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Green Meets Machine: How Adrien Desbaillets is Tossing AI Into Your Salad Experience | Retail and E-commerce Summit Asia In a world where tech giants are battling for our attention and our data, Adrien Desbaillets, the CEO of SaladStop!, is crafting a fresh new recipe for personalized dining. The brand is a frontrunner in the salad industry, going beyond simply mixing greens and toppings by combining cutting-edge AI with expert knowledge of health and nutrition to deliver a personalized experience as unique as your DNA. Imagine walking into a store and finding your favorite salad, wrap, or protein bowl waiting for you, perfectly tailored to your taste and dietary preferences. This remarkable experience is the result of advanced artificial intelligence, not magic. For the past seven years, Adrien and his team have focused on gathering data via their loyalty programs and pre-ordering web app. With this wealth of data, you can now personalize your salad experience in ways never seen before. Adrien states, "the use of AI will focus on recommending specific salad items to users." AI functions as your personal nutritionist, offering tailored suggestions that align with your dietary restrictions, allergies, and health goals. But that’s not all. Adrien emphasizes a major shift in how we interact with our health information. The sheer volume of data from wearable devices, blood tests, and doctor visits can be daunting for many. According to Adrien, their approach simplifies this surge of information into actionable food choices. Desbaillets explains that their opportunity lies in turning these data points into a tangible product—like having a personal nutritionist who analyzes your health data to help you select the perfect meal. Adrien also envisions AI playing a crucial role in the behind-the-scenes operations. From forecasting to production management, AI will streamline processes, helping the operation run smoothly and efficiently. In essence, it's about providing a personalized, tech-driven experience that’s as fresh and innovative as the ingredients themselves. The next time you savour a meal at your favourite SaladStop! outlet, remember that you’re not just eating; you’re engaging with the future of personalized nutrition. Fresh knowledge is just as nourishing as a salad! Join us and fill your empty bowl with fresh insights at the Retail and E-commerce Summit Asia on September 26th at One Farrer Hotel, Singapore. Let’s dive into the latest insights from industry experts together!

Revolutionizing FMCG: Aseem Puri’s Vision for a Digital Future Aseem Puri’s expertise in the FMCG industry guides us through the complexity of digital transformation. As he enters the room, it is immediately clear that his knowledge is exceptional, responding with a depth and clarity that leaves no room for doubt. His commanding presence and articulate delivery captivate listeners, making it evident that as a keynote speaker at the summit, Puri represents not only his role as CEO of Unilever International but also his position as a leading authority in the industry. Unilever International is the white space partner for Unilever across many countries across the globe. In 2012, Unilever International (UI) was set up to serve emerging – and fast-growing – geographies, consumers, customers, and channels worldwide that were created by trends like globalisation, migration, travel and digital commerce In a rapidly evolving landscape, Rockbird media explored the insights of Aseem when it comes to the industry being transformed by the digitization and automation of Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) processes. Aseem highlighted Unilever International’s significant strides in digitizing its operations. “We have created a platform that integrates demand visibility with supply management,” he explained. This comprehensive approach allows for real-time tracking of forecasts, orders, and logistics, ensuring timely manufacturing and customer satisfaction. The company is now focused on further digitizing and automating its forecasting and shipment documentation processes. “The journey has just begun,” Aseem noted, emphasizing a continuous commitment to identifying and addressing operational pain points through technology. Utilizing Unilever International’s worldwide expertise, Aseem also explored the significance of capitalizing on global trends and quick innovation. He demonstrated this with a notable example of beauty products from Korea that became popular globally. He supports an approach to innovation that is fast and flexible, where ideas are tried out with little investment before being expanded. Aseem emphasized the importance of fast market feedback and iterative development, stating their belief in "The launch is better than the test", which he stated “we take a small amount of money, identify a channel, identify a country, and quickly pilot and test whether we are getting traction with the brand, getting traction with the product.” The CEO also addressed the competitive pressures faced by large FMCG brands from nimble startups and private label products. He proposed a dual strategy: enhancing product premiumization to outperform private labels and embracing agile experimentation to stay competitive. “Developing a business model that allows for agile experimentation and potential acquisitions is essential,” Aseem advised. He also highlighted the ongoing challenge of direct-to-consumer sales, noting that while many companies have explored this avenue, a proven, scalable model remains elusive. Aseem Puri’s vision for Unilever International embodies a progressive approach that blends technological innovation with agile practices. By consistently adapting to global trends, utilizing digital tools, and balancing immediate strategies with long-term brand development, Unilever International is well-equipped to effectively manage the complexities of today’s consumer environment. Don’t miss your chance to dive deep into the future of Retail and E-commerce with Aseem at the Summit Asia! Join us on September 26th at One Farrer Hotel, Singapore, for a day of transformative learning and networking. Let’s seize the future together—register now and be part of the excitement!

