest today, please see the show notes for this episode.

Thank you to our guest, Abigail Forsyth, for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
KeepCup
Abigail Forsyth (LinkedIn)
KeepCup (LinkedIn)
KeepCup (Instagram)
KeepCup (Facebook)
KeepCup (Twitter)

In today’s episode we talk to Nicole Noye, the CEO at the Collective Wellness Group.

The Collective Wellness Group are leaders in the health and fitness franchising world with such brands as Anytime Fitness and Xtend Barre under their wing. The group as a whole are passionate about health and aim to become the leaders in the health and wellness space by developing franchises which are disruptive in the Australia marketplace.

During our conversation with Nicole she talks to us about the group, the brands under the umbrella and how her past retail experience has helped her be a successful CEO in a new category and given her the skills to manage franchisees. Nicole discusses how the past 2 years have re-shaped not only the Collective Wellness Group, but also the fitness industry as a whole, and how these newly acquired life lessons on the back of the pandemic are serving her, her team, and her franchisees. We discuss the importance of a “hybrid” strategy, where virtual and physical workouts are the new normal. And finally, Nicole talks to us about what’s next in the pipeline, and her advice to anyone looking to enter the retail game.

For more information on the Collective Wellness Group or our guest today, please see the show notes for this episode.

Thank you to our guest, Nicole Noye, for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Collective Wellness Group
Anytime Fitness
Xtend Barre
Nicole Noye (LinkedIn)
Collective Wellness Group (LinkedIn)

In today’s episode we talk to Daniel Bracken, the CEO at Michael Hill.

Michael Hill is, of course, an iconic jewellery brand to the New Zealand, Australian and Canadian markets. In 1979, Sir Michael Hill and his wife Christine opened their first jewellery store with a simple yet ground-breaking vision: to make fine jewellery accessible to everybody. 40 years later, Michael Hill has more than 300 stores in three countries with a vision to continue this growth both in-store and online.

During our conversation with Daniel we discuss the brand’s history, it’s fascinating creation, and what differentiates Michael Hill from other jewellery brands. Daniel also talks to us about their incredible year end results, what he puts this success down to and what changes were put in place to improve the P&L. Daniel also walks us through the strategies he and his team put in place in 2020 to cope with the Pandemic and how these strategies helped the in 2021 when he was forced to close stores yet again. We also discuss the huge brand transformation Michael Hill is currently going through and how its strong brand heritage has assisted in its international growth. And finally, Daniel talks to us about what’s next for the Michael Hill brand.

For more information on Michael Hill or our guest today, please see the show notes for this episode.

Thank you to our guest, Daniel Bracken, for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Michael Hill
Daniel Bracken (LinkedIn)
Michael Hill (LinkedIn)
Michael Hill (Instagram)
Michael Hill (Facebook)
Michael Hill (Youtube)
Michael Hill (Pinterest)

In today’s episode we talk to Blaise Witnish, the Chief Growth & Innovation Officer at Funlab.

Funlab are Australia’s preeminent leader in hospitality-driven entertainment, dedicated to the creation, operation, management, and development of entertainment concepts across Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.

The privately held company is the umbrella to Strike Bowling Bar, Sky Zone Trampoline Park, Holey Moley Golf Club, Archie Brothers, B Lucky & Sons, Juke’s Karaoke, Red Herring Escape Rooms, plus 4 new concepts currently in the work to be released in 2022!

During our conversation with Blaise we discuss just what the Funlab team have been up to during the multiple lockdowns in 2020 and 2021 and how they used their downtime to grow, innovate, and plan out their future strategy. Blaise also talks about the business’s sale to private equity firm TPG, the timing of the sale and how this changed the business. Blaise also discusses how consumers are moving towards experiences over “things” and how Funlab plan on utilising this shift once businesses can reopen. Plus, we talk about the partnership with US hit tv show “Holey Moley”, how this opportunity came about and what’s next for Funlab.

For more information on Funlab or our guest today, please see the show notes for this episode.

Thank you to our guest, Blaise Witnish, for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Funlab
Strike Bowling
Sky Zone
Holey Moley
Archie Brothers
B. Lucky & Sons
Red Herring
Juke's Karaoke
Blaise Witnish (LinkedIn)
Funlab (LinkedIn)

In today’s episode we talk to Peter Krideras and Steve Kulmar, the Co-Founders of Releaseit.

Releaseit is a centralised marketplace for all things rental, that connects people and businesses with all sorts of items for all kinds of occasions and jobs. The business exists off the back of the ever-present and ever-growing global shift in consumer behaviour and the heightened demand for recommerce in the circular economy. This new way of “consuming”, allows consumers to rent out items they already own to access a new revenue stream. And as for businesses, this is the new way of connecting with customers and the community through a new more sustainable avenue.

Normally, Steve sits on the opposite side of the microphone, but today Pippa and Maddy are interviewing Peter and Steve, the co-founders of Releaseit, to understand where the business concept came from and where it’s going. RetailOasis worked closely with Peter on the development, including understanding the consumer profiles through to taking the concept to market, and we are beyond excited to be a partner of the enterprise – and not just the consultant.

During our conversation with Peter and Steve we discuss where the idea for Releaseit came from and what the motivation behind the creation was. Peter discusses how he partnered with Steve and RetailOasis to get the idea off the ground and Steve lets us in on why after years on the consultant side he decided to move into the start-up, development, and investment realm. Steve and Peter also talk about how Releaseit plays into the circular economy, how the business model works and what consumers can expect to rent from Releaseit. We also hear about Releaseit’s very successful first capital raise and what the process was of getting investors on board with such a new and unheard-of concept. Peter also dishes on the big name brands already on board and what’s next for Releaseit.

For more information on Releaseit, our guests today or how RetailOasis can get your start-up off the ground, please see the show notes for this episode.

Thank you to our guests, Peter Krideras and Steve Kulmar, for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Releaseit
Peter Krideras (LinkedIn)
Steve Kulmar (LinkedIn)
Releaseit (LinkedIn)
Releaseit (Instagram)
Releaseit (Facebook)
Releaseit (Twitter)
Contact RetailOasis Here

In today’s episode we talk to Rob Fisher and Dave McLaughlin, the Co-Founders of Bodd.

Bodd is a rapidly growing scanning and data company homegrown in Australia. Founded in 2013, Bodd has been developing 3D body scanning technology with leading Australian academic institutions such as UTS, RMIT, Swinburne and Deakin.

Bodd aims to empower retailers and merchants to change how they capture measurement, body, and sizing data through an integrated suite of technology that can be tailored for any business.
Their focus is to provide the richest set of body data on individuals that ultimately the consumer can control. It is up to each user to grant explicit permission for merchants to access their body data derived from a Bodd Scan. With permission from the consumer, Retailers can then offer hyper tailored experiences to Bodd consumers, leveraging the wealth of data captured from one single scan.

During our conversation with Dave and Rob we discuss the backstory behind the creation of Bodd, including their motivation and key partnerships currently at play. The guys also discuss the key learnings that came up when launching in South East Asia and how this wisdom continues to serve them. We talk about sustainability in the fashion and apparel industry and Bodd’s role in making a difference. Plus, we hear about Dave and Rob’s plans for Bodd’s future.

For more information on the Bodd technology or our guests today, please see the show notes for this episode.

Thank you to our guests, Rob and Dave, for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Bodd
Rob Fisher (LinkedIn)
Dave McLaughlin (LinkedIn)
Bodd (LinkedIn)

In today’s episode we talk to Anna Carrabs, the CEO of well-known Australian lifestyle and furniture company, King Living.

King has long been a household name, known for its strong modern design and customer service, but its humble beginning as a foam furniture company selling out of Paddy’s markets is truly a story to hear. King now have locations across Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Canada and China, with big plans to continue their global expansion in 2022.

