In this episode, we bring you a panel discussion with three leaders shaping how fashion brands and retailers use data to improve planning, reduce waste, and boost profitability. Daniel Di Benedetto (Centric Software), Anna-Karin Holck (Bestseller), and Morten Kristiansen (Les Deux) joined moderators Konrad Olsson and Linda Pimmeshofer to discuss the shift from gut feeling to data-driven decision-making, the challenges of breaking down data silos, and the opportunities in emerging tools like AI, RFID, and Digital Product Passports.
In this conversation, we talk about:
– Why localisation in retail is key to reducing overproduction and increasing margins.
– How to combine creative instinct with structured data to stay relevant in both digital and physical retail.
– The role of RFID and PLM systems in creating feedback loops that improve decision-making across the organisation
– How generative AI can support designers and planners in improving hit rates and optimising inventory.
– The potential of Digital Product Passports to streamline sustainability reporting and connect product data across the value chain.
Key takeaways
1. Localisation is essential for reducing waste
Anna-Karin Holck stressed that central buying strategies often lead to overproduction and unnecessary markdowns. “We have so big differences between… the north and the south… and we have the same assortment in the stores at the same time. We really, really need to look down to the details in every local store to find out what to send out from the beginning, otherwise it’s so much waste.”
2. Data must support creative instincts
Morten Kristiansen highlighted the need to merge analytics with fashion’s inherent creativity. “If we don’t challenge what we did yesterday, we’ll end up being irrelevant… Fashion is all about feelings… If you can combine that with… what Eric said, I think you’re really off to a good path.”
3. Technology is key to sustainable efficiency
Holck linked smarter use of data to both profitability and environmental benefits. “If we listen to the customer… you don’t need to do these big campaigns… you will also be more efficient, save money and save the planet.”
4. Breaking down data silos is a major challenge
Holck pointed out that even with RFID and PLM systems, fashion retail often fails to connect information across departments. “We work like in silos still in retail… everything is linked together and we know that… but we need to put [it] together because everything is linked together.”
5. AI will transform product planning and design
Daniel Di Benedetto explained how AI can free up creative capacity while improving accuracy. “You have probably like 10,000 ideas in your mind… If you can ask somebody to help you… and then you pick the ones that your gut feels are most relevant… you have better hit rate success.”
