Omni Talk Retail

In this episode, sponsored by Instacart Enterprise, Portager, Vusion, and Sifter Solutions, Ben Miller is joined by Chris Walton, President and CEO of Omni Talk, live from NRF Retail’s Big Show Europe in Paris, to unpack the latest grocery news and trends shaping the global grocery and CPG industry. This week, they discuss: • Kroger’s stalled performance and lowered 2026 sales outlook, examining whether the challenges facing the supermarket giant are specific to Kroger, the broader supermarket format, or consumer confidence: https://www.supermarketnews.com/finance/kroger-cuts-same-store-sales-outlook-for-2026 • Instacart and Shipt launching AI-powered shopping assistants, and what the latest developments in AI-powered grocery shopping mean for the customer experience retailers should be working toward: https://www.grocerydive.com/news/instacart-shipt-launch-ai-powered-shopping-assistants/829859/ • Walgreens partnering with Looma to deploy in-store advertising screens, and whether working with a partner that provides hardware, content production, and measurement is the right approach to in-store digitization: https://chainstoreage.com/news-briefs/2026-09-08?article=walgreens-deploy-store-advertising-screens • Albertsons expanding its board and naming Meg Whitman as its first Executive Chair, examining what the appointment could signal for the company and the wider grocery industry: https://www.grocerydive.com/news/albertsons-expands-board-names-first-executive-chair-meg-whitman/829895/ Plus, Kim Schneider of Vestcom joins us for Five Insightful Minutes to explore how grocers can maximize their investment in shelf-edge technologies. A few things worth checking out from this week’s episode: Don’t miss our exclusive interviews from NRF Retail’s Big Show Europe in Paris, featuring the retail leaders and innovators shaping the future of grocery and retail. Catch them on the Omni Talk LinkedIn page, podcast channels, and YouTube. Register for Omni Talk’s Fall Conference Season “Must-See” Tech Preview: https://www.linkedin.com/events/omnitalk-sfallconferenceseason-7486477216600518656/theater/ Episode 005. Welcome to GrocerTalk. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ Music by hooksounds.com.

Ulta is facing backlash over its use of Flock Safety’s automated license plate reader technology, raising bigger questions about transparency, communication, and how retailers handle technology that can impact their customers. Chris Walton and Shelley Huff discuss whether the bigger problem is the technology itself or the way Ulta communicated its use of it. The big question: When retailers use controversial technology, how much transparency do customers deserve? ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/x4hGqvRTilY

Amazon is bringing back its digital grocery pop-up for Labor Day, but the bigger question is what these short-term grocery pushes actually accomplish for the retailer. Chris Walton and Shelley Huff discuss whether Amazon’s grocery pop-ups are a smart way to build share and stay top of mind, or just another temporary promotion in an increasingly crowded grocery market. The big question: Is Amazon building a grocery business, or just building grocery moments? ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here:https://youtu.be/x4hGqvRTilY

Sprouts has named Nick Konat as its next CEO, with the leadership transition set to take effect in January 2027. Chris Walton and Shelley Huff discuss what Konat should focus on as he takes the reins, from staying disciplined on the retailer’s existing strategy to executing the roadmap already in motion. The big question: Does Sprouts need a new strategy, or simply a new leader to execute the one it already has? ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/x4hGqvRTilY

It’s lightning round time, and Chris Walton and Shelley Huff are making some very important decisions, from their Super Bowl picks to choosing between Genie and Samantha and naming the Adam Sandler movie they’d keep forever. Plus, one very specific wish involving a dog that may or may not be possible. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/x4hGqvRTilY

Sephora is testing monthly exclusive product drops on TikTok Shop, giving the beauty retailer another way to create demand and build community around new products. Chris Walton and Shelley Huff discuss how TikTok Shop differs from Amazon, and why the platform may be more valuable for creating demand than simply capturing it. The big question: Can TikTok Shop turn product drops into a repeatable retail habit? ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/x4hGqvRTilY

Costco has quietly shut down Costco Next, its member-only online marketplace that connected shoppers with products from outside brands. Chris Walton and Shelley Huff discuss why Costco’s club model may not translate neatly to a marketplace business, and what the move says about where Costco wants to focus its digital strategy. The big question: Does Costco really need a marketplace when its core model is already working? ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/x4hGqvRTilY

In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Quorso, Veloq, and R&S Logistics, Shelley Huff is back again, joining Chris Walton for another round of Fast Five fun. The former Serta Simmons CEO and Walmart executive, now CEO and Co-Founder of the Interval, joins Chris to discuss: • Amazon’s latest limited-time grocery storefront for Labor Day and whether these smaller, occasion-based sales events are smart incremental share-building moves or just a gimmick that doesn’t move the needle: https://chainstoreage.com/news-briefs/2026-08-31?article=amazon-offers-digital-labor-day-grocery-store • Ulta Beauty’s social media backlash over its use of Flock Safety’s automated license-plate reader technology at a small number of stores, and whether retailers can justify surveillance technology as a tool against organized retail crime while managing the inevitable public backlash: https://www.retaildive.com/news/ulta-flock-technology-backlash/829623/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Issue:%202026-09-04%20Retail%20Dive%20Newsletter%20%5Bissue:88897%5D&utm_term=Retail%20Dive • Costco quietly shutting down Costco Next, its member-only online marketplace, and what the move says about the role marketplaces should play in club retail: https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2026/09/02/costco-shuts-down-costco-next/91577977007/ • Sephora piloting a new “Drop Shop” storefront on TikTok Shop, featuring exclusive monthly product drops and livestream shopping events, and why brands may see more opportunity in social commerce than traditional marketplaces: https://chainstoreage.com/sephora-debut-tiktok-shop-monthly-drops? • Sprouts Farmers Market naming President and COO Nick Konat as its next CEO as comparable-store sales turn negative, and what his priorities should be as he takes the reins in January: https://www.grocerydive.com/news/sprouts-farmers-market-jack-sinclair-nick-konat-ceo-change/829586/ Plus, Chris and Shelley tackle the lightning round, including their thoughts on Obsession, one-wish willows, and the age-old question: Genie or Samantha? P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot: https://podcasts.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by https://www.hooksounds.com/

