Chad Bugos, a seasoned retail professional with 29 years of industry experience, embarked on his retail career in 1994 as a pharmacist at the world’s largest retailer. Rapidly ascending through the ranks, Chad transitioned from store operations to becoming a retail buyer, showcasing his dedication and expertise. In 2005—fueled by a vision for reliability, honesty, and hard work—Chad and his wife, Denise founded Infinity Worlds, Inc.

Infinity Worlds, Inc. began as a sales agency, focusing on connecting brands and manufacturers with top retailers in Northwest Arkansas. Recognizing the need for strategic partnerships to expand their reach, Chad masterfully merged Infinity Worlds, Belmont Partners, Portu Sunberg and Tana Sales and Marketing in 2021, to extend their retail coverage. “I was smart enough to know that we did not have the expertise at the other retailers and by just hanging a shingle in the cities of the other retailers, I would end up disappointing my customers. I knew the only way to grow would be to partner with other well-established agencies serving the top retailers,” he said. This strategic move united two customer-focused agencies, opening the door for an extensive retail footprint with a diverse portfolio, including giants like Costco, Walgreens, Target, Best Buy, Amazon, and various ecommerce platforms. 

Chad’s leadership and forward-thinking approach led The Barcode Group to acquire Portu Sunberg and Tana Sales and Marketing in 2023, solidifying their position as a comprehensive solution for brands and retailers. Appointed as the CEO in January 2023, Chad Bugos envisions expanding services alongside an ever-growing retailer footprint. “I have always wanted to be part of something where I can move the needle – know that what I do matters. The Barcode Group is a ‘needle-mover’ and what we do changes lives for our customers and our people,” he added. 

However, Chad’s journey isn’t just about business. Hailing from a small community in Farmington, IL, he attributes his strong work ethic to his roots. “The people in central IL are tough as nails and can outwork anyone,” he said. Growing up with a passion for baseball, Chad’s competitive spirit led him to create a legendary legacy in wiffle ball, earning him a spot in the self-proclaimed Wiffle Ball Hall of Fame in 1994. “My middle brother and friends take exception to this self-given award, but I am sure they will come around eventually,” he said.  Today, Chad values family, boasting a close-knit connection with his wife Denise, six children, and four grandchildren—all residing in Arkansas. 

Reflecting on his career, Chad shares a heartwarming anecdote about a customer who joined Infinity Worlds in 2006. Inspired by their journey, he considers them the epitome of the American dream, embodying hard work, humility, and kindness. “They are the personification of the American dream – they came to this country as young men, worked very hard, started their own manufacturing facility from scratch – and now provide hundreds of jobs that support many families,” he added. 

Navigating the rapidly evolving retail landscape since 2020, Chad acknowledges the transformative impact of the pandemic, pushing traditional retail into the background and propelling ecommerce to the forefront. The Barcode Group, through strategic planning and collaboration, stands at the forefront of this shift, embracing the challenges and opportunities of an “omnichannel” future for its clients. “We will always push for how we can serve our brands, manufacturers, and retailers better in this ever-changing environment,” he said. 

Chad Bugos and The Barcode Group’s leadership team recognize that success is intertwined with the success of their people. Acknowledging the pivotal role their team plays in the company’s achievements, they emphasize the importance of expertise, a well-connected network, and unwavering passion for success in a dynamic retail environment. 

As The Barcode Group continues to redefine retail solutions, Chad Bugos stands as a beacon of leadership, steering the company towards innovative heights in an ever-changing industry.