As a regular reader of the Wall Street Journal’s business news, I couldn’t help but notice when the highlighted point “Too much information and too little thought” appeared in an article on the op-ed page. The article was about politics. But, that highlighted statement also applies widely to business. And, it ties in well with what this blog covers.
The article is Continue reading “Businesses Need More Thinking” »
As I said in my previous blog post, Estee Lauder’s efforts to nourish its relationships with its department store middlemen builds upon its strengths. But, Estee Lauder also pursues new retail opportunities beyond its traditional distribution in department stores. And, these new opportunities, for example offering the Estee Lauder brands in non-department store outlets such as the Ulta Beauty Products chain, seem to Continue reading “Estee Lauder Builds on Strengths and Pursues New Opportunities” »
With many retailers struggling, some of their suppliers signaled an intent to sell directly to consumers, like internet marketers do. This cuts out retailer middlemen.
For example, Procter and Gamble is trying direct-to-consumer selling, according to a July Wall Street Journal article which I commented on in my most recent newsletter about P&G’s interest in cutting middlemen. As I discussed in that newsletter, companies like Procter and Gamble have valuable strengths in their relationships with retailers. And, building on strengths—not throwing them away—is generally what succeeds.
That’s why it’s encouraging Continue reading “Treating Middlemen as a Valuable Resource” »
Big Data, analytics and technology can lead to better decision making and enhanced productivity, enabling companies to compete more effectively in today’s fast changing world. To reap those benefits, however, data needs to be meaningful and technology must be used appropriately. Otherwise, their beneficial impact can remain elusive. That’s why a common theme on this website has been that Big Data, analytics and technology often require human Continue reading “Human Emotions and Why Smart Computers Still Can’t Do It All” »
We repeatedly hear about the struggles of traditionally bricks and mortar retailers. Many have been closing stores as retailing undergoes tremendous change and online shopping continues to grow. While internet marketers like Amazon thrive, the outlook for physical retail stores is often portrayed bleakly.
But, there are signs that bricks and mortar has a fighting chance of “As Technology Reigns, What Bricks and Mortar Malls…” »
