Published Articles
Part 1: The Loyalty Trade-Off; When National Brand Pressure Tests Your Private Brand Resolve
Every national brand deal tests your resolve. This piece explores why protecting your private brand—especially under pressure—is the only path to lasting loyalty and profitability.
Part 2: The Maker Shortage; Can the Private Brand Supply Chain Survive Without New Blood?
As private label demand rises, a shrinking pool of vetted manufacturers threatens growth. This article examines why replenishing and fortifying your supply base is essential to sustain long-term brand control.
An Open Letter to Private Brand Manufacturers
The best private brand partnerships aren’t transactional—they’re built on shared insight, accountability, and leadership-level commitment. This letter lays out what manufacturers must bring to the table from day one.
*NOTE: Click and See page 56 of the PLMA magazine to read the full article. *
Rethinking Financial Controls to Foster Genuine Growth in Private Brands
Most financial metrics tell different stories and private brands can’t thrive by chasing them all. In this piece, I argue for fewer, sharper controls that enable real, sustainable growth.
Coming soon! The second installment of Jill Dearing’s manufacturing partnership series.
Strong partnerships aren’t built for the easy seasons—they’re tested when everything goes sideways. This upcoming article explores how manufacturers and retailers can lead together through disruption, with clarity, accountability, and shared resilience.