PROFILE
Patricia Vekich Waldron
Contributing Editor, RetailWire; Founder and CEO, Vision First
For over two decades, Patricia has lived at the crossroads of consumers, technology, and data. Her track record is filled with the stories of companies who have, with her help, differentiated themselves through innovative strategies, solutions, and marketing initiatives.
Patricia is CEO and Founder of Vision First an advisory firm that helps companies stand out in a crowded market where many are vying for visibility. She is known for identifying new market opportunities to drive growth, launching, repositioning offerings, and showing up differently in the marketplace.
Patricia speaks at global industry events, including World Retail Congress, Consumer Goods Forum, Retail Leaders Forum, and the National Retail Federation (NRF) and is well known by clients, partners, press, and analysts around the world.
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- Posted on: 12/06/2019
To localize stores or not, that is the question for retailers
I’ve always believed that "Glocal" is the best approach. - Posted on: 12/05/2019
Amazon decides it has sampled enough
Clearly advertisers were not getting value from their investment - especially since they were prohibited from remarketing! One may tweak a successful marketing program -- but will never stop it. - Posted on: 12/03/2019
Can Barnes & Noble afford to take it easy over the holidays?
Mr. Daunt needs help framing his message - his strategy of localizing and being a "tastemaker" are sound but this headline makes it sound like he’s not taking action! - Posted on: 12/02/2019
Will its ‘culture of recognition’ be a game winner for Dick’s Sporting Goods?
Retailers have had a cavalier attitude towards associates in investing, educating and appreciating them. It’s good to see Dick’s take a holistic approach to recognizing and rewarding excellence. - Posted on: 11/25/2019
Is secondhand gifting a holiday disruptor?
It’s the thought that counts ... especially if it’s a slightly used Gucci belt. - Posted on: 11/21/2019
Should Starbucks stick with its open bathroom policy?
I'm certainly less inclined to use Starbucks' restrooms or to linger in shops ... - Posted on: 11/21/2019
Is Target killing department stores and specialty clothing chains?
Mid-tier shoppers looking for value, convenience and fresh merchandise will chose Target over undifferentiated department stores like Macy's. - Posted on: 11/20/2019
Will a hack ruin Macy’s Christmas?
I'm afraid that Santa was planning a lump of coal for Macy’s before the data breach ... - Posted on: 11/13/2019
Retail apocalypse? How about a disruptor meltdown?
New brands bring excitement and energy. The key to longevity is to ensure there is a sustainable business model, market opportunity and differentiation in offerings. - Posted on: 11/11/2019
Why is Trader Joe’s hiding stuffed animals in its stores?
I think this is another example of how TJs makes the shopping experience enjoyable. Only caveat for engaging kids is to keep in mind the experience of other (non-kid) shoppers! - Posted on: 11/07/2019
Why do digital transformations often fail?
Transformation involves people, processes and technology. Unless you have the right recipe for first two, new technologies will invariably fail. - Posted on: 10/28/2019
REI’s new #OptOutside message: Save the planet
This program reflects REI's brand promise and should resonate with consumers - core customers and others to whom the environment matters. The new business model offerings (rentals, used equipment) are tangible steps to serve customers while conserving. - Posted on: 10/24/2019
Walmart creeps on Christmas with promo deals before Halloween
The nine new tech-enabled ways to shop will certainly enhance customer experience and drive sales. I'm just not a fan of Christmas creep. - Posted on: 10/23/2019
Will going fur-free move the needle on Macy’s brand image?
Will they also stop selling leather footwear and accessories? Macy’s certainly needs to improve their image and appeal to a younger demographic, but I’m not convinced this will move the needle in a significant way. - Posted on: 10/09/2019
Why is Target helping Toys “R” Us get back online?
This is Target’s second partnership with a family-friendly brand - Toys "R" Us and Disney - which put desired products into the hands of their core customers. I’m staying tuned for more of these types of relationships.