The CPG Guys

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Abby Laursen, Senior Director of Ads Product Marketing at Snap Inc., a technology company that contributes to human progress by empowering people to express themselves, live in the moment, learn about the world, and have fun together. This episode was recorded at the 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. Learn more about Snapchat for Business : https://forbusiness.snapchat.com/cpgguys Follow Abby on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigail-laursen/ Find the Snapchat Generation Report here: https://newsroom.snap.com/snapchat-generation-report Read Snap Success Stories here: https://forbusiness.snapchat.com/inspiration Abby answers these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Rhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.com Lara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

Send us a text The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Ajay Salpekar, the GM of Brand & Creator Commerce at TikTok, the world's leading social destination for short-form video. Follow Ajay on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salpekar/ Follow TikTok on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tiktok/ Follow TikTok online at: http://ads.tiktok.com Ajay answers these questions: because of compelling contentCan you give us some insight into the Creator mindset and how that drives long-term partnerships, particularly with Beauty brands?CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Rhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.com Lara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

Send us a text The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Dan Bonert, SVP of Retail Analytics and Retail Media at NielsenIQ. Dan has a background in media from his days at Amazon and was able to share quite a few insights on today's environment LIVE from the NielsenIQ c360 conference down in Hollywood, FL. Ajay Sharma, VP of ecommerce + omnichannel was our guest co-host for this episode, officially now his 6th appearance on the CPGGUYS. Find Dan Bonert on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danbonert/ Find NielsenIQ on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nielseniq/ Find NielsenIQ online at: https://nielseniq.com/global/en/ Here's what we asked him : CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Rhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.com Lara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

Send us a text The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Cristina Preston - Director of Digital Marketing at Schnuck Markets, Inc., a supermarket chain based in the St. Louis area. The company was founded in 1939 and currently operates over 100 stores in four states throughout the Midwest. This episode was recorded at the 2025 Digital Food & Beverage Summit Follow Cristina on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristina-preston/ Follow Scnucks on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/schnuck-markets-inc-/ Follow Schnucks online at: https://schnucks.com/suppliers Cristina answers these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Rhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.com Lara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

Send us a text The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Jeff Cohen, Tech Evangelist at Amazon Ads as we discuss the key themes discussed at the 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. Follow Jeff on LinkedIn at: http://linkedin.com/in/jeffreycohen Follow Amazon Ads Partners on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/amazon-ads-partners/ Follow Amazon Ads Partners online at: https://advertising.amazon.com/partners/network CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Rhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.com Lara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

Send us a text The CPG Guys are joined in their 500th episode by Tanner Elton, Vice President of US Advertising Sales at Amazon. Follow Tanner on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tannerelton/ Follow Amazon Ads on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/amazon-ads-partners/ Follow Amazon Ads online at: https://advertising.amazon.com/ Tanner answers these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Rhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.com Lara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

Send us a text The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Kevin Host, SVP of Pharmacy at Walmart. He is the current chair of NACDS (National association of chain drug stores) and we've had the pleasure of hearing him speak LIVE from Palm Beach at the NACDS annual this year. As a career pharma veteran he is well known for his partnership with center store and this episode revolves on his leadership and partnership with the store. Find Kevin Host on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-host-pharmd-1412453/ Find Walmart on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walmart Find Walmart online at: https://www.walmart.com/ Here's what we asked him : CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Rhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.com Lara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

Send us a text The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Kathryn Mazza, CMO & President of Red Media at Hy-Vee, the midwest retailer. She leads the growth of the platform. Prior to, she was at Dick’s Sporting Goods. This was a conversation ranging from customer loyalty building, retail media, data measurement and of course 'back to basics' in store today. Find Kathryn Mazza on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-mazza-6523372a/ Find Hy-Vee on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/company/hy-vee Find Hy-Vee online at : https://www.hy-vee.com/ Here's what we asked her : CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Rhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.com Lara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

Send us a text In this episode, the CPG Guys are joined by Lucas Barros, Head of Walmart Connect and Pamela Castro, Commercial Manager for Walmart Phronesis at Walmart Chile, the largest grocery retailer in Chile, operating under the "Lider" banner. Follow Lucas on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucas-barros-631955103/ Follow Pamela on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-castro-8447bb13/ Follow Walmart Chile on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walmartchile/ Follow Walmart Chile online at: https://www.walmartchile.cl/ Lucas & Pamela answers these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://cpgguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://fmcgguys,com ThinkBlue Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkbluesolutions/ Rhea Raj Website: http://rhearaj.com Katseye Website: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

