Most Influential Experts Shaping the Future of Retail 2025

Inspiring Innovation & Redefining Retail Industry We are excited to present “The Most Influential Experts Shaping the Future of Retail 2025,” a special edition dedicated to honoring the trailblazers transforming the global retail landscape through innovation, insight, and forward-thinking leadership.

Driven by technology, sustainability, personalization, and shifting consumer expectations the retail industry is in the midst of a powerful evolution. At The Inc Magazine, we highlight those who are not merely adapting to this change but are driving it. These leaders are reimagining the customer experience, redefining operational efficiency, and setting new standards for growth in the digital age.

The experts featured in this edition represent the very best of the industry, visionaries who merge data with creativity, tradition with technology, and strategy with empathy.

From omnichannel innovators and e-commerce pioneers to sustainability champions and retail tech disruptors, each has made a profound impact on how businesses engage with modern consumers.

Their achievements go beyond profits, they are shaping a smarter, more connected, and more responsible future for retail worldwide. Through their leadership, they are setting benchmarks for excellence, inspiring transformation, and paving the way for the next generation of retail innovators.

On Cover we have Martin Bailie, a seasoned retail expert with over three decades of expertise in the food and fashion retail industries. With an excellent track record of leading sweeping strategies and operational transitions, Martin has established himself as a trusted authority in the field. As the Founder & Principal of MWB Advisory Limited, he partners with businesses to unlock new opportunities for growth and collaboration, offering tailored solutions for leadership development, strategy, and transformation.

As I wrap up this note, I would like to appreciate our readers worldwide for their continuous support and look forward to bringing you more exciting content soon. Stay tuned for our next issue!

Happy Reading . . !

Editor’s

Note

Cover Story

Martin

BAILIE

Founder & Principal | MWB Advisory Limited

18

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Top Tips for Running a Successful Retail Business

C O N T E N T S

INC The

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Martin Bailie Founder & Principal MWB Advisory Limited

Cover STORY October 2025 | 10

Most Influential Experts Shaping the Future of Retail 2025

Martin

BAILIE

A Visionary Leader in Retail Transformation The Story of Martin Bailie’s 30-Year Odyssey Founder & Principal MWB Advisory Limited

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enowned for his growth strategies and innovative transformations, Martin Bailie is an international retail expert with over three decades of experience in the food and fashion retail industries. His exemplary track record of driving sweeping strategies and operational transitions has established him as a trusted authority in the field. As the Founder & Principal of MWB Advisory Limited, Martin partners with businesses to unlock new opportunities for growth and collaboration, offering tailored solutions grounded in his core values of agility, curiosity, integrity, grit, and excellence.

The Key Inspiration Behind MWB Advisory’s Incorporation Martin’s journey in retail, spanning the discounter grocery and fashion sectors, is deeply influenced by his commitment to agility, integrity, and curiosity. After three decades as a board executive across three continents, leading enterprise-wide transformations for industry giants such as Tesco/Tata India and Lidl UK/IE, he identified a critical gap: many organizations struggle to adapt to rapid changes in the marketplace, particularly in response to the post-COVID consumer demand for ‘consistent value!’. This realization inspired Martin to establish MWB Advisory Limited, driven by the core value, "Passionate For Growth." Martin emphasizes fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, advocating for continuous improvement through grit and excellence, leveraging his experience as an award-winning expert in retail transformation.

Defining Transformations Two large-scale transformations in Martin's career stand out as particularly defining: his work with Lidl Ireland and Tesco/Tata India. In leading the transformation of one world's most leanest & respected operating models, he made it leaner, more customer-centric, and more profitable. At Tesco/Tata, he navigated the challenges of leading two of the most iconic retail brands in India amidst extreme conditions during COVID-19. This endeavor was monumental in helping feed a nation of 1.4 billion people. Martin's leadership during these challenging times not only exemplified digital transformation at its most demanding but also earned recognition as ‘Phygital Retailer of the Year 2021.’

As Martin reflects, this remains one of his proudest leadership journeys through adversity. Awarded the ‘COVID Warrior’ status by the industry itself, India 2021.

