"Retailers and manufacturers alike will be hunkering down in a down cycle of the economy. Meaningful innovation will be important as ever to drive incremental sales. Additionally, profitability will take the front seat in retailers’ minds. Ensure that the “blocking and tackling” of your business is in order. Fundamentals like product costs, supply chain, OTIF, in-stock, service levels and shrink, and new retail media network strategies for the omnichannel marketplace, will be in the spotlight this year; it will be critical to manage each of these pieces so the whole is intact."

"I see five top trends for brands and retailers in 2023, many of which center on consumer connectivity. Consumers don’t care HOW they get their products, but they will continue to value shopping experiences that are seamless between online and brick-and-mortar. Social media brands and eCommerce will continue to grow. To be successful, brands must continue to build their “tribe” or “community” online. Brands must continue to offer products that can be both functional and have benefits PLUS. And retailers MUST become nimble and quick to act! Finally, INCLUSIVITY will continue to be a MUST."

"Odd-number years before a Presidential election (1995, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, and now 2023) have a habit of being years where trends consolidate as much as emerge. The most important trend this year will be the consolidation of omnichannel as the new normal - not just in narrative headlines but in business planning, team design and workflow. Teams will need to focus on the hard, essential work of integration, education, and organizational capability transformation. This will require a strategic reframe - learning the role that eCommerce plays in the innovation and distribution portfolio and managing retail media as both a part of the media plan and the overall customer business plan."