Bangkok, Thailand – In a relentless bid to revolutionize the retail and e-commerce landscape across Southeast Asia and beyond, Rockbird Media proudly brings back the Retail & E-Commerce Summit Asia (RESA) in Thailand, set to take place on October 17, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit. Under the theme "Retail Revolution: Illuminating Digital Drivers for Growth and Security," this event promises to be a pivotal gathering for industry leaders and innovators. Closing in on how to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the summit will provide invaluable insights into consumer trends, technological advancements, and strategies for overcoming industry challenges. As Southeast Asia continues to make strides in digital innovation, this summit will illuminate the path forward for businesses looking to thrive in the digital age. Bringing together C-level executives and top industry leaders, RESA Thailand 2024 is a unique platform for networking and collaboration, where attendees will get to hear from industry experts about the latest trends and innovations and partake in in-depth discussions on specific topics of interest. Touching on the pressing issues facing the industry, they’ll have opportunities to connect with peers in a relaxed setting and tailor their experience to suit their professional needs. With Thailand being at the forefront of digital innovation in retail, this summit is a unique opportunity to explore the dynamic changes shaping the industry. Rockbird Media is excited to bring together pioneers and thought leaders to share their expertise and drive transformative change. For more information, including registration details, complete agenda, speaker updates, pricing, and more, please visit https://rockbirdmedia.com/all_b2b/resa-thailand-2024/

Digital Transformation is here. That is a fact which has consumed different aspects of living. Even in the world of HR, digitalisation is making strides. Luckily, there is one expert on the matter who has taken charge in making sure it is accessible for fellow leaders. In its newest feature, rockbird media would like to introduce Dr. Murugappan, the Chief Human Resources Officer at the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission. Upon striking a conversation with the CHRO, we asked his part in how digitization was applied in his organization. “ I believe Digitalisation is the main focus instead of Digitisation since digitalisation involves not only technology (digitisation) but also strategy, structure, culture, capabilities and understanding customers.” He expressed that this modern complex meshwork connecting the world resulted in new opportunities and threats. Due to the disrupted normalcy at the start of the decade, businesses scrutinized traditional global value chains and looked toward Digitalisation or digital transformation. Dr. Murugappan shared that MCMC has been on their DT journey for the past 3 years through their BigFish initiative which prioritized optimizing workflows, enhancing data management, boosting employee productivity, and ensuring citizen-centric service. By leveraging technology such as IoT, AI, and RPA, it showed remarkable achievement as they had a 16.79% increase in work quality which proves that their initiative stands out for its comprehensive approach in applying DT. During the discussion with the thought leader, he told us about his current doctoral research on Digital Transformation Leadership Black Box (DTLBB), prompting us to ask something about it that can impact Malaysia soon. It is about contributing literature on Malaysia’s digital transformation. “Traditional leadership significantly differs from digital leadership; with various studies indicating poor digital leadership as among the main reasons for businesses’ unsuccessful DTs. The available literature with regard to this phenomenon, in the Malaysian context; was inadequate to generate relevant theoretical themes, or testable hypotheses. I employed an exploratory sequential design for the study.” Dr. Murugappan believes that his findings would further enhance understanding of digital leadership capabilities, and their relationship to the DT lifecycle- within the Malaysian context.   This prompted us to ask how crucial leadership will be in the digital transformation. The HR Leader emphasized that despite the digitally driven need for change, it is people that need to deliver it. “ Successful digital transformations happen when capabilities are present at every stage to steer and supplement each other, making this a holistic process, rather than a specifically targeted one. DT encompasses both, the adoption of technology, as well as leadership capabilities; with transformational, transactional, heroic, and distributed leadership styles…” But, these legacy models are not enough as there’s a new one– Digital Transformation Leadership. With traits such as the ability to recruit and retain digital-savvy talents and breaking department barriers, it is still facing unique challenges, especially since leaders are dispersed worldwide. With studies lacking behind, it’s a good thing Dr. Murugappan has started working on one as it grows more relevant and crucial. To cap off the insightful back and forth, we asked what advice he has for HR leaders to be equipped in the transforming HR landscape. Being the CHRO of MCMC, he answered based on experience. “To implement strategies that can enhance earning power for employees while bridging critical skills gaps that hinder organizational success.” He listed the best practices such as flexible work strategies, job architecture reflecting organizational strategy, shifting focus towards employee skills and experience as opposed to formal degree requirements, and most importantly, overcoming resistance to change. Additionally, he believes that these initiatives not only foster a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation but also position Malaysia competitively in the global market.   If you think you got to the gist of who Dr. Murugappan is, then you are mistaken. Join us this upcoming September 24 at Berjaya Times Square where he will lead with a Keynote Presentation. There is so much more to him that we would love for you to hear from the herald of digitalisation himself. See you!

