How Smart Retailers Adapt When Growth Slows
- Jul 7, 2026
- 23:18
- Full Episode
ABOUT THE EPISODE When growth slows, the smartest retailers know when it’s time to change strategies.
Wharton Professor Marshall Fisher discusses his research into how successful retailers respond when growth slows. Using Costco, Walmart, and Dillard’s as examples, Fisher explains the three strategies that can drive success at different stages: opening new stores, investing in online growth, and strategically cutting costs. He also explains why an obsession with top-line growth can hurt companies and why knowing when to change strategies is critical to long-term success.
ABOUT THE PODCAST Every day, business scholars answer pressing questions in their research - but what do their insights mean for you? In this podcast, Wharton faculty dive into what inspired their studies and how their findings resonate with the world today. Learn how research insights translate into knowledge you can use, with host Dan Loney.
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Brief Summary
Marshall Fisher discusses retail strategies amid economic challenges, focusing on Costco, Walmart, and Dillard's responses to growth and cost management.
Key points
- The Ripple Effect Podcast Introduction. Join host Dan Loney as he explores groundbreaking research from Wharton professors.
- Retailers Navigating Challenges. Marshall Fisher discusses how retailers cope with economic challenges, including COVID-19 and tariffs.
- Cost Cutting Success Story. Dillard's transformed their flat revenue into significant profit by cutting costs effectively.
- Lessons from Retailers. Key takeaways from successful retailers on managing growth and adapting to market changes.
Episode highlights
- The Ripple Effect Podcast IntroductionJoin host Dan Loney as he explores groundbreaking research from Wharton professors.“Welcome to The Ripple Effect, the podcast that takes you on a journey through the minds of work and faculty.”0:21Jul 7, 2026
- Retailers Navigating ChallengesMarshall Fisher discusses how retailers cope with economic challenges, including COVID-19 and tariffs.“It's a huge challenge. The word challenge almost understates it.”1:27Jul 7, 2026
- Cost Cutting Success StoryDillard's transformed their flat revenue into significant profit by cutting costs effectively.“They grew their profit from $137 million a year to over a billion just by cutting costs.”8:47Jul 7, 2026
- Lessons from RetailersKey takeaways from successful retailers on managing growth and adapting to market changes.“Don't try to push growth to the point where it's unprofitable.”22:07Jul 7, 2026
