Coles 360 taps Qsic retail technology for launch of AI driven audio across Coles Liquor stores

Coles 360 has announced a partnership with Qsic to bring AI driven in-store audio to Coles Liquor stores across Australia, offering supplier brands a new way to connect with customers.

Qsic’s platform will leverage Coles Liquor’s data, including transactional data, loyalty insights and stock inventory to optimise the in-store audio experience. By analysing product demand cycles, Qsic dynamically places advertisements during peak demand periods.

 “Our pioneering audio platform extends Coles 360’s reach into the in-store environment, delivering highly relevant and localised ads at the point of purchase, while also enhancing the overall shopping experience,” says Ben Dixon, Head of Retail Media & Partnerships at Qsic.

“Retail partners using Qsic have seen an average sales quantity increase of 11%+ and a sales lift of 14%+; this is also not the ceiling by any means. By leveraging Coles Liquor’s data to fuel our in-store audio algorithm, we’re positioned to help brands drive sales, improve shopper engagement, and minimise wasted ad spend. These capabilities are truly game-changing for any brand investing in retail media.”

Paul Brooks, General Manager at Coles 360, says “This intelligent technology enables our suppliers to create dynamic creative for different markets and audiences, as well as targeting by state, or by the different banners, so First Choice Liquor Market, Liquorland or Vintage Cellars, allowing for more relevant messaging.”

“We haven’t been able to offer in-store audio as a retail media opportunity in our Liquor stores before, so being able launch an audio solution that is insight and data led, across the whole Coles Liquor Group, is really exciting.”

“Whether brands are trying to raise awareness for a new product launch, drive conversions through a pricing message or bring a promotion to life, with this technology we can tailor audio packages to meet campaign objectives. We can also track and optimise campaigns based on key metrics including sales attribution and sales demand profiles.”

“By responding to in-store context and adapting to customer behaviour in real time, we can now move beyond a one-size-fits-all strategy and treat each store as its own ecosystem. Through the Qsic’s AI technology, we can maximise engagement, optimise inventory, deliver a sophisticated audio platform for suppliers and a better experience for customers.”   

Mia Lloyd, Coles Liquor, General Manager of Customer Loyalty, comments: “We are thrilled to introduce Qsic’s AI driven audio technology into Coles Liquor stores. By combining music with relevant, contextual messaging, we can create a shopping environment that truly resonates with our customers.”

“This innovative approach not only enhances the store atmosphere but also supports the customer journey by providing timely, helpful information and offers that guide our customers through their purchasing decisions in a seamless, intuitive and data driven way.”

2024 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

AI was a key focus area for the sixth edition of the RTIH Innovation Awards, which are now closed for entries.

The awards, sponsored by Vista Technology Support, Scala, CADS, 3D Cloud, Brightpearl by Sage’s Lightning 50, Business France, and Retail Technology Show 2025, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended last month’s gathering.