From scaling AI to safeguarding human rights, Day 2 of the Consumer Goods Forum’s Global Summit brought together global leaders to explore how the industry is evolving in response to today’s complex challenges. While the programme covered a wide array of issues, select sessions highlighted how companies are navigating disruption, embedding responsibility, and preparing for long-term relevance.
The day began with Walmart International sharing how it is combining global platforms with local agility – from digital growth summits and supplier training to using AI to cut product development time from 40 to 8 weeks. Later, a panel led by Accenture with industry leaders including , explored how AI and predictive analytics are helping businesses reinvent at speed and scale.
“Our strategy shifted to focus on trust, value, and resilience… What would have taken 40 weeks to bring an item to market now takes eight.” – Andrea Albright, Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer, Walmart International; Operating Partner, Massmart, Walmart International
“You don’t have an effective AI strategy unless it’s covering both productivity and growth” – Julie Sweet, CEO of Accenture
In sessions led by WWF US and SPAR International, speakers called for urgent action to make food systems healthier and more sustainable. The discussions touched on biodiversity, climate and the role of cross-sector collaboration in driving meaningful progress.
“We’ll be held accountable—by our shareholders, by our employees, the people we serve, and ultimately, by our children.” – Carter S. Roberts, President & CEO, World Wildlife Fund US
The Rt Hon. Theresa May, Chair of the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking, Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, and Member of the House of Lords, joined John Ross, CEO of IGA, to present key findings from the Commission’s final report, No Country is Immune.
The report highlights that 86% of people in modern slavery are exploited by private sector actors, and outlines what business and government must do to meet SDG Target 8.7. The consumer goods industry was given a clear directive: move beyond transparency and embed Human Rights Due Diligence across operations and supply chains.
“Transparency was a crucial first step ten years ago, but now we need real accountability and human rights due diligence is the most effective way to address forced labour in supply chains.” – The Rt Hon. Theresa May, Chair of the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking, Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Member of the House of Lords
As the final programme block unfolded, the CGF’s newly renamed Climate Transition Coalition was launched reflecting an expanded commitment to accelerating emissions reduction and supporting climate resilience across the value chain.
CEOs from The Coca-Cola Company and Uber reflected on the evolving demands of leadership in a fast-changing world. From staying connected to frontline realities to embracing disruption with agility, both underscored the need for curiosity, adaptability and sustained innovation at the top.
“While there’s often concern that automation will replace humans, history shows it tends to complement them – shifting the types and nature of jobs over time.” – Dara Khosrowshahi, Chief Executive Officer, Uber
After a full day of insight and exchange, delegates headed to the Heineken Experience for an evening hosted by Ahold Delhaize, Dutch Flower Group, Heineken, SPAR International and Unilever. The iconic setting offered an exciting networking opportunity to continue conversations on accelerating impact and the business case for change.
