#58: Dara Kossok-Spieß, Head of Digitalization and Network Policy at HDE, on AI’s impact on retail

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In this episode, host Janine Vanessa Heinrich is joined by Dara Kossok Spieß, Head of Digitalization and Network Policy at German Retail Federation (HDE), to dive into the impact of AI on the future of retail. Dara unpacks how AI is transforming the retail landscape, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and why embracing AI is no longer optional for survival.

AI usage in retail has more than doubled in just two years, but while big retailers are racing ahead, many smaller businesses risk being left behind. Dara shares why AI adoption must be a priority for SMEs and what steps they can take to close the growing gap.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/janine-vanessa-heinrich/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dara-kossok-spie%C3%9F-364b7796/

In this episode, Dara discusses:
- Why AI is a game-changer for retail businesses of all sizes.
- The key drivers of successful AI implementation and the dangers of being left behind.
- Overcoming fear of AI and embracing it as a tool for efficiency and growth.
- The need for better regulation to ensure a fair playing field for SMEs and large enterprises alike.
- The future of AI agents and the impact they will have on consumer experiences and market dynamics.
- How businesses and policymakers can work together to create a more innovation-friendly environment.

This conversation is a must-listen for business owners, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the future of AI in retail.

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00:00 - Introduction
02:00 - The rise of AI in retail and its impact
06:00 - Overcoming the fear of AI
09:30 - The AI gap between large enterprises and SMEs
14:00 - AI agents: The future of retail or a looming challenge?
18:00 - Regulatory challenges and the need for innovation-friendly policies
23:00 - The role of AI in shaping customer experience and business models
28:30 - The importance of networking and working together as SMEs
32:00 - Dara’s thoughts on how Europe can lead in AI adoption
37:00 - Closing thoughts: Don’t fear AI, failure, or bureaucracy

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