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EDITOR’S LETTER SEDITOR’S LETTER pring is here and with the warmer weather, a strong and hopeful outlook for the remainder of 2020 and beyond. Hope for a vaccine, a lift on lockdown restrictions, the reopening of state borders and of the country, return to life and a renewed sense of normal without that dreaded ‘Groundhog Day’ feeling. In the downturn, we’ve seen our retail and convenience markets quickly adapt to and overcome a host of challenges that could possibly hit. Retailers and suppliers have continuously stepped up to the plate to deliver agile services and solutions, businesses have accelerated or pivoted their plans to keep up with demand, to innovate in response to new consumer trends, and fill a gap in the market, all in the face of keeping consumers engaged, safe and comfortable during such an uncertain time. And we’ll continue to see such efforts as our sectors work tirelessly to keep the market going and thriving. In the spirit of R U OK? Day this month, it’s important to keep looking out for and checking up on your colleagues and friends. There are support packages and funding for business assistance, as well as numerous services and resources for guidance to help you get through. Woolworths has made leadership changes in its business transformation, with Claire Peters taking up a new position as Managing Director of B2B and Everyday Needs, and Natalie Davis assuming the role of Managing Director of Woolworths Supermarkets. For this issue, SPAR Australia CEO Lou Jardin tells Retail World in an exclusive interview that the pandemic has accelerated change and increased pressure on the ability to adapt, with the SPAR business benefiting from the growing consumer trend for ‘shop local, eat at home.’ ALDI Stores Group Buying Director Simon Padovani-Ginies takes inspiration from great talent in Australia. He spoke to Retail World about his career journey from being a national account executive with Nestlé Purina PetCare. In this month’s Retail World 360 we introduce WKSHOP as a regular contributor on the latest café, coffee and roasting trends. WKSHOP says developing a bespoke blend is based on part science, part art. Food South Australia provides an economic update on the market and opportunities for growth and diversification for the food and beverage sector. Australian Institute of Packaging outlines the difference between a ‘use by’ date and a ‘best before’ date, and yes, there’s a significant difference. And POPlever underscores strong communication and agility as important drivers of shopper marketing success. See Retail World 360 for more innovative and inspired thought leadership on the latest products and services, technology, automation, IIoT and more important threads at the forefront of the industry. Join our community and subscribe to our weekly eNewsletter! We hope you enjoy this issue of Retail World magazine. We look forward to your feedback so feel free to write in. Lorna Gloria Guest Editor 2 RETAIL WORLD SEP, 2020