Conference hears about hi-tech solutions
MAJOR players in the convenience sector have been told how embracing advanced technology now is key to future success.
That was the leading message of the two-day Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) annual conference, held in Glasgow last month.
And delegates heard they were well-placed to benefit from the hi-tech developments as the industry had shown it was both agile and forward-thinking during the Covid pandemic and subsequent economic crisis.
In a conference first, keynote speakers included ministers from both Westminster and the Scottish Government.
Scotland Office minister Lord Offord, speaking via video link, pledged to work with the Scottish Government to stimulate economic growth.
Addressing concerns about soaring bills, he also told delegates the UK Government was seeking long-term energy security to ensure a smoothing-out of prices.
On day two, Holyrood minister Tom Arthur said he wanted the closest possible working relationship with the SGF.
He said: “We both want a thriving retail sector across Scotland. The Scottish Government is doing all it can with the powers and resources we have to help the industry.”
JW Filshill chief Simon Hannah said the industry needed future-proofing with a strategy for a digitised world, using AI to become more efficient and adapting to new interfaces that customers use to save time.
Mike Watkins, of analysts Nielsen IQ, also spoke of changing shopper habits and predicted first interactions would be through an app rather than walking through the c-store door in the future.
The second day saw numerous speakers focus on how data could provide valuable insights, while technology could improve business performance.
The importance of having a modern, easily navigated store layout that makes use of the likes of “endless aisles”, as well as utilising social media, was also highlighted.
And 1314 boss James Thomson explained how smart automation technology could be used to improve energy efficiency and security.
Breakout sessions included details of the Veesion AI system that detects suspicious behaviour caught on CCTV and sends real-time video alerts to store bosses.
The conference also included a trade exhibition featuring familiar product and service suppliers from across the convenience sector, as well as new-tech companies.
These included Gander – an app that connects users to reduced-price food in their local stores – and GigGrafter, an online workforce management platform.
Scotland Food and Drink were also on hand, hosting a range of the nation’s suppliers, all tempting the 440-plus delegates with their offerings.
SGF chief executive Pete Cheema said: “The past few years have shown just how important convenience retailers are for our communities and for the Scottish economy.
“This has been our best conference ever and the level of engagement, from both delegates and stakeholders, has been remarkable.
“The event was built around giving retailers something tangible and relevant to take back to their business – focusing on how technology can be used to grow businesses and improve the customer experience.”
