In a quest for knowledge, innovation, and growth, a dedicated group from Associated Food Stores recently participated in the BRdata World 2024 conference. This event, held from September 29 – October 3 in Long Island, New York, served as a hub for industry leaders and experts to converge, share insights and engage in hands-on training, with the goal of enhancing guest experiences and staying ahead of the curve in the dynamic world of retail technology.
The primary objective of BRdata World 2024 was to facilitate an exchange of ideas and demo new features among users of BRdata software with A.I. leading the innovation.
AFS had a record number of attendees at this year’s conference. Retailers Eric Mackay with Mack’s Market, Alex Walker, CJ Davis and Lee Davis with Davis Food and Drug, Kevin Burnham with Ridleys, Sheyn Love and Bobby Neal with Village Markets, Bridger Oswald with Broulims, Bill Watters with Kents, Heather Claseman, Casey Clark and Ashlee Johnstun with ARO and Bruce Hatch with Harmons. Team members Jessica Cronin, Paul Pugh, Cam Bradford, Tyler Hicken, Scott Phillips, Caitlyn Faucher, Josh Welch, Angie Harward participated from Associated Food Stores.
“From a retailer’s perspective, I sincerely appreciate the knowledge and opportunities AFS creates for me to have so many resources at my fingertips to be successful,” said Eric Mackay of Mack’s Market. “I am so humbled by the talent and passion that the AFS team exudes that help keep my family business successful. You do so much for me. I truly admire each of you. And to my fellow retailers, I am so proud to call you friends and peers!”
At the conference, AFS presented on many topics and features of Brdata. Bill Watters presented on their loyalty program powered by Brdata, Alex Walker shared how they have implemented electronic shelf tags with the support of AFS I.T. and Brdata. Bridger talked about mark down printers and how the Brdata platform manages that for their stores. Kaitlyn shared how AFS is managing DSD pricing at a wholesaler level. Scott and Eric both talked about computer generated ordering and how to implement it at the corporate level and in store. These informative sessions not only showcased AFS’s expertise but also enriched the collective knowledge of the conference participants.
AFS recognizes the importance of staying apprised of the latest advancements in retail technology and software solutions. Attending the BRdata conference provides AFS with valuable hands-on training opportunities with the BRdata team, allows the company to harness the full potential of the software suite. By connecting with other independent retailers who also utilize BRdata software, AFS gained invaluable insights into what’s working in the industry. This peer-to-peer learning approach allowed AFS to refine its strategies, enabling them to offer better promotions to customers while also supporting their retailers as a wholesaler.