Embracing Tech in Retail: Parag Shah of Think Blue on AI, E-Commerce & Customer Experience

What does it take to transform legacy retail systems into future-ready strategies—without losing sight of what matters most?In this episode of Candid with Candidates, Jenn Hahn sits down with Parag Shah, Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Think Blue, to explore his journey from grocery store aisles to executive boardrooms—and now to reimagining how the industry uses data, technology, and good old-fashioned merchant instinct to drive smarter growth.Parag shares how his 25-year corporate career—from buyer to VP at Wakefern and then head of merchandising and digital at The Giant Company—shaped his belief that innovation doesn’t start with a tool or system. It starts with people who are willing to experiment, evolve, and execute with courage.Now leading Think Blue, Parag partners with CPGs and retailers to reimagine the merchant function, transform space planning, and move beyond outdated joint business planning to unlock shared value between brands and retailers.What You'll Learn:Why the merchant mindset still matters in the age of AIHow Parag and his team led a transformation, guiding 48 board meetings over a 24-month period—with patience and persistenceThe power of inspiration and experimentation when introducing new technologiesWhat retailers and CPGs need to rethink about joint business planningHow to avoid shiny object syndrome in tech adoptionWhat every professional—regardless of role—can do to stay relevant in the age of AIWith real-world stories, practical advice, and a few lessons from 48 board meetings, this episode is a must-listen for anyone leading through transformation—or hoping to. Listen now!Guest Links:Connect with Parag Shah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omnigrowthparag/ Explore Think Blue: Think BlueNext Steps:Enjoyed the episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone building their career in retail.For more behind-the-scenes stories and career advice follow Jenn on LinkedIn