Ep 90. Holt Renfrew: Proudly Canadian, Quietly Unstoppable

Anybody that works in our industry knows that retail is a moving target, and there's a million different variables that influence success or failure at any given moment. Some of those variables are measurable and tangible enough to use to your advantage—but others are really out of your control. So what do you do when, for example, the whole world shuts down amid a global pandemic? Or when nations collide in an all-out trade war? Or how do you adapt to combat new and formidable contenders that emerge in your market space? Navigating this inherently unpredictable business takes a special kind of brand, and a special kind of person, and for this episode we've invited one such leader of a company that's no doubt felt the weight of an uncertain and highly competitive marketplace. He's a long-time friend and an industry confidant: Sebastian Picardo, President and CEO of the Canadian luxury department store Holt Renfrew. In our conversation we'll discuss how Sebastian's diverse career background provides him with a broad lens with which to view our industry's unfamiliar territory, the value of feeding curiosity in his own personal growth and the significance of clarity in brand identity for Holt Renfrew. We'll also share a bit of a lesson in humility in regards to Nordstrom's attempt to plant a foot in Canada. Spoiler alert! It didn't work out so well. Thanks for tuning in to episode 90. We hope you enjoy it! Did you know that YOU can be on The Nordy Pod? This show isn't just a one-way conversation. We want to hear about what Nordstrom looks like through your eyes. Share your Nordstrom experience, good or bad, by giving us a call and leaving a voicemail at 206.594.0526, or send an email to [e-mail] to be a part of the conversation! And be sure to follow us on Instagram @thenordypod to stay up to date on new episodes, announcements and more.