RIP dear friend: Vista Technology Support's James Pepper pays tribute to retail tech heavyweight Terry Greaves

Vista Technology Support CEO James Pepper has taken to social media to pay tribute to former IT Manager at Primark, Terry Greaves, who passed away recently.

In a LinkedIn post, Pepper said: "On Sunday 9th February, we learned of the sad news that our great friend and very first Vista client, Terry Greaves, had passed away after a short illness. On behalf of everyone at Vista Technology Support, SCT (Store Computer Technology) and the Pepper family, we send our deepest condolences to Terry wife Betty and his family."

He added: "Terry was a very kind, caring and immensely funny human being. During my early years at Vista I enjoyed his company, his guidance and support. I learned so much about retail and retail technology during those early years thanks to Terry and the opportunity he entrusted my father and Vista with. My thoughts are with Betty and Terry’s family at this time."

Phil Pepper (retired MD and founder of Vista), meanwhile, commented: “Terry was a major influence in discussing and developing my aim to launch Vista. With his support, introducing us to the board of Penney’s Primark to firstly carry out project management, installation and go live support to new stores throughout the UK. In time, developing our UK support team maintaining full store IT support, commissioning and installation”.

He added: “We all owe a massive debt of gratitude to Terry in placing his trust and confidence in my promise of achieving service excellence. I have so many wonderful memories of our retail technology adventures throughout the UK and Ireland. Rest in peace dear friend.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Physical stores will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in March, 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 November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.