Event Review
Digital Fashion & Retail Days 2024
Reaching New Revenue Heights with AI
On September 17 & 18, 2024, the 5th Digital Fashion & Retail Days took place at Öschberghof in Donaueschingen. Around 150 guests – including CEOs, executives, and industry experts – gathered to discuss the latest developments and challenges surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) in the fashion and retail industry. The event was hosted by SPH AG, led by CEO Detlef Beiter, who once again curated a diverse and high-caliber program.
Shared Intelligence - Knowledge as a Success Factor
The event focused on Shared Intelligence, emphasizing the exchange of knowledge and experiences between established companies, startups, and technology providers. Attendees gained practical insights into how AI is transforming the industry, addressing both implementation challenges and opportunities. Key discussions explored how targeted AI applications can optimize operational processes and enhance personalized customer experiences.
Highlights and Learnings
The Conference Featured Numerous Engaging Talks
- Challenges and Quick Wins in AI Integration: Speakers emphasized the importance of a clearly defined ROI and a step-by-step approach to ensure measurable success.
- Strategic Anchoring of AI: It became clear that AI must be an integral part of corporate strategy to achieve sustainable results – a principle successfully implemented by Porsche.
- Customer Experience & Omnichannel Strategies: Experts like Björn Vöhl from Douglas demonstrated how AI enhances both digital and physical customer experiences.
AI’s Role in Sustainability: Solutions like AI:REPLENISH help conserve resources and minimize overstock. These approaches were backed by practical examples from the beauty and fashion industry. The conference underscored how AI is shaping the future of retail, making businesses more agile, efficient, and customer-focused.
Networking and Exchange
The networking day offered participants a variety of opportunities to make new connections and strengthen existing relationships – whether during a golf challenge, a fitness program, or a shared dinner at the Hexenweiher restaurant. The relaxed setting created the perfect atmosphere for engaging conversations and valuable inspiration.
Hands-on Insights Through Masterclasses
In addition to keynotes, the partner-led masterclasses allowed participants to dive deeper into specific topics. Interactive sessions showcased real-world AI applications and their direct implementation in businesses. The combination of strategic insights and hands-on workshops provided real value for all attendees.
Conclusion: AI is an Essential Driver of Transformation
The Digital Fashion & Retail Days 2024 were a great success. The event impressively demonstrated how AI is already being used profitably today and what untapped potential still exists. Key highlights included:
- The importance of clear goals and quick wins in AI implementation.
- The role of leadership in making AI a top management priority.
- The necessity of involving employees early and making the benefits of AI tangible.
The mix of inspiring keynotes, in-depth discussions, and hands-on workshops received consistently positive feedback from participants, partners, and speakers. The networking opportunities, interdisciplinary exchange, and high relevance of the topics for the industry were particularly praised.
A special thanks goes to the outstanding speakers, partners, and the SPH AG team for making this event possible, as well as to Öschberghof for the excellent organization. The Digital Fashion & Retail Days 2024 provided not only valuable insights but also lasting impulses for the future of the fashion and retail industry.
