It’s that time of the year when CMOs look back at 2017 results, analyze important KPIs and assess their industry as a whole, and project 2018’s performance. Based on my personal survey with clients and prospects, most predict a 2018 with challenges, with any gains from a potential higher GDP growth being eaten by the need to keep prices competitive to fight private label, channel disruption, and a more-than-ever empowered consumer ready to make the switch to competitive brands. By Isaac Mizrahi – Co President, Chief Operating Officer / ALMA