During our conversation with Anna, we discuss what she believes differentiates King from other furniture businesses in Australia and why their loyal customers keep coming back. She also talks about the struggles King faced during 2020 and how she worked with her team to pivot the business towards success and how the past 2 years have re-shaped the business for continued success and global expansion. And finally, Anna lets us in on King’s plans for the future.

For more information on Anna or King Living, please see the show notes for this episode.

Thank you to our guest, Anna Carrabs, for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
King Living
Anna Carrabs (LinkedIn)
King Living Virtual Showroom
King Living (Facebook)
King Living (Instagram)
King Living (YouTube)
King Living (Pinterest)

In today’s episode we talk to Domm Holland, the Co-Founder and CEO of Fast.

The Aussie founded checkout start-up, Fast, allows e-commerce businesses to offer an Amazon-style one-click checkout to their customers. They have simplified the checkout process which allows customers to purchase from stores without repeatedly entering their personal details. By speeding up the checkout process, both the consumer and the business benefit.

Since its creation in 2019, Domm has grown his team from 2 people to 235. And even during a pandemic he has raised over $124 million via 3 rounds of funding. Fast is clearly undergoing an accelerated period of growth, which Domm puts down to the increasing universal need for a simple and secure product, that’s easy for all consumers to use and merchants to adopt.

During our conversation with Domm, we discuss:

His motivation for creating Fast and how this business has evolved since its inception in 2019;
How the technology works for both the merchant and the customer;
Domm’s previous business endeavours and how this experience has helped shape the success of Fast;
How the partnership between Afterpay’s Nick Molnar and Fast came about;
What makes Fast different from other fin-tech offerings already in the market;
The rapid growth Fast is going through and how Domm has dealt with the ‘growing pains’;
The fundraising process Fast has been through and what their plans are for using the funds;
Domm’s advice for fin-tech start-ups;
And, finally, what the future holds for Fast.

For more information on Fast and our guest today, please see the show notes for this episode.

A huge thank you to Domm for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

- SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE -
Fast
Domm Holland (LinkedIn)
Fast (LinkedIn)
Fast (Instagram)
Fast (Twitter)

In today’s episode we talk to Greg Schwartz, the COO and Co-Founder at StockX.

StockX is proud to be a Detroit-based technology leader focused on the large and growing online resale market for sneakers, apparel, electronics, accessories, and collectibles. StockX's powerful platform connects buyers and sellers of high-demand consumer goods from around the world using dynamic pricing mechanics. This approach brings unparalleled access and transparency powered by real-time data that empowers buyers and sellers to determine and transact based on fair market value. StockX boasts over 30 million average monthly users and a lifetime gross merchandise value of US$3.8B.

The StockX platform features hundreds of brands across verticals including Jordan Brand, adidas, Nike, Supreme, BAPE, Off-White, Louis Vuitton, Gucci; collectibles from artists including KAWS and Takashi Murakami; and electronics from industry-leading manufacturers, Sony and Microsoft. Founded in 2016, the company employs about 1,000 people in 13 offices and authentication centres around the world, and facilitates sales in more than 200 countries and territories.

In the five years since StockX was created, it has become a leading marketplace that lives at the nexus of sneakers and e-commerce. Last month, it raised an additional US$255 million in funding, bringing its valuation to $3.8 billion.

During our conversation with Greg, we discuss:

The motivation behind the business’s creation and how they have evolved over time;
How the technology works for both the buyer and the seller and why shoes have become an investment, not just a fashion statement piece;
Why StockX chose to open in Australia, and more specifically why in Melbourne + their plans for further locations and concepts in Australia;
What StockX’s Global Growth Plan includes and the effect 2020 and the pandemic had on the business;
How StockX’s creators got investors on their side on day 1, and continued the support during their most recent fundraising journey;
We discuss their relationships with celebrity investors, such as Mark Wahlberg and Eminem;
And, finally, what the future holds for StockX.

For more information on StockX and our guest today, please see the show notes for this episode.

A huge thank you to Greg for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:
Click below to learn more about Greg and StockX:
StockX
Greg Schwartz (LinkedIn)
StockX (LinkedIn)
StockX (Instagram)
StockX (Facebook)
StockX (Twitter)

In today’s episode we talk to Robin Marchant, the Head of Marketing, APAC at Shopify.

Founded in 2006 in Ottawa, Shopify was originally known for it its web development platform, but has now branched out to offer payment processing, lending, shipping, and other services for businesses. The company’s app store now includes more than 5,000 apps and its platforms boast over 1.7m business across 175 countries as of May 2021.

In our conversation today we talk to Robin about the launch of GreenDropShip, Shopify’s grocery marketplace as well as the push into new service offerings. Robin also discusses the boom of direct-to-consumer brands who joined Shopify during 2020 and their latest partnership with social media giants, TikTok. We also hear about the Shopify Rebate from the Victorian Government and the effect this has on new and up-and-coming businesses. And finally, we discuss Shopify’s plans for the future.

For more information on our guest or Shopify please see the show notes for this episode.

Thank you to Robin for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:
Click below to learn more about Robin and Shopify:
Shopify
Robin Marchant (LinkedIn)
Shopify (LinkedIn)
Shopify (Instagram)
Shopify (Facebook)

In today’s episode we talk to James Chin Moody.

James is the CEO and Co-Founder of Sendle. Sendle builds shipping that is good for the world. They help small businesses to thrive by making package delivery simple, reliable, and affordable and are they are the only 100% Carbon Neutral Delivery Service in Australia and the United States.

Sendle are a fast-growing, multi-award-winning start-up, who’s vision is for a world where the friction of physical delivery has been removed so that the best ideas win and small businesses flourish.

During our conversation with James we talk about the motivation behind the business idea and how they differentiate themselves from their competition. We also discuss how Sendle became the first 100% carbon neutral delivery company in both Australia and the US and how being sustainable is in the brand’s DNA. James speaks about the current packaging crisis we’re experiencing on the back of the pandemic and gives his advice to businesses looking to tackle this issue. We also hear about the business’s latest funding round which saw them finish with $45m and how they plan to use the funds. James tells us about why customer loyalty is so important to Sendle and what 2020 was like for the shipping company. And finally, James talks about what the future holds for Sendle.

For more information on James or Sendle, please see the show notes for this episode.

Thank you to our guest, James, for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:
Click below to learn more about James and Sendle:
Sendle
James Chin Moody (LinkedIn)
Sendle (LinkedIn)
Sendle (Instagram)
Sendle (Facebook)

In today’s episode we talk to Catie O’Neill and Olivia Burrows, the Co-Founders of My Glow 2.

My Glow 2 was created after a visit to Turkey, which led them to discover an ancient beauty secret at local Hamman where they were introduced to a silk mitt used by therapists to exfoliate the skin during the bathing ritual. Incredibly impressed with the results they were inspired to start their own brand, manufacturing and selling the exfoliating silk gloves. And within just 15 months of operation, they have achieved seven figure results, despite delays due to the pandemic.

A large part of their success can be credited to social media, in particular TikTok. The women quickly recognised that there was an opportunity to leverage the organic reach TikTok provides by creating unique content for the loyal followers. Today they boast over 40 million views!

During our conversation with Catie and Olivia we discuss their motivation for getting the business started and how social media has contributed to the success. We also talk about the avenues that their popularity on TikTok has opened and how they maintain this momentum. They also talk about the effect COVID had on the running of their business and how sales continued to grow, even while in lockdown due to the rise in “self-care”. Catie and Olivia also talk through their international expansion and their plans to continue this in the short term. And finally, Olivia talks about balancing her role as High School teacher whilst working with Catie on My Glow 2, and their big plans for the future.

