Coworking with Alex Vuocolo

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We’re getting to know the latest addition to the Retail Brew team, Alex Vuocolo.

How would you describe your job to someone who doesn’t work in retail? I see my job as trying to understand the economy by looking at one of its most important components: the companies that bring the goods we want and need to market.

One thing we can’t guess about your job from your LinkedIn profile? It involves reading a lot of other news outlets and then kicking yourself for not having written a particular story.

What’s your favorite project you’ve worked on? I founded a quarterly print magazine in Philadelphia about transportation issues. I didn’t make a cent, but it was a blast. The combination of putting out a magazine and working at a pizza shop is actually my ideal working arrangement.

Which emerging retail trend are you most excited about this year, and why? It’s interesting that more retail workers are trying to unionize. For such a large sector, there's been a lack of this kind of labor activity in the past.

What’s your go-to coffee order? Small coffee with half-and-half.

Worst piece of advice you’ve received? My high school guidance counselor told me not to worry about college tuition costs. So I didn’t, and I ended up dropping out freshman year because I couldn’t afford it. I never looked back, but in my weaker moments, I’ve thought about sending her the bill.

What was your favorite retail product when you were 15, and what’s your favorite retail product now? The only thing I really enjoy buying are books. That's true now, and it was true when I was 15. Candles are also nice.