Why Retail Tech Is Failing (And How River Island Are Fixing It)

from Marketing in the Madness · host Marketing in the Madness

The future of shopping isn’t about selling, it’s about experience. Simon Pakenham-Walsh, CIO at River Island, breaks down how technology, AI and data are transforming retail — from smart stores and RFID checkouts to seamless online journeys that actually feel connected. With a career spanning Sweaty Betty, Sainsbury’s and Arcadia, Simon’s seen how brands win (and lose) when they get transformation wrong. Now he’s revealing how River Island is rethinking its tech, people, and mindset to rebuild what shopping means in 2025. This one’s for the marketers, retail leaders and founders trying to make digital transformation actually work - without losing the human touch. We talk: The future of retail and technology Why AI and data are rewriting how we shop How to transform a brand without breaking it Why tech isn’t the problem - mindset is If you care about the future of eCommerce, AI in retail, or the next generation of in-store experiences, this episode will change how you think about shopping forever.

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This episode is 50 minutes long.

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This episode was published on October 14, 2025.

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