Welcome to the final episode of the London Drugs Partnership Podcast series! This episode marks the culmination of an exciting journey exploring the world of retail partnerships and innovation. Michael & Clint reflect on the series' evolution, celebrating the people and insights that make London Drugs a unique and thriving Canadian retailer. They acknowledge the critical role of their diverse vendor community in putting customers at the heart of every decision. Clint shares anecdotes and feedback from vendors, highlighting the significance of vibrant partnerships with this global vendor network.In this episode, the spotlight turns to London Drugs' merchandising and technology leaders, Rob Felix, Senior Vice President, Merchandising and Nick Curalli, Vice President of Technology Solutions. The hosts emphasize the vital collaboration between these departments and their impact on the business and vendor relationships.Clint underscores the importance of a forward-thinking merchandising team and the role of technology in setting London Drugs apart in the retail landscape.Stay tuned as Rob and Nick share their insights, offering a deeper understanding of the powerful initiatives propelling London Drugs into the future. It's an insightful and informative conclusion to this captivating podcast series. They provide an insightful look into their backgrounds and roles at London Drugs, setting the stage for an engaging discussion. Nick, as the technology leader, discusses the broad roadmap and technology bets that shape LD's future. He emphasizes the importance of identifying valuable technologies amidst the noise.As Clint joins the conversation, Rob delves into the two types of vendor relationships, where investment yields significant gains. He shares compelling examples of such partnerships. Meanwhile, Nick highlights early accomplishments from the Galelaio project, showing how technology aligns with LD's objectives.The discussion then shifts to the Partnership Presentation event, where Rob and Nick play crucial roles. Rob offers a glimpse into what vendors can expect and how they can make the most of their time during the event. Nick discusses his role in distilling complex projects and strategies for vendors, fostering collaboration.Thanks for joining us, and see you in Mississauga November 6th, 2023 About ClintClint Mahlman assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer in 2011, was named Executive Vice President in 2014, and in 2018 became President and COO. In his 36 years with London Drugs, Clint has made a lasting impact on many aspects of the business. From part-time stock person to President, Clint has served in a wide range of store and head office roles, enabling him to develop a 360-degree perspective of the business. He is known for his passion for understanding how customer and employee behavior drives merchandising and operations.He spearheaded the award-winning sustainability and recycling initiatives that have put London Drugs at the forefront of retail in North America. Clint was responsible for the development of early versions of London Drugs’ first management training programs, and for the first Process Re-Engineering initiative. He helped design many of the sales and service initiatives, e-Commerce and loyalty concepts that London Drugs is known for throughout the industry.Clint was selected as one of BC Business Magazine’s top 20 Most Influential People in British Columbia 2013. In 2017, Clint was selected, with London Drugs, as the Retail Council of Canada “Distinguished Retailer of the Year”.During his time as President & COO, London Drugs has been recognized by Forbes Magazine as one of Canada’s best employers for four years in a row, and multi-year winner of BC’s Most Trusted Brand, and BC’s most loved brand (of any industry) for a number of years.About MichaelMichael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc. and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada and the Bank of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, Today's Shopping Choice and Pandora Jewellery. Michael has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels. ReThink Retail has added Michael to their prestigious Top Global Retail Influencers list for 2023 for the third year in a row.Michael is also the president of Maven Media, producing a network of leading trade podcasts, including Canada's top retail industry podcast_,_ The Voice of Retail. He produces and co-hosts Remarkable Retail with best-selling author Steve Dennis, now ranked one of the top retail podcasts in the world. Based in San Francisco, Global eCommerce Leaders podcast explores global cross-border issues and opportunities ...
