RTIH Innovation Awards judge Peter Waugh departs Compass Group for digital challenge at Starbucks

Peter Waugh has left Compass Group, where he served as Digital Director, UK&I, to take on the role of Director, International Digital at Starbucks for EMEA, LAC & AP.

In a LinkedIn post, he said: “After three great years at Compass Group helping to drive the UK/I digital and data business transformation agenda, I’m on the move...I’m thrilled to share that I’m starting a new position as Director, International Digital at Starbucks for EMEA, LAC & AP.”

Highlights at Compass Group included the introduction of Europe’s first ever frictionless store in a workplace using AI powered computer vision technology so staff could buy items without waiting in line or stopping to scan and pay.

The project was a winner at the 2022 RTIH Innovation Awards.

Using tech from AiFi, customers ‘check in’ then wander through the store and select food. They leave with their purchases and a receipt is delivered to their phone.

Computer vision cameras convert the shopper into an avatar to anonymously track, adding selected items to the virtual shopping cart. No facial recognition or biometrics are used, ensuring privacy.

2023 RTIH Innovation Awards

Waugh is a member of the 2023 RTIH Innovation Awards judging panel.

The fifth edition of the awards recently opened for entries.

Deadline for 2023 submissions is Friday, 27th October, with winners being revealed at an exclusive event in central London during November.

Further details here.

Scott Thompson, Editor and Founder of RTIH, says: “Our awards celebrate the dynamic, resilient and innovative retail sector and the companies and technologies that drive it forward.”

“Competition was tougher than ever in 2022, so to emerge victorious was no mean feat.”

“Congratulations to our winners and highly commended companies. I’m excited to launch the fifth edition of the awards. The 2023 event will be the biggest and best yet.”