In this episode, sponsored by Instacart Enterprise, Portager, Vusion, and Sifter Solutions, Ben Miller is joined by Sarah Engel, President of digital marketing agency and consultancy January Digital and one of Adweek’s 50 most influential marketing executives, to take stock of the latest developments in Agentic Commerce and unpack the global grocery news stories from this week that we believe are worth paying attention to. This week, they discuss: • Anthropic’s new blueprints for Shopping and Merchant Agents, Amazon’s latest Alexa for Shopping update, and what the rise of Agentic Commerce means for grocery: https://www.reuters.com/business/retail-consumer/anthropic-launches-ai-agent-blueprints-retailers-ahead-holiday-shopping-season-2026-09-02/ • Sprouts Farmers Market’s CEO succession plan, with Jack Sinclair stepping down and COO Nick Konat set to take over.: https://www.grocerydive.com/news/sprouts-names-ceo-nick-konat/829368/ • Kroger and Meijer’s September wellness events, and whether in-store health and wellness activations can really move the needle: https://progressivegrocer.com/kroger-takes-health-focused-message-across-country-wellness-tour • Walmart expanding restaurant delivery through Dunkin’, and why the move could be a smart way to build delivery demand and order density: https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2026/09/walmart-expands-restaurant-delivery-with-dunkin • Aldi letting shoppers vote on new private label coffee creamer flavors, and whether it’s smart engagement or simply a fun gimmick: https://progressivegrocer.com/aldi-takes-store-strategy-instagram-facebook Plus, GrocerTalk Grab & Go brings even more stories to the table, including Aldi’s Barbie-themed UK exclusive, Sarah’s pick of the week, and Ben questioning whether Starbucks’ new UK autumn menu is helping clarify what the brand actually wants to be. A few things worth checking out from this week’s episode: • Register for our Fall Conference “Must See” Tech Preview on September 17: https://www.linkedin.com/events/omnitalk-sfallconferenceseason-7486477216600518656/theater/ • Watch Jack Sinclair’s Groceryshop keynote from last year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPdm5IAecYc GrocerTalk is your weekly dose of the trends, tech and big ideas shaping grocery and CPG. Episode 004. Welcome to GrocerTalk. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ Music by hooksounds.com

In this Retail Technology Spotlight series, Chris Walton sits down with Julian Sellan, Senior Supply Chain Engineer at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, and Nick Cianfarani, Senior Account Manager at Dematic, to explore one of the biggest questions facing supply chain leaders today: How do you decide when it's time to upgrade your logistics network and when is it smarter to start over? Through the lens of Southern Glazer's ongoing network transformation, Julian and Nick break down what goes into evaluating aging facilities, consolidating distribution centers, and designing an operation that can meet today's demand without becoming obsolete tomorrow. From modular pick modules and miles of conveyor to warehouse software that acts as the "brain" behind the operation, the conversation explores what it takes to build flexibility into a logistics network from day one. Julian and Nick also dig into the often overlooked human side of automation, including why standardization, employee buy-in, knowledge transfer, and "hypercare" can make or break a successful go-live. And the results are already beginning to show, with Southern Glazer's Louisiana operation doubling throughput and reducing delivery frequency from five days a week to four. From deciding between retrofit and greenfield facilities to designing warehouses that can evolve alongside changing consumer demand, this episode offers a practical look inside what it really takes to modernize a logistics network without designing yourself into the next problem. Key Topics Covered: 00:03:50 - Why Southern Glazer's began reevaluating its logistics network 00:05:46 - How to decide between upgrading an existing facility or building new 00:09:18 - Why consolidation can reduce complexity and unlock new efficiencies 00:11:09 - How to right-size a facility for today's demand and tomorrow's growth 00:14:14 - Inside the modular automation system designed for Southern Glazer's 00:19:57 - Why warehouse software is the "brain" behind automation 00:24:13 - Why software alignment needs to happen before the hardware goes in 00:25:18 - How standardization makes new facility rollouts easier over time 00:27:54 - The biggest watch-outs when designing and launching an automated facility 00:33:53 - Why "hypercare" and employee buy-in are critical to a successful go-live 00:35:35 - The results Southern Glazer's is already seeing from its new network 00:37:18 - How continuous partnership helps supply chain teams prepare for what's next Want to learn more about Southern Glazer's automation journey? Check out these additional resources: https://www.dematic.com/en-us/insights/case-studies/southern-glazer https://www.mmh.com/article/system_report_perfecting_the_automation_mix_at_southern_glazers Over 8 years and nearly 200 episodes, the Retail Technology Spotlight Series has featured some of the biggest names and boldest thinkers in retail. Explore the full archive here: https://omnitalk.blog/category/spotlight-series-podcast/ Sponsored Content