In the ever-evolving landscape of Southeast Asian business, a notable shift is underway. Recent research indicates that an overwhelming 97% of businesses and HR leaders in the region are prioritizing leadership development over talent acquisition, marking a strategic pivot towards fostering capable leaders to steer organizational success. This article explores the driving forces behind this trend and its implications for businesses across Southeast Asia. Effective leadership stands as the cornerstone of organizational success, particularly in the face of modern business complexities. Recognizing this, companies are redirecting their focus towards developing and empowering leaders who can navigate uncertainty, inspire teams, and drive innovation. This move signifies a departure from traditional talent acquisition strategies towards a more holistic approach centered on leadership excellence. The impetus for this shift stems from the acknowledgment of skills gaps and future challenges confronting Southeast Asian businesses. In an era of rapid digital transformation and globalization, leaders must possess a diverse skill set that transcends technical expertise. Strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and the ability to lead diverse teams are becoming indispensable qualities in the contemporary business landscape. To meet the demand for capable leaders, organizations are investing in building robust leadership pipelines through targeted development programs and succession planning initiatives. By identifying high-potential employees and providing them with opportunities for growth and advancement, companies can ensure a steady supply of skilled leaders to drive organizational growth. However, leadership development extends beyond formal training programs; it encompasses cultivating a leadership mindset among employees at all levels of the organization. Leaders must empower their teams, encourage creativity, and embrace diversity of thought to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration. HR leaders play a crucial role in driving leadership excellence, from designing development programs to aligning human capital strategies with business objectives. In conclusion, the emphasis on leadership development underscores Southeast Asian businesses' commitment to building a strong foundation for future growth and success. By prioritizing the cultivation of capable leaders, organizations can navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape with confidence. With strategic investments in leadership development initiatives and a culture of continuous learning, businesses in Southeast Asia are poised to unlock their full potential and thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Singapore , often celebrated for its economic prowess and vibrant city life, has recently garnered an unsettling distinction: it tops the list as the unhappiest workplace among Southeast Asian countries. According to a recent study, Singapore's work environment is increasingly being marked by dissatisfaction and burnout, raising significant concerns about work culture and employee well-being in one of the region's leading economies. The Unveiling Study The study, conducted across various Southeast Asian nations, highlights a stark contrast between Singapore and its regional counterparts. Despite its reputation for high wages and career opportunities, Singaporeans report higher levels of work-related unhappiness compared to other countries in the region. The survey, which encompassed diverse sectors and roles, underscores a growing discontent that appears to be rooted in several key factors. Key Factors Contributing to Workplace Discontent Work-Life Imbalance : One of the major issues contributing to unhappiness is the persistent struggle with work-life balance. Singapore's competitive job market often demands long hours and high productivity, which can lead to burnout and diminish personal time. Many employees find themselves sacrificing their health and family life for career advancement. High Stress Levels : The pressure to perform at high levels can be overwhelming. The fast-paced nature of Singapore's corporate environment often translates to significant stress, with employees feeling constant pressure to meet stringent targets and deadlines. Lack of Job Satisfaction : Despite high salaries, job satisfaction remains low for many workers. Factors such as limited career progression, monotonous tasks, and inadequate recognition can erode job satisfaction, leading to a general sense of unhappiness. Limited Support Systems : The workplace support systems in Singapore are sometimes perceived as inadequate. Employees may find themselves lacking the necessary resources or support to manage stress and workload effectively. Comparative Regional Perspectives In contrast to Singapore, other Southeast Asian countries have reported relatively higher levels of job satisfaction. Countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines have shown more positive work environments, often attributed to differing cultural attitudes toward work and greater emphasis on community and support within the workplace. Implications and Future Directions The findings of the study have profound implications for Singaporean businesses and policymakers. