Groceryshop 2024: Top trends shaping the consumer experience

This past week, the future of grocery retail took center stage at Groceryshop 2024 in Las Vegas. From AI innovations to consumer-driven shifts, Fetch got a firsthand look at how the industry is evolving and what brands need to know to stay ahead. Here’s our take on the top trends pushing the boundaries of grocery – and how Fetch is helping brands stay in the lead. 

AI is transforming grocery

AI is revolutionizing grocery operations in ways that directly impact both shoppers and retailers. From reducing food waste in fresh categories to more accurate demand forecasting, AI is driving smarter inventory decisions and boosting sustainability efforts. This tech is solving a major challenge for groceries by keeping shelves stocked without creating unnecessary waste.

On the other hand, when brands need to move units quickly – whether to avoid upcoming expiration dates or prepare for a line review – there’s an AI solution for that, too. Fetch’s next-gen targeting empowers brand partners to achieve results in highly specific situations, such as driving sales in key zip codes, at targeted retailers and more.

Retail media networks are exploding

Retail media networks (RMNs) are on fire, giving brands powerful new ways to engage shoppers at crucial moments. In 2024, RMNs don’t just drive sales – they help brands build long-term brand equity and loyalty. And, as more grocers jump into the RMN space, Fetch can help both brands and retailers stand out. 

Fetch recently announced a partnership with Albertsons Media Collective to expand its RMN reach to better serve CPG brands looking to drive retailer-specific results. This integration allows CPG brands to leverage Fetch’s AI-powered targeting to complement Albertsons’ RMN strategies, efficiently engaging consumers at key moments during their shopping journey. 

Value is king

Economic pressures have made price-conscious shopping more prevalent, with many shoppers gravitating towards private labels. Discounts and promotions help major brands compete during times like this, but it’s often seen as a last resort. 

Fetch helps brands sidestep the profit-eroding effects of traditional discounts with a more sophisticated solution: rewards. Unlike discounts, rewards incentivize full-price sales while providing consumers with personalized, post-purchase incentives. This keeps consumers engaged without undermining brand value, as consumers receive points or benefits for their purchases rather than immediate price reductions. By rewarding loyalty and encouraging repeat purchases, Fetch drives consumer engagement in a way that maintains both profitability and customer satisfaction.

Whether brands are fighting to outpace private labels or retailers are looking to promote their own, Fetch delivers the tools to meet these shifting demands and drive growth.

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Groceryshop 2024 was packed with innovation and energy, and it’s clear that the future of grocery is fast, smart and all about meeting consumer demands in real-time. We’re excited to keep the momentum going at Fetch, working closely with our brand partners to stay ahead and creating lifelong consumers with the power of Fetch Points.