Leadership Philosophy and Personal Values Martin’s leadership philosophy prioritizes cultural agility, inclusivity, and high-performance leadership. His experience navigating diverse markets in India, Europe, and the USA has reinforced the importance of collaboration, agility, and integrity in achieving success. He values curiosity and openness, recognizing the unique contributions of every team member. Growing up in a working-class family instilled a strong sense of personal development, community, and drive in him. This background shapes his commitment to empowering teams toward shared objectives, all while demonstrating grit and the ability to seize opportunities amidst challenges.

Working with Diverse Clientele At MWB Advisory, the team is motivated by the potential to learn from each client’s unique experiences and insights. Collaborating with clients from diverse sectors,

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including private equity firms and start-ups, allows Martin to translate global insights into tailored strategies. This diversity keeps him relevant and connected in the evolving landscape of retail transformation, driving meaningful impact through his work. By leveraging a world-class partnership ecosystem, Martin delivers a genuine value proposition to the retail industry, staying close to the ‘shop floor’ , obsessing about the customer all whilst while empowering businesses to thrive.

MWB Advisory’s Unique Approach MWB Advisory’s approach to growth and transformation is characterized by its customer-centric model, which harnesses collaboration and cultural agility. The firm’s comprehensive suite of innovative solutions integrates cutting-edge technology and data analytics with a world-class partnership ecosystem in ESG, global consulting, product innovation, and retail technology. By merging deep-rooted retail expertise with innovative practices, MWB Advisory delivers sustainable transformations that drive real and measurable impact for clients, setting itself apart from conventional advisory models while embodying the values of excellence and agility.

Putting People-Focused Philosophy into Practice MWB Advisory embodies its people-focused philosophy through continuous engagement and collaborative efforts with clients. Actively listening to their challenges and aspirations allows the team to co-create tailored strategies that resonate throughout their teams. The firm prioritizes leadership development, nurturing curiosity and empowering individuals at all levels. This approach ensures that everyone feels included and valued throughout their transformation journey.

Navigating Modern Challenges Clients often face challenges related to digital transformation, shifting consumer behaviors, sustainability initiatives, and operational efficiencies.

Martin’s extensive global experience equips MWB Advisory to offer data-driven insights and innovative solutions tailored to each client’s unique context. With an emphasis on collaboration and cultural agility, the firm enables clients to adapt swiftly and thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace, maneuvering through complexities with ease and grit.

Digital Transformation in Retail and Advisory Digital transformation is revolutionizing the advisory landscape, compelling organizations to adopt agility and data-centric operations at an unprecedented pace. This shift requires a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation, prompting advisory firms like MWB to enhance service offerings through advanced technologies. By embracing digital advancements through a culturally agile lens, MWB Advisory supports clients in remaining competitive and responsive in increasingly complex environments.

Leveraging Data Analytics and AI At MWB Advisory, data analytics and AI play pivotal roles in driving growth and transformation strategies.

These technologies empower the firm to extract actionable insights that refine decision-making and enhance operational efficiency. By using AI and predictive analytics, MWB Advisory helps clients anticipate market trends and optimize their offerings, unlocking sustainable growth while navigating competitive landscapes with integrity and excellence.

Balancing Human Leadership with Technology Adoption MWB Advisory assists organizations in balancing the human element of leadership with technological adoption by nurturing a culture of curiosity and openness. The firm provides training that empowers leaders to articulate the benefits of new technologies, allowing teams to embrace change rather than resist it.

By fostering a supportive environment, employees feel encouraged to engage with technology in ways that leverage their strengths and aspirations.

Emerging Technologies for Growth Emerging technologies such as AI, Agentic AI, blockchain, AR/VR, robotics, and digital twinning hold transformative potential for retail and business growth.

AI enhances personalization and operational efficiency, while blockchain fosters transparency and trust within supply chains. AR/VR revolutionizes customer interactions, and robotics streamlines operations. These technologies present exciting pathways for organizations to explore as they evolve, unlocking new growth opportunities in the retail sector.

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The Future of Retail: A Quick Glance The retail industry is poised for evolution towards a more interconnected, customer-centric model, prioritizing agility and innovation. Driven by the convergence of technology and consumer expectations, customers will increasingly demand personalized experiences and sustainability from brands. The integration of advanced technologies like AI and the metaverse will redefine retail interactions, compelling

businesses to adapt swiftly to changing market dynamics and remain competitive.

