In this episode of GroceryPulse by Innovar Agency, host George Goodwin welcomes James W. Keyes, former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, and Chairman of Wild Oats Marketing LLC. James brings decades of leadership experience from some of the most iconic brands in retail, and today, he shares his unique insights on leadership, innovation, and the future of the retail industry.
The conversation delves into James’s leadership journey at 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, where he played a pivotal role in driving technological advancements and scaling the companies globally. James discusses the importance of building strong company culture, balancing innovation with tradition, and the power of networking in retail. He also opens up about one of his most notable innovations—the introduction of the aluminum beer bottle to the U.S. market—and the challenges he faced in launching a new product that would forever change packaging trends.
Listeners will gain invaluable knowledge about how to navigate the fast-evolving retail landscape, build meaningful relationships, and innovate product offerings to stay ahead of trends. Plus, James shares his vision for the future of retail, including the rise of e-commerce, the role of AI, and what it takes to succeed in a rapidly changing market.
Key Takeaways:
Leading with a balance of tradition and innovation.
The power of networking and mentorship in retail.
Insights into launching new products and staying ahead of trends.
The future of retail: e-commerce, AI, and sustainability.
Learn more about James W. Keyes and his work at jameswkeyes.com.
Host: George Goodwin
george@innovaragency.com
Questions: podcast@innovaragency.com
Guest: James W. Keyes
Follow James: @jameswkeyes
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