Send us a text In this episode, the CPG Guys are joined by Mark Williamson, AVP of Retail Media at Costco, the world’s largest club format omnichannel retailer. Follow Mark on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkwilliamson/ Follow Costco on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/costco-wholesale/ Follow Costco online at: https://www.costco.com/f/-/company-information Mark answers these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://cpgguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://fmcgguys,com ThinkBlue Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkbluesolutions/ Rhea Raj Website: http://rhearaj.com Katseye Website: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

Send us a text In this episode, the CPG Guys are joined by Jeff Clark, VP of Product & Commercialization at Walmart Connect, the retail media division of Walmart. Follow Jeff on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffclark/ Follow Walmart Connect on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walmart-connect/ Follow Walmart Connect online at: https://www.walmartconnect.com/ Jeff answers these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://cpgguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://fmcgguys,com ThinkBlue Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkbluesolutions/ Rhea Raj Website: http://rhearaj.com Katseye Website: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

In this episode, the CPG Guys are joined by Joe Davis, Managing Director of Tree Line Strategy Group which helps companies with strategic planning, customer development, digital commerce & sales strategy. Follow Joe on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-davis-co/ Follow Tree Line Strategy Group on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tree-line-strategy-group/ Follow Tree Line Strategy Group online at: https://www.treelinestrategygroup.com/ Joe answers these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://cpgguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://fmcgguys,com ThinkBlue Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkbluesolutions/ Rhea Raj Website: http://rhearaj.com Katseye Website: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Jack Shannon, Co-Founder & CEO of Recess, which helps brands drive velocity at retail with turnkey sampling partnerships that reach shoppers who frequent Target, Walmart, Kroger, and 6,000+ top retailers, and Mike Feldman, strategic advisor & former SVP Head of retail Media at VaynerMedia. Follow Jack on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonjack/ Follow Mike on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-feldman-9962b230/ Follow Recess on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/recess-inc-/ Follow Recess online at: https://www.recess.is/ Jack & Mike answer these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Daniël van Gool, VP of Fulfillment Strategies & Solutions at Ahold Delhaize USA. Find Daniel on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dvangool/ Find AD USA on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahold-delhaize-usa/ Find AD USA online at: https://www.adusa.com/ Daniël answers these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

The CPGGUYS are joined in this episode by Delta 181 plane crash survivor from 1985 and now founder/CEO of the nutritional wellness brand Lucky Energy. This is the story of resilience, tenacity, courage and curiosity. Laver's daughter, Kate, had cerebral palsy and couldn't eat solid foods. He created a plant-based protein shake, which led to the founding of Kate Farms and then inspired by being a survivor - Lucky Energy. Find Richard Laver on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-laver-38268616/ Find Lucky Energy on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucky-beverage-co/ Find Lucky Energy online at : https://luckybevco.com/ Here's what we asked him : CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Rhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.com Lara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Nicole Collida Davis, Managing Director & SVP US National Accounts and Jennie Bell Managing Director & SVP US Global Clients at NielsenIQ, the world’s leading consumer intelligence company, delivering the most complete understanding of consumer buying behavior and revealing new pathways to growth. Today NIQ has operations in 95+ countries representing 97% of the world’s GDP. With a holistic retail read and the most comprehensive consumer insights—delivered with advanced analytics through state-of-the-art platforms—NIQ delivers the Full View™. Find Nicole on LinkedIn at: http://linkedin.com/in/nicolecollida Find Jennie on LinkedIn at: http://linkedin.com/in/jennie-bell-a27568b Find NielsenIQ Media online at: http://nielseniq.com Nicole & Jennie answers these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Allison O'Keefe, Partnership Director at WHSmith North America Media Network, Powered by SMG. WHS Media is the first-ever in-store travel Retail Media Network, connecting brands to consumers across travel hubs in North America. Find Allison on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-o-keefe-42b1a830/ Find WHSmith Media on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whsmith-north-america-media-network/ Find WHSmith Media online at: https://smg.team/en-us/retailers/whs-media/ Allison answers these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/#/portal/signup Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/#/portal/signup DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

