Last week, ICA Gruppen, a leading Swedish retailer focusing on food and health, brought together its digital and technology employees for a dedicated one-day event. The event, designed to explore the evolving landscape of digital innovation, proved a resounding success, drawing nearly 700 attendees.
Oskar Jakobsson, Director of Customer Solutions at ICA Gruppen, shared his enthusiasm in a LinkedIn post, stating, “It was fantastic to welcome nearly 700 people; the line was long when we opened the doors, and the cheers in the hall when the speakers took to the stage were like a rock concert.”
The event’s agenda was structured into three key blocks:
- The ICA Model: Focusing on the company’s retailers and store operations, the session featured insights from three retailers who discussed their daily challenges and the impact of digitalization. Jakobsson noted, “We heard from three retailers about their daily challenges and how digitalisation has impacted and will continue to impact them.” A key objective was to showcase how various teams collaborate to support stores.
- Addressing Key Issues: The program also tackled critical topics such as security and how global uncertainties influence ICA’s current and future strategies. This included sharing examples of successful cross-functional teamwork.
- Exploring Innovation: The event highlighted ICA’s advancements within its private label (EMV) offerings. Additionally, a session dedicated to Artificial Intelligence (AI) took place. Jakobsson and Malin Wretman, Director of Employee Experience & Corporate Solutions, ICA Sverige, also gave a presentation on NRF 2025 and SXS.
Jakobsson concluded by expressing gratitude to the employees, saying, “Thank you to all employees for the warm welcome when I took the stage. This is something everyone should have the privilege to experience.”
