X/SPECS puts spotlight on transformation of physical stores

Photo: From left: Sarah Amundsen, Target Corp.; Lee Peterson, WD Partners; and Erin Tyler, Target Corp.

The evolution of physical stores took center stage at Chain Store Age’s X/SPECS, held at the Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch, in Scottsdale, Arizona.



Formerly called Executive SPECS, the event was rebranded this year to reflect how technology is transforming the customer experience and the in-store environment.



Designed as a high-level forum for business networking and partnering, X/SPECS attracted executives from some of the leading retail and restaurant chains, along with suppliers and service providers in store planning and design, construction and facility management.



The program included sponsor presentations and face-to-face “information exchange” meetings where retailers discussed their needs and goals with individual suppliers. There was also plenty of time for information discussions and peer networking.



This year’s program featured three dynamic presentations:



• IHL Group founder and president Greg Buzek provided insight into five technologies that will revolutionize the in-store experience;



• Lee Peterson, executive VP, brand, strategy & design, WD Partners, shed light on “What Can’t Amazon CAN’T Do;” and



• Amanda Skudlarek, director, experience strategy, Interbrand Design Forum, and Joe Karadin, director of physical design, ESI Design, pulled back the curtain on their respective “wow” projects, Nebraska Furniture Market and Comcast Studio Xfinity.