In this episode of All Things Circular, hosts Rich Bulger and Damian Polak come to you live from NRF Rev in New York City for a fast-paced, on-the-ground recap of one of retail’s most important reverse logistics gatherings. Joined by leaders from the liquidation and bin store world, including Tom Schultz of Liquidation Motivation and Ben Davis of Bin Mania, the conversation unpacks what really happens when returns, excess inventory, and secondary supply chains collide with technology, retail, and opportunity.

Broadcasting straight from the show floor, the group reflects on why NRF Rev matters for anyone operating in resale, liquidation, or reverse logistics. From networking with retailers and tech providers to understanding how major brands think about returns, the episode highlights how being “in the right room” can completely change the trajectory of a business. In an industry with no formal degree path in reverse logistics, events like this become the classroom, where operators trade insights, share hard-earned lessons, and sharpen their strategies.

Rich breaks down one of the core themes of the discussion: the difference between the linear supply chain and the secondary supply chain. While traditional retail follows a make, distribute, sell model, reverse logistics operates under entirely different pressures, incentives, and value drivers. The group explores tiered return streams, the economics of large-lot versus small-lot sales, brand protection concerns, distributor realities, and the strategic decisions that determine where and how returned product ultimately lands. For liquidators and resale entrepreneurs, understanding these tiers is the key to unlocking reliable supply and long-term profitability.

The episode also tackles a persistent myth in the industry: that buying through liquidation or secondary channels automatically results in a poor customer experience. Drawing from real-world bin store operations, the conversation emphasizes that customer delight, operational discipline, and brand identity matter just as much in discount retail as they do in traditional storefronts. From front-line staff culture to repeat foot traffic strategy, the panel shows how resale businesses can compete and win by delivering memorable, positive experiences.

By the end of the episode, listeners gain a clearer understanding of how reverse logistics education, strategic networking, and a deeper grasp of secondary market dynamics can transform liquidation from a hustle into a scalable business model. Whether you’re a retailer, brand, tech provider, or resale operator, this live NRF Rev recap offers practical insight into how inventory moves after first use and why mastering that movement creates real competitive advantage.

Visit our website to learn more:

https://allthingscircular.com

Connect with Rich: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-bulger/

Connect with Damian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damianpolak/

Connect with Tom: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-shultz-mba-a1a8b378/

Connect with Ben: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-davis-172047188/

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