Otto Group and Crate and Barrel CEOs Emphasize Technology's Role in Fashion and Interior Design

Sergio Bucher, a member of the executive board at German-based retailer Otto Group, set out the “delicate balance” between technology and creativity and how his company is leveraging technology and AI.

Bucher outlined Otto Group’s strategic use of AI into fashion design through the use of 3D tools which has led to a reduction in product development times, from 12 weeks to just 2 weeks, while minimizing the reliance on physical samples.

Bucher explained that this approach not only enhances efficiency but also aligns with the company’s sustainability goals by improving transparency and providing customers with insights into the environmental impacts and sourcing of their products.

Joined by Janet Hayes, CEO of Crate and Barrel, the executive echoed Bucher’s sentiments and highlighted the transformative impact of technology on customer engagement and personalized experiences.

She spotlighted the success of Crate and Barrel’s Design Desk Services, a tailored interior design offering fueled by technology and human expertise.

Hayes described the personalized service as revolutionizing the customer experience and driving sales, with 40% of in-store revenues attributed to these appointments and orders typically three times larger than for those who have not used the bespoke service.