Innovating to Address the New Consumer of Today Bahram Akradi-Lifetime Fitness The current economic meltdown has permanently reshaped today’s increasingly discerning consumer. More than ever before, attracting and retaining customers demands innovative new approaches that deepen relationships, enhance connectivity and deliver real, meaningful value. In the face of a sustained economic headwind, businesses must invest in strengthening customers’ experience and results. Those who otherwise rely upon conventional wisdom face a recipe for failure, not success.