Walmart is expanding its restaurant delivery ambitions beyond the Subway locations inside its stores, and the Fast Five crew thinks this could become much more than just a grocery delivery add-on. Ken Davidson sees it primarily as a logical bolt-on, while Michael Prendergast, Ben Miller, and Chris Walton argue Walmart's massive store footprint, delivery density, and potential drone capabilities could eventually make it a much bigger threat to DoorDash and Uber Eats. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/NXUUmuwrX2Q

Stripe believes the traditional online checkout page is on its way out as AI agents and agentic commerce begin to reshape how consumers shop. Michael Prendergast, Ken Davidson, Ben Miller, and Chris Walton discuss what happens when the purchasing process becomes increasingly machine-led, from eliminating friction and clicks to completely rethinking promotions, pricing, and how retailers compete for transactions. The big question: Are retailers ready for a world where machines may increasingly shop for consumers? ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/NXUUmuwrX2Q

Amazon is reportedly exploring Project Tetromino, an internal initiative aimed at building fully automated delivery stations and bringing even more robotics into the last mile. The Fast Five crew discusses whether full automation is inevitable, how quickly Amazon could make it happen, and why the company appears hesitant to publicly own its automation ambitions. Because when Amazon already has more than a million robots deployed, the question may not be if automation is coming, but just how fast. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/NXUUmuwrX2Q

Sur La Table has entered the resale game with Second Servings, a new peer-to-peer marketplace for kitchenware, home goods, and dining products. The Fast Five crew debates whether the marketplace is a smart, low-lift opportunity or simply a distraction that won't generate enough traffic to move the needle. And after taking a closer look at the platform, Ben Miller raises another interesting question: is this really a peer-to-peer marketplace, or a new way for Sur La Table to sell discounted and returned merchandise? ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/NXUUmuwrX2Q

Target is launching Target Beauty Studio with more than 1,600 products from 90 brands, including more than two-thirds that are brand new to Target. But can this new beauty destination successfully fill the space left behind by Ulta? Chris Walton, Ben Miller, Michael Prendergast, and Ken Davidson debate whether Target's future in beauty depends on finding the next big brands, creating the right assortment, or proving that its merchandising team can still deliver. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/NXUUmuwrX2Q

What will define the next chapter of grocery and CPG innovation? In this edition of 5 Insightful Minutes, Rocquan Lucas, VP of Content at Groceryshop, joins Omni Talk to preview what attendees can expect when Groceryshop returns to Las Vegas this September. From AI-powered shopping experiences and retail media to evolving consumer behavior, unified commerce, and the technology transforming retail’s core operations, Rocquan breaks down the biggest themes shaping this year’s agenda. He also shares what’s new at the show, including more interactive tactical learning sessions designed to give attendees actionable takeaways they can bring back to their organizations. Plus, Rocquan previews new original research Groceryshop will unveil on its main stage, explores how technology is changing both the associate and shopper experience, and shares why Groceryshop’s Meetup program continues to be one of the event’s most valuable opportunities for retailers, brands, and technology partners to make meaningful connections. Key Topics Covered: • The six major themes shaping Groceryshop 2026 • How AI is powering more conversational and personalized shopping experiences • How technology can support merchandising, supply chain, marketing, e-commerce, and more • Why evolving consumer behavior is changing product, assortment, and store strategies • The continued importance of unified commerce across online and in-store experiences • How retailers are expanding retail media while addressing measurement and transparency challenges • Why private label growth, channel switching, and value-seeking consumers are putting pressure on loyalty • What’s new at Groceryshop, including interactive tactical learning sessions • How attendees can walk away with actionable next steps from every session • New original Groceryshop research on technology, associates, shoppers, and evolving baskets • Why the Meetup program helps retailers, brands, and partners build meaningful connections faster • What attendees can expect when Groceryshop takes over Las Vegas from September 22–24 Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content

In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Quorso, Veloq, and R&S Logistics, Chris Walton was joined by Michael Prendergast and Ken Davidson of the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, along with Ben Miller, Founder & Editor-in-Chief of GrocerTalk, to discuss: • Walmart’s plans to expand restaurant delivery beyond its own Subway locations and whether its massive store footprint could make it a real competitor to DoorDash and Uber Eats: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/beyond-store-next-step-walmart-restaurant-delivery-greg-cathey-ndkmc/ • Target’s new Beauty Studio, launching in more than 600 stores, and whether its strategy of bringing new brands into the mix can successfully fill the void left by Ulta: https://www.modernretail.co/operations/new-brands-flock-to-targets-post-ulta-beauty-section/ • Sur La Table’s new peer-to-peer resale marketplace and whether resale is a smart way to reach younger, price-sensitive shoppers or simply a distraction: https://www.retaildive.com/news/sur-la-table-launches-peer-to-peer-resale-marketplace/828800/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Issue:%202026-08-27%20Retail%20Dive%20Newsletter%20%5Bissue:88598%5D&utm_term=Retail%20Dive • Stripe’s prediction that the traditional online checkout page is dying as agentic AI makes it possible for shoppers, and eventually AI agents, to buy directly from product pages: https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1413191-stripe-predicts-the-end-of-the-online-checkout-page • Amazon’s reported push toward fully automated delivery stations and whether full automation of the last mile is becoming inevitable: https://www.geekwire.com/2026/amazon-eyes-fully-automated-delivery-stations-to-bring-robotics-to-the-last-mile/ We can’t forget a bonus 5 Insightful Minutes with Rocquan Lucas, previewing what’s ahead at Groceryshop and the conversations shaping one of retail’s biggest upcoming events. Plus, Chris, Michael, Ken, and Ben reveal their favorite types of pie, share their thoughts on the return of Cole Trickle in a Days of Thunder sequel, and answer the question: What would your significant-other-inspired tattoo say? P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot. Music by hooksounds.com

