The retail grocery industry is in the midst of a technology revolution. The way shoppers interact with retailers is changing as digital and physical commerce converge. The National Grocers Association (NGA) 2019 Show, held February 24-27 in San Diego, CA, will provide insight into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. With more than 60 workshops and general sessions being offered, NGA 2019 will be a great event for independent grocers to network with colleagues, learn from thought leaders, and seek solutions.
Here are three industry trends to follow at NGA 2019. Workshops, general sessions, and other events worth checking out are listed below each corresponding trend description.
TREND – Winning Numbers: Using Data to Make More Money
Now, more than ever before, retailers are able to leverage the power of data to capture more consumer dollars and reduce costs across the board. Learn how to make the most of your data.
TUESDAY
FEB. 26
9:30am - 9:55am
Room 26A
BIG DATA WORKSHOP SESSION
Perpetual Inventory 101
It’s been proven. Perpetual inventory is possible. You just need the right information and tools to get there. Two independent retail leaders (Rob Jones from Marczyk Fine Foods and Rob LaBonne from LaBonne’s Markets) will share how they’ve leveraged data and the power of unified commerce to put their inventory into precise alignment. Grocers who achieve perpetual inventory can increase their gross margins by 1, 2, or even 3 percentage points. If you’re in grocery and you’re wondering how you can do the same... you won’t want to miss this session!
Insider Advice: Both speakers will be available for questions at NGA Booth #718 after the session.
TUESDAY
FEB. 26
10am - 10:25am
Room 26A
BIG DATA WORKSHOP SESSION
Shopper Data: Moving From Targeting to Personalization
Stick around immediately after the conclusion of Perpetual Inventory 101 to learn how you can turn more of your data into dollars. There are more tools than ever before that allow retailers to personalize offers and use predictive analytics to maximize the effectiveness of your loyalty program.
TREND – Technology for the Retail Revolution
Technology has empowered consumers and increased their ability to self-direct their own shopping experience.
SUNDAY
FEB. 24
1pm - 4:30pm
Room 28ABC
GENERAL SESSION
iRetail: Technology Innovation Reshaping the Grocery Industry
The Center for Advancing Retail Technology (CART) will be hosting a General Session special event “designed to give mid-market regional retailers and progressive independent operators a framework for navigating fast paced innovation while retaining a focus on the importance of people and physical stores as we move into the future.” This event will include insightful discussions with thought leaders and retail executives as they delve into questions about incorporating new technologies, developing innovation culture, and showcasing the latest technologies transforming retail.
MONDAY
FEB. 25
12pm - 5pm
TUESDAY
FEB. 26
11am - 3pm
EXHIBITOR
ECRS (Booth #718)
Grocers should not see technological innovation as a threat to their business, but an opportunity. Visit booth #718 to talk to industry technology gurus who know all about the hardware, software, and partnerships that grocers need to survive and thrive in a rapidly-changing marketplace. Grocers can learn firsthand how ECRS’ CATAPULT® platform, powered by Unified Transaction Logic®, is revolutionizing the grocery game by seamlessly connecting every touch point of retail enterprise, from inventory to the back office, and point of sale.
TREND – Independent Innovation
Independent grocers are starting to learn how local can win against big-box behemoths. Catch these events so you can too.
MONDAY
FEB. 25
7am - 8:15am
Ballroom 20
SUPER BREAKFAST SESSION
Thriving as an Independent
Independent grocers are facing all sorts of challenges (and opportunities). Technological transformation has brought new entrants into the market, even in the midst of an unpredictable economy, and even as shopper behaviors shift toward digital commerce. Despite this, many independents are thriving and wholesalers are optimistic about their long term futures. Hear perspectives on the topic from industry titans like Peter Larkin (President & CEO, National Grocers Association), John Ross (President & CEO, IGA, Inc.) and Mike Stigers (Executive Vice President, Wholesale, SUPERVALU/UNFI).
TUESDAY
FEB. 26
3:15pm - 4:30pm
Room 28CD
SUPER SESSION
Rebuilding the Supermarket Experience
Commerce is converging. To be successful as a grocer in this brave new retail world, retailers must establish new ways to enhance the customer experience and innovate when it comes to products, personnel, and technology. “This new study from the Coca-Cola Retailing Research Council examines how this can be accomplished in a profitable way.” Featuring Michael Sansolo (President, Sansolo Solutions), David Zallie (Owner, Zallie's ShopRite Supermarkets of South Jersey), Jay Ard, Vice President (Industry Affairs, The Coca Cola Company).
