Productivity Podcast 2.0
Productivity Pulse: Retail Technology Show Live 2026
14th May 2026
We recorded our first live ReThink Productivity podcast at the Retail Technology Show after-show party, talking candidly about what retail tech is actually doing for productivity right now. Chris Chandler and Steve Young share what is changing with AI, wage pressure, training, and the practical realities of running stores on land and at sea.
• AI at the show feeling more integrated and less like marketing
• Cruise ship retail productivity focused on freeing time for guest experience and sales
• Training challenges with rotating contracts and the value of app-based learning
• AI forecasting as a key lever, especially when demand varies by itinerary
• National Living Wage at £12.71 pushing retailers beyond “low-hanging fruit” tech
• Shifting focus towards operating models, partners, and commercial arrangements
• AI workflow management to drive the right task at the right time
• Supply chain visibility and QR codes for end-to-end product tracking
• Funding AI through a mix of labour efficiency and sales growth