Consumer Chronicles; Insights into the future of retail and consumer goods

Hi Folks,

My names Hugo Harris, I lead the retail and consumer goods business for APAC at a large technology and consulting service providers, and over the past year, I’ve seen one thing become clear:

Retail isn’t just evolving—it’s fragmenting, re-forming, and accelerating at a speed most orgs aren’t built for.

A few trends I’m tracking:
• Agentic AI is starting to make real merchandising decisions—this isn’t just hype.
• Quick commerce is pivoting fast (and often failing) under the weight of economics.
• Transparency is becoming a brand differentiator in luxury, not just a compliance checkbox.
• Gen Z isn’t just digital-first—they’re algorithm-native and culturally fluid. Most brands aren’t ready.

• Supply Chains require redesign for more elasticity

• Brick and Mortar is going nowhere, but integration to the virtual is critical

I’ve started a weekly newsletter to cover exactly this: strategy, technology, and transformation across retail and consumer goods—mostly in APAC, but globally relevant.

If that’s your thing, you can check it out here: https://consumerchronicle.beehiiv.com/

Otherwise—curious to hear from this community:
What do you think is the most overhyped or underhyped trend in retail right now? What would you like to know more about in future editions?

Do you have any guidance on my previous editions? Have bulk uploaded them. Appreciate any help getting this newsletter going and guidance on my style and content. Is there anything missing in it?