In this episode, sponsored by Instacart Enterprise, Portager, and Vusion, Ben Miller is joined by Stewart Samuel, Director of Retail Futures at IGD and a leading grocery retail analyst and industry expert, to unpack the global grocery news stories from this week that we believe are worth paying attention to. This week, they discuss: • Whether weak US consumer confidence is finally translating into changes in grocery shopping behavior, from strong results at Dollar Tree and Dollar General to lower-income shoppers pulling back at Walmart: https://www.supermarketnews.com/finance/dollar-tree-pops-in-q2 • BJ’s Wholesale Club’s plans to reduce its SKU count by 20%, and whether cutting back on choice is the right move for the membership retailer: https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/bjs-wholesale-club-to-cut-skus-by-20/828618/ • Target’s new Beauty Studio concept, launching across 600 stores, and whether it can successfully rebuild the retailer’s beauty proposition following the end of its Ulta partnership: https://progressivegrocer.com/target-launching-beauty-studio-concept-across-600-stores • Aldi’s decision to close its grocery delivery business in Switzerland, and whether the move is a one-off or a broader reality check for online grocery: https://adalytica.com/news/aldi-swiss-grocery-delivery-10344f62 • Walmart bringing its Scintilla commerce intelligence platform to Sam’s Club, and what it means for suppliers, retail media and Sam’s future: https://www.supermarketnews.com/grocery-technology/walmart-brings-commerce-intelligence-platform-to-sam-s-club Plus, GrocerTalk Grab & Go brings even more stories to the table, including Simbe’s Tally expanding with Tesco, Erewhon’s latest store opening, a new Sobeys concept store, and Costco bringing custom cakes and party platters to online delivery through Instacart. GrocerTalk is a weekly podcast from the Omni Talk Podcast Network covering the trends, innovations and technologies shaping global grocery. Episode 003. Welcome to GrocerTalk. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ Music by hooksounds.com.

In this Retail Technology Spotlight series, Chris Walton sits down with Antons Sapriko, Founder and CEO of scandiweb, to explore just how far AI has already gone in running the operational layers behind retail and what happens when employees shift from doing the work to supervising the systems doing it for them. Antons breaks down the evolution from AI assistance to what scandiweb calls "supervised automation," where AI increasingly handles everything from personalization and pricing logic to purchase order reconciliation, software development, and the modernization of legacy systems. The conversation also explores scandiweb's OperaLayer, an operational layer designed to sit across disconnected systems and give retailers the real-time visibility and decision-making capabilities their existing technology was never built to provide. But perhaps the biggest question is what this transformation means for the people inside retail organizations. As repetitive work becomes automated, Anton argues that the future may belong to a new generation of AI-savvy generalists who can identify the problems worth solving, supervise intelligent systems, and rethink workflows that have simply become accepted as "the way things have always been done." From replacing spreadsheets and connecting decades-old ERP systems to building AI models that can replicate a leader's decision-making process, this episode explores what it really takes to become an AI-native organization and why the path to autonomous retail may be much more practical and incremental than most people think. Key Topics Covered: 00:01:36 - How AI is already taking over parts of retail operations 00:06:09 - The shift from AI assistance to supervised automation 00:10:35 - Where retailers are seeing the biggest AI opportunities today 00:13:07 - How AI can modernize legacy systems without a complete rip-and-replace 00:17:35 - Inside scandiweb's OperaLayer and connecting disconnected systems 00:21:52 - What happens to employees when AI takes over repetitive work 00:24:24 - Why the next generation of retail leaders may need to become generalists again 00:26:52 - How successful retailers identify the right workflows to automate 00:33:33 - How close are we really to autonomous retail? 00:36:29 - How retailers learn to trust AI with real operational decisions Over 8 years and nearly 200 episodes, the Retail Technology Spotlight Series has featured some of the biggest names and boldest thinkers in retail. Explore the full archive here: https://omnitalk.blog/category/spotlight-series-podcast/ Sponsored Content

California Pizza Kitchen wants to put its pizzas in a lot more places, with plans to expand its automated kiosk business to 1,000 locations. Chris Walton and Joe Laszlo, Head of Content & Insights, U.S. at Shoptalk, discuss whether automated food kiosks could open up an entirely new growth channel for restaurant brands and what happens when the restaurant experience becomes less about the restaurant itself. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Di1g7tZTEmI

Chris Walton puts Joe Laszlo, Head of Content & Insights, U.S. at Shoptalk, in the Fast Five lightning round, covering everything from the great pineapple-on-pizza debate and their favorite retail commercials of all time to the most extravagant purchases they can justify on a time-per-dollar basis. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Di1g7tZTEmI

Home Depot is taking same-day delivery nationwide with a new promise to get orders to customers in as little as three hours. Chris Walton and Joe Laszlo, Head of Content & Insights, U.S. at Shoptalk, discuss what the move says about the growing expectations around delivery speed and whether faster fulfillment can become a meaningful competitive advantage in home improvement retail. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Di1g7tZTEmI

