Tech Explained: Here’s a simplified explanation of the latest technology update around Tech Explained: Waitrose taps Satalia AI powered technology for online grocery delivery route optimisation push — Retail Technology Innovation Hub in Simple Termsand what it means for users..
Satalia’s platform provides real-time optimisation, taking into account variables such as traffic conditions, vehicle capacity, and delivery time windows. The solution is now live across Waitrose’s network of 170 stores, two customer fulfilment centres and a fleet of 1,400 vans, supporting 160,000 home deliveries each week.
“We’re proud to support Waitrose in achieving both operational efficiency and sustainability goals,” says Daniel Hulme, CEO at Satalia. “By leveraging AI, we can make complex decisions at scale that benefit customers, businesses, and the planet.”
2026 RTIH Innovation Awards
AI will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.
The awards are now open for entries and celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.
Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.
Check out our 2025 winners here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.