The CPGGUYS are joined in this episode by Vice President of grocery merchandising at Wakefern Food Corp. Jeff is a remarkable example of a pharmacist expert and leader now transformed into an everyday grocery merchant. We were so impressed by his leadership, he is the winner of the DSN (Drug store news) + CPGGGUYS retail merchandiser of the year for 2024! Find Jeff Mondelli on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-mondelli-95a72148/ Find Wakefern Food Corp on Linkedin at : https://www.linkedin.com/company/wakefern-food-corp-/ Find Wakfern Food Corp online at : https://www2.wakefern.com/ Here's what we asked him : 1. You are a rare breed of merchants that have successfully transitioned from pharma to CPG - what did it take and how did you accomplish this? 2. How have consumer behaviors and preferences shifted in the post-pandemic world, and what does this mean for CPG brands? 3. CPG companies are facing a lot of disruption with e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors. What are the biggest shifts you're seeing in the industry today? 4. How do you see the relationship between traditional retail and CPG evolving over the next 5 years? 5. What advice do you have for CPG companies that are struggling to adapt to the consumer digital-first world? 6. How do you think CPG companies can best leverage data and analytics to improve their operations, marketing, and customer engagement? 7. What does a best in class partnership with Wakefern look like for a CPG brand? 8. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received during your career, and how did it shape your path? CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Rhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.com Lara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/ Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/ DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

The CPGGUYS are joined in this episode by Shaan Modi, from New Jersey. Shaan is still in high school but was spotted by us at CAGNY (the annual consumer analysts gathering with senior CPG brand leaders) down in Florida in February. We observed him attend several sessions, and we quite surprised to see someone from Gen Z in this conference. We asked him what he thought, and his answers both intrigued and challenged our own biases of how he saw the notion of a 'brand'. We decided to bring him on the pod, he agreed, here is the episode. Enjoy the listen to what Gen Z thinks of the many brands we have spent decades building. Here's what we asked Shaan : Personal Experience & Perspective : What inspired you, as an 18-year-old, to attend CAGNY 2025, and how did you prepare to get the most out of it? Were there any moments during the conference that shifted your opinion about a brand or product? Health & Wellness Trends :Do you think the current “better-for-you” trends reflect authentic health concerns among Gen Z—or are they still mostly marketing tactics? Marketing Strategy : Which brand do you think best understands Gen Z in terms of digital-first marketing, and what made it stand out? How important is authenticity in influencer marketing to you and your peers? What makes something feel “forced” versus genuine? Innovation & Missed Opportunities : You pointed out how companies missed TikTok trends—why do you think they’re slow to adapt, even when the data is right there? Do you think there’s a risk in brands trying too hard to be trendy or viral? What’s the right balance?If you could advise General Mills on a single product innovation to better appeal to Gen Z, what would it be? Product Development & Personalization : How important is personalization in food products for Gen Z? Would you actually use something like a custom snack box? Cultural & Social Relevance : What’s one cultural or social movement you feel CPG brands are completely missing out on when it comes to Gen Z? Which viral food trend do you think has the most untapped brand potential right now? Vision for the Future : If you were to attend CAGNY 2030, what changes or evolutions would you hope to see in how brands engage with your generation?Personal Experience & Perspective? Were there any moments during the conference that shifted your opinion about a brand or product? CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Rhea Raj’s Website: http://rhearaj.com Lara Raj in Katseye: https://www.katseye.world/ Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/ Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/ DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.

The CPG Guys are joined in this episode by Brandon Nutter, co Founder and CTO of Ampd, which connects Google Ads directly to the world’s largest marketplaces like Amazon and turn incremental revenue all the way up, and Steve Pet, Antitrust Associate at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP. Find Brandon Nutter on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonnutter/ Find Steve Pet on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-pet-22b12040/ Find Ampd online at: https://www.ampd.io/ Brandon & Steve answer these questions: CPG Guys Website: http://CPGguys.com FMCG Guys Website: http://FMCGguys.com CPG Scoop Website: http://CPGscoop.com Subscribe to Chain Drug Review here: https://chaindrugreview.com/ Subscribe to Mass Market Retailers here: https://massmarketretailers.com/ DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast episode is provided for general informational purposes only. By listening to our episode, you understand that no information contained in this episode should be construed as advice from CPGGUYS, LLC or the individual author, hosts, or guests, nor is it intended to be a substitute for research on any subject matter. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by CPGGUYS, LLC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. CPGGUYS LLC expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other damages arising out of any individual’s use of, reference to, or inability to use this podcast or the information we presented in this podcast.