Ann Taylor is making a major push to reinvent its brand through Substack, storytelling, and a new fall fashion blitz. Chris Walton and Joe Laszlo, Head of Content & Insights, U.S. at Shoptalk, discuss whether the strategy can help Ann Taylor reconnect with modern consumers and what other legacy retail brands can learn from moving beyond traditional advertising to build deeper relationships with their audiences. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Di1g7tZTEmI

Target is showing signs of improvement, but is the retailer actually turning the corner? Chris Walton is joined by Joe Laszlo, Head of Content & Insights, U.S. at Shoptalk, to debate Target's latest results, including stronger sales, grocery growth, improved store traffic, and a raised outlook. But after a difficult stretch, the bigger question remains: is this a genuine turnaround or simply a bounce off weak comparisons? ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Di1g7tZTEmI

J.C. Penney is taking aim at the off-price retail market, but Chris Walton and Joe Laszlo aren't convinced the strategy is necessarily the right move. Joe Laszlo, Head of Content & Insights, U.S. at Shoptalk, joins Chris to debate whether J.C. Penney can successfully compete with off-price retailers or whether the company risks losing focus on what it should actually be doing to win back customers. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Di1g7tZTEmI

In this week’s Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Quorso, Veloq, and R&S Logistics, Chris Walton was joined by Joe Laszlo, Head of Content & Insights, U.S., Shoptalk, to discuss: • Target’s latest results, including stronger sales, rising traffic, grocery growth, and a raised full-year outlook, and whether the retailer is truly turning the corner or still lacks the differentiated strategy needed to sustain its momentum: https://www.wsj.com/business/retail/target-raises-fiscal-year-forecast-again-as-turnaround-gains-traction-with-consumers-b3548cfd • Home Depot’s nationwide rollout of three-hour delivery, and whether the retailer is smartly getting ahead of consumers’ growing expectations for ultra-fast delivery, particularly when something breaks and needs to be fixed fast: https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/home-depot-rolls-out-express-delivery-in-3-hours-or-less-across-us/828175/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Issue:%202026-08-20%20Supply%20Chain%20Dive%20%5Bissue:88350%5D&utm_term=Supply%20Chain%20Dive • J.C. Penney’s new “Retail Regret to Retail Redemption” campaign, which takes direct aim at off-price retailers like TJX, Ross, and Burlington, and whether picking a fight with the competition is a bold move or could actually send shoppers straight to the rivals JCPenney is attacking: https://www.retaildive.com/news/jc-penney-takes-aim-off-price-stores/828001/ • California Pizza Kitchen’s plan to deploy up to 1,000 automated pizza kiosks, and whether shrinking restaurant footprints combined with faster, more convenient formats could give the nostalgic pizza brand a new path to growth: https://www.restaurantdive.com/news/california-pizza-kitchen-automated-kiosks/828423/ • Ann Taylor’s brand comeback, including its first major integrated marketing campaign in nearly a decade, its Substack newsletter, and a New York Fashion Week activation, and whether the heritage brand can successfully reconnect with younger shoppers without losing what made it distinctive in the first place: https://www.retaildive.com/news/ann-taylor-stages-a-brand-comeback-with-substack-fall-fashion-blitz/828475/ • What’s ahead at Groceryshop and Shoptalk Fall, as Joe previews the upcoming events and the conversations shaping the future of retail. Groceryshop takes place September 22–24 in Las Vegas, followed by Shoptalk Fall September 29–October 1 in Nashville. Plus, Chris and Joe debate pineapple on pizza, share their most recent home repair disasters, uncover the bizarre story behind the infamous 1975 Sears catalog “page 602”, and reveal their favorite museums in this week’s Lightning Round. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot: https://podcasts.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com

In this episode, sponsored by Instacart Enterprise, Portager, and Vusion, Ben Miller is joined by Martin Bailie, Global Retail CEO, AI & Growth Expert and Founder of MWB Advisory to unpack the news stories from global grocery this week that we believe are worth paying attention to. Martin brings decades of hands-on grocery experience across three continents, with a career spanning Tesco, Tata India, Primark and Lidl. This week, they discuss: • Target’s Q2 results, and whether stronger sales, grocery growth and improved store traffic signal a genuine turnaround or simply a bounce from a weak comparison: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/08/19/target-tgt-q2-2026-earnings.html • Sainsbury’s pause on AI facial recognition, following a case of mistaken identity, and whether retailers can use technology to protect colleagues and customers without creating new problems: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/aug/17/humiliated-sainsburys-store-pauses-ai-scanning-after-false-shoplifting-accusation • Amazon’s six-fold expansion of drone delivery, and why Martin believes drone delivery is moving beyond novelty and becoming part of retail infrastructure: https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/amazon-to-expand-drone-delivery-reach-sixfold-this-year/828253/ • Uber’s partnership with Zipline, including its ambition for one million drone deliveries a day by 2029, and what the race for drone delivery says about the future of convenience and quick commerce: https://investor.uber.com/news-events/news/press-release-details/2026/Uber-and-Zipline-Partner-to-Bring-Drone-Delivery-to-Millions-of-Americans/default.aspx • Ocado’s latest European technology partnership, and what its newest customer tells us about the future of automated grocery fulfillment: https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/amazon-to-expand-drone-delivery-reach-sixfold-this-year/828253/ Plus, GrocerTalk Grab & Go brings even more stories to the table from another busy week in global grocery. GrocerTalk is a weekly podcast from the Omni Talk Podcast Network covering the trends, innovations and technologies shaping global grocery. Episode 002. Welcome to GrocerTalk. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ Music by hooksounds.com.