For more information on our guests, Olivia, and Catie or My Glow 2, please see the show notes for this episode.

Thank you to our guests, Catie and Olivia, for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE
Click below to learn more about Catie, Olivia and My Glow 2:
My Glow 2
Catie O'Neill (LinkedIn)
Olivia Burrows (LinkedIn)
My Glow 2 (LinkedIn)
My Glow 2 (TikTok)
My Glow 2 (Instagram)
My Glow 2 (Facebook)

In today’s episode we talk to Rachel Kelly, EVP of Sales ANZ & Global Instore at Afterpay, + Mark Teperson, Chief Strategy Officer at Afterpay.

Both Rachel and Mark are, of course, great friends of ours, but also, they’re sitting within a business currently disrupting retail and sitting at the pinnacle of consumer data.

Back in January of this year, we began our 2021 podcast season speaking with Mark and Rachel, hearing their predictions for Australian and International retail as well as discussing online growth and the value of instore. Fast forward 5 months and we have come together once more for an update.

During today’s conversation with Mark and Rachel we discuss what’s been happening in their world since January, including emerging trends they have their eye on. We also hear about the very successful Afterpay Australia Fashion Week and the brand awareness this brought to them and the retailers who showcased at that event. Rachel and Mark also talk about Afterpay’s New York and London Fashion Week events and how they plan to elevate these heritage occasions.
Mark also talks about the importance of instore and how digital plays such a key role into the physical experience. Plus, he talks about generational consumer behaviour, post COVID, and current key market trends.
Just like last episode with Mark and Rachel, we hear their predictions, this time for Christmas and November Cyber week events, including brands to watch out for.
And finally, Mark and Rachel announce Afterpay’s very exciting future plans!

For more information on our guests, Rachel, and Mark or Afterpay, please see the show notes for this episode.

Thank you to our guests, Mark and Rachel, for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE
Click below to learn more about Mark, Rachel and Afterpay:

Afterpay
Rachel Kelly (LinkedIn)
Mark Teperson (LinkedIn)
Afterpay (LinkedIn)
Afterpay AU (Instagram)
Afterpay (Facebook)

In In today’s episode we talk to Declan Wise and Jonathan Salfield, the Founders of Afends.

Born in 2006 in the small but popular coastal town of Byron Bay, Australia, Afends was founded by Declan and Jono off the back of a small screen-printing business they originally created as 20-something year olds to print band merchandise for local punk and hardcore bands.

Fast forward to today, they’ve proudly formed a global family of like-minded and creative individuals who strive to create and deliver durable, eco-friendly, and timeless apparel that’ll last a lifetime.

These guys, through their brand, are spreading a positive message - they want to be a voice of change and an example for other brands to see it’s possible to use sustainable fabrics, reduce waste, care about the environment AND still be a cool brand with great products.

During today’s episode with Declan and Jono, we discuss the motivation behind creating the business and where they drew inspiration from, including the meaning behind their brand name. We also talk about the focus on hemp as a fabric and the businesses plans to grow their own hemp in the not-so-distant future.
Declan and Jono also talk about the importance of business culture and how Afends strive to set standards in sustainability, transparency, advocacy and reducing their impact on the environment.
The guys also explain what makes their brand different to other surf & skate brands and they give their advice to start-ups looking to begin their own retail journey.

For more information on Declan, Jono and AFENDS, please see the show notes for this episode or visit the links below.

Thank you to our guests, Jono and Declan, for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE
Click below to learn more about Jono, Declan and Afends:

Afends
Declan Wise (LinkedIn)
Jono Salfield (LinkedIn)
Afends (LinkedIn)
Afends (Instagram)
Afends (Facebook)

In today’s episode we talk to Hannon Comazzetto, the CEO and Founder of AirRobe.

AirRobe is the new way to re-sell your fashion after you’ve worn and loved it. Their technology integrates directly into your favourite online stores so you can see what the estimated re-sell value is before you purchase. Then, with one click, you can list the item for re-sale when you’re ready.

With the “Re-Economy” at the forefront of retail innovation, it’s no wonder this start-up secured investments from investors such a Paul Greenberg, an early investor in Afterpay and a famous name in the Australian retail community, and US investor Brian Sugar, the Founder of Pop Sugar.

During today’s conversation with Hannon we discuss:

The creation of AirRobe and how the platform works for new users as well as her motivation to come up with the concept;
Her introduction to the circular economy and how changes in consumer behaviour are driving this trend;
Hannon shares her seed funding journey and her advice to start-ups looking to get the ball rolling;
And finally, we hear what the future holds for AirRobe.

If you’d like to find out more about Hannon and AirRobe, more information can be found in the show notes below.

Thank you to our guest, Hannon, we hope you enjoy this episode!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE
Click below to learn more about Hannon and AirRobe:

AirRobe
Hannon Comazzetto (LinkedIn)
AirRobe (LinkedIn)
AirRobe (Instagram)
AirRobe (Facebook)

In today’s episode we talk to Nicole Liu, the Founder of Kin Fertility.

Kin are Australia’s first subscription-based delivery service for the contraceptive pill. Essentially, they’ve taking what used to be a service where you had to take an hour or so out of your day for a two-minute consult with a doctor, all of that can now be done from the comfort of your couch. Their services don’t stop there – Kin also specialise in Fertility, Conception, Pregnancy and Postpartum…so really, they’re part of a women’s entire reproductive journey.

During our conversation with Nicole, we discuss:

The motivation behind the creation of Kin and how the new patient process works;
Why customers are taking their reproductive journey into their own hands and choosing Kin over visiting their GP;
How Kin chose their specialist medical team of practitioners;
The stigma attached to women’s reproductive health and how Kin are normalising this conversation;
And, finally, what the future holds for Kin.

A big thank you to Nicole for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE
Click below to learn more about Nicole and Kin Fertility:
Kin Fertility
Nicole Liu (LinkedIn)
Kin Fertility (LinkedIn)
Kin Fertility (Instagram)
Kin Fertility (Facebook)

In today’s episode we talk to Ryan Edelmuth, the General Manager at Stylerunner.

Founded in 2012, Stylerunner was the first online retailer of its kind globally, and it helped pioneer the category of premium, luxe activewear that has become a worldwide sensation.

Underpinned by a love of fashion and fitness, Stylerunner brings a curation of top tier sportswear from the world’s biggest brands, as well as the latest, most stylish emerging sportswear labels from around the globe.

Whilst the brand was founded by sisters Julie and Sali Stevanja, Stylerunner was acquired by Accent Group in November of 2019, making it part of one of Australia’s largest and most awarded retail groups, dedicated to delivering an exceptional customer experience.

After 8 years offering online only, Ryan and Julie have worked together to launch 3 bricks and mortar stores across Australia, with more than 11 in the pipeline!

During our conversation with Ryan, we discuss:

How the Stylerunner brand went from going into administration to turning things around so successfully in 3 years;
The launch of their private label, named Stylerunner the label, and how their customers reacted;
Their push into physical retail and plans to open 11 more stores across Australia and New Zealand;
The importance of ‘stores as an experience’ to the Styelrunner brand and how their new stores embody this;
How Stylerunner acquires new international and up-and-coming brands and the role of customer feedback;
The significance of social media and influencers;
New strategies COVID forced upon to the Styelrunner business and the success they saw through 2020 due to the rise in loungewear;
And finally, what the future holds for the Stylerunner brand.

A huge thank you to Ryan for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Ryan and Stylerunner

Stylerunner
Ryan Edelmuth (LinkedIn)
Stylerunner (LinkedIn)
Stylerunner (Instagram)
Stylerunner (Facebook)

In today’s episode we talk to Roman Jewell, the CEO and Founder of Fix & Fogg.

