The five biggest retail tech news stories of the week
It’s Friday, the week is nearly done, so let’s kick back and reflect on another eventful week for the retail systems space. Here's your briefing on the most important stories from the past five days, including Asos, Walmart/Netflix and Kroger/Ocado Group.
1. Asos begins search for new CEO as Nick Beighton vacates role
Nick Beighton is to step down as Asos CEO.
Mat Dunn, CFO, will take on the additional role of Chief Operating Officer and lead the business on a day to day basis, with Katy Mecklenburgh, currently Director of Group Finance, acting as Interim CFO.
Ian Dyson will become Chair, replacing Adam Crozier whose decision to depart the fast fashion pureplay was previously announced. The search for a new CEO is underway.
2. Netflix Hub at Walmart digital storefront goes live
The world’s largest retailer and streaming service have opened an online store.
Netflix Hub at Walmart is pitched as the "biggest online retail destination for Netflix consumer products in the US."
It includes a Stranger Things music collection and action figures, Squid Game apparel, Cocomelon dolls and an Ada Twist lab playset.
It also promises customers “exclusive experiences to engage with popular Netflix shows in innovative ways.”
3. Kroger ramps up Ocado Group powered Kroger Delivery service
America's largest grocery retailer, Kroger, is set to offer more people Kroger Delivery through the addition of five new customer fulfilment centres powered by Ocado Group.
It is planning to enter the northeast market and expand in California and Florida.
4. Yango Deli rapid grocery delivery service goes live in UK
Yango Deli, the rapid grocery delivery arm of Russian tech giant Yandex, has launched in the UK.
It is opening four dark stores across London and promising to deliver groceries in around 15 minutes.
The move builds on a network of more than 400 locations, operated by Yango Deli in France and Israel and by Yandex.Lavka in Russia.
5. Asda ramps up Express Delivery service after successful trial
Asda is extending its Express Delivery service to 96 stores.
The service gives customers access to the retailer’s full online range of more than 30,000 grocery products for delivery within one hour, if they live within a three mile radius of a participating store and order up to 70 items.
Express Delivery was trialled at Asda’s Halifax, Poole, Rotherham and St Matthews stores in June.
The move builds on an extension of its rapid delivery partnership with Uber Eats to more than 300 stores.
