<div class="mg-image–circular" style="float:right;margin:10px;"><img sf-custom-thumbnail="true" src="https://www.fmi.org/images/default-source/blog-images/emerging-technologies.jpg?sfvrsn=8aeda8c0_1" sf-constrain-proportions="true" width="600" alt="Futuristic grocery shopping" sf-size="233927" /></div><p>By: Doug Baker, Vice President, Industry Relations, FMI</p><p>The grocery industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the rapid adoption of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), generative AI, and advanced data analytics. The 10th anniversary edition of <em><a href="https://www.oliverwyman.com/our-expertise/journals/boardroom.html?utm_source=fmi&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=boardroom-8&utm_content=24-jan-2023" target="_blank">Boardroom Journal</a></em> details these innovations as catalysts for reimagining how we engage with customers, manage operations and create value. FMI’s initiatives demonstrate how the industry is staying ahead of these changes.</p><h5>The Power of AI in Retail</h5><p>AI is revolutionizing planning processes, inventory management and customer engagement. In grocery retail, AI-driven systems analyze real-time data and predictive models to optimize stock levels, reduce food waste and enhance the shopping experience. As the journal describes, retailers that integrate AI into their operations are seeing significant gains in efficiency and customer satisfaction.</p><p>Generative AI takes this a step further, offering tools for content creation, personalized marketing and operational decision-making. The FMItech Friday program at 2025 Midwinter spotlighted these advancements, and featured experts Jeffrey Strasser from Microsoft, who explored how generative AI is reinventing work and retail experiences.</p><h5>Data-Driven Innovation</h5><p>Unified data foundations are critical for unlocking AI’s full potential. Yet many retailers face challenges with fragmented standards and privacy concerns — issues FMI is tackling head-on. Through initiatives like the <a href="https://www.fmi.org/forms/store/ProductFormPublic/daunting-data-dilemma"><em>Daunting Data Dilemma</em></a> and partnerships with industry leaders like Accenture, we address how data growth can drive innovation while ensuring security and compliance.</p><p>The recent <em><a href="https://www.fmi.org/forms/store/ProductFormPublic/the-digitally-engaged-grocery-shopper-2025">Digital Engagement Transforms Grocery Shopping</a> </em>publication highlighted a series of FMI and NIQ research reports on these topics reaching back to 2017. This latest report charts the transformation triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing emergence of new technologies that are reshaping the grocery shopping experience.</p><p>Also in partnership with NIQ and Think Blue, <em><a href="https://www.fmi.org/forms/store/ProductFormPublic/evolution-of-retail-media">The Evolution of Retail Media: Decoding What Works—and What Doesn’t</a></em> examines the current state of retail media, providing an analysis of what is working, what isn’t and what the future holds.</p><p>The FMItech Pitch Competition at Midwinter further showcased cutting-edge solutions, highlighting technologies designed to solve these pressing issues. These programs underscore the importance of collaboration in navigating the complexities of digital advancement.</p><h5>Engaging the Next Generation</h5><p>Technology adoption isn’t just about efficiency — it’s also about meeting the expectations of tech-savvy consumers. Recent research from FMI’s <a href="https://www.fmi.org/forms/store/ProductFormPublic/u-s-grocery-shopper-trends-2024-finding-value"><em>U.S. Grocery Shopper Trends 2024</em></a> shows that 84% of Gen Z grocery shoppers shop online, with many turning to subscription-based services for convenience and meal inspiration. Understanding these preferences helps retailers adapt their strategies to remain competitive.</p><a href="https://www.oliverwyman.com/our-expertise/journals/boardroom.html?utm_source=fmi&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=boardroom-8&utm_content=24-jan-2023" target="_blank"><img sf-custom-thumbnail="true" src="https://www.fmi.org/images/default-source/research-resources/boardroom-vol-10-cover-sm.jpg?sfvrsn=929381c_1" style="margin-bottom:10px;float:right;margin-left:15px;" sf-constrain-proportions="true" class="-align-right" width="275" alt="Boardroom 10th Anniversary Edition report cover" sf-size="119332" /></a>
<h5>A Future Powered by Technology</h5><p>The grocery industry’s future is undeniably digital. By embracing AI, data analytics and other transformative technologies, retailers can improve operational efficiency and deliver a personalized, engaging experience for customers. Our continued focus on tech-driven innovation ensures members can lead this change.</p><p>To explore these insights further, check out the 10th Anniversary Edition of <em>Boardroom Journal</em> and stay connected with FMI’s upcoming programs. Together, we can harness technology to redefine the grocery industry for the next generation. </p><p><a href="https://www.oliverwyman.com/our-expertise/journals/boardroom.html?utm_source=fmi&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=boardroom-8&utm_content=24-jan-2023" target="_blank" class="button">Access Boardroom Volume 10</a></p>
[#item_full_content]
