A diverse group of 200 industry leaders, experts, and professionals gathered recently at the CBIZ Consumer Products and Retail Symposium in Los Angeles to discuss the latest trends, innovations, and challenges in the consumer products and retail sectors. The impact of tariffs on the industry were a key focus of the conference.
Our two keynote speakers provided invaluable insights into tariffs and the future of retail and consumer products. Robert Krieger, President of Norman Krieger Inc., a leading customs brokerage firm, presented “Tariffs and Their Toll on Retail.” He focused on crucial topics such as international trade regulations, supply chain disruptions, and best practices for ensuring smooth and efficient global operations as retailers work through the latest tariff rates.
Marshal Cohen, Chief Industry Advisor at Circana, presented “The Perfect Storm — It’s A Lot More Than Just Tariffs.” He shared his expertise on emerging consumer trends, the impact of technology on shopping habits, and strategies for retailers to stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive market and to work through tariffs.
Panelists Address Critical Industry Issues
The symposium also featured a panel discussion that probed critical issues facing the industry today, including:
- Navigating With Suppliers: As new tariffs continue to impact the cost of every consumer product imported, we discussed how manufacturers will work with their retail customers for the increase in cost associated with the new tariffs.
- Adapting to the New Retail Landscape: Industry leaders explored how retailers can adapt to the rapidly changing retail environment, emphasizing the importance of omnichannel strategies and the integration of digital and physical retail spaces.
- Sustainability in Consumer Products: Experts discussed the growing demand for sustainable products and practices. They highlighted ways companies can implement environmentally friendly initiatives and appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
- Innovations in E-Commerce: This panel focused on the latest advancements in e-commerce technology, from AI-driven personalization to the role of social media in driving online sales. Panelists shared insights on how to enhance the customer experience and boost online engagement.
4 Event Takeaways from The Consumer Products and Retail Symposium
This year’s symposium proved to be a remarkable success, offering attendees a wealth of knowledge and actionable insights. Key takeaways included:
- Strategies for navigating the complexities of global trade, tariffs, and ensuring supply chain efficiency.
- The importance of staying ahead of consumer behavior trends to remain competitive in the retail market.
- The growing significance of sustainability in consumer products and how to meet the demands of eco-conscious consumers.
- Innovations in e-commerce and the role of technology in shaping the future of retail.
My Own Takeaways
As tariff negotiations continue without resolution with many trading partners, we must consider whether there will be a holiday season with products to sell. Manufacturers must place orders with suppliers with sufficient lead time to meet the demands of the holidays. If everything comes down to the last minute, freight companies will not have the cargo ships available to meet the demand, and the cost of freight will be expensive.
The Value of Networking and Collaboration
One of the symposium’s most valuable aspects is the opportunity for networking and collaboration. Attendees connected with peers, industry leaders, and potential business partners during a reception with plenty of food and drinks. These interactions fostered meaningful connections and provided a platform for sharing ideas and best practices.
Conclusion
The 2025 CBIZ Consumer Products and Retail Symposium was an enlightening and inspiring event that provided industry professionals with the tools and knowledge to thrive in a dynamic and evolving market. With expert speakers, engaging discussions, and valuable networking opportunities, the symposium reinforced CBIZ’s commitment to supporting the growth and success of the consumer products and retail sectors.
For those who missed this year’s event, stay tuned for information on the next CBIZ Symposium, which promises to deliver even more insights and opportunities for industry advancement.
If you have questions about the effect of tariffs on your industry or other topics of interest, please connect with our Consumer & Industrial Products professionals.
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