Inmar Intelligence recently took center stage at Grocery Impact 2024, sharing valuable insights on customer loyalty, omnichannel engagement, and celebrating leaders shaping the future of grocery retail. This event comes at a pivotal time for the industry, with U.S. grocery store sales reaching $829.9 billion in 2024, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.9% over the past five years. Inmar’s presence underscored our commitment to helping CPG brands and retailers navigate an evolving market, where understanding shopper loyalty and building lasting customer relationships are paramount.
SHARING OUR VOICE: CUSTOMER LOYALTY AND OMNICHANNEL INNOVATION
One of the highlights was Inmar’s participation in a panel titled, “Art and Science of Customer Loyalty Now.” Led by Gina Acosta, Editor-in-Chief at Progressive Grocer, Diana Medina, Vice President of Product Marketing at Inmar Intelligence was joined by Dana Paris, Chief Commercial Officer of Jordan’s Skinny Mixes to discuss the complexities of customer loyalty amidst rising grocery prices - food prices saw a modest increase of 2.7% from 2022 to 2023 - and shifting shopper expectations, exploring both the “art” and “science” of building lasting customer relationships.
During the session, Diana and Dana highlighted omnichannel innovations that retailers are using to engage shoppers across in-store and digital touchpoints. They focused on three key constraints shaping consumer behavior—Time, Money, and Mindshare—and emphasized that the most effective loyalty strategies address these constraints with offers and content that help shoppers save time and money when it matters most.
Diana emphasized the importance of timing and context in delivering personalized rewards and shared that the future of personalization will anticipate shopper needs with proactive offers. Dana added that loyalty programs are evolving beyond basic discounts to create personalized, cross-channel experiences. Both speakers concluded with the importance of collaboration between retailers and brands to ensure a seamless, unified shopping experience.
INSPIRING CONNECTIONS AND INDUSTRY IMPACT
In addition to panel discussions, Inmar team members attended sessions covering leadership, innovation, and the future of retail. With U.S. online grocery delivery sales expected to exceed $257 billion in 2024 and reach $422 billion by 2028, the importance of omnichannel strategies has never been clearer. Inmar’s participation highlighted the need for retailers to build integrated shopping experiences to meet today’s changing shopper expectations.
Reflecting on the event, Kathy Hayden, SVP of Strategic Partnerships at Inmar Intelligence, shared her perspective on the unique insights and connections fostered at Grocery Impact 2024.
“The panelists and speakers provided timely, relevant insights on a variety of topics, from embracing possibility thinking to balancing career demands with caregiving responsibilities. Each leader shared invaluable lessons that current and future leaders in the grocery sector can embrace as we all work to make lasting impacts on our industry.”
Emphasizing the importance of Grocery Impact as an invaluable networking platform, Kathy noted the opportunities it provided to expand connections and share insights across the grocery landscape. She highlighted the need for industry-wide support in this dynamic sector, encouraging companies to invest in the growth of emerging leaders.
“I’d highly advocate for companies across the industry to invest in their up-and-coming leaders by encouraging attendance at events like these. Senior leaders, too, should give back by sharing insights and recommendations to benefit all.”
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION: CELEBRATING INDUSTRY INNOVATORS
In addition to thought-provoking discussions, Inmar proudly celebrated industry leaders and rising talent with distinguished awards at Grocery Impact 2024, recognizing those making meaningful contributions to the grocery and retail landscape.
Kathryn Jump presented two 2024 Inmar Intelligence Andy Jump Rising Star Innovation Awards to:
- Brian Rutherford of UNFI received the GenNext award for his contributions to industry advancement.
- Donna Thomas from The Albertsons Cos. was honored as a Top Woman in Grocery for driving retention, satisfaction, and AI-powered self-checkout innovations, boosting customer NPS.
Two of Inmar’s Senior-Level Executives were honored in Progressive Grocer’s 2024 Top Women in Grocery Awards, recognizing the pivotal role women play throughout the grocery industry:
- Pia Ostos, VP and General Manager, CPGs, was recognized for her expertise in CPG strategy and innovation. She has driven substantial growth, secured a patent for a loyalty solution, and supported Latin and Mexican businesses as a mentor with the Endeavor organization.
- Kathy Hayden, SVP of Strategic Partnerships, MarTech, was celebrated for creating a career path model that fosters growth and transparency for Inmar associates, as well as for building key partnerships with leading retailers like Wakefern and Publix.
We congratulate all award recipients for these momentous achievements.
LOOKING AHEAD
Inmar reflects on the valuable conversations and collaborations shared with peers and partners. Our commitment to supporting the grocery industry with innovative, data-driven solutions that address the evolving needs of today’s shoppers remains strong. From enhancing customer loyalty to recognizing the next generation of grocery innovators, we’re honored to be part of shaping the future of retail.
We look forward to continuing to drive value for our clients and partners, delivering insights that make a difference and creating growth opportunities across the industry.