BREAKOUT 1 (ICX) / WEDNESDAY / JUNE 5, 2019 / 11:00 AM
Is a Cashier Necessary in the Future of Retail?
Amazon Go has captured our imaginations by illustrating what shopping would look like without cashiers. Amazon calls it “just walk out shopping.”
Is this practical or scalable in a store with 10x the SKUs? Are customers willing to change habits and embrace new ways to check out? In this session, we’ll discuss and debate the implications.
PANELISTS
Brian Anderson | Director of Technology | Modern Restaurant Concepts
Brian Anderson took on the role of Director of Technology at Modern Restaurant Concepts after the merger of Modern Market Eatery and Lemonade was completed this year. Brian is responsible for the entire technology stack for both brands. Prior to the inception of Modern Restaurant Concepts Brian was the Dir. of Technology for Modern Market Eateries. In the last two years he has rolled out several new systems to improve operations and business continuity. Brian is a third-generation restaurateur, with his roots in operations. He has worked every role in the FOH and BOH over his career before his passion for technology took over.
Ruth Crowley | Former VP, Customer Experience Design | Lowe’s
Ruth Crowley joined Lowe’s in 2016 as Vice President, Customer Experience Design. Using Human-centered design methodology, she is responsible for leading her team’s efforts to create cohesive customer experiences that are emotionally and seasonally relevant and aligned with strategic company objectives. Prior to joining Lowe’s, Ruth worked with Entertainment Retail Enterprises with clients like Nickelodeon and M&M’s World Stores, creating customized products, flagship stores and experiences in global markets. Ruth also has diverse experience with other iconic companies including Harley-Davidson, Universal Studios and Host Marriott (Airports), with a focus on design, retail, product and brand development. She describes herself as a continuing student of business.
Briton Smetzer | VP of IT | Peinado Construction
Briton Smetzer was formerly the Vice President of IT Operations for Fuzzy’s Taco Shop. His responsibilities included the management, strategy, and execution of IT infrastructure in alignment with organizational goals. Briton is both a big-picture thinker and a hands-on implementer with a background in network security, restaurant technology hardware & software, POS management, disaster recovery, support, database administration, and a seasoned developer in 5 scripting languages. Additionally, his background in restaurant management (and washing dishes) give him a unique and advantageous perspective on restaurant technology. Briton’s forward thinking and experience in entrepreneurship, management and technology gives him a unique and collection of skills and competencies.
MODERATOR
Elliot Maras | Editor | Kiosk Marketplace & Food Truck Operator
Elliot Maras is editor of Kiosk Marketplace and Food Truck Operator. He is a former board member of the International Foodservice Editorial Council, a recipient of the Office Refreshment Development Foundation’s Award For Journalism, and a graduate of the National Automatic Merchandising Association’s Executive Development Program at Michigan State University.
session sponsor