Fix & Fogg began around 7 years ago when Roman and his wife, Andrea, decided to swap the corporate lifestyle for a labour of love– creating and selling a product they had a real passion for – nut butter. They had the vision of creating something meaningful and sustainable, all while being seriously delicious!

Fast forward to today where Fix & Fogg have 3 physical “retail windows” in Auckland, Welling and Houston (Texas), they’re stocked in America’s second largest natural grocer, Spouts Farmers Market, and this week, they’re launching in Australia’s very own Woolworths.

During our conversation with Roman, we discuss:

His motivation for creating the company and how it began;
Their successful distribution deal with Sprouts Farmers Market and further plans for expansion into the US;
Opening “retail windows” as a pose to full physical retail offerings and the purpose behind this move;
Their latest distribution deal with Woolworths in Australia;
Fix & Fogg’s journey to becoming NZ’s first certified food B Corp;
And finally, what the future holds for his business.

A huge thank you to Roman for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Roman and Fix & Fogg:

Fix & Fogg
Roman Jewell (LinkedIn)
Fix & Fogg (LinkedIn)
Fix & Fogg (Instagram)
Fix & Fogg (Facebook)
Get your hands on some Fix & Fogg here or head in to your closest Woolworths store!

In today’s episode we talk to Adam Gam, the Chief Marketing Officer and VP at Perfect Corp.

Perfect Corp. is a technology business that aims to transform the beauty industry by marrying the highest level of augmented reality (“AR”) and artificial intelligence (“AI”) technology with the ultimate shopping experience, completely reinventing, and revolutionising the consumer beauty journey.

Their cutting-edge makeup technology allows for virtual makeup trials, hair colour and accessory try-ons, and skincare diagnostics, with over 900 million downloads globally to date.

Perfect Corp. work with huge names across multiple industries, such as Estée Lauder, Benefit, Nude by Nature, Bobby Brown, Mineral Fusion, Amazon’s Wholefoods, Snap Chat, Paramount Pictures, Shopify, L’Oréal and many more.

During today’s episode with Adam, we discuss:

The advanced technology Perfect Corp. created, how it works and who benefits from integrating this try on technology;
Their partnership with Mineral Fusion inside Wholefoods;
Their longstanding partnership with Paramount Pictures and how they collaborated on the launch of the new Spongebob Movie: Sponge on the Run;
COVID as an accelerator to customers using their technology;
His advice for start ups in the technology space;
And, finally, what the future holds for Perfect Corp.

A huge thank you to Adam for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Adam and Perfect Corp.:

Perfect Corp.
Adam Gam (LinkedIn)
Perfect Corp. (LinkedIn)
Beauty Tech: The Complete Guide 2021

In today’s episode we talk to Hannah Mellsop, the CEO at Real Rad Food (RRF) – a New Zealand made and operated health food company.

As a passionate plant-based creative, Hannah began making healthy treats as a creative outlet, and after gaining popularity, she began sharing these treats to Instagram as a way to meet more like-minded people.

The more Hannah shared, the more she realised she was becoming part of a greater movement, a movement towards real food and conscious consumption. These two values became the foundation for Real Rad Food, which Hannah made an official brand in 2017.

Since then, Real Rad Food has grown from just Hannah selling her creations at local markets, to a team of 5 that provide for over 80 cafes and grocers around New Zealand, and an online store that delivers to the doors of Kiwis everyday. and more recently, Real Rad Food raw mixes are now sold in over 40 Supermarkets across New Zealand!

During our conversation with Hannah, we discuss:

The motivation behind creating RRF and what is like being a CEO at the ripe age of just 21;
The role social plays within her business and just how important her online community is to the success and growth of her business;
How RRF pivoted during NZ’s first level 4 lock down during 2020 and how she found opportunity in the chaos;
Creating and formulating her own hormonal protein powder and the fantastic success stories she's had from her customers;
RRF’s partnership with New World and how this opportunity came about;
Brands she partners with personally, and how she chooses who to work with in line with her values;
Her advice to start ups;
And, finally, what the future holds for RRF and the importance of brand values.

A huge thank you to Hannah for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Hannah and Real Rad Food:

Real Rad Food
Real Rad Food (Instagram)
Hannah Mellsop (Instagram)
Real Rad Food (Facebook)

In today’s episode we talk to Elliot Midalia and Shaun Greenblo, the joint Managing Directors of Boody.

Boody is an Australian owned and run business who design and sell soft and functional everyday essentials made from organic bamboo. They offer affordable and luxuriously soft basics, designed to stand the test of time and be worn often while treading as lightly as possible on the planet and its resources.

Through popularity and customer inspiration, the brand has continued to expand its offering. Their collections have expanded to the entire wardrobe; including socks, underwear, tops, and leggings, and recently, they launched their own activewear and lounge collections: Boody Active and Boody Lounge.

During our conversation today with Shaun and Elliot we discuss:

The businesses creation and how the brand has grown with the customer and the changing of hands from the “Founder Father’s” to their sons;
The importance and significance of using Bamboo as their material of choice, and the benefits this has on the planet;
Their professional backgrounds and how past experience in business lead to their ongoing success at Boody;
The challenges that Boody faced during 2020;
Continued international expansion and the struggles in going global;
And , finally, what The future holds for Boody.

A huge thank you to Elliot and Shaun for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Shaun & Elliot and Boody:

Boody
Boody (Instagram)
Elliot Midalia (LinkedIn)
Shaun Greenblo (LinkedIn)
Boody (LinkedIn)

In today’s episode we talk to Matt Alexander who is the Co-founder & CEO at Neighborhood Goods.

Neighborhood Goods is a new type of department store, featuring an ever-changing landscape of thoughtful, exciting, and contemporary brands, stories, and events. More than that, Neighborhood Goods strives to be a place for community, bringing people together to shop, eat, discover, and learn across their growing number of stores throughout the country. They currently have 3 stores across the US – One in New York’s Chelsea Markets, one in Austin and one in Plano. Plus, they have big plans to continue their expansion across the US and internationally.

Matt is also the co-founder of not-for-profit retail experiment, Unbranded, an advisor to a number of start-ups and accelerators, a member of SMU's Executive Board, and also co-hosts Bonanza! on Relay FM.

During our conversation today we discuss:

The motivation behind creating Neighborhood Goods;
The unique relationship between brands and store and how these relationships come about;
Upcoming brand partnerships and store openings;
The strategies and plans Matt implemented during the height of the pandemic;
Team culture and how this is maintained whilst working remotely
And finally, what the future holds for Neighborhood Goods.

A huge thank you to Matt for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Matt and Neighborhood Goods:

Neighborhood Goods
Neighborhood Goods (Instagram)
Matt Alexander(LinkedIn)
Neighborhood Goods (LinkedIn)

In today’s episode we talk to Andrew Davies.

Andrew is the CEO at B Lab Australia and New Zealand, who's aim is to transform the global economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet. They are leaders in economic systems change, their global network creates standards, policies, and tools for business, and they certify companies—known as B Corps.

During our conversation with Andrew, we discuss:

What B Corps are and what the certification process looks like;
How and why you would become one;
The meeting of capitalism and sustainability (and how they are mutually beneficial);
How accelerated consumer behaviour increase the number of businesses applying for certification;
Interesting brands and business who recently joined, such The Body Shop, Aesop, Citizen Wolf and Good Day Girl;
And what the future holds for B Lab.

A huge thank you to Andrew for joining us once again. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Andrew and B Lab:

B Corporation
B Corporation Australia & NZ (Instagram)
B Lab (Instagram)
Andrew Davies(LinkedIn)
B Lab Australia and New Zealand (LinkedIn)
McKinsey Report - Purpose: Shifting from why to how
Torrens University: Introduction to B Corps
Australian Institute of Company Directors - "Directors must face the challenge of serving all stakeholders"

In today’s episode we talk to Laura Beres.

