Jonathan Olsen

Jonathan Olsen

Senior Director, In Stock & Innovation

The Kroger Co.


Jonathan helps shape Retail Operations strategy for one of America’s largest grocery retailers, contributing to enterprise transformation through intelligent automation, real-time data, and next-generation technology.

He has led initiatives that are redefining how grocery stores operate, including deploying computer-vision for autonomous inventory management, modernizing computer-assisted ordering, and advancing RFID and sensing technologies across Fresh - traditionally the most complex areas to digitize. His work integrates Store Operations, Supply Chain, Merchandising, and Logistics to improve on-shelf availability, reduce shrink, and unlock measurable sales growth.

A champion of lean principles, Jonathan believes optimized processes are the catalyst for high-impact technology adoption. His operator-first philosophy ensures innovations empower frontline associates and systematically remove friction from the environment. By eliminating waste, streamlining workflows, and deploying automation with precision, he builds solutions that strengthen the associate experience and create durable competitive advantage - demonstrating that modern retail will be shaped by empowered teams, disciplined execution, and technology that elevates both.

Speaking in:

Monday Jan 12

11:00am - 11:30am

Exhibitor Big Ideas Stage 3

Revolutionizing fresh operations: Embracing RFID in grocery to reduce waste and boost profits

Learn how the latest innovations in RFID sensor technology are setting a new standard in fresh operations, empowering store teams with the critical visibility, tools and information they need to better manage fresh inventory. Hear directly from Kroger about how their journey to adopt new use cases for RFID is translating to operational efficiency and increased sales, while contributing to their overarching Zero Hunger | Zero Waste mission. The session will also illuminate findings from a new global research study commissioned by Avery Dennison, revealing the hidden cost of food waste across the retail supply chain, amounting to a staggering $540 billion cost. Don’t miss the chance to hear how retailers like Kroger are leading the way in adopting technology to help tackle this complex global challenge to reduce avoidable food loss and improve profitability.