Future-proof retail
By investing in innovation, we ensure that we remain relevant for our customers, personnel and partners in the long term. We’re fully convinced that digital technology can reinforce the physical aspects. And we apply this technology in our store of the future.
Innovation at Colruyt Group
The Colruyt Group innovation policy has evolved significantly. Considerable effort went into developing an overall innovation strategy and central innovation hub called ‘Colruyt Group Smart Innovation’. A separate and goal-oriented department, it can respond to new developments quickly and efficiently. This is where our innovation specialists combine their expertise and strengths to create and apply ground-breaking solutions for our customers, personnel and partners. Cooperation, knowledge sharing and commercial opportunities are brought together to further strengthen Colruyt Group.
in March 2024
Our focus is on targeted innovations that deliver added value for our long-term strategy
Specific expertise
Colruyt Group Smart Innovation has three teams, each with its own focus and specialisation: Smart Technics, Smart Farming and Smart Utilities. They work together, but also join forces with other departments within Colruyt Group, such as the IT department, technical department and agriculture department.
Colruyt Group Smart Technics
Technological solutions for stores and logistics centres, with expertise in robotics, automation and digitisation.
Example: development of high-tech cleaning robots.
Colruyt Group Smart Farming
Innovative technologies for efficient, environmentally friendly and cost-effective farming and cultivation methods.
Example: expansion of mussel farming and new sea farming products.
Colruyt Group Smart Utilities
More (cost-)efficient and/or sustainable energy, water and material use.
Example: supporting our transition to zero-emission transport.
How we develop new technology
Our new technology research and development resources are spent as efficiently as possible. For each and every project, we determine the most appropriate approach:
Our own innovation
If we have considerable expertise in the subject or if it is proprietary, such as our replenishment system, we choose to develop the technology ourselves. Examples:
- our easy checkout, an innovative checkout system with artificial intelligence,
- a new technology that promotes efficient shelf stocking,
- etc.
Collaberation
When we have less affinity or when good solutions are available that we can integrate, we buy external technology or collaborate with specialised partners. Examples:
- our partnership with Innovend for unmanned sales solutions,
- energy-efficient light for vertical farming in co-creation with MechaTronix,
- development of self-driving pallet trucks in association with STILL,
- etc.
The store of the future
From smart checkout points to unstaffed supermarkets, the innovations introduced in our stores follow one another in quick succession. One of our primary goals is to offer a shopping experience that is as carefree as possible for the convenience of our customers. A few innovations highlighted:
In our stores, we make clever use of data, computer visions, the Internet of Things and even robotics to improve the customer experience and support our employees.
Okay Direct is an excellent example of co-creation. We bought the refrigeration units, but made them smart and paved the way for the software, integration in our store concept and link to our Xtra loyalty programme.
Our other strategic focuses
Colruyt Group sees considerable potential in cities. With an adapted range of options, our various store formats meet the needs of urban residents.
How do we aim to achieve growth in the B2B market? By combining the strengths of our brands in a strong joint offer. Find out what our approach is.