AI Audio at Auchan, EU Customs Reform, Carrefour’s Autonomous Stores, Europe’s Ecommerce Habits &...

This week on Five Things Friday EU Edition, host Alex from The Retail Podcast is joined by co-host Alexandra Boisson, Retail Tech & eCommerce Specialist at Business France.


Together, they explore Europe’s retail landscape highlighting game-changing AI innovations, pivotal EU regulatory shifts, and controversial moves by major brands like Zara’s parent, Inditex.






???? In this episode, you’ll hear insights on:





1.

AI Revolution in Grocery – How Auchan’s AI-generated in-store announcements boosted sales by over 60% without traditional marketing.

2.

EU’s Major Retail Regulation Shift – Why digital product passports, a complete overhaul of the Union Customs Code, and abolishing low-value import exemptions are transforming cross-border trade in Europe.

3.

Carrefour’s Autonomous Microstores – Carrefour Belgium’s innovative, AI-powered microstore concept debuts at Ibis Hotel near Charles de Gaulle, redefining convenience retail.

4.

Europe’s Complex Online Shopper Behaviors – Nexi’s European Ecommerce Report 2025 reveals sharp regional differences in delivery preferences, spending habits, and product categories.

5.

Inditex Bets Big on Discount Retail – Inditex re-launches its low-cost fashion brand Lefties in France, sparking debate on sustainability versus commercial ambition amidst fierce competition from Shein and Primark.


???? Referenced Links & Images:





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Nexi European Ecommerce Report (https://www.nexigroup.com/en/media-relations/news/2025/07/european-ecommerce-report/)

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EU Triple Reform Announcement (https://www.globalcompliancenews.com/2025/07/30/https-insightplus-bakermckenzie-com-bm-viewcontent-actionkeyk9hlonlqcrgbbzrlvvraj7dvkgxxs2kwe0ywhzid0dldae1nbqflm2mfu4petbbzs3qrbottjdykr0yayspxzp8-9isdzowbdnasqixi3wfwbqnavf/)

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Carrefour Autonomous Microstore at Ibis Hotel (https://www.lineaires.com/la-distribution/un-micro-magasin-carrefour-buybye-a-l-ibis-styles-de-roissy)

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Inditex Discount Strategy with Lefties (https://www.actu-retail.fr/2025/07/19/zara-entre-dans-larene-du-discount-pour-seduire-les-accros-aux-petits-prix/#goog_rewarded)






???? Join the conversation: Can Inditex’s Lefties brand succeed without compromising sustainability?






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