Monica Royer, Founder and CEO of Monica + Andy: 'It's Your Now or Never Moment'
In this episode of Women in Retail Talks, Women in Retail Leadership Circle Co-Founder Melissa Campanelli interviews Monica Royer, founder and CEO of Monica + Andy, an organic baby clothing, accessories and essentials brand. This episode was recorded during a session at the Women in Retail: On the Road Los Angeles event in November. Listen in as Royer shares her background and why she founded Monica + Andy (1:05); how her upbringing influenced her decision to be an entrepreneur (2:45); and the influence of her brother Andy Dunn, co-founder of Bonobos, on her life (4:25). She discusses her strategy to launch Monica + Andy as an omnichannel business from day one (6:40), how the COVID-19 pandemic changed the business for the better (8:45), and how the brand entered Walmart stores (10:50).
Royer discusses what she considered when rebuilding the company’s supply chain (12:10), Monica + Andy’s unique products and offerings (13:05), and her focus on leadership development for herself and her team (15:05). She shares the parent-focused and mental health benefits available to Monica + Andy employees (19:35), what’s next for the brand (23:15), and the goal behind her podcast, The Mentor Files (24:05). Lastly, Royer tells women who are considering starting a business, “it’s your now or never moment” (26:05), her advice to her daughter and other young girls (27:15), and she answers a few rapid-fire questions (27:50).
Inspired by the birth of her daughter, first-time mom Royer created Monica + Andy in 2014 to deliver softer organic fabrics, better-designed clothing and blankets, and a seamless, easy shopping experience for parents. The brand’s commitment to thoughtfulness extends to their in-store and online workshops and community driven activities that include expert classes for new parents and babies. As a veteran in the Direct To Consumer and Retail space, Royer has been featured on CS Magazine’s “Trendsetters of the Year” list and Crain’s Chicago Business “40 Under 40” list. With a young daughter at home, Royer has made it her personal mission to empower other female entrepreneurs and young girls to reach their potential through her podcast The Mentor Files, which will launch its third season in the fall.
Date: December 12, 2023
Credits: Monica Royer
Duration: 30:36
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