Laura is the Senior Director of Strategic Portfolio Delivery at Ulta Beauty. This is the second time Laura has been a guest on our podcast, but boy, have Ulta been busy in the 7th months since we last spoke.

During our conversation with Laura, we discuss:

Ulta Beauty latest partnership with TerraCycle called “Loop by Ulta Beauty” where customers can access beauty and person care products in returnable packing;
The latest on their Conscious Beauty by Ulta Beauty Program, where the brand has pushed into clean beauty;
Opening physical stores during a pandemic;
Their exciting partnership with Target and how this is being rolled out across more than 100 stores during 2021;
And lastly, we discuss what the future holds for Ulta Beauty.

A huge thank you to Laura for joining us once again. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Laura and Ulta Beauty:

Ulta Beauty
Loop by Ulta Beauty
Conscious Beauty by Ulta Beauty
Ulta Beauty (Instagram)
Laura Beres(LinkedIn)
Ulta Beauty (LinkedIn)

In today’s episode we talk to Kristy Chong, the Founder and CEO of Modibodi.

Modibodi began in late 2013 after almost 2 year of testing and fine-tuning the Modibodi product. Kristy consulted with over to 100 textile engineers and fibre companies both in the USA and Australia, and conducted close to 1,000 scientific tests. Plus, the company worked with leading Australian lingerie designers and manufacturers to create their patented finished product – good looking, sustainable, comfortable, leak-proof, period underwear!

Modibodi has come a long way since then – they now make 8 different styles of underwear, with varying absorbencies, as well as sleepwear, maternity wear, activewear and now swimwear!

During our conversation today we talk to Kristy about:

Modibodi committing to ending Period Poverty through their “Give a Pair” campaign where they will be donating 100,000 pairs of period undies;
Their launch of activewear and how their customers responded;
New products they have in the works;
Changing consumer behaviour due to COVID and how this drove sales;
The challenges Modibodi faced whilst trading through a pandemic;
Facebook banning their recent campaign “The New Way to Period” and how a topic that should be normalised has become forbidden – and how the affects future generations.
And lastly, Kristy gives her advice to start-ups wanting to enter the retail game.

A huge thank you to Kristy for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation…

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Kirsty and Modibodi:

Modibodi
Modibodi (Instagram)
Kristy Chong(LinkedIn)
Modibodi (LinkedIn)

In today’s episode we talk to Erica Berchtold.

Erica is the CEO of Australian online marketplace, THE ICONIC.

THE ICONIC was launched in 2011 and has quickly become the number one online destination for fashion and lifestyle purchases both here in Australia and New Zealand. They carry over 60,000 items from over 1000 well-known brands across such categories as Women’s, Men’s, Kids, Beauty, and more recently, toys.

During our conversation with Erica, we discuss the challenges COVID brought to the business and what strategies were put in place to solve these problems. We also talk about COVID as an accelerator, the possibility of THE ICONIC moving into the rental market, and their recent crowing as Best Online Retailer of 2021. Erica also discusses their charity partnership with Thread Together, how launching beauty took off with their customers, their plans for a sustainable, diverse and inclusive future and, finally, her advice for businesses looking to enter the retail game.

A huge thank you to Erica for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Erica and THE ICONIC:

THE ICONIC
THE ICONIC (Instagram)
THE ICONIC MEN (Instagram)
THE ICONIC SPORT (Instagram)
THE ICONIC KIDS (Instagram)
THE ICONIC BEAUTY (Instagram)
Erica Berchtold (LinkedIn)
THE ICONIC (LinkedIn)

In today’s episode we talk to Michael Elias.

Michael is the Founder and CEO of circular subscription and textile recycling company, UPPAREL.

UPPAREL, formally MANRAGS, was born from Michael’s own love of socks (a self-confessed “Sock Addict”) and the realisation that each pair he owned had a lifecycle which, at that time, concluded in landfill. He then began a sock subscription and added the ability for customers to return their unwanted / damaged socks to be recycled, re-used or repurposed.

To date UPPAREL has recycled over 1.7 million textile garments, of which 65% has been deemed re-usable and the remainder have been recycled into “new” socks or garments.

During this conversation we discuss:

The creation and evolution of the brand and how they become leaders of the circular subscription economy;
The need for businesses to take responsibility for their product’s entire lifecycle, including instilling recycling in their ethos;
Their partnerships with businesses such as Into Carry, KITX by Kit Willow, HoMie and many more;
Partnering with Westfield to create their first ever Pop-Up Store in Southland Shopping Centre and how this partnership inadvertently drove foot traffic;
The business’s long journey to becoming B Corporation Certified and what this means to them.

It is important to note that UPPAREL were named number 22 on the E-Commerce Top 50 List for 2020 and labelled “One to Watch” by Inside Retail for 2021 + they were awarded Australia’s Sustainability Champions for 2020 by the National Retail Association!

A huge thank you to Michael for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Michael and UPPAREL:

UPPAREL
UPPAREL (Instagram)
Michael Elias (LinkedIn)
UPPAREL (LinkedIn)

In today’s episode we talk to Jess Sepel.

Jess is the Director at JSHealth.

Jess began her career as a clinical nutritionist, after battling with fad diets and a negative relationship with food from a young age. It was through her studies that she developed her love and appreciation for nutrients and minerals, so she started a very successful food blog, where her loyal community continued to grow and soak up her knowledge and recipes.

Fast forward to today and Jess is a successful international best-selling author, the voice behind health & wellness brand JSHealth, including the popular JSHEALTH App, and the creator and owner of her world-renown vitamins, JSHEALTH Vitamins.

During our conversation with Jess we discuss the creation and history of her business, the motivation behind creating the JSHealth App and the co-incidental timing of Australia’s first lockdown during COVID and the 2.00 launch of the JSHEALTH at home workout and recipe App. We also talk about what effect COVID had on the growth of her business and on their customer, plus future partnerships plans.

A huge thank you to Jess for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Jess and JSHEALTH:

JSHEALTH
JSHEALTH Vitamins
JSHEALTH (Instagram)
JSHEALTH Vitamins (Instagram)
Jessica Sepel (LinkedIn)
JSHEALTH (LinkedIn)
JSHEALTH (App Store)

In today’s episode we talk to Ed McManus.

Ed is the Australia CEO of popular food delivery empire, Deliveroo.

The business was founded by William Shu in London in 2013, and after its first successful capital raise of $140m in 2015 the successful delivery service was introduced to Australia – and boy was it popular. Deliveroo Australia now has over 8,000 riders and drivers and services more than 14,000 restaurants country wide. And it’s no surprise that COVID only made this service more popular than ever.

During our conversation with Ed we discuss the effects of COVID, interesting consumer trends, Deliveroo’s partnerships with restaurants + shopping centres and how they have supported them through the pandemic. We also talk about Deliveroo’s Editions Kitchens, the decision to purchase carbon offsets on behalf of their customers, the culture of the business and how they “maintain the magic”. Finally, we explore Deliveroo’s upcoming business plans for 2021 and what Ed believes the future of retail holds.

A huge thank you to Ed for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Ed and Deliveroo:

Deliveroo (website)
Deliveroo (Instagram)
Ed McManus (LinkedIn)
Deliveroo (LinkedIn)
Deliveroo (App Store)

In today’s episode we talk to Adam Levene.

Adam is the founder of HERO - the world leader in conversational commerce, meaning it’s a virtual platform that helps connect online shoppers with a live expert, often in a retail store nearby. HERO aim to give customers the same experience they would get in a physical store but from the comfort of their own home – either via video or text. Adam’s goal has always been to combine the IRL experience with e-comm to give customer’s the human connection that they expect from a retail experience.

