Amazon veteran Ian Rasmussen joins 24/7 robotic, AI powered smart stores specialist VenHub Global

VenHub Global, a US-based specialist in robotic retail, providing fully automated, employee free stores that operate 24/7, has appointed Ian Rasmussen as Executive Vice President, National Expansion and Partnerships.

Rasmussen spent almost a decade at Amazon Web Services (AWS).

In a LinkedIn post, he said: "During my time at Amazon, I had the opportunity to lead the expansion of several great Amazon and AWS technologies, including Just Walk Out and Amazon’s checkout innovations, across the energy, convenience, and quick serve retail sectors.”

“I was fortunate to work with talented teams and global brands that embraced new solutions in computer vision, IoT, and self-checkout to transform how customers shop.”

He added: “At VenHub, I’m joining a team that’s quickly taking autonomous retail from concept to scale. Our smart stores operate 24/7 without on-site staff, offering retailers a practical, proven way to extend service hours and improve operational efficiency.”

“What’s most impressive is how VenHub has already overcome many of the challenges that typically slow early stage companies… the technology is live, operational, and driving results today. If you’re interested in how autonomous retail is evolving or want to learn more about what we’re building, I’d welcome the chance to connect.”

2025 RTIH Innovation Awards

VenHub Global was named Startup of the Year at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards in London this month.

The company was also recognised as a finalist in two additional categories: Payments Innovation and Most Innovative Retailer (Rest of World).

"We're honoured to be recognised as Startup of the Year by RTIH," said Shahan Ohanessian, Founder and CEO at VenHub. "This award reflects the commitment and innovation of the entire VenHub team as well as the continued belief in our mission from all our partners and supporters.”

“Our smart stores are demonstrating what is possible for retail operators and their customers as we are introducing a retail solution that meets people where they are - with speed, accuracy, and purpose."

Ohanessian added: "We also congratulate all the other RTIH award nominees and winners. Innovation does not happen in isolation. It happens when people across the world pursue bold ideas and deliver real results. We are proud to be part of this community."

The award follows on from the announcement of a pending smart store launch at Los Angeles Union Station, as well as already launched locations at LAX/Metro Transit Center and in North Hollywood, Glendale, and at the Hollywood Bowl.

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

RTIH proudly presents the first edition of its AI in Retail Awards, sponsored by 3D Cloud and EdTech Innovation Hub.

This is now open for entries. Deadline for submissions is Friday, 5th December. It’s free to enter and you can do so across multiple categories.

Check out categories and entry forms here.

As we witness a digital transformation revolution across all channels, AI tools are reshaping the omnichannel game, from personalising customer experiences to optimising inventory, uncovering insights into consumer behaviour, and enhancing the human element of retailers' businesses.

With 2025 set to be the year when AI and especially gen AI shake off the ‘heavily hyped’ tag and become embedded in retail business processes, our newly launched awards celebrate global technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world and the resulting benefits for retailers, shoppers and employees.

Our 2025 winners will be those companies who not only recognise the potential of AI, but also make it usable in everyday work - resulting in more efficiency and innovation in all areas.

Winners will be announced at an evening event at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 29th January. This will kick off with a drinks reception in the stunning Conservatory, followed by a three course meal, and awards ceremony in the Garden Room.