The Future of Food and Grocery: Trends, Technology & Global Best Practices

Modern grocery operations are generating more data than ever, but most of that data still sits in systems that can't talk to each other. OrderGrid Co-Founder Aidan Mittra sits down with Toby Pickard of the Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD) at EuroShop 2026 on the RETHINK Retail Podcast to break down how real-time, location- and expiry-aware inventory is changing what's possible inside the modern store.

Key Takeaways

• Location and expiry awareness is now essential: Retailers need to know exactly where items are and whether they are sellable, not just whether they exist in the system.
• A real-time data layer connects the dots: Bridging ERP and POS systems gives retailers full visibility across the front of house and back room.
• Better data means better orchestration: Precise item location reduces picker search time, improves staff deployment, and enables automated replenishment.
• Hybrid fulfillment is redefining store design: OrderGrid’s patented approach blends traditional retail with a micro-fulfillment dark store component, dramatically reducing picking times.
• Emerging technologies are raising the bar: RFID, 2D barcodes, and computer vision are set to transform expiry traceability and strengthen sustainability across the supply chain.
• The hyper-connected store is within reach: AI-empowered physical retail spaces are creating better experiences for staff and shoppers through improved availability and operational transparency.

This episode explores how a clean, real-time data foundation positions retailers to compete in an increasingly connected grocery landscape.