Adam began his HERO journey in 2017 in the UK, and over the course of four years he has seen this space evolve so quickly, but he truly believes this technology is the future of retail – and after this conversation, we’d have to agree!

During this conversation we discuss:
- The motivation behind the creation of the company and Adam's long history in customer service
- How the HERO technology works and the retail categories this technology has been implemented in which great results
- The company's partnerships and huge success
- Their partnerships with brands such as Accent Group, Levi's, Herman Miller, Mecca, Incu, Camilla & Marc and many more
- The creation of 'Shop-able Stories'
- And what he believes is the future of retail and the retail associate

A huge thank you to Adam for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Adam and HERO:

HERO (website)
HERO (Instagram)
Adam Levene (LinkedIn)
HERO (LinkedIn)
HERO (App Store)

In today’s episode we talk to Nick Stone.

Nick is the founder and CEO of Bluestone Lane. Bluestone are a US based chain of Australian-inspired cafés who’s aim is to provide a genuine daily escape for all their locals. They offer premium coffee in addition to healthy and delicious eats, including their famous “smashed avo”, at more than 45 locations across the US.

In our conversation today we talk to Nick about:
- His journey moving to the US and introducing the Australian coffee culture to American’s;
- His experience in hospitality and how this differed so hugely from his background in finance;
- How life changed so drastically last March and what changes he made to his business to cope with COVID;
- We also discuss his future plans for Bluestone;
- What he believes are the key strategies to having a successful business and
- What the future of retail looks like to him.

A huge thank you to Nick for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

Don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notifications when our next episode airs.

Listen to this Retail Podcast on iTunes or Spotify

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Nick and Bluestone Lane:

Bluestone Lane (website)
Bluestone Lane (Instagram)
Nick Stone (LinkedIn)

In today’s episode we talk to Shane Fallscheer, theFounder and Managing Director of well-known jewellery retailer, Lovisa.

The very first Lovisa store opened in Chermside, Queensland, back in April 2010, and now the company boasts over 450 stores in more than 20 countries worldwide - with more store openings in the pipeline.

In our conversation today we talk about...

Lovisa’s original international expansion, as well as their future plans to continue growing the business,
The company's decision to close all stores across Spain permanently and store closures in Europe
The effects of COVID, both here in Australia and overseas
The changes that COVID forced upon the business
Shane's advice and learnings for other retailers and start-ups
And, finally, what he believes the future of retail looks like.

A big thank you to Shane for joining us we hope you enjoy this conversation

Don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from to receive notifications when our next episode airs.

Listen to this Retail Podcast on iTunes or Spotify

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Lovisa:

Lovisa

In today’s episode we talk to Afterpay’s very own Rachel Kelly, the EVP of ANZ Sales & Global Instore, and Mark Teperson, Chief Strategy Officer.

In our conversation we talk about what played out in the retail scene during 2020, predictions & trends for 2021 and beyond, how the demographic of the Afterpay customer has changed, our thoughts on the end of job keeper and how this will affect businesses and finally their advice for retailers and start-ups.

A big thank you to Mark and Rachel for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

Listen to this Retail Podcast on iTunes or Spotify

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about Afterpay or our guests:

Afterpay
Rachel - LinkedIn
Mark - LinkedIn

In our final episode of 2020 we talk to Shane Lenton. Shane is the Chief Information + Digital Officer at Cue Clothing (which runs the namesake brand, as well as Dion Lee and Veronica Maine). On top of this he is the founder of Unified Commerce and on the Advisory Board of Shippit, ShopYou, NORA, Australia post, Brauz, ScopeSuite, and WellBetter. Shane was recently awarded the 2020 Industry Recognition award at the Australia Post Online Retail Industry Awards and CUE was awarded, for the 2nd year in a row, the Best Multichannel Retailer award.

In this episode we talk about the effect of COVID on the business as well as its acceleration of digital. Shane shares with us his key learnings for the year as well as advice for retailers on how to continue in 2021. I think both Pippa and I, were really impressed by the technology and customer centricity that’s at play through the digital arm of the CUE brand which you will hear all about during the episode.

We hope you enjoy!

In today’s episode we talk to Catherine Ross, the COO at i=Change.

i=Change works in partnership with some 170 odd, big name retailers to give back with every online purchase - with complete transparency. They have taken the traditional way of donating and flipped it, where the brand makes the donation once the customer chooses which of their 3 charities they would like to donation to go towards. i=Change have proudly raised over $2.7 million.

During this podcast we discuss:
- The creation and motivation behind i=Change;
- Their B Corporation Certification and the importance of more brands joining the B Corp community;
- Their partnerships with big name retailers such as P.E Nation, Bed Threads, Tammy Fit and many more;
- The partnership between giving back and retail;
- How they saw a significant spike in donations during Cyber Week;
- And what the future holds for i=Change

Listen to this Retail Podcast on iTunes or Spotify

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you would like to learn more about i=Change:

i=Change
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook

To learn more about B Corp + how you can become certified:

B Corporation

And one last link to Aussie Activewear brand, All Fenix:

All Fenix

In today’s episode we talk to Paul Greenberg - a man with many titles! Most notably, he is the founder of the NORA Network, Vice Chair of FIRA (Federation of International Retail Associations), NED at the NRA (National Retail Association) in Australia, and last, but certainly not least, he is the Chairperson at MyDeal.com.au. But most importantly, he is a lover of all things retail.

In this episode, we talk about:
- MyDeal.com.au recent successful IPO journey
- Paul's predictions for the future of retail in Australia
- His recent investment in retail tech start-up, AirRobe
- The recent Black Friday / Cyber Monday sale events
- The importance of sustainability and the "re-commerce" trend
- And lastly, his advice for retailers and start-ups

Thank you to Paul for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

Listen to this Retail Podcast on iTunes or Spotify

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

If you could like to learn more about Paul Greenberg/NORA/NRA:

NORA
LinkedIn
Instagram
NRA
MyDeal.com.au

In today’s episode we talk to Wayne Baskin, the Deputy CEO and Chief Technology Officer at Australia’s largest online bookstore, Booktopia

During this podcast you’ll hear Wayne discuss the importance of putting the customer first, finding your niche (and owing it) and well as a really interesting look into the book categories that took off during COVID.

Wayne also talks about the recent news of Booktopia’s successful IPO journey, plus his predictions for the upcoming holiday period, including Black Friday and Cyber Monday events.

A big thank you to Wayne for joining us. We hope you enjoy this conversation!

In today’s episode we talk to Dean Jones, the Co-Founder and CEO of GlamCorner.

Founded by Dean and his wife, Audrey, in 2012, GlamCorner is the leading online destination for women in Australia to rent designer fashion. The company is on a Mission to revolutionise the way fashion is consumed by providing a smarter and more sustainable alternative that is better for our community and our environment.

2020 has been a huge year for GlamCorner as their business continues to grow, but on top of that they have launched a partnership with David Jones, which you will hear about in this episode, and raised $12m in their series B funding round.

This is our first B Corp on the podcast and for those who don’t know, we are also a B Corp – and proud of it!

In this conversation we talk about:
- The inception of GlamCorner, its continued growth and what the future holds
- GlamCorner's partnership with David Jones
- Being a B Corp and the importance of having your values aligned
- Their recent Series B funding round where they raised $12m
- The positives and negative impacts of COVID on their business
- How their subscription service is performing
- and finally, Dean's advice for start-ups

We hope you enjoyed this conversation.