Chris Walton puts Jenn Hahn in the Fast Five lightning round, covering everything from Stella Lefty and back-to-school shopping to Little Debbie Cosmic Brownies, fantasy football picks, and plenty more retail-free fun. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/VL3Q373gkfY

Amazon says more than 350 million shoppers have used Alexa for shopping over the past year, with active users nearly doubling and customer interactions increasing fivefold. Chris Walton and Jenn Hahn discuss whether Amazon is best positioned to move AI shopping beyond discovery and recommendations into actual purchasing and transactions. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/VL3Q373gkfY

TikTok Shop is reportedly testing a paid Shop Plus membership that could offer free shipping, discounts, and coupons as the platform looks to keep shoppers from leaving for Amazon. Chris Walton and Jenn Hahn discuss whether TikTok’s rapid growth and social-first shopping experience could make Shop Plus a genuine threat to Amazon’s ecosystem. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/VL3Q373gkfY

Best Buy’s incoming CEO says the retailer’s path to growth starts with smaller-format stores that can reach markets its traditional big-box locations cannot. Chris Walton and Jenn Hahn debate whether smaller stores can improve productivity and expand Best Buy’s footprint or whether the math makes meaningful long-term growth too difficult. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/VL3Q373gkfY

Kroger has named Nate Faust, a former Walmart and Jet.com executive, as its first chief e-commerce officer, creating a new leadership role focused exclusively on its digital business. Chris Walton and Jenn Hahn debate whether the move signals a smart investment in Kroger’s e-commerce growth or an organizational step backward from the industry’s broader push toward omnichannel retail. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/VL3Q373gkfY

Ahold Delhaize USA is expanding its Savings Station discount kiosks to every Giant Food location, giving shoppers a physical way to access digital coupons, personalized offers, and loyalty rewards in-store. Chris Walton and Jenn Hahn discuss whether kiosks can still bridge the gap between physical grocery shopping and digital personalization in 2026. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/VL3Q373gkfY

Retailers are racing to deploy AI, but what happens when your newest employee knows everything except how your business works? In this edition of 5 Insightful Minutes, Arbor Sejdiji, Founder & CEO of Zenline AI, joins Omni Talk to explain why the key to making agentic AI work in merchandising may come down to one thing: context. Arbor explains why AI agents are like highly educated employees on day one, capable and intelligent but unfamiliar with a company’s processes, products, terminology, and decision-making history. He breaks down how “context engineering” can turn years of merchandising knowledge into a company brain, while AI analyzes everything from retail data to TikTok and social media to identify shopper needs, uncover assortment gaps, and accelerate some of retail’s most important decisions. Key Topics Covered: • Why an AI agent is like a new employee on day one • What “context engineering” means and why it matters for retail AI • How retailers can turn years of merchandising knowledge into a “company brain” • Why merchandise planning is one of retail’s hardest AI problems • How AI can analyze structured data and unstructured sources like TikTok and social media • How Zenline identifies assortment gaps and emerging shopper needs • Why speed matters when turning assortment insights into action • Where retailers can see ROI from AI in assortment planning first • How AI can move from strategic assortment decisions into operational merchandising • Why the hardest retail problems may now be solvable with AI Music by hooksounds.com Sponsored Content

In this week's OmniTalk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Quorso, Veloq, and R&S Logistics, Chris Walton was joined by Jenn Hahn of J Recruiting Services to discuss: • Kroger's appointment of Nate Faust as its first-ever Chief E-Commerce Officer, and whether creating a dedicated e-commerce leadership role signals Kroger is doubling down on digital or falling behind the industry's move toward omnichannel: https://www.grocerydive.com/news/kroger-names-executive-vice-president-chief-ecommerce-officer-csuite-appointment/827610/ • Best Buy's plan to grow through smaller-format stores, and whether shrinking the footprint can actually create meaningful growth or simply spread the retailer too thin. Plus, Chris and Jenn debate the strategy head-on: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/08/01/best-buy-ceo-jason-bonfig-smaller-stores.html?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Issue:%202026-08-03%20Retail%20Dive%20Newsletter%20%5Bissue:87701%5D&utm_term=Retail%20Dive • Ahold Delhaize's expansion of its Saving Station discount kiosks to Giant Food, and whether physical kiosks can still bridge the gap between traditional grocery shoppers and the industry's increasingly digital loyalty experience: https://chainstoreage.com/news-briefs/2026-08-13?article=ahold-delhaize-usa-expands-discount-kiosks-giant-food • Amazon customers' growing use of Alexa for shopping, and whether Amazon is finally positioned to move agentic AI shopping beyond discovery and recommendations into actual purchasing and transactions: https://www.retaildive.com/news/amazon-alexa-for-shopping-agentic-ai-adoption/826806/ • TikTok's reported testing of a paid Shop Plus membership, and whether TikTok is quietly building its own version of Amazon Prime to keep shoppers from leaving the platform to complete their purchases: https://www.ecomcrew.com/tiktok-is-testing-a-paid-membership-called-shop-plus-to-rival-amazon-prime/ Plus, Jenn also announces this month’s OmniStar Award winner, Ralph Woodward. We’re also joined by Arber Sejdiji of Zenline AI for five insightful minutes to hear his perspective on how AI is reshaping the retail experience. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot: https://podcasts.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com

