Hi-Tech vs Hi-Touch: Automation Without Alienation | Glee 2026
Unable to add items
Add to basket failed.
Add to wishlist failed.
Failed to remove from Wish List.
Adding to library failed
Unable to follow podcast
Unable to unfollow podcast
Hi-Tech vs Hi-Touch: Automation Without Alienation | Glee 2026
-
Narrated by:
-
By:
Can garden centres embrace automation without losing the personal touch that customers value?
Recorded live at Glee 2026, Phil Wright is joined by Paul Pleydell (Pleydell Smithyman), Johnny Critchley-Salmonson (Scotsdales), Helen Lloyd (Stratford Garden Centre) and Justin Williams (Fron Goch Garden Centre) to explore how technology is changing garden centre catering.
From QR-code ordering and self-service kiosks to kitchen screens and restaurant robots, the panel shares practical experiences of introducing new technology, including increased average spend, improved efficiency and the occasional moment when everything goes wrong.
But does greater automation mean less human interaction? Or can removing repetitive tasks actually give staff more opportunities to deliver the personal service that customers appreciate?
It's a lively discussion about managing change, balancing customer expectations with commercial pressures and creating what Paul describes as a more 'frictionless business', without forgetting the importance of smiles per square metre.