Listen to this Retail Podcast on iTunes or Spotify

In today’s episode we talk to Tennealle O'Shannessy, the CEO of Adore Beauty, Australia’s largest online beauty retailer. Whilst their latest success might look like it happened overnight, it actually began in 1999 when Founder, Kate Morris, asked her parents for a loan of $12k to set up her business, which she ran out of her garage. Fast forward 20 years and Adore Beauty just went public! It’s been labelled Australia’s biggest female led IPO with a founder, CEO and a majority board being female.

During the course of our conversation with Tennealle we talk about:
- The importance of their strong customer focus and how they stay relevant
- Customer acquisition and retention (cue, Tim Tams!)
- The motivation behind their IPO
- How COVID changed consumers behaviour and accelerated online shopping
- Her predictions for Black Friday and Christmas sales
- And finally, her advice for retailers and female entrepreneurs

We hope you enjoy the episode!

Listen to this Retail Podcast on iTunes or Spotify

In today’s episode we talk to Gabby Leibovich. Gabby and his brother, Hezi, are the Co-Founders of Australia’s #1 e-commerce marketplace, Catch of the Day. He is also a shareholder in Luxury Escapes, and the Co-Founder of both Scoopon and Eatnow, who merged with Menulog.

During the course of our conversation with Gabby we talk about:

How catch.com.au was built, grown and eventually sold;
What he sees happening with COVID and its impact on online retail;
What it was like when Amazon entered the Australian market;
And where he sees opportunity in the future.

A huge thank you to Gabby for speaking with us and we wish him all the best with his next business venture, and of course with his book "Catch of the Decade" – which he is donating all of the proceeds from to charity. Click here to purchase your copy.

We hope you enjoy the episode!

Listen to this Retail Podcast on iTunes or Spotify

In today's episode we shift gears a little to look at the high-end retail industry, talking to the director of the luxury watch (Rolex, Patek Philippe etc) and jewellery business, J. Farren-Price, Julian Farren Price. During the course of our conversation we talk about:

How this segment of the market is performing;
The importance of personalised service;
The product as an experience;
Plus, the effect of the tourism on the luxury goods industry.

We hope you enjoy the episode!

In this episode we talk to Sabrina Noorani, who is the CEO and Founder of ClearForMe. ClearForMe is an independent cloud-based platform enabling beauty brands and retailers to seamlessly bring ingredient clarity to shoppers. This is a platform that is being used by both Credo Beauty + Ulta Beauty in the US. Even if you're not in the beauty industry this episode speaks to a broader conversation happening within culture at the moment around transparency, responsibility and sustainability. As we become more aware of our health and wellbeing, we start to question the ingredients in the products we use. As an FYI for those who are less familiar with the cosmetics industry, if you look at the ingredient listed on a product, first of all most of them will be unrecognisable and secondly, there can be up to 30 or more ways to describe the same ingredient. This is important because what we forget is that our skin is the largest organ in or on our body and the potential health impact that applying skincare or makeup can have on our health and wellbeing.

Enjoy this conversation! We hope it sparks some new ideas.

In this episode we talk to Will Chomley. Will is the founder and CEO of IMAGR. Founded in 2017 in Auckland, this is a tech platform that is turning shopping carts into autonomous checkouts – with their so-called Smart Cart product. SmartCart's contain four cameras, coupled with the world's most powerful AI vision recognition system. As a result, SmartCart knows what a customer puts in, or removes from their carts. At the beginning of the year they entered their first seed funding round and raised $14m (US$9.5M) with 3 investors: Sage Capital, Toshiba and Harald McPike. IMAGR are currently trialling their technology in Japan, with more retailers across Asia-Pacific and Europe to come. In this discussion we talk about:

What IMAGR is and what the SmartCart does?
Where the technology is being trialled as well as it's future plans?
How IMAGR stacks up against Amazon GO! (as well as a bit of a discussion around the launch of their own cart technology);
Advice for businesses in start-up mode and more;

We're sure you'll enjoy the conversation.

In this episode we talk to Tom Szaky. Tom is the CEO of the social enterprise TerraCycle. TerraCycle (the parent company of Loop) has partnered with some of the world's largest retailers like Carrefour (France), Tesco (UK), Kroger (US), Walgreens (US), and soon Woolworths in Australia. They are on a mission to reduce waste and recycle the unrecyclable. In this discussion today we talk about:

The philosophy behind TerraCycle and it's creation of Loop;
The shift in consumer behaviour towards being more sustainable and making more thoughtful decisions;
The key driver within businesses to shift to being more responsible (hint: it's not what you think!);
The future of recycling within retail and beyond;
and, much more.

We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did recording it.

In this episode we talk to Richard Umbers. Richard has held leadership positions in Aldi’s UK operations, Woolworths (both in NZ + Australia), at Australia Post + Startrack, as well as being the CEO MD at Myer and most recently working for the German-based Kaufland. Richard is an incredible thinker, who has an astute understanding the effect of macro trends and changes upon business. In this episode we talk about:

The economics of COVID
Innovation and new business models
The importance of the back-end in retail
What Christmas + Cyber week hold + more.

If you enjoy the conversation, feel free to rate + review it!

In today’s episode we talk to Laura Beres. Laura is the Director of Corporate Strategy at Ulta Beauty. For those of you unfamiliar with Ulta, it is the largest U.S. beauty retailer and the premier beauty destination for cosmetics, fragrance, skin care products, hair care products and salon services. In 1990, the Company reinvented the beauty retail experience by offering a new way to shop for beauty – bringing together all things beauty, all in one place. Today we're talking about Ulta's shift into clean beauty, through the platform 'Conscious Beauty at Ulta Beauty'. Annie Jackson, who we spoke to last week from Credo Beauty, is a member of their newly formed Conscious Beauty Advisory Council. In this episode we talk about:

The Ulta Beauty Brand and it's unique positioning in the US market;
Their push into clean beauty - and being the first mass beauty retailer to really step up into this category;
Their partnership strategy within this program;
And, finally touch upon the unique nature of the Ulta Culture (seriously, incredible!).

We hope you enjoy the episode!

In today’s episode we talk to Annie Jackson. Annie is the co-founder and COO of Credo Beauty. If you haven’t heard of Credo, it’s a clean beauty retailer – in fact it’s the largest Clean Beauty store on the Planet. It opened in 2015 in her home town of San Francisco. Since then, they have opened 9 stores (with a large online presence) and have partnered with over 130 brands all of who must pass the Credo Clean Standard which mean they avoid all 2700+ ingredients on the Credo Dirty List (most of which would be standard in conventional beauty). Credo recently partnered with Ulta Beauty – who is the US biggest beauty retail ( bigger than Sephora) - with 1124 stores. Annie is a member of their newly formed Conscious Beauty Advisory Council as well as Credo having a presence in their stores- Annie talks about this in the chat - as well as:

The history and creation of Credo Beauty;
The growth in Clean Beauty in the US;
The creation of their unique Loyalty Program;
How the business has approached COVID and how they are looking at the future;
Finally, finishing with a key piece of advice for these times.

We hope you enjoy it as much as we loved recording this chat.

In this episode - which is approx 49 mins long - we talk to Stefan Preston. I don’t know how else to describe Stefan but as a serial entrepreneur. Stefan graduated from the University of Auckland with a degree in Civil Engineering, and after a stint in construction he moved into retail. He’s helped turnaround New Zealand brands Whitcoulls, Pacific Retail and Lingerie business, Bendon. He left Bendon in 2007 (as CEO) and worked as a Director and Shareholder in his wife’s business Bachcare (which is NZ largest full service manager of holiday homes and was recently sold to Sykes Holiday Cottages). He’s currently the Director of Sleepyhead Group, Advisor to New Zealand Trade + Enterprise, Co-Founder and Director of lingerie brand Rose & Thorne and (finally) Co-Founder + CEO of Meaningful Technology. As you can see, he’s a very busy person. In this episode we discuss:

Stefan's shift from Civil Engineering through to retail;
His advice for businesses currently in turn-around mode;
What you need to know if you're starting a business;
He talks about his current interest in technology;
Finally, his personal advice for those in retail or entrepreneurial fields.

