Ethan Chernofsky of Placer.ai joins Terry Montesi for his second appearance on Leaning In to discuss the proven return of retail in ’21-’22, how retailers should shift their marketing strategies and ways top-tier malls are setting themselves apart. Ethan describes how open-air and indoor shopping centers are reflecting this success and current world events’ effect on consumer behavior in the retail market. The two also evaluate the biggest industry changes since the pandemic, and Ethan shares why he is bullish on department stores.

Leaning In is published every second and fourth Wednesday of the month. Be sure to follow the show on your preferred podcast app to hear Part 2 of Ethan and Terry’s discussion.

Links:

Placer.ai

Timestamps:

(0:40) - What have been some major changes in retail you’ve seen over the past year?

(2:47) - How do you think retail focused companies should pivot their vision and strategy?

(5:15) - What’s your position on top tier malls?

(9:17) - How do you see the global events of inflation, potential recession and war in Europe affecting consumer behavior and retail performance?

(10:32) - Urban vs. Suburban trends

(12:15) - The explosion in the home improvement industry and other retail sectors that saw growth during the pandemic

(16:19) - Assuming the pandemic is waning, what are some learnings about consumer behavior you saw and what new trends do you think will stick around?

(20:26) - The surprising resilience of Department Stores

The Great Retail Return with Placer.ai’s Ethan Chernofsky (Part 1)

Leaning In

The Great Retail Return with Placer.ai’s Ethan Chernofsky (Part 1)