Neil Stern, CEO of Good Food Holdings, shares insights on the evolution of the connected store and his journey from consultant to CEO during the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses how the company's e-commerce sales skyrocketed by 450% under his leadership, largely driven by consumer demand for technology like self-checkouts. Neil Stern emphasizes the importance of adapting to consumer needs and the challenges of integrating disparate technologies within the retail space. He explains the ongoing trials in different banners, including the implementation of innovative solutions like Caper carts and scan-and-go systems. The conversation highlights the necessity of experimenting and failing fast in order to stay competitive and meet the evolving expectations of customers in the grocery industry.

Takeaways:

• Neil Stern discusses his unconventional journey from consultant to CEO during COVID-19, highlighting the challenges faced.
• The importance of adapting to technology was emphasized as Good Food Holdings introduced self-checkouts to meet consumer demand.
• Stern notes that understanding customer needs is crucial for retailers to stay relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.
• The podcast underscores the significance of having a connected store to bridge the gap between online and in-store experiences.
• Stern acknowledges that trial and error are essential in implementing new technologies for retail success.
• Finally, he emphasizes that flexibility and adaptability in technology choices can enhance customer experiences significantly.

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