Welcome to GrocerTalk! In this launch episode, sponsored by Instacart Enterprise, Portager, and Vusion, Ben Miller is joined by Omni Talk President & CEO Chris Walton to unpack the news stories from global grocery this week that we believe are worth paying attention to. This week, they discuss: • Couche-Tard’s US$8.7bn bid for Żabka, and what it signals about the future of convenience retail: https://www.reuters.com/business/alimentation-couche-tard-buy-polish-retailer-zabka-87-billion-2026-07-31/ • Kroger combining grocery and prescription deliveries, with Instacart, and what’s next for Kroger’s ecommerce strategy: https://progressivegrocer.com/kroger-bundles-grocery-and-prescription-delivery • Schnucks’ new AI shopping assistant, and whether conversational commerce is becoming table stakes: https://www.grocerydive.com/news/schnucks-new-digital-tools-shoppers-artificial-intelligence/827758/ • Just Eat’s AI Voice Assistant, and what grocers can learn from how foodservice companies are adopting AI voice tools: https://newsroom.justeattakeaway.com/en-WW/269108-just-eat-takeaway-com-launches-ai-voice-assistant-across-europe-to-make-discovering-your-next-order-as-easy-as-having-a-conversation/ • Amazon’s agreement with AutoStore, and what it tells us about grocery fulfillment automation: https://retailtechinnovationhub.com/home/2026/8/13/autostore-announces-deal-with-amazon-to-supply-automation-technology-products-and-solutions Plus, GrocerTalk Grab & Go brings more stories to the table, including Walmart’s move into store-based micro-fulfillment, C&S’s Winn-Dixie ambitions, Ahold Delhaize’s savings kiosks, and Waitrose’s new AI assistant for store associates. GrocerTalk is a new weekly podcast from the Omni Talk Podcast Network covering the trends, innovations and technologies shaping global grocery. Episode 001. Welcome to GrocerTalk. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ Music by hooksounds.com.

Chris Walton puts Josh Hahn in the Fast Five lightning round, covering everything from National Tequila Day and Shark Week to John Cena's hair transplants, America's best fast-food fries, and plenty more retail-free fun. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/_GsTHL9DBYA

Gap Inc. is expanding its creator affiliate program to employees across Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Athleta, allowing staff to earn commissions by becoming brand influencers. Chris Walton and Josh Hahn discuss why employees may be a brand's most authentic creators, how retailers can scale employee-generated content, and whether this could become the future of retail marketing. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/_GsTHL9DBYA

David's Bridal has launched a new outlet shop-in-shop concept, combining discounted dresses with its traditional bridal shopping experience. Chris Walton and Josh Hahn debate whether luxury and value can successfully coexist under one roof, why bridal retail is different from traditional apparel, and how thoughtful merchandising could make this concept a winner. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/_GsTHL9DBYA

Hy-Vee has rolled out 30-minute pickup and delivery across all of its stores with its new "Get It Faster" service. Chris Walton and Josh Hahn debate whether ultra-fast grocery fulfillment is still a competitive advantage or simply the new baseline as Walmart, Amazon, and other retailers continue raising customer expectations. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/_GsTHL9DBYA

U.S. grocery unit sales declined for the fifth consecutive month, raising new questions about the long-term health of the grocery industry. Chris Walton and Josh Hahn discuss what's driving the slowdown, from inflation and SNAP changes to GLP-1 medications, online grocery, and shifting consumer shopping habits. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/_GsTHL9DBYA

Albertsons is restructuring its business through its new ACI Edge initiative while lowering its financial outlook for the year. Chris Walton and Josh Hahn discuss whether centralizing merchandising and operations is the right move, why regional grocers face mounting competitive pressure, and what Albertsons must do to remain relevant in today's grocery landscape. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/_GsTHL9DBYA

In this week's OmniTalk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Quorso, Veloq, and R&S Logistics, Chris Walton was joined by Josh Hahn, Director of Growth at J Recruiting Services and former retail executive at Meijer and Sports Authority, to discuss: • Gap Inc.'s decision to pay its own employees to become brand influencers, and whether retailers should empower their merchants and store associates to become the authentic faces of their brands: https://chainstoreage.com/gap-inc-expands-creator-affiliate-and-advocacy-program-employees • David's Bridal's new outlet shop-in-shop concept, and whether blending full-price and discount bridal shopping under one roof enhances the customer experience or risks diluting the brand: https://www.retaildive.com/news/davids-bridal-debuts-outlet-shop-in-shop-concept/826230/ • Grocery unit sales declining for a fifth consecutive month, and whether the industry is facing a temporary slowdown or a long-term structural shift in consumer buying behavior: https://www.grocerydive.com/news/grocery-unit-sales-decline-bain-nielseniq/825640/ • Hy-Vee's chainwide rollout of 30-minute pickup and delivery, and whether ultra-fast fulfillment has become table stakes or remains a meaningful competitive advantage: https://progressivegrocer.com/hy-vee-adds-30-minute-grocery-delivery-option-chainwide • Albertsons' sweeping ACI Edge restructuring plan, and whether centralizing merchandising and operations will be enough to compete against Walmart, Amazon, and Aldi in today's grocery landscape: https://www.supermarketnews.com/finance/albertsons-launches-aci-edge-to-reverse-sales-decline-cuts-annual-forecast?utm_rid=CPG06000000857304&_mc=em_SN_News_SN%20Breaking%20News%20Alerts_News_NL_07232026&utm_campaign=71312&utm_medium=email&elq2=fe71b5904e424a5099cdcc0e5684145a&sp_eh=c96f6e95d5d34972b03bf5218402e1e8f5c9a310c321b2909e946a08f2ae03c9 Plus, in this week's Lightning Round, Chris Walton and Josh Hahn discuss National Tequila Day, Shark Week, John Cena's hair transplants, the best fast-food french fries, and much more. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot: https://podcasts.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com.

