Скачать или смотреть Retail Analyst Bruce Winder Defines this Moment in Grocery Retail

If you have been anywhere near a television, radio, or read the news in print or online in this country, chances are you have heard my first guest patiently and methodically explain the backstory, meaning, and implications of the latest retail news. An experienced retail operator with names like Canadian Tire, Zellers and Sears on his resume, a consultant, author, teacher and analyst, Bruce Winder is my special guest on this debut episode of The FEED powered by Loblaw.

Bruce joins me for a wide-ranging conversation about the state of Canadian retail and the grocery sector. We delve into the dynamics behind food inflation, how grocers and Consumer Packaged Goods companies navigate rising input costs, and why consumers are increasingly turning to private label and discount formats. The discussion also explores AI's growing impact on retail, the resurgence of "Buy Canadian," and how trust and transparency will define modern grocery in an era of fabricated and fake images that test our resolve and patience as citizens and shoppers.

In the premiere episode of The Feed powered by Loblaw, host Michael LeBlanc sits down with retail industry leader, author, and analyst Bruce Winder for an in-depth exploration of the trends reshaping Canada's grocery landscape. With over two decades of experience at Canadian Tire, Air Miles, Zellers, HBC, and Sears, Bruce brings insider knowledge to today's most significant retail questions — from food inflation to AI-driven change.

Bruce begins by tracing his retail roots and his evolution from executive to educator and now Substack publisher, where his column This Week, Double Click offers thoughtful analysis on earnings and retail strategy. The conversation quickly shifts to the pressing issue of food inflation, as Bruce explains why prices are rising again — from supply chain pressures and weather disruptions to currency fluctuations — and how grocers balance supplier costs with delivering value to shoppers.

Drawing on his years as a merchant, Bruce explains the delicate negotiation between retailers and vendors when cost increases hit the shelf. He highlights the importance of data, collaboration, and transparency, noting how Loblaw and other retailers are using public communication, signage, and digital tools to build consumer trust amid rising costs.

From there, the conversation expands to consumer behaviour, including the shift toward hard discount formats like No Frills, the rise of private labels, and how younger shoppers are redefining convenience through paid delivery and digital loyalty ecosystems. Bruce also offers a compelling take on the Buy Canadian movement, describing it as a lasting tailwind for homegrown brands — one that's altering purchase habits and national sentiment alike.

Looking ahead, Bruce and Michael discuss AI in retail, both as a back-end operational tool and a front-end consumer influence. They explore how retailers must adapt to an era where shoppers increasingly use AI platforms to discover, evaluate, and purchase products — raising new questions of trust, authenticity, and authority in the digital age.

Closing out the episode, Bruce shares advice for consumers navigating higher prices: be informed, choose trusted retailers, leverage loyalty programs, and understand the trade-offs between fresh, frozen, and private label. Insightful, candid, and timely, this episode delivers a masterclass in modern retail strategy and consumer understanding.