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including: Promoting Work-Life Balance : Companies should focus on creating policies that support a healthier work-life balance, such as flexible working hours and remote work options. Enhancing Employee Support : Providing adequate support systems, including mental health resources and professional development opportunities, can help alleviate stress and improve job satisfaction. Fostering Positive Work Environments : Cultivating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture can lead to greater employee engagement and satisfaction. While Singapore's status as the unhappiest work environment in Southeast Asia is a sobering revelation, it also presents an opportunity for positive change. By acknowledging the factors contributing to workplace dissatisfaction and actively working to address them, Singapore can strive towards creating a more balanced and fulfilling work environment. The path forward will require concerted efforts from both employers and policymakers to ensure that Singapore’s workforce can thrive both personally and professionally.

2024 Recruitment Trends in Singapore: Emphasis on Skills and Attitude, Says Report As businesses in Singapore adapt to changes in hiring practices in 2024, there’s a noticeable move towards  valuing candidates’ skills and attitude , according to a recent report by Randstad. Employers increasingly prioritize candidates’ potential for growth alongside their existing skills and motivations. “Digital transformation and organizational optimization underscore the importance of continuous learning in Singapore,” Dass remarked, highlighting the critical role of adaptability and ongoing skill development. Associate Professor Wu Pei Chuan from the National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School echoes these findings, emphasizing the dual importance of skills and attitude in the recruitment process. Beyond technical and digital prowess, employers are increasingly valuing candidates’ self-efficacy, curiosity, and lifelong learning mindset. “For employers looking to attract key talent, reflecting on their Employer Value Proposition (EVP) is crucial,” Wu suggests. With job seekers increasingly seeking purpose and meaningful work, the differentiation of EVPs becomes paramount in positioning an organization as an employer of choice. Moreover, Wu suggests customizing EVPs to cater to the specific needs and preferences of different employment groups, enhancing their appeal to a diverse range of candidates. However, it’s not just employers who hold sway in the recruitment equation. Candidates wield significant bargaining power, considering factors such as career progression, upskilling opportunities, and long-term growth prospects within a company. As the recruitment landscape continues to evolve, HR teams are challenged to not only attract top talent but also retain them by offering compelling EVPs and opportunities for ongoing development and advancement. In the competitive arena of talent acquisition, the ability to adapt to these emerging trends and cater to the evolving needs of both employers and candidates will be instrumental in shaping recruitment strategies for success in 2024 and beyond. Learn more about   Rockbird Media

Short-form videos are taking the digital marketing world by storm, captivating audiences with their punchy and dynamic storytelling. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are at the forefront of this movement, offering brands an exciting new way to engage consumers. With the ability to deliver impactful messages in just seconds, these videos are not merely a trend—they're a revolution reshaping the marketing landscape. They typically range from 15 to 60 seconds, making them perfect for capturing attention in an age of dwindling attention spans. This format allows brands to convey their message quickly and effectively, ensuring that key points are communicated without losing viewer interest. The bite-sized nature of these videos caters to the fast-paced lifestyles of modern consumers, who prefer quick, digestible content over lengthy narratives. One of the key advantages of short-form videos is their potential for virality. The shareable nature of this content enables brands to reach wider audiences organically, as users are more likely to share engaging videos with their networks. This can significantly amplify a brand's reach without incurring additional advertising costs. Furthermore, short-form videos provide an excellent platform for creativity and storytelling. Brands can experiment with different styles, tones, and formats to create unique content that resonates with their target demographics. Whether it's through humor, emotion, or innovation, these videos offer endless possibilities for brands to showcase their personality and values. The interactive features available on these platforms, such as polls, challenges, and direct messaging, also enhance engagement, encouraging users to interact with content rather than passively consume it. This interactive element helps build a sense of community and connection between brands and their audiences. In conclusion, the rise of short-form videos is set to transform the marketing landscape by offering brands new, dynamic ways to connect with consumers. As technology and consumer preferences continue to evolve, leveraging the power of short-form video content will be essential for brands aiming to stay relevant and competitive in the digital age.

