Review this landmark conference as we celebrate 25 years of ECR conferences in Ireland.

The ECR Leaders Forum 2024 proposed the actions companies should consider taking in relation to the industry hot topics.

Review here the conference to gain insight from industry leaders on the hot topics facing the Irish retail and CPG sector in 2024, as recognised by the ECR Steering Group.

Attendees listened to updates from leading CEOs who outlined what they thought mattered most in the industry today.

Participants also got to have their say as they participated in polls throughout the conference to reveal how the industry thinks.

We joined together for an acknowledgment of previous ECR Co-Chairs from the past 25 years!

It was a conference for senior executives focusing on the hot topics & leaders’ opinions in our industry.

ECR Ireland Leaders Forum Conference 2024: Key Highlights

The ECR Ireland Leaders Forum Conference 2024 brought together industry leaders to discuss important changes and trends in retail and consumer goods. The event focused on five hot topics: shopper loyalty, sustainability, supply chain talent, people, and transformative technology.

Key Highlights:

  1. Shopper Loyalty: Suzanne Quinn, Tesco Ireland and Katy Winter, dunnhumby Ireland,  talked about how customers are looking for value and better experiences despite rising costs. They highlighted the importance of understanding customer needs and offering personalized and seamless shopping experiences.

  2. Sustainability: Sian Young, Britvic Ireland and Chris Upton, Havas Dublin, discussed the urgent need for businesses to become more environmentally friendly. They emphasised that customers want sustainable options and that companies must meet new regulations to stay ahead.

  3. Supply Chain Talent: Ray Peelo, Musgraves and Dan Woodhead, IGD, underlined the need for skilled workers in supply chains to handle new technologies and improve efficiency. To meet the demands of modern supply chains, training and collaboration are the keys.

  4. People: Barbara Brennan focused on mental health in the workplace, showing the importance of supporting employees’ well-being and creating an inclusive environment.

  5. Transformative Technology: Colm O’Brien, IBM, shared insights into how technology is changing shopping habits. He talked about the growing use of AI, automation and digital tools to enhance customer experiences and improve business operations.

Executive Insights:

  • Joe Manning (Tesco Ireland): Discussed sustainability goals and the importance of staff retention and community engagement.

  • Claire Tolan (Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard): Highlighted the use of AI in marketing and the importance of diversity and work-life balance.

  • Brian Donaldson (The Maxol Group): Talked about cybersecurity and the value of frontline workers, along with sustainability efforts.

  • Noel Keeley (Musgrave): Focused on changing consumer habits, loyalty and the need for sustainable practices.

Download the Leader Forum Summary on the button below

Presenting the ECR Hot Topics 2024

Suzanne Quinn,
Suzanne Quinn, Customer Director, Tesco Ireland
Katy Winter,
Katy Winter, Managing Director, dunnhumby Ireland
Sian Young,
Sian Young, Director of Sustainable Business, Britvic Ireland
Chris Upton,
Chris Upton, Lead Consultant, Havas Genus & CEO, Havas Dublin
Ray Peelo,
Ray Peelo, Director of Replenishment, Musgrave
Daniel Woodhead,
Daniel Woodhead, Global Insight Leader (Supply Chain), IGD
Colm O’Brien,
Colm O’Brien, Partner Global Consumer Industry, IBM Consulting
People Barbara Brennan,
People Barbara Brennan, Key Note Speaker