Tech Transformation

CGT / RIS

Tech Transformation with CGT and RIS News explores the tech trends and innovation shaping the retail, CPG, and consumer goods industries. Listen for insights in digital transformation, data analytics, retail technology, consumer engagement, IT integration, e-commerce, cloud technology and computing, supply chain, and more. read less
BusinessBusiness

Episodes

AllSaints' James Reid on Endless Engagement Opportunities with Mobile Apps
6d ago
AllSaints' James Reid on Endless Engagement Opportunities with Mobile Apps
In this episode, we’re joined by James Reid, chief innovation officer at AllSaints. James brings a wealth of experience from both software and sales roles across various consumer goods companies and retailers. We explore AllSaints' journey, from re-platforming and shepherding innovation across the enterprise to the success of their consumer app, boasting over 150,000 downloads in the UK and US. How did they manage that? James lets us in on how and looks ahead to other features and capabilities the company is hoping to add in the future. We also discuss the buzz around unified commerce versus omnichannel strategies.  A lot of what James and I talk about chimes nicely with our Analytics Unite event in Chicago on May 1st-3rd which is themed around building the future of unified intelligence. This event is awesome every year, but we’re incredibly excited about this year in particular, as we’re going to have speakers from Tractor Supply, Amazon, Sephora, and Molson Coors. It is shaping up to be incredible. Registration is open now, so visit analyticsunite.com to sign up.  Listen to learn:  •The importance of customer focus and efficiency in innovation and implementing new technologies. •The development and success of the AllSaints app, which has over 150,000 downloads in the UK and US.  •How AllSaints makes use of the app's ability to identify highly engaged customers and its higher conversion rates compared to other channels. •How AllSaints maintains the DNA of its brand while tailoring messaging and experience to the needs of specific markets and geographies.  •The concept of unified commerce versus omnichannel, and why James considers one to be superior to the other.  •Why and how AllSaints is emphasizing the seamless integration of online and in-store experiences.  •The importance of experimentation and innovation in the retail industry.  •Plans for the future, including partnerships with retailers and the evolution of wholesale, concession, and drop-ship models.
The Vitamin Shoppe’s Andy Laudato on Building a Culture of Innovation
Jan 10 2024
The Vitamin Shoppe’s Andy Laudato on Building a Culture of Innovation
Innovation can be an architect of transformation, helping to build bridges from aspiration to accomplishment. A single misstep, however, and the entire structure can come tumbling down. With that in mind, how can leaders ensure their teams feel safe to take a chance, share their out-of-the-box ideas, and weigh up the risk versus the reward when it comes to innovation? In this episode, we’re talking all about this tricky topic with Andy Laudato, chief operating officer at the Vitamin Shoppe. In addition to his leadership role, Andy is also a published author, who has brought his 20 years of experience as a CIO to create a collection of lessons learned – and mistakes made – in the tech industry in his book, Fostering Innovation, How to Build an Amazing IT Team. Later in the episode, we connect with the recent insights shared by Andy on personalization and omnichannel, delving into practical steps for creating a supportive environment and nurturing a culture built around the three pillars Vitamin Shoppe lives by: quality, expertise and innovation. Listen to learn: •Why creating a culture of psychological safety is so important in retail and CPG. •How The Vitamin Shoppe approaches personalization initiatives catering to its diverse customer base. •How innovation extends beyond technology to products, processes, and the supply chain. •How The Vitamin Shoppe builds a culture of quality, expertise, and innovation. •The Vitamin Shoppe’s plans for AI-driven one-to-one personalization. •How The Vitamin Shoppe is balancing both front-end and back-end enhancements for a smooth customer experience. •Why failure is a valuable learning experience – sometimes more so than success. •Why Q1 is a more important time of year than Q4 for the Vitamin Shoppe. •How the Vitamin Shoppe shows its ongoing commitment to evolving technology for an integrated shopping experience.
The Kraft Heinz Company’s Linda Roman on Embedding Sustainability Throughout The Business
Dec 13 2023
The Kraft Heinz Company’s Linda Roman on Embedding Sustainability Throughout The Business
On this episode, we’re joined by Linda Roman, Associate Director of Packaging ESG & Technology at The Kraft Heinz Company. Working at one of the biggest consumer goods companies in the world, Linda has a front-row seat to just how important packaging can be in the quest to be more sustainable. Discussing Kraft Heinz's approach, Linda delves into the crucial role of technology and collaboration across the value chain, and the challenges and opportunities in achieving sustainability goals. From aligning packaging strategies with business outcomes to measuring success through specific KPIs, Linda provides us with an optimistic overview of Kraft Heinz's journey toward a more sustainable future. Stay tuned for that and more, on this episode of tech transformation. Listen to learn: •How Kraft Heinz balances innovation with circularity goals •Why Kraft Heinz emphasizes a culture of creativity and innovation to drive sustainability and embeds ESG in all facets of its business •Why sustainability is such a key focus for Kraft Heinz •How Kraft Heinz leverages technology, including AI, machine learning, data analytics, and supply chain technologies, to drive its sustainability efforts •The importance of partnering with organizations and participating in committees to establish industry-wide protocols and standards for sustainability •Examples of Kraft Heinz’s collaborations with retailers in recycling soft plastics and refillable packaging •How Kraft Heinz measures success through KPIs, progress tracking, and reporting •Upcoming projects, including prototype testing for sustainable packaging solutions