Rockbird Media Triumphs with Inaugural Vietnam Edition of the Retail and E-Commerce Summit Asia Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – The much-anticipated Retail and E-Commerce Summit Asia (RESA) 2024 made history as it concluded its inaugural event in Vietnam, following its remarkable success across other countries in Southeast Asia. Held on August 22, 2024 , at Mai House, Ho Chi Minh City , this landmark summit welcomed retail and e-commerce leaders seeking to capitalize on digital expansion. Attendees, including C-level executives, industry innovators, and emerging entrepreneurs, engaged in a day of transformative discussions and networking opportunities that set the stage for the future of digital retail growth. With the theme "Retail Revolution: Solidifying Growth Through Digital Expansion," the event offered unparalleled insights into the dynamic intersection of retail and technology in burgeoning markets such as Vietnam. Participants gained access to cutting-edge strategies and exclusive content aimed at navigating the complexities of today’s e-commerce landscape, ensuring they were left equipped with actionable knowledge and essential connections. On the valuable insights from the first-ever RESA Vietnam, it’s all about personalization for Le Huynh Phuong Thuc, Managing Director of Guardian Vietnam and one of the event speakers. “The more personalization that we can have, the more we understand about the customer and have the customized offers to the customers at the right timing, with the right value, with the right products.” With Vietnam's market experiencing robust growth, fueled by the potential of digital expansion and increasing foreign investment in retail and e-commerce, RESA offered a prime opportunity to enhance industry knowledge and network. The summit's unique format fostered a collaborative environment where industry leaders could exchange ideas and explore future opportunities. “Given this is the first time that you organized an event here, I say it's impressive,” Huyen Trinh-Thanh, Co-Founder and CGO of Piktina, and another speaker, noted of the event. “I enjoyed the quality of the discussions today. I've got to meet a lot of good people as well as C-suite or C-level people, all of the decision-makers are in the room. The discussions were thoughtful and insightful.” rockbird media Retail and E-Commerce Summit Asia (RESA) 2024

In today's digital landscape, social listening is emerging as a powerful tool for shaping marketing strategies. By monitoring online conversations, brands can gain valuable insights into consumer sentiment, preferences, and emerging trends. This approach allows companies to tailor their marketing efforts with precision, ensuring they resonate with their target audience. Social listening involves tracking mentions of a brand, its competitors, and relevant industry keywords across social media platforms and other online channels. This data is then analyzed to understand public opinion and identify opportunities for engagement. For instance, if a brand notices a surge in positive mentions about a new product, it can amplify this buzz through targeted campaigns. One significant advantage of social listening is its ability to provide real-time feedback. Brands can quickly respond to customer inquiries, address negative feedback, and capitalize on positive sentiments. This responsiveness not only improves customer satisfaction but also enhances brand reputation. Moreover, social listening enables brands to identify influencers and key opinion leaders in their industry. By collaborating with these individuals, companies can extend their reach and credibility, tapping into new audiences that align with their brand values. In essence, social listening equips marketers with the insights needed to make informed decisions, craft relevant content, and engage authentically with their audience. As businesses continue to navigate the complexities of the digital age, social listening will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of effective marketing strategies.

