On November 12, we live-hosted the “The Retail Reality Show” podcast & “TW Podcast”, joining a select group of retail and marketing experts. The program featured exciting presentations and discussions on trends and provided insights into the innovative impulses shaping the future of retail: “Retail in the Tension of Extremes – Price War vs. Premium, Speed vs. Experience”. The evening will took place at our unique Zeitgeist Bauhaus Salon location in Berlin.

To inspire customers, brands today need to create emotional experiences that go beyond the mere purchase. This is emphasized by Karin Leiberg from LIGANOVA, who points to the increasing need for community and belonging. Strong communities play a decisive role in this, as Philip Clas from TEVEO explains. Loyal brand ambassadors who carry the vision into their networks create an authentic identification that is difficult to copy – an important competitive advantage in today’s market.

In addition to strong communities, sustainability is another key factor. For Alexander Matt from Fjällräven, sustainability is not a trend, but a long-term strategy that focuses on “timelessness”: products should be relevant today and in 20 years.

To stand out from the crowd, brands also need a curated offering, high-quality content and strong storytelling, emphasizes Philipp Engelmann from Glambou. This is the only way to create trust and differentiation.

In summary, it can be said that success in today’s retail, especially in competition with Chinese players, depends on creative experiences, strong communities and sustainability, supported by agility and a clear positioning.

The podcast for visionaries in retail. Nino Bergfeld from Salesforce, Martin Bressem from the retail innovation start-up _blaenk and Nicolas Kröger from Manor regularly welcome opinion leaders and pioneers to discuss a new era of brick-and-mortar and digital retail, offering a behind-the-scenes look.

Every Thursday, the ‘TW Podcast’ by TextilWirtschaft dives deep into the textile industry’s biggest challenges. Join their editors as they chat with experts in retail, commerce, fashion and lifestyle, exploring innovative solutions from leading brands and successful personalities.