Retail as a Social Stage: Stores That do More than Sell
In a world of branded quasi-commodity products like coffee with little barriers to entry, the social interaction — or atmosphere of the store’s community — is ultimately what
differentiates a brand and creates defensibility.
Sam Blumenthal • Social Retail: Immersion & Serendipity
By 2026, experts expect more brands to adopt a truly multi-purpose retail model, where stores function as social venues, wellness spaces or cultural hubs.
What a Winning Retail Strategy Looks Like in 2026
In a world of branded quasi-commodity products like coffee with little barriers to entry, the social interaction — or atmosphere of the store’s community — is ultimately what differentiates a brand and creates defensibility.