In this episode we delve into a topic that sits at the core of the need to be remarkable: the on-going bifurcation of the retail market.For more than a decade success has largely been found at either end of the spectrum. At one end, brands that offered incredible value and convenience have been gobbling up market share and opening hundreds of stores, even in the face of the so-called "retail apocalypse." At the other end of the continuum, many higher-end stores and well-honed specialty concepts have similarly enjoyed expanding sales, profits and, in many cases, store counts. Yet those stuck in the mediocre middle, have been hit incredibly hard, a situation made all the more dire by the COVID economy. In this episode we discuss the underlying forces that are causing the collapse of the middle and how to get on the journey to remarkable.To better understand "the collapse of the middle" we interview Kasey Lobaugh, Deloitte Consulting's chief retail innovation officer. Kasey helps us unpack the key findings from Deloitte's "Great Retail Bifurcation" report. We also discuss how the pandemic is amplifying many of these forces and why we may well be looking at a "K-shaped recovery."For further reading on the concept of retail bifurcation by Kasey:A tale of 2 holiday seasons: As a K-shaped recovery emerges, consumer spending is heavily bifurcated.Holiday sales expected to jump 4.5 - 5%For further reading on the Collapse of the Middle by Steve in Forbes:The Coronavirus will accelerate retail's "collapse of the middle"Retail's great bifurcation 2.0 You can learn more about Steve on his website here .  His new best-selling book is available in hardcover, audiobook at ebook at Amazon or just about anywhere else books are sold. Steve shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior contributor and on Twitter and LinkedIn. You can check out his speaker "sizzle" reel here.You can learn more about Michael here ( www.meleblanc.co) or here on LinkedIn ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeleleblanc/ )******If you liked what you heard you can subscribe on Apple, Spotify or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail, brand or CPG industry.   Have a safe week everyone!