meet the team: simon tesoriero
Simon Tesoriero joins the AFI team at a busy and exciting time – as the retail, events and exhibition industries are well and truly back in business… and just ahead of AFI’s move to state-of-the-art facilities in Braeside, alongside our parent company IVE. We have a catch up with Simon, AFI’s Business Development Manager to discuss how the industry has changed over the last few years and what lies ahead.
Welcome to AFI! Tell us a bit about what your background:
“I’ve been working in the retail space for over 20 years – predominantly with FMCG brands. Whilst I specialised in furniture design at university, my career has largely centred around creating point of sale displays. This background in industrial design can mean a different approach when discussing briefs with clients. I enjoy the balance of understanding what a client is trying to achieve and then using innovative design to make that a reality. During my career, I’ve won multiple awards for marketing at retail both locally and internationally – and getting that industry recognition never gets old!”
The last few years have been a bit of a crazy ride in our industry. What do you think has changed and why?
“I think consumer psychology has experienced a real shift over the last few years. Heading to the supermarket might have been perceived as an errand or a chore before the pandemic. But when that was the only reason you were allowed to leave your house, it became a great escape for many! Now that things have returned to normal, I believe the excitement and appreciation for freedom is still very strong. That presents an opportunity for retailers to tap into by creating unique in-store experiences which serve that consumer appetite. Now is the time to push industry norms, try new things and engage consumers at a deeper level.”
Looking forward, what opportunities do you see in the industry?
“The retail setting is more fast-paced than ever with new brands and brand experiences emerging all the time. It’s also important to acknowledge that the physical in-store experience needs to work hand in hand with an integrated digital marketing strategy. Social media is an incredibly powerful tool to influence consumers and start that brand awareness and engagement, before they even step into a store. We’re seeing pop-up shops and personalisation stations increase in popularity because they’re fresh, different and serve that here today, gone tomorrow mentality that is echoed on social media. Everyone wants to be part of the next big thing. Retailers and brands that are willing to take risks and push the boundaries will be the ones that get the real cut-through in 2023 and beyond.”
What are you most excited about in starting at AFI?
“I am really looking forward to exploring the possibilities of what can be done with our extensive capabilities – especially now being part of IVE Group and the opportunities that presents. I’m also excited to work with clients in creating some truly unique experiences that challenge the industry.”
Connect with Simon here.