Essential Skills for Future Leaders To thrive in an era of disruption, tomorrow’s leaders must develop key skills, including adaptability, digital literacy, empathy, and emotional intelligence. These skills empower them to navigate complexities while nurturing inclusivity within their teams. Additionally,

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strategic thinking and a curiosity about new ideas and technologies will be essential for maintaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Long-Term Vision for MWB Advisory The long-term vision of MWB Advisory is to be recognized as a leading global partner in retail transformation, celebrated for its innovative and high-impact methodologies. The firm aims to expand its global presence while enhancing services in emerging technologies like AI, Agentic AI, blockchain, and the metaverse. Through a steadfast commitment to cultural agility and collaborative growth, MWB Advisory aspires to empower businesses to thrive in a dynamic landscape, ultimately shaping the future of retail and global business with integrity and excellence. #PercisionCommerce #ConnectedStoreTechnology #CulturalTransformation

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CHARISMA GLASSMAN Portfolio Head of Consumer Products, Luxury & Apparel | Insights & Data | North America

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Capgemini

A Distinguished Woman Executive in Tech Revamping the Global Business Ecosystem

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his exclusive tale is yet another add-on to our special edition featuring some influential women leaders. Here, the spotlight is on Charisma Glassman, who has been steering the Consumer Products, Luxury, and Apparel Portfolio at Capgemini with her impeccable leadership and industry expertise.

A Transformational Leader Charisma Glassman is a remarkable leader in technology and business strategy and transformation.

She is an alum of Harvard Business School and holds a master's degree in computer/information technology management from the New York University School of Engineering with a specialization in luxury marketing.

Over the last two decades she has demonstrated her ability to oversee multi-million-dollar P&Ls, managed global teams across multiple countries, and cultivate steady, long-term revenue development. She has played various roles in her career, each of which brought special difficulties and opportunities for growth that resulted in several crucial moments. However, the acceleration of strategic transformation during the COVID-19 pandemic emerged as a definitive point.

This time brought to light three critical facets of her leadership style: the need for rapid adaptation to change, the significance of using technology to support operations and promote expansion, and the necessity of keeping the success and well-being of all stakeholders-consumers, staff, and the larger community-front, and center. Every executive, including her, had to rise to the occasion during this challenging period in ways never seen before, which helped to create a more inventive and resilient leadership philosophy.

Fostering Collaboration and Cohesion to Lead Global Organizations In the current business landscape, managing globally dispersed teams and large organizations requires a holistic approach that prioritizes communication, adaptability, and cultural awareness to conquer the obstacles presented by time zones and geographic disparities.

Charisma shared with us that the post-pandemic shift in work culture further underscores the importance of regular, open communication facilitated by advanced video conferencing tools connecting team members globally, fostering a sense of belonging and team cohesion. The adoption of a 'Two in a Box' approach for pivotal positions ensures ongoing leadership and decision-making competencies throughout time zones, augmenting operational effectiveness and fostering a culture of shared accountability and mentoring.

She said that implementing a flexible meeting calendar to accommodate the varied locations of the team can be of help. This schedule promotes inclusion and work-life balance and sets clear expectations for each team member's contribution to the team's objectives. A creative environment is fostered by placing a high priority on cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, as well as giving employees a sense of trust and autonomy.

Additionally, leveraging top-tier collaboration and product management tools are critical for maintaining agility and bridging communication gaps, ensuring the team's effectiveness and the organization's forward momentum in the global landscape.

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Adapting her Strategies and Leadership Style to Diverse Industries Managing leadership positions in various sectors, including technology, retail, hospitality, and finance, requires a flexible and creative approach that takes into account the particular opportunities and difficulties that each industry has to offer. While Charisma's leadership philosophy-serving as an architect, bridger, and catalyst-remains consistent throughout different industries, its implementation is painstakingly customized to fit each sector's unique dynamics and culture. This entails delving deeply into the fundamental forces at work in each industry, as well as the expectations of customers, the regulatory environments, and the subtleties of competition, frequently by way of direct interaction with employees, customers, and industry leaders on the front lines.

