Observa combines human observation with artificial intelligence to compile accurate retail marketing data. They compare what a client’s marketing spend (trade spend) is supposed to be getting them to what is actually happening in-store. With a human force of over 275,000 in-store observers, and the technology to turn raw information into usable marketing data, Observa is addressing one of the biggest problems in retail. Whenever a company generates the opportunity to make themselves that indispensable, I want to learn what they are doing and how they do it! That’s why I was excited to talk with Co-Founder and CEO, Hugh Holman, about Observa. I asked him how they built their client base and observer force, how they are leveraging AI and incorporating emerging technologies, and much more. I really enjoyed this conversation. In particular, I loved the story he shared about the early days, when he would personally fly to locations to fulfill service promises. I hope it inspires your business journey, too. Topics In This Episode Meeting the needs of clients throughout the U.S. and Canada The journey from personally fulfilling client needs to having an observer force of over 275,000 Scaling using AI for some of the necessary (previously human) work Who are Observa’s competitors? What are they disrupting in the current retail services market? Future AI expansion: incorporating emerging technologies such as bots and drones Landing client contracts: offering subscription-based services and finding innovative ways to lower price points Retooling and customizing for clients to meet unique goals How COVID impacted Observa Contact Info Website: observanow.com Email: [email protected] Observa (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/observa/ Hugh Holman LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hughholman/