E224 ‘AI’s Role in Revolutionising Retail Business’ with Galvia’s John Clancy

Today’s guest is John Clancy, Founder & CEO at Galvia and AI Person of the Year 2025. In the podcast, John discusses the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in the retail sector and the strategic vision of Galvia as they expand into new markets. The episode covers the evolution of AI in retail, the challenges faced by businesses in adopting new technologies, and the actionable insights gained through AI-driven data analysis.

John describes Galvia’s focus on providing real value to mid-sized retailers, a demographic often overlooked by larger tech solutions but rich with untapped data potential. By creating systems that offer a single source of truth for businesses, Galvia empowers retailers to streamline operations, improve inventory management and enhance customer experiences.

A standout example John highlights is Petstop, a family-run business that benefits from Galvia’s AI capabilities. With 17 stores across Ireland, Petstop turned to Galvia to unite disparate data systems into a cohesive, real-time dashboard accessible via smartphones or desktops. This technology enables Petstop to predict market trends, manage inventory proactively, and adjust business strategies based on genuine insights rather than mere intuition or tradition.

John shares Galvia’s strategic decision to enter the UK market, supported by the opening of an office in Manchester. Their goal by 2026 is ambitious: to capture 10% of the UK’s medium-sized retail market. The need for accessible and scalable AI solutions underpins their expansion strategy, targeting companies ready to move beyond spreadsheet dependency to data-driven decision-making.

A recurring theme in the episode is the importance of AI literacy. John emphasises that the key to successful AI implementation is not to overwhelm businesses with complex technology jargon but to show them practical outcomes – how AI can become an invisible yet vital partner in their day-to-day operations. This philosophy aligns with the ethos of AI Ireland, which promotes AI literacy and practical application through workshops and training sessions.

John’s insights offer a compelling glimpse into the future of retail and the practical application of AI. By cutting through the noise and demonstrating real-world benefits, Galvia is changing how retailers approach technology, offering solutions that not only enhance profitability but fundamentally improve how businesses operate. As they continue to forge ahead in the UK, Galvia remains focused on empowering more retailers to realise the potential of AI without the intimidation of tech complexity.

Whether you are a retailer looking to enhance customer experiences or a business leader interested in the future of AI, the insights shared in this episode underscore the importance of timely action and strategic partnerships in an increasingly data-driven world.