Scott Lachut speaking on stage at conference

I see myself as an agent for navigating and catalyzing change. Every day I read large swaths of the internet to track how emerging ideas come to life in culture, consumer behaviors, and the marketplace. I like to ask why and understand what it all could mean. My work balances the rationality of frameworks and systems with narratives designed to provoke and inspire. I lead with empathy and curiosity and get genuinely excited by progressive ways of thinking and doing.

For 18+ years, I’ve connected the dots to help strategically transform and futureproof companies and brands. I built PSFK’s foresight and innovation practice, instituting a rigorous research methodology and a sophisticated set of offerings. I’ve established myself as a recognized thought leader and trusted advisor to senior executives at Fortune 100 brands. I have presented my thinking to global audiences at industry conferences including SXSW, CES, and NRF, and hosted high-level conversations with pioneering experts to gain their insights and perspectives. 

While a true generalist at heart, I have developed deep expertise in retail, brand experience, CX, and emerging tech, applying that knowledge to help companies reimagine their physical and digital commerce, product and service experiences, operations, marketing, and beyond in an increasingly complex, hybrid omnichannel environment. For 12 years, I authored PSFK’s industry-leading annual report on the “Future of Retail,” which provided a progressive POV on the most pressing challenges and key trends influencing the marketplace and consumer.

I pride myself on being a tireless researcher, attentive listener, and critical thinker. It's extremely important for me to believe in the ideas that I'm putting out into the world. I prioritize simplicity over complexity while recognizing that the path to a brilliant solution is often circuitous and comes more from effort than an ah-hah. I’m driven by possibility and ready for what’s next.

1) Consumers and users are first and foremost people. Treat them that way.

Values That Inform My Thinking And Work

I strongly believe that the brands built to lead and thrive in the future are actively engaging with and shaping culture today. They have a progressive point of view on the evolving role of their brand in the world and are connecting with their audiences around shared purpose and passion. They recognize and respect their capacity to influence change and position themselves as platforms for people to participate with and create from. These companies see the power of building two-way relationships and generating mutual value for their business, society, and more.

2) Purchase is an invitation. Reimagine ownership as a membership opportunity.

3) Successful brands position themselves as platforms for participation and growth.

4) Products are most powerful when they’re envisioned as lifestyle solutions.

5) Ecosystems build competitive advantage and drive exponential value.

6) Time and attention are scarce but great experience always trumps convenience.

8) Innovation is an ongoing endeavor. The best brands are always in beta.

9) Regenerative/systems thinking is the new human-centered design.

7) Context is critical. Even amazing ideas require the right conditions to succeed.