As Shoptalk Spring 2026 approaches, one theme is shaping the conversation across the retail industry: AI is moving from experimentation to real-world application.

In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, Fritz Finlay speaks with Joe Laszlo, Head of Content & Insights at Shoptalk, about the ideas and trends expected to define this year’s event.

Their discussion explores several themes emerging across AI in retail today:

- Human-Centric AI

As automation expands across retail operations, successful brands are focusing on how technology can enhance, not replace, the human elements of service, connection, and experience.

- AI as a Multiplier

Rather than asking what roles AI replaces, retailers are increasingly exploring how AI can expand what teams are capable of accomplishing.

- From AI Hype to Retail Impact

The most valuable AI applications are solving long-standing retail challenges, from merchandising decisions and demand planning to customer engagement and discovery.

Joe also shares how these themes are reflected in the Shoptalk Spring 2026 agenda, where leaders from companies such as New Balance, Victoria’s Secret, and Reddit will discuss how AI is shaping the next phase of retail innovation.