Richard J. George, Ph.D.

I concur with these findings. Food deserts are often related to health and wellness issues. In fact, the city where the university is located, Philadelphia, has the unwanted distinction of statistically being the most obese among the ten largest cities in the US. This notoriety is no doubt a...

I don't disagree with the premise. I have never been a fan of the statement the customer is always right. Instead, the customer may not always be right, but if we decide that this customer has value and we wish to retain same, than we need to dignify the...

Assuming Starbucks intends to reinforce its positioning as the third place, between home and work, the evening day part has been an elusive one for the company to conquer. As noted the company does risk confusion and perhaps alienation of customers by such a move. It is always difficult...

Publix is not the number one rated supermarket for no reason. The company does a terrific job in quality, selection and exceptional service (ask any Floridian). It also has developed leadership in prepared meals via its Apron's Simple Meals program which not only offers featured meal ingredients in its...

Rule #10 in my strategy book is "Advance and Secure." Step out but make sure you have a firm place if you need to step back. Also, rule #8 "Concentrate Your Resources" comes into mind. It is not the total resources available, only those at the point of attack...

I think this is a terrific strategic alliance. Apple gets efficient and effective distribution without the related capital and operating expenses of building and running its own store. Target gets a great brand name association in the form of Apple which allows for positive differentiation from Walmart and others. ...

Absolutely. These extreme value formats are referred to as "ankle biters." They are a pesky nuisance to Walmart, Target and others. At one time these were the only potential survivors when the traditional competitors to Walmart disappeared in the scorched earth when Walmart came to town.

Some would argue...

As I noted in March, the opportunity for positive differentiation by such endeavors is something firms need to explore/test. Obviously, the test has gone well and the connection with the "Healthiest State Initiative" brings additional focus to Hy-Vee. If food retailers are going to wrest the "wellness" business from...

Sears is where "Americans used to shop." Why, because at one time they were well positioned to respond to America's needs. A couple of things happened. First, America's needs in terms of shopping changed and Sears did not, thus forcing Americans to change or shop elsewhere. Americans did the...

I agree that mentoring is becoming a lost tradition across all industries, including retail. Part of the difficulty in providing sound mentoring is the lack of longevity these days in any organization. The mantra for professional growth is via organizations rather than within organizations. Lacking senior or experienced managers,...