Enjoy! If you love it, we'd love you to leave a review or recommendation.

In this episode, which is approx 45 minutes, we talk to Donna Player. Donna is the Merchandise Director at the iconic label Camilla, as well as Non Executive Director of Accent Group and Baby Bunting. Prior to that she was the Group Executive of Merchandise at David Jones and GM of Merchandise and Planning at Big W. I’m going to call her the Queen of Merchandise. Donna has the rare ability of combining strong intuition with commercial outcome; which you’ll hear a lot of through this interview. She brings much needed common sense to what’s happening in retail I think you’ll find it hard to argue with her logic. I hope you enjoy listening to this interview as much as we enjoyed recording it. In this episode we discuss:

Donna's initial reaction to the COVID crisis and the steps the Camilla business took to address it'
Her views on where fashion is headed - and it's shift into greater sustainability, as well as the need for stronger direction;
She shares with us the lessons she's learned from Discount Department Stores, Department Stores and now Speciality Fashion;
We talk about brands she's been watching and admiring during this period;
Finally, she shares her advice and expertise for businesses during the current climate.

Enjoy! If you love it, we'd love you to leave a review or recommendation.

In this episode, which is approx 38 minutes, we talk to Erica Berchtold. Erica is CEO of pure-play retailer The Iconic. Prior to joining The Iconic in 2019, she was the Managing Director of Rebel Sport and Amart Sports (part of Super Retail Group). During our time together, we talk about:

How The Iconic responded during COVID-19? (They were one of the first to take note and even prepare before the restrictions came into effect);
What changes, on the back of COVID, Erica believes the company will adopt for good;
As a retailer that has come out of a more traditional business - Rebel Sport - what she has learnt in Pureplay as well as what B&M has taught her.
Plus, we'll finish with our usual question which is Erica's advice for businesses at the moment now re-gearing up that you could share from your experience?

Enjoy! If you love it, we'd love you to leave a review or recommendation.

In this episode, which is approx 43 minutes, we talk to Steve Cox. Steve is the CEO of Destination NSW, overseeing Tourism and Events within the state. Steve joined the government agency on May 4th amidst the COVID-19 epidemic. Prior to his current role, Steve was the Managing Director of Dymocks Books. During our time together we talk about:

What Steve has learnt in the transition from retail to tourism - and what they can teach each another;
The future of domestic tourism and the opportunity for local travel;
Some crystal-ball gazing around what the future of tourism might look like going forward;
His insights and advice for thinking online-first;
Finally, some personal advice on thriving at this time.

Enjoy! Please subscribe to the podcast if you enjoy it and leave a review!

In this episode, which is approx 37 minutes, we talk to the Richard Facioni. Richard is the Executive Director of Alceon Group overseeing an extensive retail and consumer groups portfolio which covers the brands - Ginger + Smart, Surfstich, Mosaic Group (inc. Noni B), Cheap as Chips and more; plus controls the license for Lego stores in Australia. During our time together, we talk about:

How Richard + the team reacted to the initial COVID-19 restrictions & changes to the work place, plus with changes he believes will stay;
The importance of sustainability in fashion;
What the 'new normal' might look like;
What this years Christmas and Cyber Week could like like;
And finally a piece of advice for those currently in business at these times.

Enjoy! Please subscribe to the podcast if you enjoy it and leave a review!

In this episode which is approx 39 minutes, we talk to the Susan MacDonald. Susan is the Head of Retail at Mirvac, who own and run 18 centres across Australia including Broadway, Birkenhead Point, Tramsheds and the MetCentre. Added to that, she is also the Joint Deputy Chair of The Shopping Centre Council of Australia. Arguably one of the sharpest minds (and best thinkers) in retail property, in this interview we talk about:

How Mirvac reacted to the initial Covid-19 restrictions & changes to the work place;
The changes Susan believes will continue into the future;
What the 'new normal' might look like;
The rise and importance of Community;
And finally a piece of advice for those currently in business at these times.

Enjoy! Please subscribe to the podcast if you enjoy it and leave a review!

In this episode which is approx 35 minutes, we talk to the Daniel Agostinelli. Dan is the Group CEO of what is arguably Australias leading Footwear business. For those of you less familiar Accent Group is comprised of 11 retail divisions (including - The Athlete's Foot, Platypus, Hype DC, StyleRunner etc); 10 wholesale divisions (including - Vans, Dr. Martens, Sketchers, Merrell, Stance, Timberland etc) and over 400 stores. This is a business that is sitting well and truely within a global phenomenon - 'sneakers!'. In this conversation we talk about:

How Accent shifted from $250K per day to $1M plus in sales online;
The keys to handling the COVID Crisis;
What Cyber Week and Christmas will hold for retail;
And, some key advice for other retailers from Daniel.

Enjoy! Please subscribe to the podcast if you enjoy it and leave a review!

In this episode we chat to Chris Wilesmith. Chris is currently the CEO of Mitre 10 New Zealand. Prior to this role he was the Managing Director of the Auto Division at Super Retail Group, where he lead the Super Cheap Auto business. Outside of business Chris is a mountain climber, who has attempted to summit Everest three times in the last couple of years. That sheer level of determination, as well as his compassion and understanding is evident in this talk. During our 45 minutes together we talk about:

The 'New Normal' in Retail - including the rise of online and DIY;
The importance of culture and people;
How we need to be looking for insight at times like this;
Finally, he speaks to the topic of courage and now is the time to take that leap...if there ever was a time.

Enjoy! Please subscribe to the podcast if you enjoy it and leave a review!

In today's episode - which is about 30 minutes - we talk to John Slack-Smith. John is a life-long retailer having started at the iconic Australian electronics retailer, Harvey Norman, more than 23 years ago. He is currently the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Executive Director at Harvey Norman. On top of this he is a non-Executive Director with the Children's Tumour Foundation. In this episode we discuss:

The importance of great people in retail;
How COVID is changing the retail environment;
What Christmas and the end of year retail period might look like;
As well as the importance of 'confidence' at a time like this.

This episode was recorded as a part of an Instagram Live, so there are audience questions scattered throughout the recording.

In today's episode - which is about 50 minutes - we talk to Lorna Jane Clarkson, the queen of Athleisure and founder of the iconic brand Lorna Jane. From starting out as a fitness instructor making her own clothes (filling that pre-activewear gap in the market), she now operates over 200 stores in Australia and the US, as well as being stocked in Europe, UK, China and NZ. In this episode we discuss:

What COVID has meant to the Lorna Jane business as well as the changes it has driven inside the company;
How the shopping experience will change on the back of this global pandemic - appointment booking, personal shopping etc;
The rise and rise of health, wellbeing and hygiene in retail;
As well as sharing her winning attitude and optimism for success at this time.

Enjoy the episode, and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast to stay up-to-date.

In today's episode - which is about 30 minutes - we talk to Rachel Kelly. Rachel has a long history in Australian retail, having worked at Just Group (Just Jeans, Jacqui E, Jay Jays, Portmans, Peter Alexander, Dotti, and Smiggle) and then becoming the Global CEO for the Tea Brand T2; Rachel has since gone on from there to work with arguably one of the biggest game changers Australia has produced - Afterpay. In this episode we discuss:

Tencents recent investment in Afterpay,
How physical retail will change on the back of COVID-19,
What Christmas + Cyber Week will look like this year (2020),
How consumer behaviour will change for the long-term.

This episode was recorded as a part of an Instagram Live, so there are audience questions scattered throughout the recording.