By: Doug Baker, Vice President, Industry Relations, FMI
There's an undeniable shift happening in grocery, and it's transforming how we operate, compete and connect with our shoppers.
At FMI, I've had a front-row seat to how technology is reshaping our industry. Not with big fanfare, but with practical tools that are helping retailers and suppliers work smarter, faster and more collaboratively. We're no longer talking about tech as a back-office tool. It's now central to growth, resilience and shopper loyalty.
Our focus is on accelerating transformation across the supply chain, because real-time data, automation and AI aren't optional; they're the new baseline for success. Here's where I'm seeing technology make the biggest difference:
- Data integration — Smarter access to connected data helps teams anticipate demand, improve forecasting, respond faster and predict outcomes.
- End-to-end visibility — When you can see what's happening across inventory, suppliers and delivery, your decisions are sharper.
- Collaboration tech — Whether across departments or with trading partners, integrated systems drive real performance gains and unlock new investment.
- Customer-facing tech — Automation and AI make fulfillment more efficient and keeps promises to shoppers.
- Retail media platforms — Retailers are turning digital shelf space into revenue-driving ecosystems. FMI's The Evolution of Retail Media shows that 73% of food retailers plan to grow their media networks within two years.
In our latest Digital Engagement Transforms Grocery Shopping report, we found that over 90% of consumers now shop both online and in-store — and that 92% of food retailers are using AI to personalize their experiences. These aren't future predictions. This is already happening. Online grocery is projected to hit $388 billion by 2027, nearly a quarter of all grocery spending.
As the pace of change increases, FMI is helping the industry keep up. We're revisiting our Digitally Engaged Shopper research this year and digging deeper into how generative AI and automation reshape work, not just operations.
We're also looking hard at cyber hygiene, resilience and fraud prevention. From blockchain to AI-enhanced loss prevention to IoT sensors that detect spoilage or track shelf life, the tools exist. The challenge is putting them to work in ways that protect trust and deliver real value.
To support the journey, we've built the FMItech Directory, connecting retailers with proven tech partners. And at events like our Midwinter Executive Conference and Supply Chain Forum, we're putting these innovations in front of leaders who are ready to take action. Take a look at the resources on our Omnichannel topics page and the Retail Media series.
The message is simple: this industry is evolving, and technology is part of every conversation. But transformation doesn't mean going at it alone. At FMI, we're here to guide, connect and push forward, together.
Let's keep moving.
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