Embracing Tech in Retail: Parag Shah of Think Blue on AI, E-Commerce & Customer Experience

What does it take to transform legacy retail systems into future-ready strategies—without losing sight of what matters most?

In this episode of Candid with Candidates, Jenn Hahn sits down with Parag Shah, Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Think Blue, to explore his journey from grocery store aisles to executive boardrooms—and now to reimagining how the industry uses data, technology, and good old-fashioned merchant instinct to drive smarter growth.

Parag shares how his 25-year corporate career—from buyer to VP at Wakefern and then head of merchandising and digital at The Giant Company—shaped his belief that innovation doesn’t start with a tool or system. It starts with people who are willing to experiment, evolve, and execute with courage.

Now leading Think Blue, Parag partners with CPGs and retailers to reimagine the merchant function, transform space planning, and move beyond outdated joint business planning to unlock shared value between brands and retailers.

What You'll Learn:

• Why the merchant mindset still matters in the age of AI
• How Parag and his team led a transformation, guiding 48 board meetings over a 24-month period—with patience and persistence
• The power of inspiration and experimentation when introducing new technologies
• What retailers and CPGs need to rethink about joint business planning
• How to avoid shiny object syndrome in tech adoption
• What every professional—regardless of role—can do to stay relevant in the age of AI
  
  

With real-world stories, practical advice, and a few lessons from 48 board meetings, this episode is a must-listen for anyone leading through transformation—or hoping to. Listen now!

Guest Links:

Connect with Parag Shah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omnigrowthparag/
Explore Think Blue: Think Blue

Next Steps:
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