In the ever-evolving landscape of modern business, customer retention has become the holy grail of sustainable growth. As markets saturate and competition intensifies, particularly in the dynamic region of Southeast Asia, the art of keeping customers coming back is more crucial than ever. Loyalty marketing, when executed with finesse, can be the difference between a one-time buyer and a lifelong brand advocate. This article delves into the most effective, fail-proof strategies that businesses can employ to not just retain customers, but to transform them into passionate brand champions. 1. Personalized Rewards Programs Create a tiered rewards system that offers increasingly valuable benefits as customers engage more with your brand. Personalize rewards based on individual preferences and purchase history to make them more appealing and relevant. 2. Mobile-First Approach With the high mobile usage rates in Southeast Asia, ensure your loyalty program is easily accessible via smartphones. Develop a user-friendly mobile app that allows customers to track their rewards, make purchases, and engage with your brand seamlessly . 3. Gamification Elements Incorporate game-like features into your loyalty program to boost engagement. This could include challenges, badges, or leaderboards that make the experience more interactive and fun for customers. 4. Exclusive Access and Early Releases Offer loyal customers exclusive access to new products, services, or events before they're available to the general public. This creates a sense of privilege and strengthens the emotional connection to your brand. 5. Social Media Integration Leverage the power of social media by encouraging customers to share their experiences and rewards. Create shareable content and incentivize social media engagement to expand your program's reach organically 23. Loyalty marketing is the art of transforming customers into brand champions. By implementing these strategies effectively, businesses can create a community of enthusiasts who not only return but also advocate for the brand. In today's competitive landscape, especially in dynamic markets like Southeast Asia, this approach is crucial. Remember, every interaction is an opportunity to delight customers and foster lasting loyalty, creating a sustainable cycle of growth and success.

In the bustling streets of Manila, a young woman pulls out her smartphone, scrolling through her Instagram feed. She pauses, captivated by a post from her favorite lifestyle vlogger showcasing a new local beauty brand. Within minutes, she's clicked the link in bio and made a purchase. This scene, replicated countless times across the Philippines, illustrates a powerful shift in consumer behavior that's reshaping the marketing landscape. The Philippines, often hailed as the "social media capital of the world," has created the perfect environment for influencer marketing to thrive. But what makes this archipelagic nation so uniquely receptive to this modern form of word-of-mouth marketing? A Culture of Connection Filipinos are known for their strong sense of community and social bonds. This cultural trait translates seamlessly into the digital realm, where social media platforms become virtual barangays (neighborhoods). As marketing expert Maria Santos explains, "In Filipino culture, recommendations from friends and family carry immense weight. Influencers have essentially become digital kabarkadas (close friends), whose opinions are trusted and valued." Mobile-First Mentality With smartphones being the primary internet access point for many Filipinos, social media apps are often the first (and sometimes only) window to the online world. This mobile-first approach means that influencer content is always just a tap away, integrated seamlessly into daily life. The ubiquity of smartphones in the Philippines has transformed the way people shop. Influencer content, optimized for mobile viewing, seamlessly guides consumers from discovery to purchase, often within the same app ecosystem. The Economic Ripple Effect The impact of influencer marketing on Filipino consumer behavior is not just cultural—it's economic. Recent studies show that 70% of Filipino online consumers have made a purchase based on an influencer's recommendation. This statistic alone speaks volumes about the power of digital word-of-mouth in the Philippine market. Trust: The Currency of Influence In a world where consumers are increasingly skeptical of traditional advertising, influencers offer a breath of fresh air. Their authenticity and relatability resonate deeply with Filipino audiences. This trust factor is further amplified by the Filipino preference for "social proof." Seeing real people use and endorse products provides a level of validation that traditional ads simply can't match. The Filipino influencer phenomenon has revolutionized marketing in the archipelago, blending cultural values with digital innovation. By becoming trusted digital kabarkadas, influencers have tapped into the Filipino penchant for community and word-of-mouth recommendations, creating a uniquely powerful marketing channel. Brands that embrace this approach, leveraging the deep connections between influencers and their audiences, are poised to thrive in this vibrant and dynamic digital landscape.