The European Union has officially banned large fashion companies from destroying unsold clothing, accessories, and footwear, requiring brands to resell, donate, repair, or recycle excess inventory instead. Chris Walton is joined by Alex Brakebill and Brandon Pezely to discuss whether the legislation will genuinely change fashion retail or simply encourage companies to find new loopholes. They also explore what the regulation could mean for inventory management and sustainability worldwide. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Jb1AcsK9Ri0

OpenAI is reportedly developing its first hardware device: a screenless, movable AI companion built with Jony Ive's LoveFrom and powered by GPT Live. Chris Walton is joined by Alex Brakebill and Brandon Pezely to debate whether this represents the next major consumer technology breakthrough or another AI gadget searching for a problem to solve. They discuss voice AI, hardware innovation, and whether OpenAI should focus on better AI instead of new devices. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Jb1AcsK9Ri0

Kroger is introducing premium in-store Wine Shops featuring more than 130 curated wines, tasting bars, and trained wine stewards at select locations. Chris Walton is joined by Alex Brakebill and Brandon Pezely to debate whether this concept can meaningfully differentiate Kroger or if it will remain a niche pilot. They discuss grocery strategy, customer experience, localization, and why retailers should constantly be testing new ideas. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Jb1AcsK9Ri0

Marc Lore says Wonder is preparing to go public after raising $650 million at a $9 billion valuation, despite years of projected losses ahead. Chris Walton is joined by Alex Brakebill and Brandon Pezely to debate whether Wonder's food hall model can justify its valuation or if investors are buying into another overhyped growth story. They discuss restaurant technology, profitability, food delivery, and what it really takes to scale a food business. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Jb1AcsK9Ri0

DoorDash has launched a native Shopify integration that allows any Shopify merchant with a physical U.S. store to instantly list products on the DoorDash marketplace without separate onboarding or manual catalog uploads. Chris Walton is joined by Alex Brakebill and Brandon Pezely to debate whether this is a major step toward the future of local commerce or simply another marketplace integration. They discuss customer ownership, delivery logistics, and why DoorDash may be positioning itself as the marketplace of marketplaces. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Jb1AcsK9Ri0

This week's Fast Five Lightning Round covers everything from Lionel Messi's World Cup legacy and National Ice Cream Day to the Avengers: Doomsday trailer and unexpected alien encounters. Chris Walton puts Alex Brakebill and Brandon Pezely on the hot seat for another round of rapid-fire questions, unexpected opinions, and plenty of laughs. ▶️ Watch the full Fast Five episode here: https://youtu.be/Jb1AcsK9Ri0

In this week's OmniTalk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Quorso, Veloq, and R&S Logistics, Chris Walton was joined by A&M Consumer and Retail Group Senior Directors Brandon Pezely and Alex Brakebill for their monthly Fast Five appearance to discuss: • DoorDash's new native Shopify integration, and whether the partnership positions DoorDash to become the "marketplace of marketplaces" or creates new risks by distancing retailers from their customers: https://about.doordash.com/en-us/news/doordash-integrates-directly-with-shopify • OpenAI's rumored screenless AI companion device, and whether a voice-first, always-on assistant represents the next major computing platform or simply another gadget consumers don't need: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-07-14/openai-s-first-device-will-be-moveable-screenless-speaker-built-as-ai-companion • The European Union's new ban on destroying unsold clothing, and whether the regulation will meaningfully reduce waste or simply encourage retailers to find new workarounds: https://chainstoreage.com/news-briefs/2026-07-20?article=eus-ban-destruction-unsold-clothing-shoes-takes-effect • Kroger's new in-store wine shop concept, and whether premium, localized retail experiences can help differentiate the grocer in an increasingly competitive grocery landscape: https://www.grocerydive.com/news/kroger-wine-shops-new-concept-store-experience/825133/ • Wonder's reported plans to go public at a $9 billion valuation, and whether Marc Lore's vision represents the future of food commerce or another overhyped retail technology play: https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/exclusive-marc-lore-says-wonder-125500355.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAJAPf-RIr898TmAI_McyhiTv53dWMas5d38xWR0rmKQCyHfuIuUL7JMWt7bVl4GCdS7SAN7OiAjiEjNyzzE8ldDZc8W-lBHVhYO8IDlj_QnTRynyUT-emNwwWv1CYpoa_4xi5bNZsGdEPRjPilge0LQ2QPlJdLSvboVyjlj8V6GU Plus, in this week's Lightning Round, Chris Walton, Brandon Pezely, and Alex Brakebill discuss Lionel Messi's World Cup legacy, National Ice Cream Day, Avengers: Doomsday, UFO sightings, and much more. P.S. Be sure to check out all our other podcasts from the past week here, too: https://omnitalk.blog/category/podcast/ P.P.S. Also be sure to check out our podcast rankings on Feedspot: https://podcasts.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/ Music by hooksounds.com.