Charisma shared with us “Strategic objectives and KPIs are crafted with industry-specific goals in mind, from risk management in finance to customer engagement in retail, always underpinned by a people-first approach that values diversity, encourages learning, and rewards innovation.” Her dedication to lifelong learning and leadership guarantees not only the flexibility of plans to industry specifics but also the involvement and unity of teams everywhere, setting up the company for success in the face of changes in the market.

Driving Innovation, Growth, and Leveraging Cutting-edge Technologies to Create Strategic Advantages Charisma recommends empowering teams to experiment within predetermined limitations to prevent creativity from being hampered by a fear of failure. This helps to ensure profitability and stimulate growth. A supportive environment for strategic experimentation and sustained growth is created when they are transparent with the board, investors, and key stakeholders about their financial performance, growth strategies, and innovation efforts. This transparency not only fosters trust but also aligns expectations.

Through ongoing research, strategic alliances, talent acquisition, and innovation ecosystem investments, Charisma and her team stay ahead of developing technology, ensuring that they not only adapt to these developments but also leverage them to gain competitive advantages. By taking a proactive stance, they not only remain relevant but also establish themselves as pioneers in developing cutting-edge business models that propel long-term expansion and change in a world that is becoming increasingly digital.

Battling the Challenges Along the Way As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, Charisma recollects that she found herself at the forefront of the consumer banking division of a global bank, steering through unprecedented challenges. During these difficult times, the bank introduced a cutting-edge credit extension initiative to help customers needing financial support. This initiative demonstrated the company's commitment to providing strong customer assistance through improved operational and technological frameworks as part of a larger strategy revamp.

Charisma’s approach, rooted in clear vision, precise goal setting, and a determination to confront challenges directly, not only preserved the bank's strategic goals but also deepened customer relationships amidst the global crisis.

Unfurling the Future Goals Charisma is actively planning to use AI not just to streamline operations but also as a foundation for creating innovative products and services. She also recommends the C-Suite leaders and boards to prioritize cybersecurity to protect their innovations and clients' trust and use sustainability as a key business strategy to reach new markets and customer segments. In addition to navigating the challenges, this multifaceted approach aims to seize the opportunities to create new value. This could potentially reshape industry landscapes and change the composition of the Fortune 500 as companies that successfully harness these trends rise to the top, while those that don't adapt may find their positions challenged.

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TOP TIPS FOR RUNNING A SUCCESSFUL RETAIL BUSINESS If you have recently started a brick-and-mortar business, you are likely in a place where you want to know how to keep it going, how to drive more customers to your store, how you can best serve your customers, and how you can grow your business. A business can be challenging at the best of times, but the energy, time, and effort that you invest in it will be worthwhile if you are persistent. While the type of product that you sell is important, there are also a lot of other aspects you have to think about, such as the quality of the products you are selling, the staff that you hire, and much more. To help you on your journey, here are some top tips for running a successful business.

Hire the right staff Staff are the bones of your company, so you need to ensure that you hire the right staff. That will make a huge difference to the way that your business runs. When you have staff who are passionate about the work that they do, are committed to your business and to working hard, know how to communicate well, they have a good work ethic and good customer service skills, then your business will be heading in the right direction.

Make sure that you look for all these qualities when you are hiring new staff. Relevant previous experience is important, but shouldn’t be a deal breaker, as you can always train people in your own way.

Focus on quality The kind of products that you sell and their quality will make a huge difference to the customers that you attract, how many customers are willing to invest in your business, and how many customers remain loyal to your business after they have made their first purchase from you. Quality starts in development and manufacturing. You need to ensure that you build good relationships with your suppliers. You then should consider the logistics of your shipping to ensure that your products are not compromised on the way to your store for sale. For this, you might want to invest in cardboard pallet protectors. Next, you will need to think about how best to store your products at your shop, and how you display them in your shop to attract customers and show them your high-quality product.

Build a brand A brand is a vital aspect of any business that wants to grow. A brand is what will tell customers who you are, what your mission is, what you sell, and ensure that you stand out from your competitors. You want a brand that is meaningful, resonates with customers and is recognizable from a distance. Make sure your brand is consistent across your business, from marketing to packaging to help customers become familiar with you.

When they are, this will help increase trust and drive them towards your products.

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