Rocking and Rolling with SMG co-founder Matt Lee

Surrounded by collectables from one of the most influential rock bands in the world, Matthew Lee, Rolling Stones super-fan and SMG Co-founder, recently met with Daniel Torres, host of the Consumer Goods and Retail Podcast, FMCG Guys, for a wide-ranging conversation exploring Matt’s passion, career history, and the early days of SMG.

The Power of Specialization

Now the Guinness World Record holder for Rolling Stones memorabilia, Matt began collecting autographed items from the band during the early days of his storied marketing career. The more his renowned “Hot Stuff” Rolling Stones Archive grew, the more he understood the power of focus and specialization.  

This lesson would eventually inform a pivotal career decision for the would-be SMG founder: specializing in the power of retail media. 

Much like the Rolling Stones’ revolutionary influence on Rock and Roll, SMG is a pioneer in connected commerce. Founded in 2008, SMG is the first global full-service agency to concentrate on retail media, supporting retailers and brands in building creative and data-backed media campaigns that improve the shopper experience.

Through specialization, SMG provides best-in-class services to retailers, brands, and shoppers, especially when considering in-store experiences and omnichannel campaigns that understand consumer behavior. 

Cultivating Passion 

Growing to 500 employees today, Matt highlighted that SMG’s success exists beyond commercial metrics, but also through the community of people and partners that comprise SMG and its 7 Commerce Media Networks globally. 

Matt knows firsthand that your passions can drive you in all areas of life. He emphasized that the SMG community consists of passionate people, whether that passion is rock and roll, rugby, ballet, or something else entirely. Being passionate about anything will make you better at everything. 

“If you’re not passionate about anything, yeah, how am I going to get you passionate about retail media?” said Matt. 

His philosophy is simple:

1. Bring in passionate people
2. Treat them with respect
3. Teach them beyond just marketing and media.

The result is a culture where individuals grow, develop, and excel.

SMG is a collaborative of hard-working rockstars. We are devoted to providing top-of-the-line commerce media planning while staying hungry, honest, foolish, and having fun! 

Learn more about Matt Lee and his passions for retail media and the Rolling Stones on the FMCG Podcast.