BWG Foods welcomed senior retail leaders to Dublin this week from around the world for the SPAR International Connected Retail and Supply Chain Conference 2026, providing an opportunity to showcase how its global network and Irish convenience retail is embracing data, technology and innovation. Supported by SPAR Ireland, the conference brought together 150 delegates to examine how connected retail ecosystems are transforming the grocery sector.
Over three days, there were various presentations, site visits and collaborative sessions that provided insights on how retailers are using data to drive smarter decision-making and deliver more personalised customer experiences along with enhanced digital engagement, loyalty, retail media and eCommerce. Discussions also focused on the evolving role of AI in retail operations, from pricing and assortment optimisation to marketing, forecasting and supply chain planning.
John Moane, Group Chief Executive, BWG Group said: “We were delighted to welcome colleagues from around Ireland and across the SPAR global network to join us in Dublin where we could share insights on how technology, local entrepreneurship and strong supplier partnerships are helping to shape the future of convenience retail and foodservice. Retail is undoubtedly becoming more connected than ever before. The various conversations and presentations throughout the week have clearly demonstrated how data, customer insights and AI can help retailers innovate faster and build more resilient supply chains. I’m proud to see how Ireland is playing a leading role in that journey.”
Tobias Wasmuht, Managing Director, SPAR International said: “SPAR Ireland’s continuous innovation across its multi-format retail strategy and investment in its world class supply chain has contributed greatly to the growth and development of SPAR internationally. The SPAR Connected Retail and Supply Chain conference in Ireland creates the ideal platform of exchange between almost 150 colleagues of SPAR worldwide to share knowledge and resources for the benefit of all.”
Part of the activity across the week included participants visiting a number of SPAR stores and BWG Foods’ National Distribution Centre, gaining first-hand insight into how innovation is being deployed across the Irish retail network.
Delegates also examined how retailers can build stronger omnichannel experiences by connecting in-store, online and loyalty platforms, while creating new revenue opportunities through retail media and strategic collaboration with FMCG and technology partners.
