RTS 2025: tech fundamental to growth and delivery of seamless, integrated experiences

Retailer leadership teams need to pivot from technology as a service only mindset to a partnerial one. Empowered technology teams can facilitate and lead companies through complex digital transformations delivering future fit platforms that will set them up for future opportunities.

So said Jacqueline Joel, Head of Customer and Digital Transformation at A.S. Watson Group, at Retail Technology Show 2025 in London last week.

In a LinkedIn post, she said: "I enjoyed having the opportunity to share my thoughts on the impact of technology on the Future of Trading at the Magnificent Stage (hosted by the wonderful Commerce Futures team)."

"Some of the ideas I shared are: The retail industry has faced a challenging few years through a difficult economic background and fast paced change in customer expectations; Customer journeys are no longer linear and predictable - our organisations needs to adapt our structures to meet the needs of the unified commerce customer."

Technology is fundamental to future growth and success in delivering these seamless, integrated experiences, Joel believes. Technology teams need to be thought leaders, curious about new tech and its application to improve business outcomes.

Joel concluded: "I loved being able to soak up the atmosphere at RTS 2025, and having the opportunity to catch up with some old faces, albeit briefly. I cannot wait until next year. Roll on RTS 2026."

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Digital transformation will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in March, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.