Build vs. Buy PLM for Grocery Retail: What’s the Real Cost?
Why leading grocers are choosing purpose-built solutions over in-house systems
North America | Online
May 27, 2026
, 11 a.m. PT / 2 p.m. ET
Speakers
Reid Swanson
Laurie Anger
Register Now
In today’s competitive grocery environment, private label programs are growing rapidly. Managing them efficiently requires the right Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) strategy. Should you build a custom solution or buy an off-the-shelf platform?
Join Centric Software’s grocery retail experts for a thought-provoking fireside chat exploring the real costs, risks and opportunities behind the build vs. buy PLM decision. In today’s fast-moving grocery landscape, where margins are tight and speed to shelf is critical, the technology choices you make can make or break your competitive edge.
In just 30 minutes, you’ll gain practical insights into why leading grocers are moving away from in-house systems and investing in purpose-built PLM solutions to drive efficiency, innovation and growth.
Plus, enjoy a meal on us with an Uber Eats eGift card when you join our lunch and learn digital event on May 27:
[Centric Lunch Lessons] Build vs. Buy PLM for Grocery Retail: What’s the Real Cost?
Register today and you’ll learn:
The true cost of building a homegrown PLM system, including hidden expenses, long timelines and resource strain
Why in-house solutions often struggle to keep pace with evolving consumer demands and market complexity
How purpose-built PLM platforms enable grocers to accelerate product development and reduce time to shelf
Whether you’re leading product development, private label, IT or digital transformation, this session will give you the clarity and confidence to make the right decision for your business.
Can’t attend live? No worries! Register anyway and you will receive a recording of the event afterward.
Meet the Speakers
Reid Swanson
Reid Swanson is Vice President of Grocery Retail Sales at Centric Software, with over 20 years of international experience working alongside leading consumer brands and retailers. He specializes in aligning technology with business challenges to help companies optimize processes, improve productivity and drive profitability. Reid brings a global perspective on how retailers can leverage innovation to stay competitive in an evolving marketplace.
Laurie Anger
Laurie Anger is a Business Consultant at Centric Software and a seasoned grocery retail professional with extensive experience in private label strategy, product development and merchandising. She has spent her career working with leading retailers to drive growth, enhance product quality and deliver value to consumers. Laurie brings deep, hands-on expertise in navigating the complexities of grocery operations and offers a practical perspective on how retailers can leverage the right technology and processes to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.